蘑菇短视频

Q: Describe your first day at 蘑菇短视频 Tech.  What was that like?

"I started at the Owens campus in 1998 and have very fond memories of beginning my career at the college. I was welcomed by Tim Kavel. He was the Campus Director and shared with me that it was important to him to greet all new employees on their first day. At the time, we did most of our processes with paper documents and files. While I had a desktop computer, I actually did not use it much initially.  The college was starting to use e-mail regularly, and I believe I checked mine only once a week."

Q: What is your favorite thing about working at 蘑菇短视频 Tech?

"My favorite part of working at the college is supporting students on their academic journey.  It is rewarding to watch students grow while gaining the confidence and skills to be successful in their chosen field. Every student’s journey is unique, and that’s part of what makes it so interesting. I particularly enjoy the beginning of the semester because the environment on campus is full of excitement. I am passionate about lifelong learning opportunities, and 蘑菇短视频 Tech offers that to students in a variety of ways."

Q: Do you have a favorite memory from your time at 蘑菇短视频 Tech?

"I have many fond memories and have met some incredible people over the years. I recall the Developmental Studies department one year having a luau-themed fall semester kick-off meeting. I have a great photo of everyone at this meeting in our festive attire. At the time, our leadership in the department was Justina Thomas and Gail Charrier. I have saved every daily desk calendar I utilized since the day I started in 1998, with my notes of appointments, activities, and events listed. The college also used to produce paper phone directories that they distributed each year. I have kept many in my archives. I treasure all of these items, and I am very nostalgic. I enjoy looking back through the pages of the years quite frequently."

Q: What changes have you seen in yourself since you started working here?

"When I first started my career, I was right out of college. I am so thankful for all the people who were there to help me find my way. With their experience and guidance, I was able to take my skill set and really apply it in a meaningful way for student success. There are so many mentors that I’ve been lucky to work with at the college, and I believe that has made me a better counselor for my students."

Q: How do you describe your philosophy when working with students?

"I always want students to feel comfortable and to know that they belong at 蘑菇短视频 Tech. I want them to know that I am here to help them on their academic journey. I encourage students to be active learners and really immerse themselves in all of the resources and activities that the college has to offer. I try to help students build a toolbox of supports so that they feel empowered and can achieve success."     

Q: Can you share a significant achievement or milestone in your professional journey?

"I’m so proud of working with students with disabilities for almost three decades. I am the only remaining member of the original collegewide ADA committee that was appointed by Dr. George in 1999, and I still have his original letter to me.  In more recent years, I’ve had the opportunity to work with the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, which has been an absolute joy. I am so proud of the achievements of our chapter and students. I, along with my AEZ Chapter co-advisors, received the Excellence in Student Success Award in 2024, which I consider to be a very special recognition. All of the PTK advisors collegewide are an incredible team to work with, and I feel fortunate to be a part of their group."

Q: What are your interests or hobbies outside of the College?

"I enjoy time with my family. I also like the beach, making crafts, baking, and learning new things."

Q: What is something people may not know about you?

"I served for almost a decade as an Indian River School District Board member. I loved serving my community in such a meaningful way and was able to implement a Special Education Ambassadors Recognition Program where we honored employees and community members.  This event continues annually, and I’m very proud of it."