Q: What was your background before coming to PRI?
A. I am originally from Akron, Ohio; created and became first to graduate from Ohio State University with a Bachelor of Artsin Music Business. Spent the next ten years building culture, training programs, and efficient operations for food, beverage, and music venues in Ohio and Florida. In 2013, I moved to Illinois and worked for UIUC School of Chemical Sciences HR for five plus years before moving to PRI.
Q. What will you be doing in your new role?
A. HR Business Partner as point of contact for ISWS and ISTC; visas; and other duties as assigned.
Q. What is your favorite aspect of working here?
A. I am thrilled to support all theincredible research and programs that enrich environmental health. However, the efficiency and resources engaged through PRI-HR have made the biggest impact on me.Not all departments are created equal and I can say from experience that PRI is leading the way!
Q. What are common misconceptions about your career? Or What is a question you get asked most frequently about your job?
A. That HR is for women! How does a restaurant manager become a visa expert? What do you do?
Q. What are some challenges you faced in your career?
A. I believe we all have our challenges. However, I find it most important to maintain balance between career, education, and most importantly family. It’s not what happens but how we react. Dishonest people have been the most challenging.
Q. What work/project are you most proud of?
A. At SCS I was tasked with rebuilding the visa program.The vast majority of employees (postdocs, visiting scholars, new faculty) are international. I had a revolving responsibility of 200 employees with 80% on visas. We developed a strong working relationship with ISSS and later I was asked to serve on search committees to hire seven new advising specialists for ISSS as well as partake in an audit with the Department of State.
Q. What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
A. Anything outside with my wife, kids, and animals! I have been reading and studying Soundscape Ecology and hope to hear about this at UIUC!I enjoy music, playing piano, writing and recording!