A 45 Year Journey: You Have to Love What You Do
28 October, 2024
A Career of Dedication
Ella Powell’s 45-year career with MCCS is nothing short of extraordinary. She began her journey on March 16, 1979, when the organization was still called MCX, then later became MWR before finally becoming MCCS. From that day forward, Ella’s trajectory was set, and her love for caring for children blossomed into a lifelong commitment. Now, as she prepares to retire on November 30, 2024, Ella looks back on an incredible career that has shaped not just her own life, but the lives of countless children, families, and colleagues.
Finding Her Calling
Born and raised in Beaufort, SC, Ella’s path to MCCS was unexpected but destined. After graduating from high school, she worked as a cashier before a Beaufort County program matched her with a role that aligned with her passion for children. And so, her career at the Child Development Center (CDC) began. Throughout her 45 years, Ella has always been based at MCAS Beaufort—initially working in a building that is now the outdoor play area. She has watched the CDC evolve into what it is today.
45 Years of Growth and Impact
Ella’s career has spanned significant changes in technology, rules, and even the children themselves. She’s worked under seven directors, each leaving an impression, but it was Cassie McIntire who shaped her most. “She reared me,” Ella recalls, praising Cassie’s motherly approach and fair, tough-love style.
Reflecting on her years, Ella is quick to celebrate the relationships she’s built. "I’m a people person," she says, and that connection to others—children, parents, families, and co-workers—has been the foundation of her success. Some of her fondest memories include the annual Christmas parties with her coworkers and the Month of the Military Child in April, which is one of her favorite times of year. "It’s a month full of celebrations," Ella says, beaming. Another standout memory is the Employee Appreciation Party in January, especially this past year when it had a Cowboy theme. “I loved that party—it was one of the best!” she recalls fondly.
A Heart Full of Gratitude
When asked what guided her through 45 years, Ella humbly replies, "It’s all God—the grace of God." She credits her faith for guiding her through the highs and lows of such a long career. Despite the changes, she wouldn’t alter a thing, noting that each challenge brought growth and learning. One of her most rewarding experiences was caring for the children of military personnel from the United Kingdom, who were stationed at MCAS Beaufort while training on the F-35. It was a cultural challenge that turned into one of her proudest achievements.
Advice for the Next Generation
Ella’s advice to future MCCS employees is both practical and insightful: "Be professional, communicate, and seek solutions. Don’t just vent—talk it out. Your supervisor isn’t a mind reader!" She believes open communication and teamwork have been key to her longevity and success. Her younger colleagues look up to her as a role model, and she is deeply proud of the legacy she will leave behind.
Celebrating 45 Years
Ella’s 45-year milestone is a celebration of dedication, loyalty, and love for what she does. Very few people can look back on a career this long and still speak of it with such warmth and gratitude. Ella’s colleagues and the children and families she’s cared for admire her deeply—her influence extends beyond work, and the community has felt her impact.
Her current director, Deborah Frazier, reflects on the impact Ella has had: “I have been fortunate to have the opportunity to work with Ms. Powell for a little over a year. From the moment I walked through the door as the new MCAS CDC Director, Ms. Powell took me under her wings... I now look at Ms. Powell as a friend and an ‘auntie’... We love her and will definitely miss her presence when she retires. Out of sight will not mean out of mind in her case.”
One Word: Fantastic
When asked to describe her career in one word, Ella answered without hesitation: "Fantastic." As for her dream lunch companion? She laughs, "Girl, Shemar Moore. That is my crush!" And her theme song for her last day at work? I Am Grateful by Hezekiah Walker, a song that reflects her deep sense of gratitude for a fulfilling career.
Looking to the Future
As she prepares to retire, Ella will miss her MCCS family, but she’s looking forward to spending more time with her own family—especially her nieces and nephews, whose sporting events she never misses. On her days off, she enjoys exercising, relaxing, and taking trips to Virginia to visit a friend. "Virginia is for lovers," she cheekily replies with a wink and laughter, adding just enough mystery to keep you guessing.
If she hadn’t worked at the CDC, Ella says she would have pursued interior design, as she has a passion for drawing and creating beautiful spaces. But as she reflects on her 45 years with MCCS, one thing is clear: Ella Powell has lived her life with gratitude, pouring her heart into the children and families she’s touched. During the interview, I asked Ella what she would like her legacy to be. It took her a while, but not me. I knew right away that her legacy of excellence and dedication would endure for many years to come. Ella Powell, on behalf of all of us at MCCS, thank you and best wishes as you move to this next exciting phase of life. You will be missed. Job well done.