Vicki Parisi will retire from her role as director of Volunteer Services on Dec. 31.
When Vicki Parisi walked through the doors of Akron Children’s for a medical assisting internship 44 years ago, she had no idea she’d never leave. Today, as she prepares to retire on Dec. 31, Vicki is reflecting on a career filled with growth, gratitude and countless memories.
“I came here for my medical assisting internship, and after completing it, I was hired on the afternoon shift as a pharmacy technician. That’s where my journey with Children’s began,” Vicki recalled.
A career built from the ground up
Vicki has held many roles in her 44 years with Akron Children’s including pharmacy technician, administrative assistant in the Lab and secretary in Pathology.
Vicki’s career path at Akron Children’s spans nearly every corner of the organization. Over the years, she embraced roles that stretched her talents and deepened her connection to the hospital’s mission.
She began as a pharmacy technician, packaging and delivering medications to the floors. From there, she moved into Pathology as a secretary, where she typed surgical and autopsy reports on a typewriter.
Her next stop was Lab Administration as an administrative assistant. “I typed scientific papers for pathologists and processed lab employee timecards by hand,” she said.
In retirement, Vicki is looking forward to spending more time with family and learning the guitar.
Vicki later became an executive assistant in Administration for vice presidents and administrative fellows, followed by a role in the Foundation as a special projects coordinator, helping organize beloved fundraising events like the Holiday Tree Festival, Harness Race Rally, Taste of Hudson, Horse of a Different Color and Denim & Diamonds.
Most recently, Vicki has served as director of Volunteer Services, overseeing Akron and Mahoning Valley volunteers, information desks, gift shops and respite centers.
Building her legacy
Of all her roles, Vicki says 1 accomplishment stands above the rest. “One of my greatest accomplishments has been building our volunteer program,” she said. “It’s been an honor getting to know our volunteers, supporting them and ensuring they always feel appreciated.”
She is also especially proud of the Holiday Tree Festival. “Our volunteers pour their hearts into the event, and it has truly become one of the best family-oriented holiday traditions in our community,” she added.
Vicki says her proudest accomplishment is building the volunteer department into what it is today and making sure the volunteers feel supported and appreciated.
Witnessing decades of growth and change
Over 4 decades, Vicki has seen Akron Children’s evolve dramatically.
“Akron Children’s has grown tremendously, and we have incredible employees,” she said. “We’ve advanced in the care we provide to our pediatric population and continuously work to improve the patient and family experience.”
She says rules around smoking on campus has been one of Akron Children’s biggest cultural shifts. “We’ve come a long way. When I first started, employees still smoked in their offices – something that’s hard to imagine now!” she said. “Thankfully, that changed with the introduction of the no-smoking policy.”
Finding joy in everyday moments
Throughout her career, Vicki found her greatest joy in helping patients and families.
“Anything that brings a smile to a child’s face whether that’s baking cookies at the bedside, cuddling a baby, escorting a family, making a craft or handing out a blanket or stuffed animal has been worth every moment,” she said.
Some memories make her smile; others make her tear up, but all of them have meant something. “I love the patients and the things they say. They’ve made me laugh, and at times, cry,” she shared. “It has been a privilege to work for such a wonderful organization.”
Vicki, pictured with her family, at Universal Studios Orlando in March 2025.
Looking ahead to retirement
As she steps into retirement, Vicki is eager for more time with her husband, 3 sons, daughters-in-law and 2 grandchildren. “I see many trips in our future to Richmond, Los Angeles and Philadelphia,” she said.
She also plans to return to her musical roots. “I play the piano, and my sons bought me a guitar, so I’m looking forward to taking guitar lessons too,” she said.
What she’ll miss most
While she’s excited for her next chapter, Vicki said leaving is bittersweet.
“I will miss the dedication of our amazing volunteers who generously give their time and energy to support our mission. They are incredible,” she said.
For those just starting their journey at Akron Children’s, Vicki offers simple yet meaningful advice.
“Akron Children’s is a wonderful place to build a career,” she said. “Take advantage of the benefits. I will always be grateful for the opportunity to earn my bachelor’s and master’s degrees while working here.”
And above all? “Take time to get to know your colleagues,” she added. “Kindness and a warm smile can transform the day.”
