Q: How long have you worked at Rice?
A: 18 years.
Q: What is your favorite part about working for the university?
A: Contributing in my own small way to the development of tomorrow’s leaders.
Q: What do you want people to know about living in Houston?
A: Houston is an amazing city rich in cuisine, arts, festivals, rodeo, and there is something fun for all. One of my personal favorites is the Bayou City Arts Festival held in the spring.
Q: What do you do in your downtime?
A: I enjoy the Alley Theatre and reading murder mysteries.
Q: What is your favorite spot on campus to show someone?
A: Lovett Hall, Cohen House and Fondren Library. Lovett if I had to choose only one.
Q: What is the most exciting time of year for you as it relates to Rice?
A: Large events like RiceFest, the President’s Town Hall and Veterans Day Ceremony where I get the chance to see faculty and staff that I don’t interact with daily.
Q: What’s the one thing that makes Rice special to you?
A: Collaborating with campus on different projects.
Q: What do you enjoy most about your job?
A: Assisting faculty and staff with their benefits.
Q: What are your most memorable accomplishments?
A: Working at Rice and earning my MBA with 5- and 6-year-olds at home.
Q: What are your hobbies and interests outside of work?
A: I’m looking for a Mahjong class.
Q: What advice would you give to new employees?
A: Get involved on campus. There are lots of opportunities for great lectures, events and classes. My favorite is the International Friends at Rice program with the Office of International Students and Scholars. I have made a couple of friendships that I’m sure will last for many years.
Q: Would you share a bit about your background and career journey?
A: My journey at Rice began in HR, where I initially accepted a position as a receptionist with human resources. Within six months, my dedication was recognized, and I transitioned to an executive assistant role in the department. The shift provided me with a valuable, holistic view of human resources’ functions. I eventually grew to join the benefits team and into a manager role over different functions. The consistent opportunities for learning and professional development have made my time at Rice a rewarding experience. I can say opportunities abound if you raise your hand.
Q: What is your favorite lunch spot or snack?
A: One of my favorite places to have lunch is the Brochstein Pavilion.
Q: What is your secret talent?
A: I’m good at reading people, which helps me to make people feel comfortable and connected.
Q: What is one piece of advice you would give to your younger self?
A: Be more balanced in the way I administer my activities.
Q: If you could be Sammy The Owl for a day, what would you do?
A: I would have loved to visit my children’s elementary school as Sammy The Owl and plant the seed of Rice early on, so they could be nearby.
Q: How would you describe your experience as a Rice employee?
A: Rewarding.
Q: What is your favorite memory from your time with Rice?
A: Celebrating Diwali at the student center with my IFR friends.
Q: Describe Rice in four words or less.
A: Innovative, opportunity, stability, comfort.