Joyce stanton signs off after decades of warmth at massachusetts state house
After a decade of dedicated service, Joyce Stanton, the beloved receptionist at the Massachusetts State house, is hanging up her coat and bidding farewell to her iconic role. Known for her radiant smiles and infectious hugs, Stanton won the hearts of everyone who crossed her path under the golden dome.
First impressions matter
For Stanton, her approach to welcoming visitors was simple yet profound. 'When people walk into that room, the first person they see is me. I represent the governor. I have to welcome you, be patient with you, and listen to you. If you show people respect, it will be shown back to you,' she explained, drawing from a valuable lesson her teacher once imparted: 'You never get a second chance to make a first impression.'
Stanton's journey began when she was first brought on by former Governor Charlie Baker. Initially, she ran a restaurant at a Cambridge hotel, where Baker would stop by daily for his coffee and blueberry muffin. Their conversations led to a delightful collaboration - she even named a sandwich after him, dubbed 'The Baker' or 'The Charlie,' featuring turkey, lettuce, tomato, and mayonnaise on wheat bread.
When Baker lost to Governor Deval Patrick, Stanton spotted him leaving and boldly advised him to run again, this time doing the opposite of his first campaign. Baker took her suggestion to heart and won the next election. Upon taking office, he offered Stanton a position with constituent services, but she politely declined, citing her intolerance for dealing with abusive clients.
He assured her she would be welcome back in two weeks, and when she returned, he offered her the receptionist position, which she happily accepted. Over two terms, Stanton became a fixture at the State House, earning the admiration of her colleagues and the affection of the public.
When Governor Maura Healey took office, she was determined to keep Stanton on staff, much to Stanton's delight. 'She came and said, 'You aren't going anywhere. You're working for me,' Stanton recalled. 'I was like, 'Oh thank you lord.'
Saying goodbye
As Stanton prepares to leave, her colleagues are mourning the loss of her warmth and dedication. 'It's hard to imagine Joyce not being here greeting us with hugs, greeting everyone,' Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll said. 'Whether it's a head of state, a CEO, a group of protesters, school groups, you name it, Joyce is there to greet them respectfully. She takes care of the plants, she takes care of us, so a lot of folks will be sad and wilting without her.'
Among the many notable figures Stanton has met over the years, one stands out in her memory: Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. 'Prime Minister Trudeau, from Canada, he had my heart going in my mouth,' Stanton joked. 'He is so gorgeous.'