Q: How long have you worked at Rice?
A: 10 years.
Q: What is your favorite part about working for the university?
A: As a fundraiser, I’m honored to be a small part of helping our students be successful. Seeing the direct impact of our efforts, whether it’s through scholarships, funding for residential colleges or new facilities, is incredibly rewarding. I also love collaborating with passionate donors who share a commitment to our mission.
Q: What do you want people to know about living in Houston?
A: Houston is the most diverse city in the country. Houston is what the rest of the country will look like in the coming decades.
Q: What do you do in your downtime?
A: As an associate certified coach in leadership trained by Rice Business and the Doerr Institute, I have the privilege of coaching a select group of young women from Claremont McKenna College each year. Together, we tackle topics like leadership development, imposter syndrome, time management and more — a truly rewarding experience! I also have a very sweet miniature poodle named Amana.
Q: What’s your favorite spot on campus to show someone?
A: I love the inner loop and all of the beautiful trees.
Q: What’s the most exciting time of year for you as it relates to Rice?
A: O-Week. I love the vibrant energy that fills the campus as students return with excitement radiating from the O-Week advisers, new students and their families.
Q: What’s the one thing that makes Rice special to you?
A: The people! Some of my closest friendships have been formed at Rice (special shoutout to the Rice Bachelor Bracket).
Q: If you could be Sammy The Owl for a day, what would you do?
A: I’d join students at Beer Bike to lead the cheers, then take a victory lap around the inner loop to celebrate what it means to be a Rice Owl.
Q: How would you describe your experience as a Rice employee?
A: Deeply fulfilling and inspiring. Working alongside passionate colleagues and being part of a community dedicated to excellence makes even the difficult days meaningful.
Q: Where do you see Rice in 25 years?
A: In 25 years, I see Rice as a beacon of inclusivity and empowerment, where students from all backgrounds come together to create meaningful change. It will be a place where diverse perspectives drive innovation and community connections are stronger than ever. I envision it continuing to nurture future generations of leaders and innovators, all while staying true to its roots as a close-knit, supportive community that feels like family.
Q: Describe Rice in four words or less.
A: Innovative, inclusive, diverse and opportunity.