Q: How long have you worked at Rice?
A: 5 years
Q: What is your favorite part about working for the university?
A: Rice is a beautiful, dynamic place. The trees, azaleas, squirrels and architecture make it a natural stress reliever just to step outside. I also love knowing I’m part of something bigger than myself, the students, their work, the research, all of it.
Q: What do you want people to know about living in Houston?
A: The sports fans are intense, the food scene is incredible, and no one ever truly gets used to the humidity. This is HOME! I’ve lived coast to coast, and Houston has always called me back.
Q: What do you do in your downtime?
A: As a mom of two, downtime is rare.! Between Girl Scouts, school activities and dance, I stay busy. I also serve at my church as often as I can and consider myself a lifelong learner, so I’m usually enrolled in something.
Q: What’s your favorite spot on campus to show someone?
A: The azaleas when they’re in bloom, the Sallyport and, of course, the amazing food at the college serveries.
Q: What’s the most exciting time of year for you as it relates to Rice?
A: O-WEEK!!!! If you’ve never been on campus during fFreshman move-in, you’re missing out.! It’s an energetic day full of love, hope and pride. I get teary eyed every year!!!
Q: What’s the one thing that makes Rice special to you?
A: If you want to do something, you can! Want to get involved with students?, Bbecome an associate, RA, or teach CTIS.! Want to make an impact with staff?, Jjoin the bBenefits committee, Staff Council, or an employee resource group. Want to learn more?, Uuse tuition reimbursement, join the Incident Management Team, audit a course. There’s just so much to do.THERE’S JUST SO MUCH TO DO!!!
Q: What do you enjoy most about your job?
A: The custodial staff, the team I work alongside every day. They are dedicated, hardworking and truly care about the people and spaces around them, students, co-workers and their buildings. After losing my mom in 2024, they rallied around me and supported me in ways I’ll never forget.
Q: What are your most memorable accomplishments?
A: With the encouragement and support of an incredible champion, Mark Ditman, I finally pursued a 10-year goal of returning to school. I graduated with my MBA in May 2025 while balancing work, kids and home. I’m also proud that four of my custodians have been recognized with the Staff Excellence Award over the past three years. Employee recognition, appreciation and engagement are true passions of mine, and keeping them at the center of how I lead has helped us build such a strong custodial team in the residential colleges.
Q: What advice would you give to new employees?
A: Get lost and don’t worry if you’re still getting lost six months later. The campus is beautiful, so every detour is worth it. And when you’re ready, just ask., Ppeople here are always happy to help.
Q: Would you share a bit about your background and career journey?
A: I spent 13 years in HR with Hilton Hotels leading up to the pandemic. About a year later, I joined Rice as an HRBP supporting what is now OF&S, Athletics and DAR. Thanks to the relationships I built and my hospitality background, I transitioned into my current role. I’m excited to continue growing in higher education and making a meaningful impact.
Q: What’s your favorite lunch spot or snack?
A: Local Foods has some great seasonal drinks. Their fall spice latte was amazing, and right now I’m loving the matcha with ube.
Q: If you could be Sammy the Owl for a day, what would you do?
A: Pass out tacos to staff because who doesn’t love tacos, and who doesn’t love our staff?
Q: How would you describe your experience as a Rice employee?
A: Rice offers incredible benefits that truly support families and reinforce the importance of work-life balance. From affordable online tutoring and SAT prep through Bright Horizons to free counseling via the EAP and wellness offerings like chair massages, coaching and meditation at the Rec Center, there’s a genuine investment in employee well-being.
I’ve also felt strong support for my passion for learning, which has made it possible to continue growing both personally and professionally. Just as meaningful, Rice is a place where I can bring my kids to campus and let them experience and enjoy this community with me. That’s something really special.
Q: What’s your favorite memory from your time with Rice?
A: Employee events stand out, whether it’s the staff appreciation baseball game with my family or Go Texan Day with Hoots. I especially love seeing staff interact with the president at these events., Iit really makes their day.
Q: Describe Rice in four words or less.
A: Relational. Inspirational. International. Beautiful.