Energized Public Service
Jill Dagilis
Title: Executive Director
Company: Worcester Community Action Council
Location: Worcester
Over the past four years, the Worcester Community Action Council, with Jill Dagilis at the helm, has doubled its budget from $13 million to $26 million. The agency focuses on four priority program areas — education, employment, energy and asset development — and through those areas serves more than 72,000 people in 38 communities in the region.
Who is your most influential role model, and why?
I am inspired by people who exude positivity. I must admit, it’s impossible for me to identify just one role model because there are several people who have influenced, mentored and supported me throughout my life. My first role models were my amazing parents who showed me how to live with a focus on optimism as well as a foundation of respect for all people.
I have been very fortunate to have had several mentors — personal friends, professional colleagues and faith leaders — who have cheered me on, taught me many lessons and supported me over the years. More recently I am inspired by brave women who lead the way and break glass ceilings, like Oprah Winfrey for her generosity and caring for everyday people; Ellen DeGeneres, who was brave to come out and be true to herself; Natalie Jacobson, a talented and compassionate news reporter who gives back to others; and Hillary Clinton for her impressive bid to be the first female president. Locally, I always wanted to be like former Worcester librarian, Penny Johnson. An accomplished professional, she is the epitome of calm, cool, collected, smart, stylish and nice.
Why are you good at what you do?
I love my work as executive director of Worcester Community Action Council! My job is ever evolving and that motivates me. I embrace change; I am not afraid to tackle tough issues, and I work tirelessly for the good of the organization. I believe I am good at my work because I like to multi-task, to be a change agent and to problem solve, to build a strong team and organization, to mentor, and to consistently work to raise the bar on all I and we do.
Critical to my success is the leadership team I report to and the managers I work with daily. The WCAC board of directors are extremely dedicated. Led by Chairwoman Deborah Penta, a talented business leader, they have coalesced as a team, volunteered time, talent and resources, and stepped up to lead the agency like never before.
The management team and staff are a talented and inspirational group that I truly enjoy working with. Many of the staff, who are extremely committed, have been with the agency for 10, 20, and 30 years! It is the collective work of this great group that helps me to be good at what I do.
How does your organization give back to the community, and what role have you played in those efforts?
Worcester Community Action Council gives back to the community every day in countless ways. WCAC is a federally-mandated anti-poverty agency celebrating 45 years of work this year. All programs are designed to help people move from poverty to self-sufficiency and range from emergency intervention programs like fuel assistance, to capacity building and asset development programs such as early education and care for young children, youth employment, and a savings program that helps people go to college, start a business or buy their first home.
When the stress level gets too high, what’s your secret remedy?
Chocolate, a long walk or a strenuous workout, Zumba classes, laughter, watching movies, and massage therapy are some of my secret weapons to handle stress. My family and friends give me wonderful doses of relief, fun and balance. Good, hard yard work — accompanied by music from my iPod — relieves my stress, and I love climbing ladders to clean my roof or trim trees, and using power tools — my favorites are a chain saw, hedge trimmer, and an electric staple gun!
How have you tried to balance your career and your personal life?
I am always willing to work lots of hours. In doing so, I have also come to realize that it is important to dedicate time to relax. I try to keep healthy eating and exercise routines, to build in time for family, and to take time away from the office. My husband and I make a point to have family dinners, special holidays, and provide an open and welcoming home for visitors.
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