Spark Spotlight Veteran: Morgan McCadden
Originally from Roanoke, VA, Morgan McCadden’s journey in active-duty service taught her a few things about discipline, leadership, and camaraderie. She served Active Duty in the Army for 8 years as a human resources specialist from 2006 to 2014. During her time in the Army, she participated in three combat tours to deployed areas, two in Afghanistan and one in Kuwait. Today, she resides in Asheville, NC and serves as a human resources director for a hospitality company. Morgan has a passion for helping those in need of new opportunities. She also serves as part of the women’s ministry at her church, encouraging and uplifting women through prayer and weekly devotionals.
What inspired you to enlist?
I became a mom at 16. I went to college for 2 years, and decided I wasn’t disciplined enough to study without mom being over my shoulder. I didn’t get good grades. I got out and worked as a waitress. I wanted better for myself, so I thought ‘well, I’ll join the Army.’ I had a boyfriend at the time who joined the Marines. I decided the Army was the best fit for me.
How did you imagine military life before you joined?
I thought I was just going to be doing push-ups all the time and sleeping outside! That’s why I didn’t want to do it! I only went to these recruitment agencies because my boyfriend at the time needed the contacts. My recruiter painted a picture for me – of what Army life is really like. When you’re deployed, it takes on a little bit of a twist.
What was the most significant experience during your time in the Army?
I would say going out on convoys and knowing that some of my friends didn’t make it back alive. Being a leader, people look to you. I had to basically lead my fellow soldiers through the process of grieving and help them stay focused on the mission. I'm a survivor of military sexual trauma as well. Being sexually assaulted by someone who was supposed to be on your side was difficult.
What occupies your time nowadays?
I’m a grandmother. My daughter, my son, and working in the ministry also occupy my time. Ministry is a big part of my life. I am a Minister in Training, I lead the prayer ministry and I lead the dance ministry at my church. I also write Tea with the Queen, a weekly devotional for the women at my church.
What are you passionate about?
I’m passionate about helping others and seeing the good in people. Part of my job as the Area Human Resources Director for Windsor Capital Group for the East Coast Division really fits my passion for people. I help give guidance and bring potential opportunities to people who are experiencing challenges. As the HR lady, you kind of turn into a psychologist, a mentor, and meeting peoples’ needs. Even the people I don’t hire, I ask how their day is going. Uplifting and encouraging others and being a support system to others who don’t have any support, that’s what I love. I’m also really passionate about everything Disney!
What is most rewarding about what you do now?
Being able to bring hope to people and giving them second chances. Sometimes, we don’t always get the best backgrounds. I always tell them it’s a “hand-up” instead of a “hand-out.”
What do you want women who are interested in enlisting to know?
You won’t be doing push-ups all the time. You don’t have to have a love of camping to join. Your mindset is everything. Lean on your battle buddies for support. Realize that the overall mission is bigger and better than those first nine weeks of basic training. You’ll form friendships that will carry you through a lifetime. I’m grateful for mine.
