Q: How long have you worked at Rice?
A: I started at Rice in July of 2022.
Q: What is your favorite part about working for the university?
A: I love everything about working for Rice. It is a prestigious institution that allows me to pursue my passion for science, technology, engineering and mathematics education. Before coming to Rice, I spent about 10 years as a science teacher.
While I was able to make a meaningful impact on my students during that time, I feel that in my current role I am able to inspire and support an even broader audience, including both teachers and students. I also appreciate that my position gives me the opportunity to collaborate with people from diverse departments and backgrounds at Rice, all of whom share a strong passion for STEM education.
Q: What do you want people to know about living in Houston?
A: Houston is a melting pot of different cultures. There is always something going on, an event, a festival where you can meet people from all over the world and try some delicious food.
Q: What do you do in your downtime?
A: When I am not working, I spend a lot of time with my family. I have two little girls who are my world. We are always looking for things to do and places to visit with them, whether that’s going to the zoo, the Museum of Natural Science, the park or a simple stroll through the neighborhood, or even traveling to a different country. We always make sure my girls look at the world with curiosity and wonder.
Q: What’s the most exciting time of year for you as it relates to Rice?
A: I have two of those. I love when the Azaleas bloom, it makes strolls around campus just so filled with beauty. The other is summertime. For us at the Center for STEM Engagement, that’s the busiest time of year when we welcome so many teachers and students eager to learn about STEM at Rice.
Q: What advice would you give to new employees?
A: Take the time to explore the campus. There are so many beautiful things to see and so many people to meet.
Q: What’s your favorite memory from your time with Rice?
A: I have a lot of great memories from Rice, especially when I am surrounded by my team. I think of every time we finish an event or program and we are all just cleaning up after and we just laugh and joke around. If I had to do a specific one, I would say it was when we celebrated my former boss’ retirement. I absolutely loved working for Dr. Carolyn Nichol, and it was such an honor to be able to celebrate her and all her years of service.
Q: Describe Rice in four words or less.
A: Innovative, prestigious, welcoming, collaborative.