Alexandra Aragon

Professional Questions:

What is your current role at Barrett, and what are your primary responsibilities?

I am the Director of Academic Partnerships & Online programs. I am on the Academic Planning team and work with honors course scheduling and collaborations with ASU Colleges on honors courses and academic experiences. This includes managing our Faculty Honors Advisor group. I also supervise our internship department and am the Director and point of contact for Barrett Online.

How long have you been with Barrett, and what initially drew you to work at Barrett?

I started in Barrett in June 2008 as an honors academic advisor. I took on the role of Director of Honors Advising in 2013 and then moved to my current role in the Office of the Deans in 2021. I was drawn to the academic community of Barrett and the opportunity to work with amazing students from across ASU. Barrett reminded me of my undergraduate experience, at Fordham University in NYC, with the emphasis on liberal arts education as a foundational learning experience for all majors.

Can you share a significant accomplishment or project you've worked on during your time here?

I had many accomplishments in Advising such as being part of the team that created the Barrett Digital Thesis Repository which moved our thesis projects from paper documents to an electronic library system and creation of an Honors DARS report to capture honors academic progress. I am also proud of Barrett Online which went from a small pilot program in Fall 2021 to a growing “campus” of over 280 enrolled Barrett Online students.

What do you enjoy most about your job and working for Barrett?

I enjoy helping others, dreaming up ideas, and creating an impact. When students and faculty come to me for answers or help I enjoy providing solutions, listening to them, and cheering on their efforts. I also like the fact I get to interact with so many different people and parts of Barrett and the larger ASU.

How would you describe the culture and values of Barrett, and how do they align with your own values?

Barrett is about going above and beyond and showing care and attention to individuals. This speaks to the values I have of leading with kindness, doing my personal best, and connecting on a human level with others.

Can you share an example of how Barrett’s culture has positively impacted your work experience?

Barrett treats each student as an individual and I have been positively impacted when I see examples of our College helping students in times of need, coming up with creative solutions to complex situations, and affirming our students’ unique talents and interests. As a staff member, I have felt that same interest in my abilities and talents, which has translated into opportunities to take on many different projects and responsibilities in the college that compliment my strengths.

What do you think sets Barrett apart as an employer and makes it a great place to work?

The people! We have amazing students, staff and faculty. We all work hard do make a difference in educating the future leaders and workforce of our country. It is satisfying to know that my efforts have helped so many students achieve success at Barrett and ASU.

How do you see yourself contributing to the continued growth and success of Barrett in the future?

I am deeply invested in honors education at ASU and providing access to Barrett for talented and intellectually curious students. I am interested in our continued efforts to evolve honors offerings, honors academic requirements, and Barrett partnerships.

Personal Questions:

What are some of your hobbies or interests outside of work?

I love to read fiction, listen to podcasts, and get hooked on a good show/series. I also enjoy crafting like cross stitch projects and diamond dot art. I’m currently working on a cross stitch project of Starry Nights.

Are there any charitable or volunteer activities you're passionate about or involved in?

I am involved with volunteer work through the Dayspring United Methodist Church in Tempe.

Do you have a favorite book, podcast, or movie that has influenced your perspective or inspired you recently?

The podcast Dear Therapists with Lori Gottlieb and Guy Winch is so interesting! You listen to a therapy session with everyday people who come on to talk about something and they give actionable advice and then have the person report back how it went. It’s helpful to hear real people getting through their struggles and growing and changing. I have a Master’s Degree in Counseling so it’s especially fascinating to hear these sessions.

What's a fun fact or hidden talent about you that most people at work might not know?

Can you share a memorable travel experience or a dream destination you hope to visit someday?

In graduate school I traveled to Italy and stayed in the charming village of Orvieto and visited Rome, Siena, Florence and the Amalfi coast. A highlight was a visit to Capri and the rowboat ride inside the Blue Grotto. I hope journey to Spain someday and visit the Aragon region.

What motivates you on a daily basis, both personally and professionally?

I am motivated by a desire for connection. I value my relationships with my colleagues, family, and my environment. I want to notice and appreciate the beauty in the people and world around me while putting my best self forward each day.

Is there a specific quote or mantra that resonates with you and guides your approach to life and work?

I love Gretchen Rubin and her books and podcasts which are about being true to yourself, appreciating personal tendencies, and getting curious about what makes other people tick. Gretchen often quotes this great mantra- Don’t let the Perfect Be the Enemy of the Good. ~Voltaire. I try to remind myself not to let my “perfect” or ideal self- crowd out my real self. Also, sometimes small steps/wins are better than not doing the thing at all!