Q: How long have you worked at Rice?
A: Just over four years.
Q: What is your favorite part about working for the university?
A: Rice is a wonderful community — the students, faculty, staff and alumni — it’s truly a wonderful place to be.
Q: What do you want people to know about living in Houston?
A: Whatever you’re interested in, you are sure to find in Houston. It’s a very diverse city.
Q: What do you do in your downtime?
A: I am from New York, so I follow my sport teams: the Jets, Islanders and Mets. I love cooking. I love exploring different things in Houston, and I try to travel as often as I can. I am a workout junkie. I never sit still; I stay busy.
Q: What’s your favorite spot on campus to show someone?
A: I love pointing out Lovett Hall and the Sallyport. I love a solid tradition.
Q: What’s the most exciting time of year for you as it relates to Rice?
A: Fall. There’s something about being in higher education and the school year starting.
Q: What’s the one thing that makes Rice special to you?
A: Rice was my first university job in Texas.
Q: What do you enjoy most about your job?
A: The people. Between my team, the students I work with and our Rice alumni, it makes work that much more enjoyable.
Q: What are your most memorable accomplishments?
A: I worked in the Owl Club for two years. We started with a brand new team, but I was able to learn all the ins and outs of development. We reached our fiscal year goal two years in a row, and I had a blast. Every day was different and exciting, but it was a really determined and fantastic team.
Q: What are your hobbies and interests outside of work?
A: New York sports — Jets, Islanders, Mets. Cooking and checking out new restaurants. Spending time with family and friends.
Q: What advice would you give to new employees?
A: Be a sponge. Take everything in and find what you’re passionate about.
Q: Would you share a bit about your background and career journey?
A: I am from Binghamton, New York. My undergraduate degree is English from Binghamton University. I went on to my master’s degree at SUNY Cortland in sports management, and I finished in 323 days. After graduation, I had the opportunity to move to Houston in late 2019. Once COVID-19 started, I pivoted a couple different positions and industries. March 2022 was when I had my start at Rice in the admissions office. I went on to the Rice Owl Club and am currently in Alumni Relations.
Q: What’s your secret talent?
A: Hmmm. I don’t think I have one.
Q: What’s one piece of advice you would give to your younger self?
A: Give yourself grace. You’re a hard worker, and you’ll reach your goals time and time again.
Q: If you could be Sammy The Owl for a day, what would you do?
A: I would vibe on campus and take lots of photos.
Q: How would you describe your experience as a Rice employee?
A: Fantastic, period.
Q: Where do you see Rice in 25 years?
A: I think Rice will continue to grow but also keep to traditions. I see Rice being even heavier in the research space — maybe we’ll be The Jetsons by then.
Q: What’s your favorite memory from your time with Rice?
A: With being a huge sports fan, I was able to work the NCAA Men’s March Madness Final Four in 2023 at NRG. What an experience.
Q: Describe Rice in four words or less.
A: Community, innovated, strong, ambition.