BISM Logo, blue and gold compass with modern styled letters reading BISM Empowering the Blind Community, employing, educating, training.
BISM Logo, blue and gold compass with modern styled letters reading BISM Empowering the Blind Community, employing, educating, training.

Feature Friday – BISM Associates

Meet Sabrina Lankford

  • Photo of Sabrina Lankford wearing a friendly and relaxed smile.
Photo of Sabrina Lankford wearing a friendly and relaxed smile.

With 23 years working at our Salisbury location, Sabrina has mastered every component of sewing BISM jackets.

In her current role as Foreman, Sabrina ensures that our production lines runs smooth and efficiently. Get to know Sabrina a little more as she gushes about her grandchildren, shares some of her hobbies, and leaves us with wise words we should all live by.

How did you first learn about BISM?
At the time, I was working in the sewing department for a large furniture Company here in Salisbury. Unfortunately, the company was getting ready to close which meant I had to find a new job. While I was out one day, I drove past a building that read Blind Industries and Services of Maryland. I was interested to see what it was and next thing you know, I was applying for a job and got hired.

What is your favorite thing about working at BISM?
I appreciate how everyone is patient and willing to help. It could be something big like learning a new skill or something as simple as understanding paperwork, and there is always someone there to walk you through it. It’s an overall warm and inviting place to work.

Are you a sports fan?
Only because my grandchildren are into sports. There are two who are heavily involved in sports. The oldest who is a freshman in high school plays for the Varsity Football team and has won a championship. My nine-year old grandson is a champion boxer in his age and weight class. I am so proud of them. I am proud of all of my grandchildren and my children as well. We are a close-knit family. I am all about family and spending time with them as it is one of my favorite things to do.

Do you have any hidden talents or hobbies?
I love to read. The Bible is my favorite book. I also enjoy sewing. I used to spend a lot of time jogging and loved it. Finally, I do a little bit of home interior decorating. Many of my friends will come to me for design and decorating advice. I enjoy helping them.

What’s your favorite thing to do on the weekends?
Rest and watch movies! My kids will call me on the weekends and ask what I am doing? I say, you all already know what I am doing. Laying in my bed and enjoying movies.

Who do you look up to at BISM?
I look up to my supervisor Shelia. I admire her patience and ability to always be calm. She always thinks about a situation before she speaks on it. I also look up to Rebecca (Becky). She also has so much patience and is always open and willing to help. Lastly, I look up to Rich. I don’t think I have ever seen him get flustered. He is mild mannered and keeps a cool head no matter what’s happening. I truly look up to these three Associates.

What show are you currently watching?
Okay, I am old school, so don’t laugh. I love shows like The Waltons and Little House on the Prairie. I know these shows are old, but shows from that time always had a positive message. The shows today are just too much at times. My kids try to get me to watch them and I just can’t do it.

What personal philosophy do you live by?
When it comes to life, you will always be met with new challenges. Guess what? You are not always going to get things right. You will make mistakes. We all do. Despite the mistakes, it is about how you decide to progress forward. It is not about the mistake. It is about the recovery.