What’s the most rewarding part about working in admissions?

I love the fact that in admissions you have the opportunity to help students select a school that is right for them, especially when that place is APU. There is nothing more rewarding then knowing that a student’s life is about to be changed forever — academically, personally, spiritually.

What’s the guiding philosophy of your leadership?

I try and follow the servant leadership model. I would never ask my staff to do something I would not do. I also believe in the team concept. Anyone can do a job, but there is nothing like pushing toward a goal together and crossing the finish line knowing that everyone was a part of the process. Stephen Covey says, “Everyone wants to be a part of a winning team yet significant in their own right.” I work hard to celebrate with staff individually, and collectively. I believe we all have areas for development, and one of the great things about APU is that we value this. It makes it really incredible to be able to speak truthfully, hold staff accountable, and watch them chose to grow professionally.

Who’s a female you admire? Why?

Rose Leigler, Ph.D., dean of the School of Nursing. I look at Rose and see a confident, educated, and caring woman. She also has such a grace about her which is something that I admire. I sit in meetings with her, and wish that I had her ability to disagree, make her point, and actually bring down part of the intensity at the same time.

You have young children, are working on a doctorate, and recently received a promotion to associate vice president. What advice would you offer young, career-minded women?

One of these days, I am going to write a book sharing the ups and downs of trying to have and balance it all. I am still on the journey, but the Lord showed me recently that I need to work with Him to develop a realistic picture of what 100 percent looks like for me. Unfortunately, I look at different aspects of my life and can see what it takes to be 100 percent in those areas separately, then I realize that is not possible. So, my advice is two-fold: First, find an older woman who has a similar life path, and second, accept the choices you and your family have made and then lean into what your “path” and “100 percent” looks like.

What is the first thing you say to a prospective student about APU?

That there is no other place like APU! Azusa Pacific University has this incredible way of moving and advancing everything at the same time. Just think of our Four Cornerstones: Christ, Scholarship, Community, and Service. As you look at other schools, you will find that they have one of those cornerstones raised higher than the others. We strive to raise them all at the same time — striving for God-honoring excellence in every area.

What is your favorite place on the APU campus?

I have two favorite places. First is my current office in the Undergraduate Admissions. I can look out the window and see students each day. I hear musicians practicing and I can walk out the door and be in community on Cougar Walk in one minute. I also love the energy that comes from the staff. The second area is in the back of chapel. When I stand and see the students completely into worship, I am moved to tears. What an amazing place to be — to see God working in the lives of students and know that they will never be the same after having being a part of this community!

Would you ever have a vanity plate on your car?

Totally--"GO2APU"!