NSWC PCD Hispanic Heritage Month Spotlight: Cecilie Belleville

NSWC PCD Hispanic Heritage Month Spotlight: Cecilie Belleville

By Jeremy Roman, NSWC PCD Public Affairs

Cecilie Belleville, an administrative technical specialist in the Employee Services Division of the Comptroller Department, just celebrated her one-year anniversary at NSWC Panama City Division, but prior to that, worked as a contractor in the Travel Office for two and a half years. Her contributions are felt across the command as she serves in various roles, including primary agency program coordinator for the Government Travel Charge Card, defense travel administrator, and passport agent.

"I assist in the travel office with an array of responsibilities," Belleville said. "(Whether I'm) managing the day-to-day operations of the travel card program, ensuring that travel arrangements adhere to DoD (Department of Defense) regulations while meeting travelers' needs, or processing visas in accordance with the electronic Foreign Clearance Guide, all three roles are crucial for maintaining and supporting official travel, and ultimately contributing to mission success and overall readiness of our forces."

Born in California, she spent most of her developmental years in Costa Rica and Okinawa, Japan. She shared how growing up in her household and culture helped her learn and see things from various perspectives.

"Latino culture is very diverse, and being empathetic to everyone's differences has been a foundation for me," she said. "It has allowed me to be able to express my opinions and feelings in ways that opposing people feel comfortable expressing their thoughts also. I feel it is important to get every side to the story from every background and culture, as this creates a stronger relationship with others and forms a more inclusive and innovative society."

She also prides herself on delivering excellent and proficient customer service with a smile, which comes to her effortlessly.

"What I am most proud of is our (Costa Rican) way of life. It is definitely a 'slow life' and not fast-paced like it tends to be here in the United States," she said. "We have a Costa Rican saying - 'pura vida' - and I feel that represents my background. It symbolizes a simple and happy life."