Assistant Dean of Finance and Administration, School of Humanities and Arts
Q: How long have you worked at Rice?
A: Almost two years (since June 2024).
Q: What is your favorite part about working for the university?
A: The culture of care and the diversity across the university — the people, ideas and opportunities.
Q: What do you want people to know about living in Houston?
A: Distance for travel is measured in minutes — not miles. Speed limits are only suggestions.
Q: What do you do in your downtime?
A: Visit my son, listen to audiobooks, watch sports or go for walks with my husband and our dog.
Q: What’s your favorite spot on campus to show someone?
A: The academic quad. The traditional “academic feel” combined with the green space is simply beautiful and a nice place to breathe and enjoy some sunshine.
Q: What’s the most exciting time of year for you as it relates to Rice?
A: The start of the fall term is always the best time of the year. The energy of the students returning is a great reminder of why we come to work every day.
Q: What do you enjoy most about your job?
A: Leading, teaching and supporting others. Our Humanities and Arts team is incredible, and I genuinely appreciate the opportunity to work here every day.
Q: What are your hobbies and interests outside of work?
A: Music, crochet, yoga, touring baseball stadiums, watching sports.
Q: What advice would you give to new employees?
A: Network as much as possible. Everyone at Rice is welcoming and willing to help
Q: Would you share a bit about your background and career journey?
A: I’m originally from a small town in West Texas, which instilled in me a strong work ethic that I’ve carried throughout my career. I spent over two decades at Texas Tech University, evolving from an entry level role in research accounting to leadership positions in the scholarship and financial aid offices.
Serving as the senior director of student services and Terry Foundation coordinator allowed me to bridge the gap between complex university finance and the student experience. In June 2024, I made the intentional move to Houston to join Rice University. I’m thrilled to apply my background in higher education operations to support the distinctive mission of the School of Humanities and Arts.
Q: What’s your secret talent?
A: I am told that “calm” is my superpower. My initials also spell CALM,so it works.
Q: What’s one piece of advice you would give to your younger self?
A: To love loud and unconditionally.
Q: If you could be Sammy The Owl for a day, what would you do?
A: I would hope to have the chance to interact with prospective students. Sammy brings so much joy, and we want our future students to feel the joy and excitement of being on campus.
Q: How would you describe your experience as a Rice employee?
A: Fulfilling.I have the privilege of leading an incredible team and seeing the direct results of our work. I am also able to balance my love for accounting with meaningful leadership.
Q: Where do you see Rice in 25 years?
A: Making a global impact through interdisciplinary, thoughtful research.
Q: What’s your favorite memory from your time with Rice?
A: The opening of Sarofim Hall: The stunning architecture, the commitment to the arts and the faces of the faculty and students celebrating their new home was a powerful reminder of the work we do as a school.
Q: Describe Rice in four words or less.
A: Imaginative. Innovative. Transformative. Impactful.