Northbridge Public Schools, Northbridge

Victoria Brady, Custodial Supervisor

This month, we are proud to highlight Victoria Brady, Custodial Supervisor for the Northbridge Public Schools, whose work exemplifies leadership, professionalism, and a deep commitment to community. While custodial and facilities roles often happen behind the scenes, they play a vital role in shaping the first impression and daily experience of any organization. Victoria’s dedication to creating safe, welcoming, and well-maintained environments has not gone unnoticed. Recognized by those who have worked with her for her strong presence and thoughtful approach, she stands out as a leader in a field where women are still underrepresented. We are honored to share more about her journey, her perspective, and the impact of her work.

Can you tell us a bit about your role and what a typical day looks like for you?

"The Director of Facilities role was split into two parts this school year, Custodial Supervisor and Facility Manager. I am the Custodial Supervisor for the Northbridge Public Schools. I am also the Lead Custodian for the Northbridge Elementary School. I handle the day to day custodial flow. I handle ordering janitorial supplies, approve event schedules and facilitate the needs for those groups. I deal with supplies and contractors. I take care of custodial needs for NES alongside my mother, Maria who is also a day custodian for NES."

What inspired you to pursue a career in facilities management?

"There really was no inspiration, it's just where I landed! My uncle has been the groundskeeper for the district basically my whole life so I heard some summer help was needed and got my foot in the door. I started as a fill in custodian at night 10 years ago. I accepted a full time night position at NMS back in 2017 and was in that position for about 3 years when a day position opened up at the old Primary school. I wanted a day shift, but wasn't sure I wanted that position. I am grateful for the Director of Facilities at the time, George Simmons, for seeing something in me and pushing me to go for it. He's back in the district as the Facilities Manager."

What do you enjoy most about the work you do?

"The kids. I absolutely love when it's time to get into the cafeteria because it gives me the chance to unwind a bit, interact with the kids, and kind of escape from reality for a moment. I also have really enjoyed all the opportunities that have opened up giving me chances to network with other Facilities Directors. I feel like I'm in an actual career for the first time. I get to make important decisions and it feels good to have that trust."

What challenges have you faced, and how have you navigated them?

"Everyday there is a new challenge. I am very new to this role, about 7-8 months in. However, I grew up in Northbridge, went to school for 10 years in Northbridge, and have now worked here for a decade. I know who to call or who to call to get ahold of who to call. It's important through all the chaos to just take a step back for a moment, react to what's important then tackle the rest as needed. I also have the best partner in crime, again George Simmons, that I cannot give enough credit to for everything he has done to help me succeed."

What advice would you give to other women interested in this field?

"To not think of it that way and don't get stuck in that mindset. Never once have I ever thought that because I'm a woman I can't have that job. I am a knowledgeable, educated, trustworthy person and that's why I have my job."

What does success mean to you at this stage in your career?

"Success is very different for everyone. For me at this point, financial independence, respect from my peers (especially those that are older and have been in the district longer than I have) and quality relationships in friends, family, and coworkers."

Victoria Brady

Custodial Supervisor

Northbridge Public Schools, Northbridge

International Women’s Day Reflection: Give to Gain… But at What Cost?

Written by Lynn Whitney Turner, inspired by and with contributions from members of the WSN Committee: Jennifer Castro, Heather McGuire, Lori Samuelson and Joscelyn Young

International Women’s Day, celebrated globally on March 8th, carried the 2026 theme “Give to Gain” — a message rooted in generosity, reciprocity, and the belief that when women support one another, stronger communities are built.

At its core, this idea resonates deeply. Many of us have experienced the fulfillment that comes from giving — offering time, mentorship, encouragement, or simply showing up for someone else. As one WSN member shared, giving can bring a true sense of purpose and inner joy — that feeling of “filling your cup” by helping others.

But in a recent conversation within our network, an important question surfaced: Why are women so often asked to give more? And perhaps more importantly, what happens when giving becomes expectation rather than choice?

Another member reflected on the reality that constant giving — without boundaries or reciprocity — can lead to emotional exhaustion, diminished self-worth, and neglect of our own needs. It’s a powerful reminder that generosity, while meaningful, must also be sustainable.

At the same time, there is a vision of what does feel empowering.

“Community over competition — building rooms instead of fighting for seats.”

This idea captures the spirit of collective growth. When we invest in each other, we expand opportunities rather than compete for limited ones. But as another thoughtful perspective highlighted, how we interpret “Give to Gain” matters:

· Through an ecosystem lens, giving strengthens the whole — a rising tide that lifts everyone.

· Through an energetic lens, generosity signals confidence and abundance.

· Through a structural lens, however, the message can feel misaligned if it reinforces expectations that women should continue carrying invisible or unpaid labor.

So where does that leave us?

Perhaps the evolution isn’t about giving more — but about giving wisely.

It’s about:

· Community that includes boundaries

· Collaboration without self-erasure

· Mutual benefit and shared opportunity

· Purpose alongside profit

Because when giving is intentional, reciprocal, and aligned with our values, it becomes a source of strength — not depletion.

As we reflect on this year’s theme, maybe the real opportunity is to redefine it together:

Give with intention. Gain with purpose. Rise together.

Lynn Whitney turner

WSN Chairwoman



lynn@corebusinessxp.com

WSN MISSION

The Blackstone Valley Chamber of Commerce Women’s Success Network unites women to achieve their vision of success by creating a community of support and inspiration in their personal and professional lives.

The Women's Success Network (WSN) is a committee of the Blackstone Valley Chamber of Commerce (BVCC).

Join our committee and help execute the WSN programs, projects and initiatives! Our volunteers play a crucial role in the success of the WSN by offering their time, skills and energy. We are women committed to our mission! For more information about the WSN or to become a volunteer, please email Lynn Whitney Turner, at lynn@corebusinessxp.com.