Q: How long have you worked at Rice?
A: Eight years.
Q: What is your favorite part about working for the university?
A: Working with my amazing team and all of the talented staff across campus.
Q: What do you want people to know about living in Houston?
A: There is a wide variety of delicious food to try — you can find nearly any cuisine. Almost all of my friends who have moved away from Houston say that the food is what they miss the most.
Q: What do you do in your downtime?
A: I usually unwind on the couch with my husband and our new puppy, Koda, or spend time with friends. If we aren’t relaxing at home, spending time with our puppy or friends, you can find us traveling. I am also working on getting back into rock climbing.
Q: What’s your favorite spot on campus to show someone?
A: Brochstein Pavilion — it is such an inviting and lively space. It’s a great place to grab coffee or lunch, meet with colleagues or just sit and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. The open design and natural light make it a welcoming spot that really embodies the sense of community at Rice.
Q: What’s the most exciting time of year for you as it relates to Rice?
A: April of each year is when the Center for Teaching Excellence hosts the University Awards Ceremony to celebrate the faculty award winners.
It’s really enjoyable to see faculty recognized for their dedication to teaching, mentorship of students and colleagues, exceptional scholarship and service to the university.
Q: What’s the one thing that makes Rice special to you?
A: The strong sense of community — a place where people are committed not only to excellence but also to supporting and uplifting one another.
Q: What do you enjoy most about your job?
A: I love working with amazing team members and talented staff. Their dedication and collaboration make each day enjoyable, and it is rewarding to be part of such a supportive and positive environment.
Q: What are your most memorable accomplishments?
A: Rice has provided me with an incredible opportunity for professional growth. I first joined in 2016 with the Program in Writing and Communication and the Center for Teaching Excellence, where I was able to develop my skills and make meaningful contributions. After leaving my program in 2022, I was honored to be invited back in 2023 by Carissa Zimmerman, director of the Center for Teaching Excellence, who recognized the value of my knowledge and experience. Coming back to an organization that acknowledges my contributions has further reinforced my passion for the important work we do.
Q: What are your hobbies and interests outside of work?
A: I enjoy playing board games with friends, watching TV and movies with my husband, visiting the dog park with our puppy and going rock climbing. We also love going to any Cirque du Soleil shows.
Q: What advice would you give to new employees?
A: Take advantage of the supportive, team-oriented environment; build connections; and never hesitate to ask questions. Rice is a place where people really do care about each other’s success, so make the most of the opportunities to learn and grow.
Q: Would you share a bit about your background and career journey?
A: I attended UT Austin, so I’m a proud Longhorn (I know there are some fellow Longhorns on campus here). After graduation, I moved to California for a few years, where I got to enjoy the beautiful weather while working. Upon returning to Houston, I worked at The Joy School for a few years before transitioning to both the Center for Teaching Excellence and Program in Writing and Communication at Rice.
Q: What’s your favorite lunch spot or snack?
A: I love brunch, and my current favorite is Harry’s. Their pancakes are delicious. They have the best texture.
Q: What’s your secret talent?
A: Organization. I own two label makers (I used to own three). I will reorganize our house just to have an organization project.
Q: What’s one piece of advice you would give to your younger self?
A: Save more money and travel more.
Q: If you could be Sammy The Owl for a day, what would you do?
A: Stop by to say “hello” to all of my on-campus friends, including my teammates and Staff Council.
Q: How would you describe your experience as a Rice employee?
A: I have grown both professionally and personally during my time at Rice. I have greatly enjoyed working with an amazing group of professionals that have allowed me to be myself while also pushing me to be better each new day.
Q: Where do you see Rice in 25 years?
A: Making new discoveries in science, engineering and social issues by working together across different fields.
Q: What’s your favorite memory from your time with Rice?
A: My favorite memory is having the chance to work with my first supervisor, Tracy Volz, who taught me so much about what I know today. She helped me develop strong communication skills, patience and so much more.
Q: Describe Rice in four words or less.
A: Innovative, collaborative, inclusive and prestigious.