In the sensationalist headlines and ever-present noise of our time, it is sometimes easy to forget the important stuff.

Since my career started decades ago, I have had the honor of working with many veterans, or those who have been a part of our Armed Forces, and as we approach another Veteran’s Day, I thought it important to bring attention to the people who believe in duty, service, and loyalty to our country.

In a tongue-in-cheek moment, I am especially proud that all our Certum veterans are also women. Not only do they manage our hectic days with ease, but they defend our country as well.

Patricia Burchfield is a retired member of our Navy and has been an instrumental employee of Certum for 1.5 years now. As our Franchise Account Manager, Patricia works with our franchisors and franchisees in order to make sure that their onboarding experience with their new organization is seamless. Her sense of humor is unmatched, and she is a team favorite. We would not be Certum without her contributions.

“I am a Navy Patriot and Soldier. I serve God, Family, and My Country. I took an Oath that never expires to defend our freedoms around the world and at home. I joined the Military to go to college and ended up going to War. My experiences and the family I have made throughout my career in and out of the Navy with my brother and sisters in arms will never be broken. Fair Winds and Following Seas! As a side note, they always said NAVY stood for Never Again Volunteer Yourself! hahaha. I would do it all over again in a heartbeat. I only realized my Stepfather was a WWII Vet in the Navy after I had joined and he had passed already. I hope I made him Proud.”

– Patricia Burchfield

From her manager: 

"Patricia is truly a gem to have on our team! Her dedication to her customers and willingness to go above and beyond is unfaltering. Her patience and knowledge are valued by not only her many customers but all of Certum. One would be hard-pressed to find a staff member who is as reliable and trustworthy as Patricia has proven herself to be." 

-Leah Swain, VP of Sales 

Click here to donate to Wounded Warriors

Tatyana Kelly joined us this year as a Validation Specialist on our Data team. Tatyana came to us from the US Army Reserves, where she worked as a Supply Specialist. Tatyana is tough as nails when she needs to be, and one of the kindest people you will ever meet. Her dedication gleaned from her experience has been instrumental in our project success.

“I am an American soldier. I am a warrior and a member of a team. I serve the people of the United States and live the Army values. I will always place the mission first. I will not accept defeat. I will not quit. I will never leave a fallen comrade.

Being part of the Army/Army National Guard was a legacy I wanted to carry after my late grandfather and father who served their country. To experience so much from repelling off of towers, crawling in mud, shooting targets has been the best experience in my life. I have traveled, met many different people of all kinds that showed me culture and differences are amazing together! I wouldn’t change my experience for nothing in the world. HOOOOAAAAHHHHHHH!!!!!!!”

– Tatyana Kelly

From her manager: 

“Tatyana’s military experience has shown throughout her employment at Certum. She has a strong work ethic and shows a willingness to do things correctly. She is a team player that works well with others. Tatyana is constantly making her Certum team and military family proud on a daily basis.”  

–Jake Capps, CPA, Senior Accountant 

Click here to donate to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital

In honor of these ladies, and our nation’s veterans, past and present, we will be making a donation in their honor to the Wounded Warriors Project, as well as a donation to their requested charities, and are listing their favorite charities below, in case you would like to support them as well.

Thank you to our veterans, from the bottom of our hearts. We truly would not be a free nation without your service, and it does not go forgotten.

Patricia Burchfield’s Charity of Choice  - Wounded Warriors

Tatyana Kelly’s Charity of Choice – St. Jude’s