Educational Background:
- Master in Education, College Student Services Administration, Oregon State University, 1987
- Bachelor in English, California State University Sacramento, 1984
Jesuit ideal I most identify with: Cura Personalis and Magis. Caring for the person in front of me in much larger and deeper ways than would be expected.
Reasons why you enjoy working at Gonzaga: The Housing and Residence Life area of our function is active, complex, vibrant and always challenging. There is never a dull moment in a work day, nor a boring day. One can be challenged in the morning with a crisis of a flood in a building, and in the afternoon with a variety of budget tasks and strategy meetings, and the next day crafting up projections of revenue and proposing new rates, and later in that day a difficult conversation with a student not enjoying their residential experience. There is no monotony that descends upon our area of function. It's always interesting and always challenging.
What I enjoy about Spokane and the Northwest: Spokane feels like a large city, behaving like a medium sized town, making it easier to feel like a member. Surrounded by a forested area of Washington, it is easy to get away from city life on a bike, boat or skis and feel renewed and connected to nature. Spokane is rich in the arts, and in a deep variety in places of worship. I have deep and experienced appreciation for the Spokane District 81 K-12 educational system while raising my own children - a very solid and well-resourced school district!
Ways I have been able to get involved on-campus: I participate in mentoring programs for students and take the opportunity to journey with students who seek out mentoring - along their educational path and early years away from home.
Hobbies and Interests: Alpine skiing during snowstorms mid-week when very, very few people go. Mother nature grooms the slope while you are riding the lift so it always feels like freshly groomed terrain, unlike sunny weather and crowds on weekends. Off road, mountain bike riding in summer season. Late night movies at local theaters.
Educational Background:
- PhD in Leadership Studies Gonzaga University, 2021
- Master of Arts in English Literature, Northern Arizona University, 1993
- Bachelor of Science in English Literature, Northern Arizona University, 1991
Jesuit ideal I most identify with: Cura Personalis
Reasons I enjoy working at Gonzaga University: Gonzaga’s focus on its mission of helping students develop intellectually, spiritually, culturally, physically, and emotionally is real. I’ve never worked at an institution so focused on benefitting the mind, body, and spirit of its students to the degree that we do at Gonzaga. These are lofty goals, but I sense that everyone truly cares about the work, which is life-giving to me as a professional.
What I enjoy about Spokane and the Northwest: Nature surrounds us! Spokane speaks to me.
Ways I have been able to get involved on-campus: There's no shortage of people who want to engage with Housing and Residence Life. We're sought for our knowledge of students, for our connection with residents, and our abundant energy. My opportunities come from being a student advocate. People want that perspective at the table, which is refreshing to see.
Hobbies and Interests: I am a scuba diver; I've gone sky diving and paragliding; I enjoy traveling, and I am enjoying the fact that I am no longer in a PhD program. Just saying…
Educational Background:
- Master of Arts in Educational Leadership emphasis in Higher Education & Student Affairs, University of Northern Colorado, 2011
- Bachelor of Arts in English, University of Northern Colorado, 2006
Jesuit ideal I most identify with: The ideal that I appreciate the most is the thought of a value oriented education that anchors itself in the head, the heart and the hands of the students.
Reasons I enjoy working at Gonzaga University: I enjoy the small size of Gonzaga University. It makes the students, faculty and staff that you live and work with feel like family. It is certainly a great community. I also really appreciate the beauty of our campus.
What I enjoy about Spokane and the Northwest: I love Spokane! I rarely go a weekend without doing something new and exciting around the area or within a short distance drive. The inland northwest is spectacular.
Ways I have been able to get involved on-campus: I am involved in departmental and division wide committees and task forces.
Hobbies and Interests: I love to travel with my wife and dog Wylee. We enjoy camping and hiking and most recently skiing. I am a fan of Star Wars and enjoy movies. I am also a pilot and enjoy flying around the area.
Educational Background:
- Master of Science in Teaching Adolescence Social Studies, Fordham University, 2015
- Bachelor of Arts in History-American Studies and Political Science, Fordham University, 2014
Jesuit ideal I most identify with: The Jesuit ideal I most identify with is unity of head and mind. We're often taught that our hearts and minds are divided and cannot possibly collaborate ("use your head, not your heart" and vice versa). It is when our heart and mind work together that we reach our full potential.
Reasons I enjoy working at Gonzaga University:I enjoy working at Gonzaga because it is a mission-driven institution, focused on the development of the whole person. Not only do students gain expertise in their field of study, but they also develop a strong sense of character and community.
What I enjoy about Spokane and the Northwest: Originally from New York, I enjoy the ease of access to the great outdoors that I have not had before, and that I can go from walking along a river to a downtown center in under 30 minutes.
Hobbies and Interests: I really enjoy being outside, whether it is hiking, biking, or water sports. I also enjoy rainy day activities like baking, reading, and board games. Most importantly, I spend lots of time with my dog, Maggie.
Educational Background:
- Master of Science in Psychology, emphasis in Forensic Psychology, University of Louisiana Monroe, 2021
- Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, Whitworth University, 2018
Jesuit ideal I most identify with: Cura Personalis - 'care for the whole self'
Reasons I enjoy working at Gonzaga University: Gonzaga exhibits a great sense of community that you can feel throughout the whole campus.
What I enjoy about Spokane and the Northwest: There is always something to do or see in Spokane. Even on the Gonzaga campus, there are multiple opportunities to connect with the outdoors just minutes away from your doorstep.
Ways I have been able to get involved on-campus: I am looking forward to connecting with students and student staff members on campus. I also hope to partner with some other offices in the future to complete additional training and professional development.
Hobbies and Interests: I am into anything involving the arts! Singing, dancing, listening to music, watching Broadway shows, painting, etc. I have also recently gotten back into reading and I am a huge movie buff.
Educational Background:
- Bachelor of Arts in English with Writing Concentration Minor in Journalism & Visual Literacy, Gonzaga University, 2021
Jesuit ideal I most identify with: The Jesuit's commitment to social justice; during my time at Gonzaga, I was involved on-campus in areas where social justice was a large focus of the work that we did and conversations we had. To me, it's also very important as a person of color to advocate for and stand in solidarity with other marginalized groups.
Educational Background:
- Master of Arts in Government and Politics-International Relations-Comparative Politics, St. John's University, 2021
- Bachelor of Arts in International Studies and Political Science-Anthropology and Theology, Fordham University, 2020
Jesuit ideal I most identify with: The Jesuit ideal I most identify with is men and women for and with others. It is the tenet that stands out the most to me as being the one that involves our relations with other people, which is important for us as a social species. Solidarity and social justice are important to me. Having concern for and working together with our fellow human beings in pursuit of justice makes the human experience special.
Reasons I enjoy working at Gonzaga University: I was a Resident Assistant at Fordham University, another Jesuit university. Because of my identity as a Christian and my experiences in Jesuit higher education, I knew that I wanted to be a Residence Direct at a Jesuit university. Gonzaga's mission statement stands out to me.
What I enjoy about Spokane and the Northwest: I am originally from New York, so the natural beauty of Spokane and the Northwest is unlike the concrete jungle that I am used to. I am looking forward to exploring the area more.
Ways I have been able to get involved on-campus: I am excited to work with the students and staff on-campus. I would also like to interact with the Center for Community Engagement, so that I can be involved off campus in the greater Spokane community. I want to cultivate many positive relationships here.
Hobbies and Interests: I enjoy reading, watching TV shows and movies, getting good food with friends and going to museums. Now that I am no longer in New York City/Long Island area maybe I will develop more outdoor hobbies and interests.
Educational Background:
- Master of Arts in Leadership in Student Affairs, University of St. Thomas, 2020
- Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, Minor in Hispanic Studies and Concentration in Community and Global Health, Macalester College, 2017
Jesuit ideal I most identify with: Faith That Does Justice. I think we all have a responsibility to be change agents who work to make our community a more just place to learn and live. Our faith can guide our commitment to this work.
Reasons I enjoy working at Gonzaga University: I like that Gonzaga is a small campus, which allows us to connect more easily with each other and give students personal attention. I get to work with some fantastic campus partners who care deeply about their work and have a genuine desire to provide the best experience for our students. I'm grateful to work with such hardworking and kindhearted professionals.
What I enjoy about Spokane and the Northwest: Born and raised in North Idaho, I really appreciate the ability to be close to family and old friends. Being in Spokane gives me the opportunity to re-explore spots I enjoyed as a child and also make new memories in a city that I'm learning to love. I also enjoy how many ski resorts the Northwest has to offer and how easy it is to drive to the mountain and be on the lift in minutes.
Ways I have been able to get involved on-campus: There are so many awesome programs put on by DICE. Diversity Monologues is a campus favorite and I enjoy showing up to support students' events. The Out with Allies series is also something I enjoy attending. I alwasy learn something new, and I appreciate the opportunity for conversations that include students, faculty and staff.
Hobbies and Interests: If there is a mountain, I'll be there either hiking or skiing! I also enjoy watching documentaries and doing book clubs with friends. When we aren't in a global pandemic, I'm a big traveler and always have my passport ready.
Educational Background:
- Master of Communication and Leadership, Concentration in Digital Media Strategies, Gonzaga University, Anticipated: May 2023
- Bachelor of Business Management, Eastern Washington University, 2017
Jesuit ideal I most identify with: Cura Personalis - "Care for the whole person". This is something I see every day at Gonzaga. Whether it is in the classroom, walking across campus or in a professional setting, community members show their care for the whole person in many different ways and you always know that you will be taken care of.
Reasons I enjoy working at Gonzaga University: One piece of caring for the whole person is encouraging student and staff members to grow both personally and professionally. I am thankful for the personal and professional development opportunities that I have had while working at Gonzaga. I love the Gonzaga community, team spirit, and that our values are a part of everything we do here.
What I enjoy about Spokane and the Northwest: I love the outdoors and the PNW is filled with opportunities for hiking, camping, fishing, and more. There are activities nearby for every season and beauty around every corner.
Hobbies and Interests: Iam a proud plant mom! I love hiking, camping, fishing, swimming, kayaking, etc. I enjoy baking and all things related to food or coffee.
Educational Background:
- Juris Doctor, Gonzaga University School of Law, expected May 2024
- Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Economics, Minors in International Studies and Spanish, Gonzaga University, 2020
Jesuit ideal I most identify with: I most identify with cura personalis because we need to take care of ourselves before we can develop ourselves or do good work and be there for others. We must care for the whole person. It also allows us to reflect on our choices and explore new pathways.
Reasons I enjoy working at Gonzaga University: I love working with different student groups and introducing them to the PNW. As an alumn, I understand the process of attending an institution in a new space and being away from home for the first time, so I want to help others with this transition.
What I enjoy about Spokane and the Northwest: I love being outdoors and getting all four seasons since I normally don't see it in the Bay Area.
Ways I have been able to get involved on-campus: I worked with CCE and UMEC as a student staff member during undergrad and have maintained relationships with my peers in those departments. I am also part of the law school community.
Hobbies and Interests: Crafts, watching sports, and exploring new restaurants within the greater Spokane area.
Reasons I enjoy working at Gonzaga University: I love working with our students, and campus partners. I’ve met some of my favorite people while working at Gonzaga.
What I enjoy about Spokane and the Northwest: I love that Spokane has all four seasons. Weekends can easily be spent hiking, snowboarding, or at a lake. I am partial to the warmer weather activities, but I appreciate summer even more after a snowy winter.
Ways I have been able to get involved on-campus: I’m one of a handful of IDI (Intercultural Development Inventory) Qualified Administrators on Gonzaga’s campus which has allowed me to work with a variety of students, staff and faculty, educating others on cultural competency and having eye opening conversations with the Gonzaga community. My office is a Safe Space and I am an Ally. In my role in Housing and Residence Life I’ve had the opportunity to collaborate with areas all over campus from Admissions, Athletics, Center for Global Engagement DICE, Disability Access, and GUEST.
Hobbies and Interests: I love spending time with my friends and family. I enjoy going to the gym, I’m not great at CrossFit but I love the family it creates. I get embarrassingly excited talking about workouts, and certain aspects of nutrition.
Educational Background:
- Bachelor of Education in Special Education, Gonzaga University, 1999
Jesuit ideal I most identify with: We are called to be men and women for others.
Reasons I enjoy working at Gonzaga University: I love seeing how the campus at Gonzaga has changed, but the community bond remains strong.
What I enjoy about Spokane and the Northwest: My family and I enjoy living in Spokane and exploring the Pacific Northwest. The summer and fall are our favorite seasons for camping and visiting the many lakes nearby. We also love spending time together outdoors and interacting with the dynamic Spokane community through events like Hoopfest. We are always looking and ready to try the new restaurants, coffee shops and experiences that Spokane has to offer.
Ways I have been able to get involved on-campus: My husband and I are alumni, so we bring our children to many of the awesome alumni events that are organized for families and we also enjoy Gonzaga athletic events.
Hobbies and Interests: Spending time with family and friends, cooking, reading, camping, yoga.
Reasons I enjoy working at Gonzaga University: I enjoy working at GU because of the community. It is a welcoming one that encourages a holistic approach to work and life. The environment is a fun and engaging and working with the students is rewarding.
What I enjoy about Spokane and the Northwest: I enjoy the slow pace and hometown feel of Spokane. Originally from Indiana I get some similar vibes which makes me feel even more at home. The scenery is great, and the food scene is even better!
Ways I have been able to get involved on-campus: In my previous position with GUEST, I had a great opportunity to interact with and meet a variety of departments on campus. It was a good way to get to know a diverse group of staff/faculty/and students.
Hobbies and Interests: I enjoy spending time with my family. We enjoy spending time with family in town and being active!
Educational Background:
- BA in Human Services, Minor in Psychology, Whitworth University
Reasons I enjoy working at Gonzaga University: The students, I really like engaging with them, for one student understood and cared for makes a difference
What I enjoy about Spokane and the Northwest: I love Spokane/Northwest because there are four seasons and I love to be able to enjoy each one of them! There is always something to do Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter all you have to do is look.
Ways I have been able to get involved on-campus: I think once I get settled into my role I will find a way to be involved and continue with BIPOC. I love what they stand for!
Hobbies and Interests: Gardening! I love that I can reconnect with Mother Earth and produce not only knowledge, but the fruit that sustains.
Reasons I enjoy working at Gonzaga University: Everyone is extremely supportive of each other! Especially as a student, I feel like the staff at GU has helped me learn and grow in more ways than I could imagine.
What I enjoy about Spokane and the Northwest: Find me at NUDO Ramen House almost every Friday night in Spokane!!! I love everything about the Northwest, coming from Alaska, the weather is perfect and I actually get to enjoy every season. Also, what's not to love about having Trader Joe's!?!
Ways I have been able to get involved on-campus: Being involved in the marketing process has allowed me to get to know so many people’s stories on campus and better advocate student needs within housing.
Hobbies and Interests: In my free time I enjoy dj’ing and working out! Additionally, half of the housing office rides Peloton so I've caught on and joined that as well. I also now teach Spin classes at the RFC on campus for fun!