Q: How long have you worked at Rice?
A: Since March 1, 2024.
Q: What is your favorite part about working for the university?
A: I love the vibrant intellectual community at Rice. Being surrounded by dedicated faculty and innovative staff creates an inspiring environment where every day feels like an opportunity to learn and contribute to something meaningful.
Q: What do you want people to know about living in Houston?
A: This is a foodie town, and as a foodie, I am thrilled to live here. One could spend years and not visit the same restaurant twice, and that would be for Houston proper, not even the suburbs. The city’s diversity shines through its culinary scene, offering everything from authentic global cuisines to cutting-edge dining experiences.
Q: What do you do in your downtime?
A: I’m passionate about exploring everything Houston has to offer, from world-class museums to the beautiful trails and land bridges at Memorial Park. As an avid reader, I devour around 40 books annually, spanning everything from fiction to biographies. I love experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen. Most importantly, I cherish quality time with family and friends, whether we’re discovering a new restaurant together or simply enjoying good conversation.
Q: What’s the one thing that makes Rice special to you?
A: What makes Rice special is how everyone is genuinely invested in the university’s mission. Whether it’s faculty pushing research boundaries, students tackling complex challenges or staff like me supporting operations, there’s a shared commitment to excellence that’s both inspiring and motivating to be part of every day.
Q: What do you enjoy most about your job?
A: I love the variety and the opportunity to support Rice’s mission in tangible ways and be momentous. Every day brings different challenges and the chance to collaborate with brilliant colleagues who are passionate about their work. Being part of an institution that values both innovation and tradition is deeply fulfilling.
Q: What are your hobbies and interests outside of work?
A: I’ve recently discovered the meditative art of calligraphy, though please don’t ask me to do your wedding invitations just yet — you’d be very disappointed. I also enjoy canning fruits and vegetables, which connects me to the rhythms of nature and gives me a wonderful sense of accomplishment when I see those colorful jars lined up in my pantry. There’s something deeply satisfying about preserving the harvest and being able to enjoy summer’s bounty throughout the year.
Q: What advice would you give to new employees?
A: Ask questions early and often. There’s no such thing as a silly question when you’re learning. Stay curious about not just your role but how it connects to Rice’s broader mission. Don’t be afraid to suggest new approaches or improvements; fresh perspectives are invaluable. Most importantly, embrace the collaborative culture here. Your colleagues genuinely want to see you succeed, so lean on their expertise and experience.
Q: Would you share a bit about your background and career journey?
A: My career path has been wonderfully diverse, taking me through various roles that ultimately led me to Rice. Each position taught me valuable skills and perspectives that I now bring to my work here. I’ve always been drawn to environments where learning and growth are prioritized, which is why Rice feels like such a perfect fit.
Q: What’s one piece of advice you would give to your younger self?
A: Don’t be so afraid of making mistakes. I used to think perfection was the goal, but I’ve learned that mistakes are often the best teachers. Take more risks, speak up in meetings and remember that everyone is figuring it out as they go. Confidence comes from trying, not from having it all figured out from the start.
Q: If you could be Sammy The Owl for a day, what would you do?
A: I would visit the children’s hospital to bring smiles, goodies and plenty of enthusiastic hoots to brighten young patients’ days. Children facing long hospital stays find such joy in special visitors, whether it’s athletes, musicians or beloved mascots like Sammy. Being able to provide that moment of wonder and connection, even briefly, would be the perfect way to spread Rice’s spirit of community and care beyond our campus.