It’s time once again for our ABC’s of Ackerman, which takes a look at the individuals that make our company distinct. We are excited to spotlight one of the most deserving members of our team – office manager, gatekeeper and voice of Ackerman – Ann Althoff. She wears many hats, keeps our office running smoothly and greets us with a smile. Get to know Ann, the glue that holds our office together.
If you missed the last ABC’s of Ackerman post, click here.
A. What brought you to Ackerman & Co.?
My former employer was retiring and closing the office. He recommended me to someone here at Ackerman. I interviewed and voila! My 10-year anniversary is this March.
B. What is the best part of your job?
I take pleasure in meeting our many guests; I welcome the mix of personalities throughout the company.
C. Tell us about your hobbies.
Every week on Wednesday, I read to Sarah, who lives at a senior assisted living home. I’m very interested in college basketball and football (Go NC State!). I like to read and try to walk at least three days a week.
D. Tell us something that would surprise us.
I was a shoe model for 10 years! I traveled to Dallas, Miami and New York for my modeling jobs.
E. What’s your favorite childhood memory?
My mother was in management at Krispy Kreme and we had doughnuts every day of the week!
Another favorite childhood memory was visiting my grandmother and grandfather at their farm. I enjoyed homemade ice cream, biscuits with butter that she churned, fresh eggs, chicken, pork, rabbit and squirrel.
F. Favorite vacation spot?
I spent five days at an all-inclusive resort at St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands. It was fantastic.
San Francisco is another favorite vacation spot.
G. What’s on your desk right now?
A busy phone, rent checks to endorse and total up, invoices to date stamp and checks to stuff and mail.
H. What book do you think everyone should read?
Success Through A Positive Mental Attitude by Napoleon Hill. My favorite quote from the book is: “You know, a positive attitude attracts the good and the beautiful; while a negative one will rob you of all that makes life worth living.”
I. What keeps you motivated?
Bills to pay. No seriously, my 92-year-old mother and the 81-year-old gentleman in the corner office, Mr. Ackerman.
Speaking of Mr. Ackerman, I was very honored and excited to receive an invitation to attend the Anti-Defamation League’s Abe Goldstein Human Relations Award Dinner honoring Mr. Ackerman. Mr. Ackerman is a fantastic speaker. The entire experience was phenomenal.
J. What makes Ackerman & Co. such a great organization?
We are the BEST of the BEST! No doubt.