Q: How long have you worked at Rice?
A: I joined Rice in September 2022, so I've been here for just over four years.
Q: What do you want people to know about living in Houston?
A: Prepare for unpredictable weather. Beyond that, Houston is one of the most diverse cities in the country, with an incredible food scene and an international community that makes it a wonderful place to live and explore.
Q: What’s your favorite spot on campus to show someone?
A: It requires a visit at sunrise or sunset, but I recommend the Turrell Skyspace.
Q: What’s the most exciting time of year for you as it relates to Rice?
A: There’s something special about orientation season. Whether it is undergraduates embarking on O-Week or graduate students beginning their journeys at Rice, there’s a welcoming spirit that permeates campus and brings a renewed sense of anticipation and excitement.
Q: What do you enjoy most about your job?
A: I love connecting students and faculty with opportunities to make a meaningful impact beyond the classroom. Through Rice Business Global, our MBA students work with organizations around the world to tackle real business challenges. It’s incredibly rewarding to see students apply what they’ve learned, navigate new cultures or perspectives and develop recommendations that can make a tangible difference for our international partners.
Q: What are your hobbies and interests outside of work?
A: I’ve recently taken up crocheting (with minimal success), but I appreciate the opportunity to step away from screens and do something hands-on. I also enjoy cooking, painting pottery, curling up with a good mystery novel and spending time with friends and family.
Q: Would you share a bit about your background and career journey?
A: My background is in higher education and student affairs with a particular focus on leadership development, experiential learning and international education. I earned my master’s degree in student affairs in higher education from Texas State University and previously worked in student engagement and community/civic engagement before joining Rice Business in 2022. My career has evolved from supporting student leadership experiences and community service programs to developing global academic programs, but the common thread has always been helping students learn and grow through experiences beyond the traditional classroom.
Q: What’s your favorite lunch spot or snack?
A: The honey berry smoothie at Dandelion Cafe in the Ralph S. O’Connor Building for Engineering and Science has my heart.
Q: If you could be Sammy The Owl for a day, what would you do?
A: I’d take Sammy on an international adventure. Rice has a growing global footprint, and I think Sammy deserves to see the world. Plus, who wouldn’t want to see Sammy navigate an airport?