Prior to gaining successful, full-time employment at Santa Rosa Junior College (SRJC), Hilleary was a CalWORKs student. The community college CalWORKs program helped her meet her personal and professional goals because one of the purposes of CalWORKs is to promote economic self-sufficiency through education.

Hilleary earned a a certificate in Human Resources Administration from Santa Rosa Junior College with a young child. Subsequently, she earned a BA degree from San Francisco State University in Sociology after a break to have that same young child. It took her about 9 years complete her bachelor's. Then, after working full-time for 17 years, she fortunately began her MA degree from Arizona State University in Sociology in January 2020, so she had something positive to focus on during the height of the coronavirus pandemic. She also has received several honors including a GEM (Goes the Extra Mile) Award from her peer colleagues, a Certificate of Excellence for her contributions to Local 1021 SEIU (Service Employees International Union), and the City of Santa Rosa Mighty Peacock Award which is recognition for her numerous volunteer activities in her neighborhood.

Currently, Hilleary is the Manager, Student Support where she serves as the Student Grievance Officer for the District, and is available to facilitate and/or mediate faculty/staff/student conferences. She also supports various District and student activities and events.

Hilleary's passions include serving students, educators, single parents, formerly incarcerated and those experiencing homelessness, or at risk of experiencing homelessness. She has been intimate with each of these situations and finds great joy in reflecting hope for others. Earning an education is one pathway to making an impact. Hilleary is grateful to be working at a CA community college to support holistic education for a diverse population.