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?  

• Fun fact: I played Dorothy in a high school production of The Wizard of Oz. 

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. 
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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! 

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

I work in the Recruiting and Admissions office (formally known as “Enrollment Services”) as a recruiter! My primary responsibility is to connect with prospective students and share all the things that make Barrett so great! Depending on the time of year, I might be traveling to various high schools in the valley to meet with high school students, tabling at college fairs, hosting visitors on Sun Devil Days, or giving presentations about Barrett to those who come for a tour. Besides working with prospective students, my other primary responsibility is to oversee the Honors Devils on the Tempe campus. This group consists of 30-40 amazing students who volunteer their time to give tours of the Barrett complex. 

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

One of the things I’m most excited about is actually a current project I’ve been working on. Back in the spring, Dean Williams sent a request to the college for project proposals revolving around Barrett’s Mission and Values. I proposed the creation of “Barrett Value Buttons” and was lucky to be selected to move forward! These buttons (see picture) will be used primarily in our recruiting efforts as communication and conversation-starting tools. Our tour guides will be wearing them and incorporating them into their tours as a way to promote Barrett’s values. I figured our tour guides were already embodying Barrett’s values, so wouldn’t it be cool for them to incorporate the values into their conversations with prospective students and families? I’d also like to provide buttons to any Barrett staff and faculty who are interested!

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

It’s hard to pick - I really enjoy all aspects of my job! If I had to pick, I would say my favorite part is witnessing the moment when a “prospective” student transitions into a “future” student. There’s a moment, sometimes during my presentations, sometimes during their tour, sometimes after their visit is over, when you can see the excitement and awe so clearly on their face. I love to see, in real time, that Barrett/ASU is the place for them! I feel really fortunate to be even a small part of a person’s decision to come to ASU and Barrett. 

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

I love reading, baking, watching sports, listening to D&D podcasts, and exploring the beauty of Arizona. I recently visited the Boyce Thompson Arboretum for the first time and will definitely be going back when the weather is nice again. I also want to up my farmer’s market game, so if any of my colleagues have a recommendation for a good one to go to, please let me know!

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

One of my favorite movies that continues to inspire me is Practical Magic. I find it so charming! Not only is it funny and aesthetically pleasing, it has some really poignant messages. It reminds me to embrace all the magical moments in life, and to create my own magical moments if I can’t seem to find any. It’s also about the strength of relationships - between sisters, family, and community. When people come together to love and support one another, powerful things happen!

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

There’s a quote by James Baldwin (from Nothing Personal) that I have hanging in my office. It definitely guides my approach to both life and work. It’s a bit long, but worth reading: 

“For nothing is fixed, forever and forever and forever, it is not fixed; the earth is always shifting, the light is always changing, the sea does not cease to grind down rock. Generations do not cease to be born, and we are responsible to them because we are the only witnesses they have. The sea rises, the light fails, lovers cling to each other, and children cling to us. The moment we cease to hold each other, the moment we break faith with one another, the sea engulfs us and the light goes out.”

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

I am a recruiter for Barrett at the Polytechnic campus. My primary responsibilities include visiting high schools to share the benefits of Barrett with prospective students, conducting weekly Barrett information sessions and tours of the Barrett facilities in Lantana Hall, and serving as the advisor for the Barrett Poly Honors Devils.

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

I celebrated my second year with Barrett and ASU in March of this year. As an ASU Alum and Barrett parent (Erik - Class of 2020 & Corinn - Class of 2024), accepting a position with the college seemed like the perfect fit. Before Barrett, I spent 20+ years in public education as a classroom teacher and school librarian. My current position allows me to continue to serve students while promoting a program I believe provides unique opportunities for undergraduates who are willing to challenge themselves. I love meeting and supporting students as they research their options for the next phase of their educational career. 

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

My team makes my job a joy! The Barrett Poly staff is amazing. We all have a common goal to recruit and retain students at the Poly campus and make sure their Barrett experience is exceptional. Everyone chips in regardless of the situation and we truly enjoy working together. I’m also blessed to be part of the greater Barrett Recruiting and Admissions team.  Again, each and every member is willing to give 110% at all times to make sure we are promoting Barrett in the best light and serving the needs of our students and high school partners.

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

I am a HUGE sports fan! Football, basketball and hockey are my favorites. Not surprisingly, my husband and I are ASU Football season ticket holders. Next year will be season 24 for us. I also enjoy reading, crafting, thrifting and traveling.

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

Our family supports the Tillman Foundation through donations and by participating in Pat’s Run every year. My father and father-in-law both served in the military as well as several uncles and cousins. Pat Tillman was a prime example of putting the needs of others ahead of your own needs. My participation and donation are miniscule in comparison to his sacrifice, but I feel that even small gestures can make a big difference in the lives of others.

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

I serve as one of the Honors Advisors where I have the opportunity to connect with a caseload of our students in a variety of ways to explore their academic goals and guide them in completing the honors requirements. Most of my days are spent in appointments and emailing my students on a variety of topics, but I also assist in overseeing our front desk operations and Advising Student Leaders with Nicole Lindell as well as managing the enrollment in our signature courses, HON 171, 272, and 370, across all campuses.

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

I enjoy the immensely intelligent and creative students that I get to work and interact with. Many come to Barrett with such big goals, dreams, and ideas, and they find the most innovative ways to engage in everything they set their mind to. Whether it’s volunteering in research labs, engaging in multiple internships, pursuing 3 majors, or a variety of other things, our students are just plain neat. The pan-campus advising team is an outstanding bunch too and I come to work every day excited to get to collaborate with them!

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

I think our small college feel within the larger university reflects not only the Barrett student experience, but also our staff experience. I feel that I have gotten to know a lot of the Barrett community in the roughly 3 years that I have been here. Our community is collaborative and excited to work with our students, and its reflected in the outcomes of the work we do. If I was in another department or college on campus or at another university, I may not have as much interactions with other offices, but some of my favorite parts of my job are getting to collaborate with the great folks in Admissions/Recruiting, Student Services, Events, etc.  

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

As a former theater kid, I spend a lot of my time listening to showtunes and trying to find theater productions throughout the Valley to attend. If anyone has recommendations or want to chat about theater, please let me know! I also spend quite a lot of time playing pickleball! I picked it up in March 2022, and now my whole friend group, including fellow honors advisor, Sarah Mogytych, plays pretty frequently. If anyone wants to play, slack me!! I would love to get a faculty/staff game going.

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

I’m an avid volunteer with an international youth leadership organization, Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership, also known as HOBY. Our organization holds 3-4 day leadership seminars across the country as well as an international conference for rising high school juniors each summer. I attended my local seminar in Illinois in 2014 and have been a volunteer ever since. I have been on our Board of Directors for the past 4 years in a variety of roles. Our curriculum is based on the social change model of leadership and heavily influenced by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). We focus on not only personal leadership development, but also volunteerism and the impacts that we as individuals can have on our communities. HOBY Arizona is a great group of people too, if anyone wants to get involved locally!

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

In my office on a little letter board, I have a quote from Dolly Parton that I really love. “Find out who you are and do it on purpose.”

What is your current role at Barrett, and what are your primary responsibilities?
I am Alex and I am the administrative assistant for the Barrett West Valley campus, some
of my responsibilities involve budget tracking as well as filling documentation for p-card
expenses. Most importantly, being at the front desk welcoming guests and helping
students with any of their needs, whether they need to print or just needing someone to
talk to, I am always happy to be there for them.

What do you enjoy most about your job and working for Barrett?
What I enjoy the most about my job is the ability to learn and practice multiple skills. I
can be working on my computer and next thing you know I am helping set up an event.
During my time in Barrett I have been able to learn from so many different brilliant
individuals, I really enjoyed that everyone is willing to help and teach each other even if
they are from different departments.

What are some of your hobbies or interests outside of work?
I like to stay active, I usually try to play soccer once a week as well as going to the gym.
Traveling is one of my favorite things to do as well. If I have the opportunity to travel to
a new place I will definitely take it.

What motivates you on a daily basis, both personally and professionally?
My parents are one of my main source of motivation, they have worked really hard
throughout their life to get me to the point where I am today. I am a first generation
student and without their help I wouldn't have accomplished all the things I have always
dreamed of.

Can you share a memorable travel experience or a dream destination you hope to visit
someday?
- One of my most memorable travel experiences was studying abroad as an undergraduate.
I lived in Madrid for a semester and I really enjoyed learning about the culture and
traveling to different countries when I had the opportunity during weekends, especially
because I traveled by myself most of the time so it really helped me to become more
independent and push myself to meet new people..

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

As the Senior Coordinator of Internships and Community Outreach, I partner with ASU Career Services, ASU college-specific internship, and career centers, and assist students on all five Barrett campuses to identify best practices for finding and engaging in internship and research opportunities. I meet with employers and community organizations to encourage them in offering internships to our Barrett student community. By hosting online and immersion student events, I strive to encourage and empower students to engage in internships during their time at Barrett. Twice a month I curate the Internship and Research Roundup Newsletter. In here, I highlight professional development best practices as well as internship and research opportunities that may be Barrett-only positions or ASU-wide opportunities. I attend most career fairs and have drop-in hours on all campuses to assist our Barrett student community in being prepared and confident to interact with employers and organizations. 

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

 I have been part of Barrett since October 2023. Previously, I spent the last three years on a public health grant with Dr. Megan Jehn (School of Human Evolution and Change) working as a liaison with the Pascua Yaqui tribe in Guadalupe. Being the parent of three Barrett alumni (2018, 2021, 2021), I am so grateful for the Barrett faculty and staff who have supported my daughters throughout their four years at ASU. It is wonderful to now be part of the Barrett staff after being a Barrett parent for seven years! 

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

We love spending our summer breaks on Lake Michigan! It is the place we head to each summer as a family as the rest of the year may be hectic and we all live in different corners of the world. Recent trips to Norway to see our daughter, a wedding anniversary cruise through the Panama Canal, and a South African safari have given me such a renewed appreciation for experiences and other cultures. 

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

Both professionally and personally, I strive to be a helper in our world. As a former Jesuit Volunteer, I have seen so many everyday heroes make a positive difference. Dr. Suess had it right when he said, ”To the world, you may only be one person, but to one person, you may be the world.” I strive to be someone who is part of something bigger than myself that adds to the good in our community. 

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

“I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” Maya Angelou. 

I have previously worked as an elementary principal and classroom teacher and have seen students and families thrive when they know you care. When I meet with a Barrett student in a group or in my office, I hope that the information I share with them will encourage them to apply for that internship, get involved, and achieve their goals. 

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

As the Program Manager of Outreach and Inclusion with ONSA, I conduct general outreach to undergraduate students throughout ASU. To that end, I go to each campus in the valley regularly, attend a range of student events, present general information to groups across the university, and provide general advising, especially to 1st and 2nd year students. Additionally, I support those applying to awards with a focus on diversity and inclusion, such as the Gilman, Udall, and Voyager scholarships, as well as several foreign service fellowships.

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

The students! Supporting students in their journey has been the common denominator throughout my career.  Of course, when a student receives a life changing award, it’s wonderful and we celebrate those moments. The bigger reward of this work is seeing the reflection and growth that students experience throughout the process.  

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

There is a clear desire amongst the staff, faculty, and leadership to support the students, and one another, at Barrett. Some might think this is common in higher education, or even at ASU. Sadly, it is not. This is evident day-to-day, from people volunteering on selection committees for ONSA, signing up to help during events put on by Student Services, and the Deans offering drop-in hours to staff and faculty, to name just a few. On a personal level, this was further proven when I was in the hospital. I received messages from colleagues and beautiful flowers from the Barrett family. Focusing on myself and my family during this time was a bit easier because of the support I had at work. Many employers claim to have a sense of community and family, but they do not back it up the way Barrett does.

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

I went on a solo trip to Ireland awhile back. Going on this trip by myself was such a wonderful experience. I went wherever I wanted, whenever I wanted to. I wandered through Dublin visiting churches and museums, rode across the countryside touring random castles along the way, sat in pubs chatting with locals and people from around the world.  The rolling green hills, and cows lounging in the sun, made this the most serene vacation I have ever taken.

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

Professionally, the students keep me coming back each day! Playing a small part in their journey is the most rewarding part of my job. Personally, my family is my biggest motivation. My daughter watching my every move makes me want to do the best I can in everything I do. The support of my partner helps me to keep swimming, especially on the challenging days.

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

I serve as the Program Coordinator, Sr. for Student Engagement and Recruitment on the Polytechnic campus. On the student engagement side, I plan annual events for the Poly incoming students such as Barrett Beginnings in June and the Barrett Poly Retreat in August, Poly circuit events open to all Barrett students such as Dinner Down The Orchard and and open to all ASU students such as Pride Prom, the Poly end of the year banquet the Gold Standard Awards in April, popular student events such as Poly Picnics, Barrett Buck Stores, and Rest & Relaxes, supervise 7 student workers and their events and projects, and advise some of the Poly student organizations such as our Barrett Poly Mentors and BLAST at Poly. On the recruitment side, I plan the Poly Scholar Dinners for high achieving high students and their families and assist with other communications, programs, events, and initiatives in order to promote Barrett on Poly. 

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

I will be celebrating my 5th year with Barrett and ASU on January 28! As a very involved Barrett student on the Polytechnic campus, I learned a lot about what it takes to build a strong, academic community. When I graduated, I was so sad to leave a place that had been such a foundational pillar in my growth as a working professional. I thought why not stay! I was honored to be hired just a month after graduating and I have been working here ever since! I am so glad I continued my Barrett journey as a professional staff member in a position that still teaches me new things everyday. 

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

As I have been with Barrett for the past 5 years, I have learned so much about myself and how to be a supportive working professional. I would love to mentor and support new staff members of the Barrett community (especially if they are new in their career). It would be a rewarding experience to teach and nurture new staff to pass on what I have learned. I always love creating new things and doing my best to help Barrett grow. I would be happy to do that anyway I can.  

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

It is no secret that I love Disney and go to Disneyland quite often. I will even be chaperoning the Barrett Sophomore Disneyland Turn Around Trip later in January! I also love musical theater. Getting to see broadway touring shows come through ASU Gammage is a great experience! 

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

The quote that my middle school art teacher lived by was the quote I put on my cap when I graduated from ASU - "If you love what you do, you will never work a day in your life." I want to truly enjoy my life and wake up excited for the day. When I was about to graduate with a degree in Software Engineering, I realized I really did not enjoy it. I had to take a step back and figure out what got me up in the morning. It was planning events for college students and sharing with prospective students and families why they should come to Barrett. Rather than hating my job for the rest of my life, I wanted to be excited and have passion for it. While there are a few things I do not enjoy in my position (as with any job), the amount of things I love about it far outweigh the negative. I believe loving what you do is the key to happiness. 

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

I am the Data Analyst Senior. My primary responsibility is to make sure everyone Excel in their use of data, to stay true to our Word of maintaining Access to all, and respecting everyone’s Outlook. In OneNote, I would say that my role is a cog in a well-oiled Office.

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

I have been with Barrett for more than 6 years now. Before Barrett, I was a Master’s student at ASU.

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

Automating the frequently requested reports is one of my proud accomplishments. This has helped customers be self-sufficient.

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

The Huberman lab podcast is an interesting podcast if you are into the scientific literature about our day-to-day activities and finding tools to improve/refine few things in our life.

My favorite movie is Good Will Hunting. It’s about Will who goes on a hunting trip with his buddies and does a good deed. That’s what I thought and had no clue on what I was getting into. I would recommend everyone to watch the move and appreciate the genius actor Robin Williams (RIP). My favorite Christmas movies are Home Alone and Die Hard.

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

I have done a great job at hiding my talents from my colleagues (& me). I am going to keep it that way.

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

I would like to leave a positive humorous effect on people I interact with personally and professionally.

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

Writing things down using a simple phrase alleviates the anxiety of taking the first step.

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

In February 2022, I started working at Barrett Recruiting & Admissions as the Administrative Assistant of Enrollment Services. In my role, I greet visitors to Barrett, manage the front desk, organize team calendars, meetings and creative projects, and handle tour check-in.

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

A feat that I’m exceedingly proud to have accomplished during my time at Barrett is completing my undergraduate studies. Since May 2022, I have earned 83 credits while maintaining a 4.0 GPA and full-time work schedule. I will be graduating in December with a bachelor's degree in English and another in Women, Gender and Sexuality Studies.

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

What I enjoy the most about working for Barrett is the sense of community and belonging that is instilled in students as well as faculty and staff. I feel especially blessed to have a position that is made all the more enjoyable by my lively, encouraging, and considerate colleagues in the Recruiting & Admissions office. 😊

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

Both personally and professionally, I am consistently motivated to “love my neighbor” through kindness, acceptance, respect, and forgiveness. We are all human beings, and therefore, deserve basic human rights, decency, and protection. Sometimes I fail, but I have never stopped trying to be a good neighbor and hope I never will.

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

Yes! When I was younger, I constantly complained about how much longer it would take to complete my degree.

One day I told my Aunt Raylene, “I’m going to be THIRTY by the time I graduate college!” (Oh, the horror!)

To which she responded with a sigh, “Well kiddo, you’re going to be thirty anyway – might as well have a degree.”

That one comment has become my mantra over the last decade, and I constantly use some variation of it when trying to challenge my perspective in professional or personal situations.