Q: How long have you worked at Rice?
A: I’ve worked at Rice University for a total of 21 years. Last year, I received my Glass Owl in recognition of 20 years of service, which was a tremendous honor. During my time at the Susanne M. Glasscock School of Continuing Studies, I’ve held a variety of roles and have served as assistant director for professional and corporate programs since 2016.
Q: What is your favorite part about working for the university?
A: Feeling like I’m part of something much bigger — something that makes a difference in Houston and beyond. I value being connected to a shared mission, common goals and a set of beliefs that ultimately benefits so many people.
Q: What do you want people to know about living in Houston?
A: Houston may not be the most scenic local, but its incredible cultural diversity and vibrant ethnic restaurant scene has everything from authentic Mexican tacos to Vietnamese pho. The arts scene in Houston is equally impressive, featuring various venues like Asia Society of Texas and the Midtown Arts and Theater Center Houston for performances and exhibitions.
Q: What do you do in your downtime?
A: I try to get in my 10,000 steps most days of the week to stay active. Recently, I joined the Cinema Savant subscription at the River Oaks Theatre, which lets me see several films each month. My wife and I love to travel with Spain being our favorite destination. Lately, I’ve started to collect cuff links from the 1964-65 New York World’s Fair, so I check eBay on a daily basis.
Q: What’s your favorite spot on campus to show someone?
A: The growing “arts” zone on the Rice campus is a hidden gem, and it’s a pleasure to show visitors the Shepherd School of Music, the Brockman Hall for Opera, the Moody Center, Sarofim Hall and, of course, the Anderson-Clarke Center.
Q: What’s the most exciting time of year for you as it relates to Rice?
A: My favorite time of year is after the winter recess. We return recharged to prepare for the excitement and possibilities of the new year with marketing sprints in place, courses open for enrollments and individuals ready to take charge of their careers by earning new credentials and certifications.
Q: What’s the one thing that makes Rice special to you?
A: There is such a strong sense of respect and esteem that Rice holds within the community. Whenever I mention where I work, people’s overwhelmingly positive reactions give me a real sense of pride. I feel fortunate to be part of the university and its culture of care.
Q: What do you enjoy most about your job?
A: I’m truly passionate about professional development to help people adapt and thrive in a rapidly changing job market. In a world where career reinvention is increasingly necessary, I focus on helping learners build practical skills and earn credentials that translate into real opportunities. The most meaningful part of my work is hearing from former students who have used those credentials to earn promotions or completely change the trajectory of their careers.
Q: What are your most memorable accomplishments?
A: Volunteering on the Staff Council for the past three years has enhanced my experience, fostering relationships and collaborative efforts across campus. It’s a fantastic way to engage with the university community, share ideas and contribute to initiatives that benefit everyone. Don’t miss out on this chance to expand your network while making a difference! During my time on the Professional Development Committee, we were instrumental in creating a centralized hub for career and skill-building resources and launching the Staff Council Webinar Series, offering staff valuable opportunities to learn from experts on a variety of relevant topics.
Q: What advice would you give to new employees?
A: Network. Network. Network! Once you meet the one-year eligibility requirement, I highly encourage everyone to volunteer for the Staff Council. This opportunity not only allows you to make a meaningful impact on the entire campus, but it also enables you to connect with a diverse group of individuals from various departments that you might not encounter otherwise.
Q: Would you share a bit about your background and career journey?
A: After graduating from Texas Tech University in Lubbock with a master’s degree, I accepted a position at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, where I met my future wife. Working at the MFAH was an incredible experience, giving me the opportunity to handle important historical objects and travel to offsite locations, including the Topkapi Palace in Istanbul. Following the downturn in the museum field after 9/11, I decided it was time for a career change. I was very fortunate to join Rice in 2004, and I could not be happier with the direction my career has taken or the campus culture. As the saying goes, everything happens for a reason.
Q: What’s your favorite lunch spot or snack?
A: If you haven’t tried Pasha’s on University Boulevard, I cannot recommend it highly enough. The Turkish food is delicious, and the owner, Mustafa, makes everyone feel welcome. Pasha’s is my go-to place for quiet business meetings and office birthday celebrations.
Q: What is your favorite quote?
A: As the famous thinker Cher once said, “If it doesn’t matter in five years, it doesn’t matter!”
Q: Where do you see Rice in 25 years?
A: I see Rice continuing to strengthen its position as a leader in innovation, research and interdisciplinary collaboration while gaining even greater global recognition as a top-tier university. I also see the Susanne M. Glasscock School of Continuing Studies building upon its mission of lifelong learning by expanding educational opportunities for the broader community as well as for faculty and staff. Through the development of new credentials, professional programs and the introduction of degree offerings, the Glasscock School is well positioned to play an even larger role in advancing professional growth, workforce development and accessible education in the years ahead.
Q: What’s your favorite memory from your time with Rice?
A: One of my favorite memories was moving into the newly completed Anderson-Clarke Center in 2014. With 53,000 square feet, 24 classrooms and a freestanding auditorium, it was an incredible transformation from our earlier days in the metal trailer across the street at Martel Hall.
Q: Describe Rice in four words or less.
A: Welcoming, forward thinking and Owl-tastic.