Congratulations to the FTJ “Fish Nerd!”

From FTJ Server to Bachelor of Science in Marine Biology and Sustainable Aquaculture

Over 11 years ago, when she was a teenager and her grandparents were living at FTJ,  Chandra “Chany” Cockrill applied for a job as a server in the dining room.

She started her part-time after-school job serving supper. Bringing her enthusiasm, kindness, customer service, and remarkable work ethic, it wasn’t long before she became a lead, and in addition to serving meals, helped with all the catering and special events.

“Before the pandemic, I had started taking college classes, but when that happened, I needed to take some time off from school.  I was really thankful I was still able to work at FTJ when other people were out of jobs,” she shared. In 2024, she made the big decision to finish her degree. “I kept talking about it. I knew I had to do it!”  

Knowing that FTJ Employee Scholarships were available, Chany submitted her first application to the Employee Scholarship Committee in February 2024, and since then has been awarded multiple scholarships to help pay her tuition.

In March, Chany received her Bachelor of Science degree in Marine Biology and Sustainable Aquaculture. “I have always been a fish nerd!” While obtaining her degree, she interned with a salmon conservation non-profit, and after graduation, accepted a job cultivating algae and baby clams.

“We are all proud and happy to see Chany moving on with her career, but she will be greatly missed. She has been an invaluable asset to FTJ. and we definitely won’t forget her.  We look forward to her coming for visits and telling us a few fish stories,” said Jim Tonjann, Senior Director of Services (who also happened to hire her!).

At a recent lunch with Chany and the Scholarship Committee celebrating her achievements, resident and Employee Scholarship Chair Lynn Brown expressed, “This is what the Employee Scholarship Fund is about providing an opportunity to help employees fulfill their educational goals.  For all of us, it has been extremely meaningful to watch Chany grow in her knowledge and chosen profession, and we are very proud of her.”

Chany’s message to the Committee and all the residents who have touched her heart:  “I am so grateful to all of you.  You say that I did it but really, WE DID IT!”

Congratulations Chany!  All of us at FTJ wish her the very best in her new career!