Q: How long have you worked at Rice?
A: 1 year and 3 months.
Q: What is your favorite part about working for the university?
A: The opportunity to be creative all the time — we have a 3-week rotation of desserts, and I cannot repeat any flavor (be it cake, pies, custard, gluten-free and vegan) for that period of time, so I have a lot of fun creating new sweets for the students. I challenge myself every time. My goal is to create memorable desserts for them.
Q: What do you want people to know about living in Houston?
A: Houston is a very cosmopolitan city being the fourth largest city in the U.S. in terms of population, but the people are very friendly and hospitable.
Q: What do you do in your down time?
A: I like going to museums and supporting the local performing arts scene. I recently went to see “Drunken Shakespeare,” and that was a lot of fun. The comedy performances here as well are a must-see.
Q: What’s your favorite spot on campus to show someone?
A: Brockman Hall for Opera — it’s such a gorgeous events venue.
Q: What’s the most exciting time of year for you as it relates to Rice?
A: Graduation — it’s so wonderful to witness both students and parents achieve such a special milestone.
Q: What’s the one thing that makes Rice special to you?
A: I’ve enjoyed the friendships I’ve cultivated here. I’ve gotten to know a lot of people from different backgrounds of life. I’m amazed at people that have worked here for more than 30 years…even 40! Amazing.
Q: If you could be Sammy The Owl for a day, what would you do?
A: I want to be in one of the live sports matches and cheer my heart out for our student athletes.
Q: How would you describe your experience as a Rice employee?
A: Being in a place of higher learning is a lot of fun. I always look forward to going to work and seeing everyone’s warm smiles. Being able to provide students a little sweetness away from home always warms my heart. Rice’s campus is just gorgeous — I love walking in the canopy trees, taking photos of the beautiful flowers, and, of course, the ultra-cute squirrels always bring a smile to my face!
Q: Where do you see Rice in 25 years?
A: I hope Rice would be a symbol of inclusivity, diversity, paragon of learning and of course with the best food in the country!
Q: Describe Rice University in four words or less.
A: Inclusivity, diversity, beautiful and innovative.
Q: What else have we not talked about yet that merits discussion?
A: The Betty and Jacob Friedman Holistic Garden is a must visit, especially for those interested in gardening, cultivating plants and purchasing organic produce. I was amazed by the variety of vegetables that they have — they grow sorrel(!), a wide array of herbs, and they even raise chickens!