Meet Doris Wilson
Erin: What is your job title and what do you do at the American Philatelic Society?
Doris: I'm the Graphic Communication Specialist. I do graphic design for both the APS and APRL. My two major projects are laying out the The American Philatelist every month and the quarterly issue of the Philatelic Literature Review. I also lay out the show program for the APS stamp show, ads for both the APS/APRL, ads for advertisers in the AP, brochures, flyers and other projects as needed.
E: How long have you worked for APS?
Doris and her sister Janet worked together at APS for years until Janet's retirement.
D: I joined the APS/ARPL family in December 1990 — just in time for the Christmas party — as a part time employee in the library. After a couple months, I was hired full time working part time in both the library and in shows (at that time it was Shows and Communications). Other positions I have held are Youth Coordinator, helping in education, and webmaster.
With APS editors Martin and prior (Jay and Barb) I was responsible for the ads and would help with the images. When Barb was the editor I began the layout for some things, specifically Bob Lamb's "Worldwide in a Nutshell" and "Worldwide Issues." I pulled in classifieds, membership and show time. Obviously over the years my job responsibilities at the APS have shifted.
Do you have a fond memory about your time with coworkers over this time to share?
It is hard to pick a single fond memory — I enjoy interacting with my co-workers and our members.
What are the best parts of your job?
The AP is a challenge every month which I enjoy accomplishing.
Is there one resource on the website you’d like to highlight for members that is connected to your job?
The American Philatelist and Philatelic Literature Review will definitely highlight what I do.
Doris has been the graphic designer of the APS for many years and is responsible for the layout of The American Philatelist and Philatelic Literature Review.
Are you a stamp collector? If so, what do you like to collect/ share about another hobby?
I am not sure I would call myself a stamp collector but I do collect lighthouses. When I started going to shows I joined the APS — in 1994. After all, how could I recruit members to join an organization if I was not a member?
What is a fun fact about you that you’d like to share with our members?
My hobbies include crocheting and cross-stitch. I enjoy spending time with my seven grandchildren. I am very involved in the American Legion Auxiliary serving those that have given their time defending our country.
Tell me something you enjoy about APS/APRL members? Or a memory you have with a member?
I enjoy interacting with our members. Staffing the APS table at WSP shows and at AmeriStamp Expo . . . members attending Summer Seminar, or volunteers during Volunteer Work Week . . . and many people just stop in at the APS for a visit.
How have you transitioned to working from home? What have you been doing since you’ve been working from home?
Transitioning to working from home was a challenge as our content team interacts constantly during the production of the AP. Thankfully; I can log on to my computer at work and have access to all my files. The May issue of the AP was the first time I did not have a physical copy to look at before it went to print. That was different for me as I am a hands-on person.
Anything else you’d like to share about your job/APS to members?
If you have not visited the American Philatelic Center please plan to come in — it’s great place. I have enjoyed working with both my fellow employees and serving our members. As I am writing this I will be retiring in less than two weeks – May 15. I would like to thank my fellow employees – both current and those that have moved on to retirement or another position -- for their friendship and support.
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When we announced the closure of the American Philatelic Center, members reached out with words of encouragement for the staff in appreciation for all they do. One member wrote, “Please tell them the APS Cares!” APS Cares is something that was born out of one member sharing their hope that staff is supported during this time. We thank them along with many others who have reached out and contributed with their kindness.
What is APS Cares? With our closure, certain services have been suspended, and with that, revenue for the Society. We cannot fully operate programs, like Expertizing, Circuit Sales, StampStore, or the library, but we are doing all we can until the doors open again. When the time comes, we want to be fully prepared to get you back to enjoying every service the APS has to offer as quickly as possible. APS Cares is a fund to allow us to keep our staff working and serving you, from the safety of their homes. APS Cares will go directly to support APS staff salaries or, if we’re able, to reward them at the end of the year for their hard work.
With this hope and support from APS Cares, our staff will be able to continue to bring joy and a place to unwind within in the world of philately. From your extended family at the American Philatelic Society, we offer our appreciation to you for staying connected with us.
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If you would like to support APS Cares, you can send a check to:
American Philatelic Society
100 Match Factory Place
Bellefonte, PA 16823
c/o APS Cares
Or Support the APS Staff Online:
Please select APS Cares in the Gift Designation.
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