Her Story
About Lilian
Lilian Colli is the Executive Assistant for the Town of Windermere, Florida, a role she has held on and off for approximately five years following a promotion from part-time work. She brings a BA in Psychology to her position, where her responsibilities center on communication, organization, maintaining schedules for the town manager, and preparing agendas for town council meetings. Originally from Brazil, Colli previously taught in public schools and co-owned a glass business in New Jersey with her ex-husband before moving to Florida. She is an active member of Alcoholics Anonymous, where she has been sober for nearly seven years, and volunteers with AA programs, conferences, and at her church caring for children. Colli values honesty and integrity above all, drawing from personal experiences including her immigration journey and recovery to emphasize adaptability, self-reliance, and bringing one's whole self to every task.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Lilian
01What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
A principal told me during my first week teaching when I was overwhelmed: 'Do not doubt your abilities. You are doing amazing, so have a little more faith on you.' That advice stuck with me and I never quit anything again. At the end of the line, you just have you to count on.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Bring your whole self to whatever you do. My mom used to tell me that whatever you do, do as you are doing for God. Even when nobody's watching, do your best. Because you're not doing it for other people, you're doing for yourself.
03What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Tax cuts are a big challenge as a municipality and government job. We depend on taxes, and in election years there is talk about tax cuts. People start not knowing if they're gonna keep their job or not. We depend on election years, on what the politicians are going to do.
04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Honesty is the best value that I carry around. I cannot deal with liars. You gain trust by the drop, but you lose by the bucket. Integrity means you are accountable, you do follow-through, and you are honest and trustworthy. Character and honesty are better than being brilliant but horrible to be around.
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