After more than 25 years with the organization, United Egg Producers’ Vice President of Finance Sherry Shedd retires at the end of this month. Over the weekend, Shedd was thrown a retirement party and shared a few thoughts about her time at UEP.

Why did you choose a career as an accountant?

I received a degree in accounting from the University of Georgia. At that time, a career in public accounting was the best profession for a woman, and I needed to have a marketable skill upon graduation. Both of my daughters are also certified public accountants, so it has become a family affair.

How did you get started with UEP?

After graduation, I immediately went into public accounting and later worked for Southern Bell and the Georgia Republican Party before joining the UEP team in September 1997. Ironically, I saw a neighborhood newspaper advertisement that read, “bookkeeper wanted with a small, friendly office environment.” I started in a part-time capacity just before UEP consolidated the regions in 1998, and I have been here ever since. I was often given opportunities to develop and do more in those early years. I have always felt valued and needed at UEP, which made it easy for me to stay.

How have you seen UEP change over the last 25 years?

The workload and service UEP provides has changed over the years, and much of it can be attributed to technology. I learned to adapt to this ever-changing industry and do the work to the best of my ability. I have seen numerous staff and leadership shifts at UEP, and I am eager to see all the good work UEP and the egg industry will continue to do.

What are some memories of your time at UEP?

When I started with UEP, my daughters were young and loved to come to my office whenever possible. They feel as connected to UEP as I do. UEP has always offered a personable and familial feel to the office. Since most of my work has been done behind the scenes, it has been a pleasure to get to know each UEP Treasurer and board member who I have worked with. I will miss the friends that I have made at UEP.

What are your plans for retirement?

I always intended to work until at least age 70 but have decided that I want to focus on spending time with my grandkids while they are still young. I also look forward to reconnecting with high school and college friends. Aside from family and friends, I am passionate about animals, particularly dogs. I would like to foster more dogs and get involved in lobbying against dog abuse and dog fighting and helping educate people on these issues.

Sentiments from the team

“Sherry was very patient with me as I learned the financial side of exports (freight equalization calculations, non-participants “share of the cost,” true up of prepaid funds, etc.). She taught me the ins and outs of UEP and UEA financial transactions including invoicing for membership fees, flock capacity reporting, egg, and lighting invoicing and what I thought at the time was a crazy accounting system. I will really miss her!” – Jim Blizzard, Financial Assistant

“Sherry’s dedication and perseverance over the years set the bar for the rest of us – it is hard to imagine UEP without her. It has been a privilege to have her on the team, and we wish her the best as she enters this next chapter of life.” – Chad Gregory, President & CEO