Stepping into the high school office each person is greeted with celebratory black and gold decorations at every turn. Shimmering streamers are draped on the desk, while balloons are taped proudly on the wall. Outside of the office, students express awe and smile as they pass by the monitor displaying a collection of their accomplishments and memories.The common denominator at the center of this joy? The answer is Tavia Bowers. 

Although Ms. Bowers has only worked at Lab for less than two years, her natural ability to connect with others has already led to deep, appreciated relationships in the school community. 

Ms. Bowers’ day-to-day work consists of designing posters, scheduling meetings and managing Principal Martin Woods’ calendar. This year, she is helping to communicate Mr. Woods’ theme, the beloved community, to U-High.

“To the best of my ability,” Ms. Bowers said, “I assist with bringing Mr. Woods’ visions to life.”

When Ms. Bowers joined the U-High community in August 2024, she was grateful for the support of her department.  

“I was the newest to the group, and they just welcomed me with open arms,” Ms. Bowers said. “The support that I have received is just amazing.” 

Ms. Bowers also acknowledges the unique community at Lab and applauds its focus on creating unified spaces for both students and faculty. 

“I’ve worked many jobs and to be in this position, and to know that it doesn’t have to be like this, really warms my heart,” Ms. Bowers said.

Before going into education, Ms. Bowers worked as a corporate trainer and enjoyed writing. Outside of her work at Lab, Ms. Bowers shares her creativity through her nonprofit, TBell Presents. Founded in 2021, TBell Presents aims to help small businesses with graphic design, administrative support, training and development and proofreading. 

“I kind of market it as a virtual assistant company,” Ms. Bowers said. 

Although clients mainly use the graphic design feature, Ms. Bowers enjoys helping adults succeed through entrepreneurship in whatever way they see fit. 

“I just loved teaching adults in the corporate environment,” Ms. Bowers said. “I still hold onto that in my heart, so I wanted to be able to offer that as a service as well.” 

Whether she is chatting with students during passing periods, or working right-hand to Mr. Woods, Ms. Bowers ensures the comfort of those around her with kindness and positivity. 

Mr. Woods applauds how Ms. Bowers has continued the legacy of Carol Arrington, who worked as a project assistant for 35 years before retiring in 2024. 

“She’s just such a kind person, and I think that is the thing I am appreciative of the most,” he said. “I was really lucky to have found her.”

Ms. Bowers credits much of her success to those around her. In the high school office, she has built a strong relationship with her coworker Emese El Bissatine Pasztor, who is also a project assistant.

“We are perfect partners,” Ms. Bowers said. “We’re able to bounce ideas off of each other.” 

Together, Ms. Pasztor and Ms. Bowers collaborate and divide responsibilities based on their individual strengths. 

“I am good at something in which she is not, and she is good at something I am not,” Ms. Pasztor said. “I know when we work together that it will always turn out successful.” 

Beyond their professional relationship, Ms. Pasztor values Ms. Bowers as more than a friend. 

“She’s like a sister to me,” Ms. Pasztor said. “When I come to the office, it feels like home.”  

Their close relationship is reflected in the way Ms. Bowers approaches every day. 

“When somebody walks into the office and she has a big smile and the warmth that she projects, it is priceless,” Ms. Pasztor said. 

For Ms. Bowers, that sense of care comes naturally. She said her life experiences have shaped the heart she brings to her work each day. 

“I really enjoy life,” she said. “I have been through a lot, but I think that the way that the Lord created me is the heart that I have for people.”