What inspired you to attend PVCC?
I had not given any thought to attending college upon graduating from high school until my parents gave me a choice to enroll at a local community college. PVCC was close to home and allowed me to continue to work.
What was your major or focus of study at PVCC? And what year did you graduate?
I started at PVCC in August of 1988 without any idea what I wanted to do. I often tell students that I meet in my current role, I changed my major five times until I finally landed. That decision took me to NAU in August of 1991. PVCC gave me a safe space to mature into a college student and cover many core classes I needed to achieve my college degree.
What were one or two of the most memorable aspects of your student experience at PVCC?
Faculty. I had two spectacular professors. A Spanish professor who was so kind and passionate, our class became a cohort and friends outside the course. And a professor of communication who inspired me to study communications. They helped me mature and launch me toward my bachelor’s program.
How would you describe PVCC to others? Would you recommend PVCC and why?
I would describe PVCC, to others, as a safe and welcoming space for students from diverse backgrounds. I sat in a class with my mother once and other returning students. I had an opportunity to hear perspectives from students from completely different backgrounds and I never felt I could not share my own perspective. With the rising cost of education, I believe PVCC is an excellent choice for students who want to attend college yet must find affordable ways. Whether they want to achieve an associate's degree or transfer to one of the state universities to continue, PVCC offers a great starting point to mature as a student and explore your educational path.
What piece of advice would you give to PVCC students?
Study what you love because it will make you a much better student. Take advantage of any internship or mentorship while you are a student. NETWORK! If I can leave a student with one piece of advice, I wish I would have known in college, networking will provide you avenues in your life you may never imagine.
Tell us about your journey after leaving PVCC…
I left PVCC in 1991 to pursue my degree in broadcast production at NAU. After graduation from NAU, I moved to Indiana and landed a job in radio. I spent a decade in marketing and sales before transitioning my skills to higher education fundraising. I spent 3 years at Ball State University, then moved back to Arizona in 2008 to become the Executive Director of Community Health Charities of Arizona. After that role, I was fortunate to be the Vice President of Marketing and Development at Big Brothers Big Sisters of Arizona for a few years. Then, I had a phenomenal opportunity to work as a Development Officer for my alma mater, NAU. I am currently a Senior Director of Development in the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences. I oversee development officers in our Office of Native American Initiatives, College of Health and Human Services, and our newly established College of Nursing.
How would you advise students on how to choose their educational or career path?
I firmly believe you should study what you love because when you do, you enjoy your education. I think that getting a good education and exploring internships or mentorship in different careers helps students define how they can transition their education into a career path. Every degree offers you the chance to refine critical thinking skills, writing skills, and, hopefully, public speaking skills. I believe all can be used in so many career opportunities.
In your career journey, what has been one of your greatest successes and one of your greatest challenges?
One of my greatest challenges has been balancing my work and family time. I am very passionate about the work I do, no matter what I may be doing, so I often become overly committed to the work. Over the past few years, I have worked on this challenge.
One of the greatest successes in my career is seeing those I have had the privilege to lead and mentor grow into outstanding leaders. When someone I worked with and coached reaches new career heights, I am overwhelmed with joy to see them succeed. Helping others has been such a great career success. I feel fortunate to get to do this daily.
How did your experiences at PVCC either directly or indirectly impact the work that you do?
Great question! Looking back, I think the faculty at PVCC encouraged me, leading to finishing my education and receiving a bachelor’s degree. Without the great faculty, I am not sure I would have persevered in my educational journey, which has led me to amazing career opportunities.