Northern Arizona University

Current Position: Full-Time Residence Hall Director, Allen Hall

Years at NAU: 3

Hometown/state: Los Angeles, California

Completed degrees: MA Higher Education - University of Maryland, College Park; BS Applied Mathematics and Sociology - University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) 

Degrees in progress: n/a

Favorite thing about WORKING at NAU: I appreciate all the support that I receive from staff members as we continuously work towards improving our services and educational opportunities for students.

Favorite thing about LEARNING at NAU: There are various opportunities for me to learn more about our student population whether it is through workshops, discussions, or my interactions with students.

Favorite thing about PLAYING at NAU/Flagstaff: I enjoy the First Friday Art Walks in downtown Flagstaff and the outdoor activities in the area.

What matters to me: It is working with a supportive staff that is dedicated to student development and their overall success.

Current position: Full-Time Residence Hall Director, Reilly Hall

Years at NAU: 2

Hometown/state: Beloit, Kansas

Completed degrees: MS Student Affairs and Higher Education - Colorado State University; BS Business Management - Kansas State University

Degrees in progress: n/a

Favorite thing about WORKING at NAU: This is a very supportive and encouraging department for which to work. Everyone is productive and we have fun working together.

Favorite thing about LEARNING at NAU: I enjoy learning new things and I have found that professionally and personally my peers are able to teach me so much.  Because the atmosphere is so inviting, people are encouraged to share with and thereby learn from each other.

Favorite thing about PLAYING at NAU/Flagstaff: I love the variety of activities that are available to me both on campus and off campus. To the people who love outdoor activities, the Flagstaff area offers so much.

What matters to me: is loving what I do during my work time and during my free time.

Current Position: Full-Time Residence Hall Director, Gabaldon Hall

Years at NAU: 2

Hometown/state: Lansing, Michigan

Completed degrees: BS in Public Administration - Grand Valley State University and Master of Science, College Student Affairs - Eastern Illinois University

Degrees in progress: n/a

Favorite thing about WORKING at NAU: I like having autonomy over my building. The working environment encourages creativity.

Favorite thing about LEARNING at NAU: I feel that everyday provides the opportunity for professional development. I learn something new everyday.

Favorite thing about PLAYING at NAU/Flagstaff: The landscape is beautiful. The view outside of my window looks like a postcard. The laid back atmosphere is a good stress reliever.

What matters to me: Acknowledgment and balance is important to me. I feel that when you do you job or work through a difficult situation you are told from many different levels how much you are appreciated.

Current position: Full-Time Residence Hall Director, Pine Ridge Village

Years at NAU: 14

Hometown/state: Phoenix, Arizona

Completed degrees: M.Ed. in Counseling: Student Affairs - Northern Arizona University; BS in Elementary Education - Northern Arizona University

Degrees in progress: n/a

Favorite thing about WORKING at NAU: Family atmosphere

Favorite thing about LEARNING at NAU: Small classrooms

Favorite thing about PLAYING at NAU/Flagstaff: Great weather, great fun, and great people.

What matters to me: is being able to do my job knowing there are resources and plenty of support at my fingertips.

Current Position: Full-Time Residence Hall Director, Family Housing

Years at NAU: 8

Hometown/state: Nogales, Arizona

Completed degrees: BA in Spanish with minor in Social Work - NAU; M.Ed in Education in Counseling: Human Relations - NAU

Favorite thing about WORKING at NAU: The respectful and supportive environment that my supervisors have created to make my experience a successful one.

Favorite thing about LEARNING at NAU: The opportunities that the department and university provides to develop both personally and professionally.

Favorite thing about PLAYING at NAU/Flagstaff: Flagstaff weather is great! There’s lots of things to do outdoors. My family enjoys hiking in Sedona and picking blackberries.

What matters to me: I’m happy and I find great fulfillment in my job as an RHD at NAU.

Current Position: Full-Time Residence Hall Director, McKay Village

Years at NAU: 2

Hometown/state: Menasha, Wisconsin

Completed degrees: BS in Chemistry - University of WI-La Crosse; MA in Higher Education -University of Arizona

Favorite thing about WORKING at NAU: My favorite thing about working at NAU is the chance to work with talented colleagues and active students. The people here are really devoted to working with students and it’s obvious they enjoy their jobs. My students are constantly looking to get involved on campus and in the community.

Favorite thing about LEARNING at NAU: While I’m not enrolled as a student at NAU, I feel that there are numerous opportunities to attend professional development session through EMSA as well as great opportunities on campus and in the community.

Favorite thing about PLAYING at NAU/Flagstaff: Although Flagstaff isn't a big town, there’s always something to do whether it’s going for a hike, skiing, checking out local restaurants, or taking part in one of the many festivals.

What matters to me: Having a work environment where I feel supported by colleagues and those above me.

Current position: Full-Time Residence Hall Director, Sechrist Hall

Years at NAU: 8

Hometown/state: Casa Grande, Arizona

Completed degrees: BA in International Affairs - NAU; M.Ed. in Human Relations - NAU

Favorite thing about WORKING at NAU: The people and sense of community we seem to have. Everyone is supportive and caring.

Favorite thing about LEARNING at NAU: Smaller classes and the give and take you have with the professors.  I like the collaboration involved.

Favorite thing about PLAYING at NAU/Flagstaff: The weather and beautiful trees. I love snow!

What's matters to me: is not just knowing I get to make even a small difference in one student's life, but that the students make a big difference in mine!  I learn so much from my students every year…learning doesn't just happen in the classroom.

Current Position: Full-Time Residence Hall Director, Aspen Crossing Learning Community

Years at NAU: 6 1/2 (4 as a student, 2 1/2 Professional)

Hometown/state: Glendale, Arizona

Completed degrees: MA in Counseling Psychology - University of San Francisco; BA in Psychology - Northern Arizona University

Degrees in progress: n/a

Favorite thing about WORKING at NAU: Hands down, working with students and witnessing their lives!

Favorite thing about LEARNING at NAU: The learning I've enjoyed at NAU has been so multi-faceted, both in and outside of the classroom. NAU has brought truly life changing experiences.

Favorite thing about PLAYING at NAU/Flagstaff: I love the seasons and the diverse community to Flagstaff.

What matters to me: is the chance to truly make a difference in the holistic experience of students and peers on campus.

Current Position: Full-Time Residence Hall Director, McConnell Hall

Years at NAU: 2

Hometown/state: Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Completed Degrees: MA Corporate Communication - University of Wisconsin-Whitewater;  BA in Business & Management - Alverno College

Favorite things about working at NAU:  the scenery

Favorite thing about playing at NAU/Flagstaff: the movie theater is in walking distance

What matters to me: Teaching staff and residents how to effectively communicate with each other so they are better able to become positive role models for the community.

Current position: Full-Time Residence Hall Director, Cowden Learning Community

Years at NAU: 5

Hometown/state: Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin

Completed degrees: MEd Counseling-Human Relations, Northern Arizona University; BA Non-licensure Elementary Education, Augsburg College

Degrees in progress: AAS in American Sign Language Interpreting

Favorite thing about WORKING at NAU: The people - from the students to the student staff to the professional staff it is a great environment to work in and one that is full of energy and fun.

Favorite thing about LEARNING at NAU: The wide variety of learning opportunities both in the classroom and interacting with others to grow personally and professionally.

Favorite thing about PLAYING at NAU/Flagstaff: There is so much to explore and see and do. No matter the season I can find an activity or a new place to explore. Flagstaff is like a gateway to other places.

What's matters to me: is the chance to work in a department where your opinion and ideas are valued and supported.

Current Position: Full-Time Residence Hall Director, Tinsley Hall

Years at NAU: 6

Hometown/state: Phoenix, Arizona

Completed degrees: BA in Liberal Studies, BS in Health Education - NAU; M.Ed in Human Relations, M.Ed in Educational Leadership - NAU

Favorite thing about WORKING at NAU: I love working with students and giving them the tools for success in college.
Favorite thing about LEARNING at NAU: There are great faculty members and small class sizes. There is a wide range of degree programs for all students to search and explore.

Favorite thing about PLAYING at NAU/Flagstaff: I love that we are only 30 minutes away from the mountains, lakes, and recreational opportunities. Flagstaff has year round great weather to always enjoy the outdoors.

What matters to me: People are most important to me. I love meeting and building relationships with others.

Current Position: Full-Time Residence Hall Director, Wilson Hall

Years at NAU: 1

Hometown/state: Chicago, Illinois

Completed degrees: MA in Business Administration; BA in Risk Management, Insurance, and Financial Planning

Degrees in progress: n/a

Favorite thing about WORKING at NAU: I love working outdoors and looking at the scenery. NAU has the small town appeal for those that appreciate that lifestyle. The atmosphere and my colleagues help me through my day.

Favorite thing about LEARNING at NAU: You learn something new everyday - even from the residents. 

Favorite thing about PLAYING at NAU/Flagstaff: There is always someone that knows how to do something you want to try. 

What matters to me: Family and belonging. The school is why I came here, the people are why I choose to stay. 

Current Position: Full-Time Residence Hall Director, Mountain View Hall 

Years at NAU: 1

Hometown/state: Fountain Hills, Arizona

Completed degrees: MS Student Affairs in Higher Education, Colorado State University; BA Communication Studies and a minor in Marketing, Azusa Pacific University

Degrees in progress: n/a

Favorite thing about WORKING at NAU: I love working with the Greek students and working to create a safe and inclusive environment where they can live, grow, and succeed academically. 

Favorite thing about LEARNING at NAU: At NAU, there are so many opportunities for students inside and outside of the classroom to be challenged and gain experience. 

Favorite thing about PLAYING at NAU/Flagstaff: The gorgeous views of the mountains and running on the urban trails. 

What matters to me: Helping students discover their passions, and encouraging their individual growth as they are discovering and developing their own identity.

Current Position: Full-Time Residence Hall Assistant Director, McConnell Hall

Years at NAU: 8

Hometown/State:  Glendale, Arizona

Completed degrees:  BS Geology: Paleontology - Northern Arizona University

Degrees in progress:  MS Geology, Ed. D. Educational Leadership

Favorite thing about WORKING at NAU: I love working with intelligent, motivated people who value learning about and caring for others.

Favorite thing about LEARNING at NAU: I enjoy being in an environment that offers so many professional development opportunities.

Favorite thing about PLAYING at NAU/Flagstaff: It’s great being so close to so many great places. You can do a day trip to the Grand Canyon, see a great concert of sports event in Phoenix, spend the weekend in Las Vegas, go skiing at Snowbowl, or just spend the day shopping downtown. It’s all fun.

What matters to me: is being able to grow as a leader, and be able to teach others how to grow as leaders as well.

Current Position: Full-Time Residence Hall Assistant Director, South Family

Years at NAU: 4

Hometown/state: Salem, Ohio

Completed degrees: BA Liberal Studies with Sociology

Degrees in progress: MA in Sustainable Community

Favorite thing about WORKING at NAU: Working with caring and talented coworkers.  

Favorite thing about LEARNING at NAU: I love the flexibility of participating in an interdisciplinary program.  

Favorite thing about PLAYING at NAU/Flagstaff: Beautiful outdoor environment.  

What matters to me: Building community. 

Current position: Graduate Assistant for Academic Outreach

Years at NAU: 2

Hometown/state: Detroit, Michigan

Completed degrees: BS Sociology - Eastern Michigan University

Degrees in progress: M.Ed in Counseling: Student Affairs

Favorite thing about WORKING at NAU: I love the department I work in.  I like the fact that everyone works together, and is very student focused.

Favorite thing about LEARNING at NAU: Learning at NAU is great because I have lots of opportunity to apply things I learn in class to my everyday living.

Favorite thing about PLAYING at NAU/Flagstaff: I enjoy Flagstaff, because it's a completely different culture from what I am used to.  I enjoy the outdoors open terrain, and fresh air.

What matters to me: is having the opportunity to not only learn, but also having the opportunity to experience what I am learning. The difference that matters here at NAU is there are people who genuinely care that I am making the connection between my studies and my experience, which is why I can honestly say my experience here at NAU has been a great one.

Current Position: Graduate Assistant for Staff and Community Development

Years at NAU: 2

Hometown/state: Casa Grade, Arizona

Completed degrees: BA in Liberal Studies with an Emphasis is Learning and Pedagogy - NAU

Degrees in Progress: M.Ed in Educational Psychology (Student Affairs)

Favorite thing about WORKING at NAU: It would have to be the constant interaction with students.

Favorite thing about LEARNING at NAU: Classes at NAU are really learning intensive. The instructors are always willing to help out when needed. I personally came to NAU because the class sizes are smaller and more personal with teachers and the interaction between students and teachers. Also the staff and administration are more than helpful and more than willing to go out of their way to help students out in whatever way possible.

Favorite thing about PLAYING at NAU/Flagstaff: The area around the NAU Campus is so relaxing. We are far enough away from the big cities to breathe fresh air and see clear skies, but close enough to get back to the bustle when needed.

What matters to me: Being able to apply what I am learning within my program of study to my experiences in my graduate assistantship is really important for me.

Current Position: Graduate Assistant for Learning Communities

Years at NAU: 2

Hometown/state: Phoenix, Arizona

Completed degrees: BA in Political Science - University of Arizona

Degrees in progress: Master of Education in Counseling: Student Affairs.

Favorite thing about WORKING at NAU: The focus that the University has on student success in and outside of the classroom. NAU truly puts students first! Flagstaff is also breathtaking and I never get used to the amazing scenery around me as I walk across campus.

Favorite thing about LEARNING at NAU: The faculty and staff are motivating and challenging at the same time. I feel comfortable approaching any faculty or staff member to ask for help.

Favorite thing about PLAYING at NAU/Flagstaff: It’s always amazing! Just being outside and taking advantage of the outdoors is my favorite.

What matters to me: Being able to be myself and grow professionally and personally and NAU has been the place for me to do this freely.

Current Position: Graduate Assistant Residence Hall Director, Sechrist Hall

Years at NAU: 2

Hometown/state: Aptos, California

Completed degrees: Bachelor of Arts in Political Sciences ~ California State University, Chico

Degrees in Progress: Master of Education in Human Relations

Favorite thing about WORKING at NAU: The people at NAU are so willing to help. They are kind as well. We all really love what we do and you can see that in the work that we do and how we execute it.

Favorite thing about LEARNING at NAU: Is the environment in which I get to learn. Not only is NAU a beautiful campus but the classes are small and that really caters to a great learning environment.

Favorite thing about PLAYING at NAU/Flagstaff: I love to have all the outdoor options that I do here at NAU. I also love hanging out with friends and experiencing that community of Flagstaff.

What matters to me: Helping students find their niche and watching them grow.

Current Position: Graduate Assistant for Academic Outreach

Years at NAU: 2

Hometown/state: Santa Ana, California

Completed degrees: BA in Sociology - University of Oregon

Degrees in Progress: Master of Education in Human Relations

Favorite thing about WORKING at NAU: My colleagues they are awesome really make you feel part of their family

Favorite thing about LEARNING at NAU: The faculty and staff are amazing. They make learning interesting, fun, and applicable to one’s own life.

Favorite thing about PLAYING at NAU/Flagstaff: I love the outdoors; hiking, biking, camping

What matters to me: Is being a guide to helping students succeed in reaching their goals.

Current Position: Graduate Assistant Residence Hall Director, Gillenwater Hall

Years at NAU: 2

Hometown/state: Overland Park, Kansas

Completed degrees: BS in Hotel and Restaurant Management - Kansas State University

Degrees in process: Master of Education in Human Relations

Favorite thing about WORKING at NAU: Everyone has been friendly and helpful. Great environment to work in.

Favorite thing about LEARNING at NAU: Advisors are always willing to help. Instructors are very understanding and classes center on real world application.

Favorite thing about PLAYING at NAU/Flagstaff: Having ski slopes close

What matters to me: A place where I am respected, welcomed, and appreciated - NAU has all 3!

Current Position: Graduate Assistant Residence Hall Director, Roseberry Hall

Years at NAU: 6

Hometown/state: Scottsdale, Arizona

Completed degrees: BA Music in Vocal Performance - NAU

Degrees in process: Master of Music in Vocal Performance

Favorite thing about WORKING at NAU: As a student and now a staff member, I have always found it impressive and admirable that NAU’s faculty and staff are all service-oriented. They are helpful, welcoming, friendly, and I am proud to be a part of that now.

Favorite thing about LEARNING at NAU: NAU’s small class sizes allow for one-on-one interaction with professors and teaching assistants. Faculty are genuinely concerned with student progress and will do whatever possible to help you succeed.

Favorite thing about PLAYING at NAU/Flagstaff: I love that no matter what time of year it is, there’s always something to do in Flagstaff. Art walks, snow sports, hiking, camping, or just going to the movies-and because it’s a college town, there’s always someone to spend time with.

What matters to me: Not only is NAU my Alma Mater, it’s where my home is - my residence life family, my friends, and my future all stem from NAU, and that matters to me.

Current Position: Graduate Assistant Resident Hall Director, Reilly Hall

Years at NAU: 2

Hometown/state: East Moline, Illinois

Completed degrees: BS in Civil Engineering with a minor is Spanish; Iowa State University

Degrees in Progress: M.Ed in Counseling: Student Affairs

Favorite thing about WORKING at NAU: The people I work with. The professional staff members are always available for questions and advice. The student leaders are great to work with because they have such a passion for their position.

Favorite thing about LEARNING at NAU: The discussions in class are always challenging, but in a good way. These discussions push me to better understancd myself, the students I work with, and the student affairs profession.

Favorite thing about PLAYING at NAU/Flagstaff: I love seeing the mountains; they are especially amazing with snow on the peaks (as long as the snow isn't down in the city)! I also enjoy drumming at church, hanging out with friends, and checking out Flagstaff events (such as First Friday Art Walks).

What matters to me: Assisting college students in their holistic development so that they are prepared for the professional world.

Current Position: Graduate Assistant Residence Hall Director, Taylor Hall

Years at NAU: 1

Hometown/state: Hermiston, Oregon

Completed degrees: BS in Pre-Med/Biology

Degrees in process: M.Ed Counseling/Student Affairs

Favorite thing about WORKING at NAU: The people at NAU are wonderful. I really enjoy my coworkers from the minute I arrived on campus. I felt welcome and this has quickly become home. 

Favorite thing about LEARNING at NAU: The professors are very caring and passionate about what they do. 

Favorite thing about PLAYING at NAU/Flagstaff: I look forward to snowboarding this winter. I enjoy seasons and it's a blast getting involved with sports. 

What matters to me: A sense of accomplishment, family, friends, excellence, sports, my spirituality, happiness, and having fun. 

Current Position: Graduate Assistant Residence Hall Director, Morton/Campbell Hall

Years at NAU: 5

Hometown/state: Glendale, Arizona

Completed degrees: BA in English Literature

Degrees in process: Masters in Human Relations, M.E.D.

Favorite thing about WORKING at NAU: The people! Our amazing students and staff make all the difference to me. 

Favorite thing about LEARNING at NAU: The opportunities that are available via outdoor learning. We have a great group of professors too! 

Favorite thing about PLAYING at NAU/Flagstaff: I love living in a place with four seasons! Winter is awesome here! 

What matters to me: Honesty, integrity, trust, love, learning, and hard work. These are all important to me and they embody the place I work at.

Current Position: Graduate Assistant Residence Hall Director, Raymond

Years at NAU: 1

Hometown/state: Boulder City, Nevada

Completed degrees: BS in Marketing

Degrees in process: M.Ed in Counseling & Student Affairs

Favorite thing about WORKING at NAU: Working with such dynamic and supportive colleagues.

Favorite thing about LEARNING at NAU: The faculty's dedication to student learning and understanding concepts continues to challenge and impress me as a student.  

Favorite thing about PLAYING at NAU/Flagstaff: The live music and art walks downtown. Flagstaff has a rich culture of entertainment, especially during the fall and summer months. Snowball and Sedona are both quick drives from NAU.

What matters to me: Getting the opportunity to work and help empower students at NAU.

Current Position: Graduate Assistant Residence Hall Director, Gabaldon Hall

Years at NAU: 1

Hometown/state: Poulsbo, Washington

Completed degrees: BA in History

Degrees in process: M.Ed Counseling and Student Affairs

Favorite thing about WORKING at NAU: There are endless opportunities for professional development, and at every turn there is someone there that wants to help you succeed. It's an environment that caters to those that want to get the most out of their experience.   

Favorite thing about LEARNING at NAU: The smaller class sizes helps me not to feel like a "face in the crowd". It is helpful for building relationships and getting the attention we all need to get through college.   

Favorite thing about PLAYING at NAU/Flagstaff: It doesn't matter what time of day, which day in the week, or which season...there's something to do! Also, because it has a "small community" feel, you will always run into someone you know when you are out and about. 

What matters to me: Walking through life in stride with God's plan is the most important anything to me. I know the He has great plans for me while I'm at NAU. So I am loving every minute of it.

Current Position: Graduate Assistant for Greek Life

Years at NAU: 2

Hometown/state: Cherry Valley, California

Completed degrees: BA in Government - University of Redlands

Degree in Progress: M.Ed in Educational Leadership

Favorite thing about WORKING at NAU: My favorite thing about WORKING at NAU is the Greek students and working with my amazing co-workers who are always supporting me. I also enjoy the opportunity to meet new people everyday and hear their stories.  

Favorite thing about LEARNING at NAU: My favorite thing about LEARNING at NAU is the College of Education professors are extremely helpful whenever I have any questions. I enjoy the small classes here at NAU which help me learn from my professors and peers, as well as exploring more in the field of Higher Education/Student Affairs. 

Favorite thing about PLAYING at NAU/Flagstaff: My favorite thing about PLAYING in Flagstaff is the amazingly fresh air. I aso enjoy the beautiful weather but I am still getting used to the idea of snow. 

What matters to me: Working for a department where I feel I am supported in any endeavors I want to accomplish. I also enjoy the opportunity to constantly grow as an individual as well as a professional in my working environment. It is also important that students feel they have a voice and can make the difference on the NAU campus. Most important, my family and friends are always there for me.