How long have you been in your role and what drew you to this position in CBS?
I came to BTL in July of 2017 after working for many years in central governance. I already knew several people in the department when I started so it let me continue working with some individuals and re-connect with others. I was also excited to be working in an academic unit, and especially BTL due to its focus on improving biology education for all students.
What's something unique about your role that you enjoy?
I am the only general administrative staff in BTL so my tasks include the hiring of teaching assistants, handling search processes, monitoring budgets, scheduling classes, providing permission numbers, paying grant participants, arranging seminar speakers, ordering supplies, and answering any question posed to me. And usually I am handling many of these tasks in the same day which keeps things interesting.
What's something about your job that people don't know about or expect?
I've been working at the University since 1993, first as a student and then a civil service employee, so I have a long history and have worked with many people across the five campuses. I also know where to usually find the answer, or can at least direct someone to the correct office.
What things do you enjoy doing outside of work?
I have a side business making and selling jam and knit items, so that keeps me busy from April-December when I'm either producing or at sales. And since we're at the right time of the year, I am a big fan of Halloween. When I bought my house in 2003, I was gifted an inflatable vampire as a housewarming gift. I've added to my collection and now have almost 100 Halloween-themed inflatables. Thankfully I have a corner yard so I'm able to display 65-70 each year for Halloween. The kids, their parents, and my neighborhood love it.