Q: How long have you worked at Rice?
A: Six months in my current role, and more than one year in a previous role.
Q: What is your favorite part about working for the university?
A: The students without question. Working at Rice allows me to be a part of students’ day-to-day lives, whether that is supporting them through challenges, celebrating wins or helping create programs that build their community. Being in a residential college means I get to see the impact of my work in real time.
Q: What do you want people to know about living in Houston?
A: I would say that Houston is incredibly diverse, welcoming and full of personality. There is always something happening, whether it is food, arts, sports or community events. It is a city where everyone can find a place that makes them feel like they are at home.
Q: What do you do in your downtime?
A: I enjoy spending time with my family and our dog. I also like to explore new restaurants. Further, I really appreciate quiet time to reset, especially after a long week working with students.
Q: What’s your favorite spot on campus to show someone?
A: The quads at the residential colleges, especially Will Rice. They really show what makes Rice special. The sense of community, tradition and student life is hard to explain until you experience it firsthand.
Q: What’s the most exciting time of year for you as it relates to Rice?
A: O-week. It is exciting to welcome new students, help them find their footing and watch the community come together. This week is full of so much energy, optimism and connection during that time.
Q: What’s the one thing that makes Rice special to you?
A: The intentional focus on community. I love how Rice truly invests in students as whole people; this is clear in the residential college system as it allows for lasting connections that go well beyond the classroom.
Q: What do you enjoy most about your job?
A: Supporting our students and helping create meaningful connections and activities that bring them together. I enjoy being a resource, an advocate and someone they can turn to.
Q: What are your most memorable accomplishments?
A: One of my most meaningful accomplishments has been building and improving systems that better support students and the people who serve them. Across my career, I have helped create and strengthen programs, advised student organizations and contributed to initiatives that improved access, engagement and community.
Earning my doctorate while working full time is also something I am very proud of, as it reflects my commitment to leadership, learning and growth. Most of all, I consider it an accomplishment when students feel supported, empowered and connected because of the work I do.
Q: What are your hobbies and interests outside of work?
A: I enjoy trying new food spots, spending time with loved ones and staying involved in my community. I also appreciate opportunities to travel and experience new places when possible. Plus, I’m not originally from Houston, and I am a huge Los Angeles Dodgers fan, so during baseball season I cheer on the Dodgers.
Q: What advice would you give to new employees?
A: Take time to build relationships and learn the culture. Ask questions, be open to learning and do not underestimate how collaborative and supportive the Rice community can be.
Q: Would you share a bit about your background and career journey?
A: I have spent over a decade working in education across both K-12 and higher education in a variety of roles. My career has included work in facilities, admissions, enrollment management and student support functions such as admissions, financial aid and registrar related services. I have also served as a student organization adviser, worked closely with student organizations on event planning and best practices and led workshops at both local and national conferences.
My academic background includes a bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary studies, a master’s degree in human resource management and a doctorate in educational leadership. Across every role, my work has been rooted in supporting students, strengthening organizations and creating inclusive, well-functioning environments. Those experiences naturally led me to residential college work, where I can combine student engagement, programming and operational support in a meaningful way.
Q: What’s your favorite lunch spot or snack?
A: Anything quick and easy on campus, especially when the day is full. Cohen House tends to be my go-to on campus. It has a good variety and is pretty affordable. Near campus, I would say Tiger Noodle House in Rice Village.
Q: What’s your secret talent?
A: Staying calm and organized while juggling multiple priorities, especially in fast-paced or unexpected situations.
Q: What’s one piece of advice you would give to your younger self?
A: Trust the process and do not be afraid to take up space. Growth also comes from being open to new opportunities and believing in yourself.
Q: How would you describe your experience as a Rice employee?
A: Supportive, collaborative and student centered. It is a place where people genuinely care about their work and about each other.
Q: Where do you see Rice in 25 years?
A: Continuing to be a leader in student experience and community engagement while evolving to meet the changing needs of students and higher education without losing the strong sense of care and connection that defines Rice.
Q: What’s your favorite memory from your time with Rice?
A: Seeing students feel truly supported and connected, whether during a program, a one-on-one conversation or a milestone moment in their Rice journey. Those are the experiences that remind me why this work matters.
Q: Describe Rice in four words or less.
A: Community, tradition, opportunity, care.