Painting from a Palette of Purpose: Yvette Gardener Profile
By Office of the President | Oct 16, 2024
Yvette Gardener’s story is one of dedication, transformation, and unwavering faith.
For more than 30 years, she has been a painter at Downstate, bringing color and life throughout the campus. Her unique journey to becoming a painter is as vivid as her personality. Initially working in finance and in-between jobs, Yvette was inspired by the story of a female crane operator she saw profiled on the show Like It Is, who described her work as the only woman on her crew and talked about how much she earned.
Yvette applied for a job at Downstate, becoming the only woman on the painting crew, a position she retains today. Her work is more than just applying paint—it’s about transforming spaces. “When I finish a space, whether it’s a bright office or a soothing corridor, I feel this deep sense of accomplishment,” Yvette says. “A fresh coat of paint does more than make a room look clean—it changes the energy. When people walk in and feel at ease, I know I’ve done my job well.
Yvette uses more than 20 gallons of paint every month, carefully choosing colors that brighten, calm, and inspire. She creates atmospheres, whether it is in an office, a wall, or a hallway. Beneficiaries of her work—staff, patients, and visitors—feel more at home and welcome.
Despite her hardships, including serious health concerns and the loss of her father and neighbors in a tragic fire, Yvette is also a proud, ordained minister, mother, and grandmother. Her favorite colors—gold, royal purple, and fuchsia—reflect her bold spirit and faith that has guided her through life’s challenges. Yvette eagerly counsels those who need her and is committed to uplifting others, including supporting food pantries and helping people experiencing homelessness, among other challenges.
Born to a Southern family, Yvette also proudly identifies with her Caribbean familial roots and feels a deep connection to the diverse community in Downstate. Her journey is a testament to the power of faith, resilience, and generosity, a philosophy that defines her life and work at Downstate.
Tags: Profile