Q: How long have you worked at Rice?
A: I started in fall 2013. I'm currently in my 11th year, and more than half-way to earning a Tree! Woot woot!
Q: What is your favorite part about working for the university?
A: The people! The beauty of the campus is a close second, though.
Q: What do you want people to know about living in Houston?
A: You will never be bored, or without something to do, in Houston. H-Town has everything from a vibrant culture and theatre scene to a world-class culinary scene to a passionate sports fan base scene. It has everything!
Q: What do you do in your down time?
A: I’m often told I’m the busiest person people know! I’ve very active in my WISE (Women In Sports and Events) Houston chapter. This past year I joined a Houston Rodeo volunteer team (Gate Keepers) so that has kept me busy in Rodeo season. Oh, I recently joined a Pickleball team which will play once a week! My absolute most favorite thing to do in my “free time" is to spend it with my fur-baby Bruin “BruBruPup” Barber. (You will often find us walking around our beautiful campus).
Q: What's your favorite spot on campus to show someone?
A: Over 21, Valhalla! Under 21, I love just walking around campus and giving a tour… and ending at the Frog Wall!
Q: What's the most exciting time of year for you as it relates to Rice?
A: As a former Resident Associate (at the BEST College, Jones College), I love everything about O-Week and commencement. I love the energy (and themes) around O-Week in terms of welcoming the new students, and then the excitement and celebrations around commencement.
Q: What's the one thing that makes Rice special?
A: The residential college system! Actually, this is why I became interested in Rice in the first place. I firmly believe every university should move towards a residential college system like we have at Rice. It can be a very scary and challenging thing to move away from home for the first time not knowing anyone. For a new student to already have a built-in family within the college, and to have “elders” live within the college as mentors; this makes a difference in the transition to college experience.
Q: If you could be Sammy The Owl for a day, what would you do?
A: I can neither confirm, nor deny, I’ve been Sammy the Owl at several staff events.
Q: How would you describe your experience as a Rice employee?
A: OWLsome!
Q: Where do you see Rice in 25 years?
A: Still making an impact outside the hedges.
Q: Describe Rice University in four words or less.
A: Unconventional.