Staff Spotlight: Manuel Flores

Housing Operations Manager, Rice Graduate Apartments

Manuel Flores
Manuel Flores
Manuel Flores

Q: How long have you worked at Rice?

A: Four years.

Q: What is your favorite part about working for the university?

A: One of the things I enjoy most is interacting with the students. I love being surrounded by some of the brightest minds.

Q: What do you want people to know about living in Houston?

A: Houston is a city full of contrasts thanks to its incredibly diverse population, which is reflected in our amazing food variety.

Q: What do you do in your downtime?

A: I like to spend time with my family, read and play soccer.

Q: What’s your favorite spot on campus to show someone?

A: Cohen House, because I think it is a perfect mix of timeless elegance and rich history. It truly feels like a living piece of Rice’s legacy.

Q: What’s the most exciting time of year for you as it relates to Rice?

A: The summer, because we have so much going on. For example, we help our students who are moving out, and we welcome the new batch of residents.

Q: What’s the one thing that makes Rice special to you?

A: I’ve always loved the Rice campus. I’ve been visiting since high school. It’s such a special place to spend an afternoon just walking around. Now as a staff member, I’m lucky to enjoy it every day.

Q: What do you enjoy most about your job?

A: Being surrounded by the graduate students because they are some of the brightest minds I have met in my life.

Q: What are your most memorable accomplishments?

A: Becoming a dad and graduating from college despite the economic hardships.

Q: What are your hobbies and interests outside of work?

A: I love classic literature, going camping and working on my miniature city with my son.

Q: What advice would you give to new employees?

A: Listen and learn from the more seasoned staff. Rice has a way of doing things that make it special.

Q: What’s your favorite lunch spot or snack?

A: Cohen House.

Q: How would you describe your experience as a Rice employee?

A: I enjoy working at Rice because I’ve learned so many new things, and I’ve been fortunate to have great mentors who help me grow and improve every day.

Q: What’s your favorite memory from your time with Rice?

A: I always enjoy the employee party. It’s great to see the Rice staff having a good time. Our employees, especially those in housekeeping, work incredibly hard all year round, and they truly deserve it.

Q: Describe Rice in four words or less.

A: Diverse, welcoming, supportive, innovative.

Body