What is your title at EvCC, and what will you be doing in your day-to-day endeavors at the College?
Associate Director of Operations at AMTEC. Supporting staff, students and faculty in day-to-day operations of AMTEC, providing support around safety and student retention.
Tell us a little about your professional background.
Most recently, I was working for Valley Cites Behavioral Health as an employment specialist. I served individuals recovering from substance abuse and mental health issues, assisting them with finding and keeping employment.
Prior to that position, I worked at LWTECH in Kirkland for over 17 years. While there, I advised and did outreach for the College’s WorkFirst program, I was the manager for student programs, Title III director for student retention activities, assistant director of advising and assessment center, and Director of Admissions and Outreach.
Before working at LWTECH, I worked at the Snohomish School District running an AmeriCorps program that served youth in academic support and mentoring.
Additionally, I served as a VISTA in Cleveland Ohio, and as a Peace Corps volunteer in the Republic of Yemen.
What was your most memorable job? Why?
Peace Corps volunteer; I could never see the world the same way. It changed my path.
What does a typical day look like for you?
Awoken by a demanding feline, Pickles, for morning discussions concerning food.
Right now, coming to AMTEC and learning all about the programs, about EvCC and meeting staff, faculty and students. Lots of listening and learning.
Describe yourself at 12 years old.
I believed I was destined to be an incredible basketball or baseball player. I lived with extended family, so I spent lots of time with my grandfather shooting baskets in the driveway, walking our family dog, playing in the creek and woods in the backyard, and helping our neighbors with their horses.
What is your favorite meal/ snack in summer? Favorite summer beverage?
Nachos anytime; Iced tea
What would be the title of your autobiography?
She Thinks She is Hilarious
What is the first concert you attended?
Journey – at the Cleveland Coliseum – it was quite a while ago.
What is a defining moment in your life?
Returning unexpectedly from the Peace Corps after enduring civil war in the country where I served. My service changed the way I view service and honestly, the privileges that I have.
What are you reading right now/ what was the last book you read? Are you participating in any reading challenges?
Not in any reading challenges. Trying to finish Middle Age by Joyce Carol Oates, and starting the Gorilla and the Bird by Zack McDerrmott
What one food do you wish had zero calories?
PIZZA
Where is your hometown? Were you born and raised in the same place?
Wadsworth, OH; Lived in Ohio until 1996
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
Engaged in work that challenges me and makes a difference in individual’s lives; learning to be a yoga teacher.
What do you like to do on your days off?
Walking with my partner and Luna the dog anywhere where there is a trail with good things to sniff (Luna sniffs we watch her).
On a non-outside day reading, good true crime, knitting.
Do you have a favorite quote/ piece of advice?
“DIG deep – get deliberate, inspired and going.” Brene Brown