Community Q&A: Walla Walla Emergency Service Communications selects Keri Abernathy as dispatcher of the year

Emergency services departments across the country last month observed National Telecommunicator Week from April 12 to 18.

In Walla Walla County, officials celebrated it by naming a local dispatcher of the year.

Keri Abernathy took home that honor.

Walla Walla Emergency Service Communications Director Esther Click said she and Walla Walla Police Department Chief Chris Buttice selected Abernathy.

"The selection process is based on nominations from supervisors, which are then reviewed by Chief Buttice and me. It is never an easy decision, as each of our dispatchers consistently demonstrates excellence," Click said. "Keri Abernathy was selected due to her years of service to our industry, her commitment to our mission, and - most importantly - her embodiment of our agency's values. She shows respect and kindness to her peers every day. While that may seem simple, it is critically important in an industry where people call us not because they are having a good day, but because they need help during what may be the worst moment of their lives."

Click said the award, as well as National Telecommunicator Week, helps remind people of the important role dispatchers play.

"Our profession is often overlooked because we are not front facing, yet we are the first to answer the call and listen to the needs of our callers," she said. "There are calls you can never 'unhear' and that stay with you forever - some good, some not."

Abernathy recently sat down for a Community Q&A

What brought you to the Walla Walla Valley?

We moved to Walla Walla over 20 years ago to be closer to my family and my husband loved this area.

What does it mean to you to be named dispatcher of the year?

I am truly honored to be named dispatcher of the year! This award recognizes the important and difficult work that dispatchers do every single day. I have been dispatching for over 30 years, 18 years with (Walla Walla Communications), and I can honestly say that I still enjoy coming to work.

Tell us about the hardest parts of the job.

Not everyone realizes the sacrifices that dispatchers make. We work long hours and sometimes the shift work can be difficult for family and friends. Dispatching can be a highly stressful job, sometimes life and death decisions are being made, often there is little to no closure on the calls because for us, it's on to the next call.

Are there rewarding parts, too?

However, I still find the work extremely rewarding. We are helping people, sometimes on the worst day of their lives and being that "lifeline" on the other end of the phone can give them comfort during this time.

When you aren't working, what are you doing?

When I am not at work, I try to spend as much time as possible with family and friends. Spring to fall is the best time to get outside and enjoy the beautiful Walla Walla Valley. Our family goes boating and fishing as much as possible. Also, getting regular physical exercise can be very important to manage stress.

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