Green River Community College Jobs Green River Community Baby Babysitters Club

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Megan Brech

I am the Program Coordinator at our Enumclaw center. For the past six years, I taught health and fitness in Washington public middle and high schools.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I would like to thank Christie Gilliland for suggesting that I check out Green River when I was talking to her about looking for a different career path over the summer. Hearing and seeing great things convinced me this is the perfect place for me to start something new. Having the opportunity to support learners in a different way was a huge draw for me as well.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

Michael Franti & Spearhead.

What was the very first job you ever had?

Babysitting for my neighbors.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

Meeting so many awesome people who are pursuing personal growth, working with the outstanding staff at our Enumclaw center, and getting to train with so many departments (a huge thank you to everyone helping me with my onboarding!).

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

Building relationships that support students, faculty, staff, community members, and Green River programs in Enumclaw.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

Traveling with family and friends, competing with my dog, and starting a new career.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

Rosie because I believe "we can do it!" and am an upbeat optimist.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I would either play something on the piano or stack the tallest Jenga tower ever.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Gators Really Empower Enumclaw Neighbors

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Emily Kohring

I am a Program Coordinator for the Assessment & Testing Center on campus. Before this role, I was a Housing Case Manager for a King County non-profit, where I worked to secure housing for families within the Highline and Tukwila School Districts. I am still deeply invested in homelessness advocacy, affordable housing, and barrier removal for those in our community.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

At this stage in my career, I want to gain higher education experience and learn how to work within a different environment than the one I had before. I live in Auburn, which is a great commute!

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

The ride is too short to really get into anything, so I prefer to chat with my husband about the day ahead.

What was the very first job you ever had?

I have a very entrepreneurial spirit – when I was eight, I created my own pet care business and distributed flyers in neighbors' mailboxes to get jobs.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

To be on a college campus again and know I am part of something bigger than myself.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

I would love to complete as many trainings as possible to better my understanding of higher Ed and our student population.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

1. Having my son, who just turned one year old.
2. Graduating university.
3. Living life in partnership with my best friend.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

Only time will tell!

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

Standing front flip on a trampoline. The talent show should totally exist, by the way.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Get Ready Every Evening Now (to prepare for the morning rush)

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Erica Chang

My new title is the Benefits Hub Campus Coordinator. I came from Treehouse, which is a nonprofit that advocates for youth in foster care. I have also worked at University of Washington-Tacoma, Tacoma Community College and Eastern Washington University where I gained experience in admission advising, academic advising and scholarship programming.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I was drawn to Green River College and this role because I want to be in a position where I can be creative yet strategic in providing student support services while being in an environment that advocates for that. Green River College is innovative in its diversity of student support systems, academic programs, and resources and I am grateful to be part of it.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

Currently, I am listening to the podcast, Yoga Land, which keeps me motivated on how I can create yoga sequences, understand biomechanics, and how yoga can be used effectively in schools and prisons.

What was the very first job you ever had?

My first paying job was working as a babysitter and a dog walker and I would often do both simultaneously.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I'm excited to see the Benefits Hub grow and help alleviate barriers for Green River College students.  I'm also excited to create, try and deliver new ideas.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

I hope to learn as much as I can about what each department and program does and offers on campus. I am also interested in learning more about the students, what their needs are, and how to best help.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

• Having the courage to try and fail and try again in my professional and personal life.
• Hiking the Enchantments in 12 hours. Such a beautiful, yet, challenging day.
• Taking the time to travel. Traveling has provided me with variety, made me more knowledgeable, and broadened my perspective.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

My previous coworkers have called me by my last name, which has become a term of endearment.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Go

Read

Everything

Especially

Now

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Regina Terpay

I am the new Program Manager for the IEP Department. Before this role, I was a District Manager for Frito Lay. Furthering my education, I started at Green River receiving my Associate's in Business and received my Bachelor's in Business at Central Washington University.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

The community of people!

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

I listen to Podcasts & Audible

What was the very first job you ever had?

Delivering Newspapers for the Seattle Times

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

Working with international Students, I have an international background myself. I was born in Ukraine

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

I would like to be able to form great relationships with my team members

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

• Graduating College
• Completing District Manager Training at Frito Lay
• Working with teenage girls, and making a positive impact on their lives

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

In the past, I have been nicknamed "Pam" from The Office. Not sure, but I've reminded coworkers of her when I was an Admin Assistant…Don't know if that is a compliment? J

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

Piano, I have been playing for 15 years

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

G – Grand

R – Resourceful

E – Ethical

E – Educational

N – Network

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Beleqsa Tamaami

My new role is Basic Skills Navigator in the MAC (Master Achiever Center). This past May, I received my Masters in Higher Education and Student Affairs from Indiana University, where I served as a graduate supervisor in housing for two years. Prior to IU, I worked as an AmeriCorps college coach with College Access Now, serving first-gen and low-income seniors at Decatur High School. My professional interests are rooted in supporting marginalized students and disrupting systems of oppression.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

It's my alma mater; who doesn't want to be a gator? GRC, despite some of the challenges I recall as a former student, is also the place where I grew and broke out of my shell through my amazing mentors. For this reason, I look forward to pouring into students the same way folks did for me.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

Shawn Mendes and anything pop music related globally (Bollywood, Kpop, etc.)

What was the very first job you ever had?

Internship with the city of Kent in the summer of junior year in high school. We painted a really beautiful mural on one side of the Kent pool (it's still there) by Kent Meridian High School.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

The connections and relationships I get to build with my students and colleagues. And the salary (I was on a graduate stipend for the past two years and prior to that an AmeriCorps stipend, the glo-up is definitely real ha)

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

Build meaningful connections with different departments outside of my immediate role  on campus and inspire/mentor students who might not always see themselves reflected in higher education.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

• Graduating with my Masters this past May and seeing my family and friends fly out to Indiana for the first time to experience that with me. My graduating is as much theirs as it is mine.
• Studying abroad three times in undergrad (China, Morocco, and Jordan), all fully funded through scholarships and financial aid.
• Graduating with my BA again from UW Tacoma (after transferring from GRC in 2014), as a first gen student and the eldest of my siblings. This was a huge accomplishment and surreal moment for my family and me.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I don't have a hidden talent so instead I would just show everyone the video my friends and I made dancing to the #BeforeILetGo challenge in our graduate gowns and making it on Beyoncé's Instagram story.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Gryffindor, Ravenclaw, and Everyone, Else, Nonessential

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Ashley Brintzenhofe

Hello Gators!

My new title is Event Coordinator 2. I am currently a member of Cohort 8 pursuing my Bachelors in Marketing & Entrepreneurship here at GRC. I was a bartender/manager at the SportsPage here in Auburn for years (some of you know me as "SMASH"), and when the place suddenly closed down, I decided to really shake it up. I came back to school. Shortly after I enrolled, I started working in Conference Services for Patty as a work-study student, and now I am excited to say I am a classified full-time employee.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

The opportunity to be a part of the army that works so hard to embrace, encourage, and support our students is what drew me to apply to Green River. The staff here at GRC helped me change my life, and I want to pay that forward.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

On my ride to work today, I was listening to 'Ain't No Mountain High Enough' by Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell, and Wu-Tang Clan. Yesterday it was Blondie and Hed PE.

What was the very first job you ever had?

My very first job was a paper route for the Seattle Times when I was 10 years old.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

This entire experience is exciting for me. I am an excited person, but if I had to choose only one thing, I would have to say that the most exciting thing about my new position is having the opportunity to help students create memorable experiences through their events. Being a part of memories that will last a lifetime is truly an honor.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

One thing I would love to accomplish in my first year at Green River is to build our social media presence in a way that allows us to connect and engage with students and our community. Establishing and maintaining meaningful relationships with students and staff will help me address the needs of our diverse community throughout the event planning process.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

• Surviving my late teens/early 20s
• Going back to school in my 30s & Graduating from GRC
• Being sponsored by GNU for women's snowboarding

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

"SMASH"

My family started calling me Smash when I was three (3) years old. It actually took me a few months after I came back to school to get used to being called Ashley, so if I don't respond right away, that's why. My friends, family, and most people that know me call me Smash. I will tell you why some other day. Sal calls me something else, but that's another story. J

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

For our annual talent show, I would showcase either snowboarding, horseback archery, or my artwork.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Gators Remarkably Encourage Embracing Nations

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Michael Taing

My new title is the Program Coordinator for the Running Start department. I have 3 years of working in Student Support positions, even while I was still a student. I started my path here at Green River College as a commissioner for the Office of Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion. After completing my Associate's in Arts and Business, I transferred to UW Tacoma where I received my Bachelor's in Business Administration: Management. While attending UW Tacoma, I worked as the office manager for their student government (ASUWT) and then transitioned into being an Administrative Assistant for their Finance & Administration department.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I applied to Green River because I had the opportunity to be here as both a student and student employee. Green River College was my first college and stayed with me throughout my academic and professional career. The culture, location, and community that the college had built always motivated me to try and bring those same aspects with me to UW Tacoma. After graduating from UW Tacoma, I couldn't pass up the opportunity to come back to where it all began and join the department that set me ahead in my higher education.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

A wide array of music, that probably makes anyone sitting in the passenger seat think I'm weird. I listen to a mixture of Top 40s, Video game music, and EDM.

Sometimes I'm in the mood to pretend like I'm playing video games, sometimes I'm in the mood for listening to what's popping currently, and sometimes I'm in the mood to hear music that makes you dance.

What was the very first job you ever had?

The first job I ever had was being a Parcel Clerk (cart-pusher) at Fred Meyer. It wasn't what I really wanted to do or wasn't what I was going for in a career, but I was 16 and just liked having $90/week.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

What's most exciting to me is seeing what the background operations are like for Running Start and what it takes to help students get a head start. Also what it generally is like to be an employee of Green River College.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

Something I'd love to accomplish in my first year at Green River College is making some sort of difference in the office. This difference could be making things easier or faster or more fun than they already are!

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

My first one is finishing my Bachelor's at UW Tacoma. My second one is getting to this point in my life doing things the way I wanted and going towards the future I see for myself. The third accomplishment is exploring my identity and finding a way to express myself, while connecting with others.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

Mickey because my usual nickname is Mikey, but I'd feel that after enough time in this office, people will see me as happy-go-lucky and positive as Mickey Mouse.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

Making 100+ crab legs disappear with a chomp from my mouth.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Gators rarely embody eerie negativity.

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Sophia Giakoumatos

I am the Educational Planner for Health Sciences programs. I came from Renton Technical College (RTC), where I worked for just under five years. I have experience working in Disability Services, Enrollment Services, and with BAS Programs.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I have enjoyed all of my visits to the college. I particularly enjoy the nature all around the area.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

I generally listen to local radio stations. I like to listen to see if there are any contests, since I enjoy playing (and winning) radio contests.

What was the very first job you ever had?

My first full-time job out of college was actually at RTC. Prior to that, I had a few part-time jobs at the University of Washington, where I was a student for four years.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I am excited to help get students on the right track to enrolling in a health science program. I have always enjoyed working with students and I am excited to be able to do this in a new setting.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

I want to get to know as many staff and faculty as I can, especially those who I will be working most closely with. I also want to build meaningful relationships with the students I serve.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

I am most proud of graduating from the University of Washington with two bachelor's degrees plus a minor in four years, being the first in my family to receive a master's degree, and winning many contests.

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Samantha Fernald

Hello, my name is Samantha and I'm the Business BAS Program Coordinator. I spent a year at Interstate Distributor Co. as a Human Resources Assistant in their Driver Care Center. I graduated from Pacific Lutheran University with a B.B.A in Marketing. After graduating, I took some time off to travel and got the opportunity to explore the US, Canada, Europe, and Australia.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I was drawn to apply at Green River because I wanted to work somewhere that made a positive impact on people within the community. I believe that education can provide people with life-lasting knowledge and opportunities.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

I listen to a little bit of everything, audiobooks, podcasts, Ted talks, and music. Currently I'm listening to Pete Buttigieg's autobiography "Shortest Way Home."

What was the very first job you ever had?

The first job I had was being a Sales Associate at Marshalls. I got hired before the store was done being constructed, so for my first 3 months I unloaded pallets of items to get the store ready.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I'm excited to reach out and connect with students. I look forward to helping students on their education journey and having them learn about the BAS in Realtime reporting. Also, I'm excited to use my creative side when working on outreach via marketing.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

I'd love to assist students in having a smooth and stress free enrollment process.  I want to ensure they love their time at GRC and are excited for the opportunities that await them after graduation.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

I'm proud I graduated with my B.B.A in Marketing. I'm also proud of the work I did on my final university project, helping a small Tacoma business (Purely Africa) research and discover how to market and implement a new product line. The third thing I'm proud of is managing difficult situations during the solo travel I've done.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

Sam? Does that count haha?

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I'm good at memorizing rap music.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Goodhearted

Resourceful

Encouraging

Engaging

Notable

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Maati Ka'awa

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

I am the new Director of Branch Locations for Auburn Center, Enumclaw, and Kent Station. For the last 3 years, I worked with South Seattle College at both the West Seattle and the Georgetown campuses, coordinating with Deans to provide day-to-day support for apprenticeship students and faculty. Prior to that I spent 4 years at Highline College in the Continuing Education and Workforce Education departments. I am excited to partner in this good work with you all.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I was attracted particularly to this position at Green River because it was a good fit for what I have done previously and a great opportunity to learn so much more in a new role. I also live in a nearby community, so this is an opportunity for me to invest in South King County and communities where I live.

From the interview, to completing the hiring process, to my first day, every step has been such a warm welcome and community feel. At every step, I felt that this was going to be an amazing community to work with and for.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

I often don't listen to anything in the car because I like the silence.  I use that quiet time to wake up with my coffee, unwind, or reflect important aspects of the day.

What was the very first job you ever had?

It was a cashier and customer service position. I learned so many transferable people skills in that job.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I'm really excited to partner with the new Dean, the faculty, and the staff to serve students at the extended campuses. I attended branch campuses in Hawaii, Oregon, and Washington at all levels of my educational journey, so I have a real personal connection in how these campuses add value to lives and communities and am really excited to be a part of our students' paths to success.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

This first year is going to be about establishing relationships. I want to meet and connect with as many people, departments, and community partners as possible. Some of the best collaborations are unintentional, but occur when people come together and discuss their work, passion, and goals, and where that might intersect.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

My most recent accomplishment was finishing my Master's degree in Higher Education at Central Washington University in August 2018. It took 4 years, one class at a time, while also working full-time. I have a greater appreciation for our students who are going to school while also being partners, parents, caregivers to older parents, working, overcoming barriers, etc.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

I'm not sure! I guess I'm going to have to see. 🙂

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Good

Relationships

Equal

Excitement and

Noisiness

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Yuliya Kotelevskaya

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

My name is Yuliya (Julie) Kotelevskaya  and my title is Program Coordinator in the Career and Advising office. I've worked in the Career and Advising office for about four years. I first started as a work study, then worked part-time in CAC as well as Running Start and the Welcome Desk. I recently graduated from Gonzaga University with my Bachelor of Arts with a double major in Criminal Justice and Sociology. In the fall, I will start my Masters in Criminal Justice at Seattle University.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

During my time as a student at Green River, I fell in love with the beautiful campus, environment and the people here. I had a great experience here at GRC and I wanted to be able to share my experiences and struggles with current and prospective students.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

Whatever is playing on my Spotify, which consists of Adele, James Arthur, Kane Brown, Dan & Shay, Halsey, Khalid, Sam Smith, and Calum Scott.

What was the very first job you ever had?

My work study position in Career and Advising.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I am really excited to be working with students again. I enjoy making connections with students and being able to help them. It's also great to be back and working with an amazing team!

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

I would like to find more ways to help students and prepare them for GRC. I want to help students feel welcome, comfortable, safe and part of the Green River community.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

• Graduating from Gonzaga University with my Bachelors
• My senior thesis which focused on mass shootings in the media, and how the media's coverage of these attacks is linked to copycat attacks.
• Being accepted into Seattle University. I've always wanted to attend, and now I have the chance to!

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

Princess or diva, I've been called that many times in the office. I love the color pink, glitter and all things that sparkle.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I would sing, or make French macarons.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Genuine

Reliable

Energetic

Empathetic

Nice

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Melissa Garland

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Retail Clerk Lead at Papertree Bookstore. I have been in retail management most of my career. I thoroughly enjoy interacting with people and love books.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I worked in the medical field the last 2 years and wanted to get back into a bookstore. I have a few friends that work at Green River and spoke very highly about it. When I saw the job posting for Papertree I immediately applied. Thankfully I was offered the job! : )

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

I love audiobooks, but since my car ride is only 15 minutes, I now listen to 103.7 or 98.9 on the radio. A good mix between country and hip hop is a good start to any day!

What was the very first job you ever had?

Babysitting

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I've worked in a couple bookstores, but never a college one. It's exciting to be a part of a school atmosphere and interact with people of all ages on a daily basis.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

To help create a positive and exciting workplace where students, staff, and faculty will have a good experience.

 What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

Spent time in Haiti and Uganda helping out in the schools, orphanages, safe houses and jails.

Ran a 5k and didn't stop once. That's a big deal for someone who doesn't usually run!

The best is yet to come.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

My coworkers already call me a bunch of different "M" names because no one seems to get my name right. : )

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

My rope jumping skills.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Give

Respect

Engage

Enjoy

Nurture

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Maggie Crutcher

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

My new title is Environmental Safety Manager, based out of the Facilities Department.

I'm coming from the Dept. of Labor & Industries as a Compliance Safety & Health Officer. Prior to that I served as the Safety Coordinator for Franz Bakeries, and have worked at local businesses as their Safety/HR Generalist.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

The campus has a great atmosphere with a long history of giving back to the community.  I respect that.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

I listen to Spanish conversational cds. Quiero hablar más español.

What was the very first job you ever had?

My first job was serving in the United States Navy as a Lithographer (Print Shop). I have traveled worldwide, served on board ships, sub tenders and naval air stations.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

It's exciting to be working with so many exceptional people with diverse backgrounds.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

I'd like to formally recognize each individual who championed a safety effort, prior to me coming to GRC.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

Graduating from GRC 10 years ago with high honors

Earning certifications in PHR, SHRM-CP, Flagger, Compliance and Toastmasters

Marrying Ken, my husband and best friend for the past 26 years

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

"Chandelier" is a usual office nickname. I'm known to seek out chandeliers and take unique photos of them, my portfolio has 44 glimmering photos so far. "Keep Shining," is my motto!

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I'd showcase photography as a hobby, perhaps even host a GRC selfie booth with Slater the Gator!

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Global Harmonizing, the safety data sheets program

Robust, building upon an already strong safety program

Engineering controls, to help minimize risk

Eye Protection, to preserve sight

Notable, for all the combined efforts that keep us safe everyday

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Fen Chen

My new title is Instructional and Classroom Support Technician II for Chemistry and Physics. Prior to this position, I held the same title as a Technician I at Tacoma Community College. I've also worked at a Veterinary Tissue Bank and volunteered at the Tacoma General Hospital.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I was drawn to the beautiful campus. I love that we're basically a campus on a hiking trail.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

I usually will keep changing stations until I find a song that I like. I sometimes end up spending more time changing stations than listening to music. But I generally listen to 106.1, 92.5, 93.3, 107.7, 98.9, and 106.9.

What was the very first job you ever had?

I started my first job working in the front counter of my family's restaurant.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I'm most excited about working with my team to make Green River a great place for our students.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

I'd love to work with our instructors and to help promote Green Chemistry in our labs, to reduce waste and substitute hazardous with non-hazardous reagents without affecting lab results.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

The first accomplishment would be getting accepted into my dream school at UW and graduating with a Bachelor's in Biology. Second would be getting my first job as a Chemistry Lab Technician after college. The last would be the house that I'm currently in the process of buying.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

I've never had an office nickname but my friends call me FenFen.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

Everyone's so talented at Green River, I don't want to embarrass myself haha.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Growth, Respect, Education, Encouragement, Nature

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Shawn Warner

Financial Aid Program Coordinator

I've had a few different professional "lives" from customer service, to trainer, to chef and have always most enjoyed the chance to help others.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I was drawn to Green River's commitment to diversity across the board – its students, programs, and support.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

I like to ease into the morning with classical music or jazz, or maybe get my brain working with a podcast.

What was the very first job you ever had?

My first job was as a counter salesperson and sometimes delivery driver for an auto parts store. I still don't know why they trusted me to drive a company car.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I'm most excited about being able to act as a resource to students navigating the many parts of their academic careers. I hope to be able to help solve for their Financial Aid questions and needs so they can focus on the work of reaching their goals. I love the feeling of all of the potential that exists in a learning environment.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

If I can help to alleviate stress or concerns for students and help them move forward, I will consider that a huge win. I'd love to also become better versed in all of the support programs available to help connect folks to resources whenever possible.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

I'm most proud of the work I've done over the years teaching, training, or facilitating – helping others with their goals in some form. I was also pretty proud of my first decent croissant after taking a chance on a culinary school dream.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

I have never really had a nickname stick. The challenge has been created.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I'm an amateur singer – in the shower.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Great team

Ready

Engaged

Enthusiastic

Now

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Program Coordinator: Assessment and Testing

Before coming to Green River, I worked for Valley Cities, a mental and behavioral health organization. I was a part of a unique treatment program called Wraparound, which supports youth with complex needs. In my role as a Youth Peer, I provided support to youth to ensure their 'voice' was present in all decisions effecting them.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I was drawn to apply to Green River College because I grew up not too far from the campus. Giving back to my community has been a guide in my career development so being able to support students in achieving their educational and career goals was an opportunity I could not pass up.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

I love this question. Music is life for me. I listen to Hip-Hop/Rap mainly, but I also listen to some R&B, Indie, and Reggae. On my way to work today, I listened to some Lil Uzi, Curren$y, Gunna, Kodak, Berner, Dom Kennedy, and others. I have a long commute.

What was the very first job you ever had?

My very first job was at Burger King in Covington, WA. It has now been replaced with Chick-fil-A.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

What is most exciting for me is simply working at the college. I want to develop a career in higher education, so being in this environment feels like a big step in my life. My plan is to become a psychology professor. I also look forward to interacting with students and helping them navigate their college career.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

I would like to show my value to my coworkers, supervisors and most importantly the students.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

Graduating college was a great accomplish of mine. I was the first person in my family to graduate from college.

I am also proud that I have had the opportunity to share my life story with young men to give them guidance and hope for their future.

I'm proud to be alive.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

Well my friends just call me J, L, or LJ. In my last office I worked with a lot of older ladies and they called me Joshy all the time. The nicknames my friends call me are just based off my initials. Joshy started from one of the ladies saying "I look like a Joshy".

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I would DJ for the event.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Each letter would stand for one of my favorite artist.

G- Game

R- Raz Simone

E- E-40

E- Earl Sweatshirt

N- Nas

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

New Title: Educational Planner for the Running Start Office

Professional Background:

Academic Advisor at Edmonds Community College

College & Career Specialist at Mariner High School

Regional Admissions Advisor at Eastern Washington University

What drew you to apply to Green River?

The academic programs, student support services, and resources that the college offers, along with the affordability of the courses.

The size and location of the college, and how beautiful the trees and greenery are that  surround the college campus.

The desire to stay within the community and technical college system, because of how strong the CTC system is in Washington.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

• Adele
• Norah Jones
• Maroon Five
• Coldplay

What was the very first job you ever had?

Food server at a retirement home

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

Working with the Running Start students to accomplish their educational goals.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

Increase persistence and degree completion with the Running Start students.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

Earning my Bachelor's degree in 2011, and being 3 months away from earning my Master's degree. (Will earn it in June 2019)

Serving students in a variety of capacities in different professional and volunteer roles including an advisor, college & career specialist, student teacher, mentor, and parks & recreation volunteer.

Running over 130 races in my lifetime.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

Snacker, because I love to snack all day!

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

Traditional Filipino candle dance.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

G et R eady – E nergize & E mpower N ew students

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Instructional & Classroom Support Technician 3. Wow that's a mouth full, or simply a Lab Tech 3. I moved here from Florida last year, where I worked as a Chemistry Lab Supervisor for Valencia College.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I've loved my job back in Florida and enjoyed working with students and professors. So this position at Green River College was available in the perfect moment for me to continue my work in the chemistry laboratories.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

I like to listen to NPR news and Moving 92.5 morning show.

What was the very first job you ever had?

My first job as a 12 year old was a dog walker at Cascade Kennels.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

The most exciting thing about my job is the team I get to work with. And maybe that fact that I can wear a white lab coat J

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

My biggest challenge this year would be to set up a web-based online chemical inventory.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

Attaining a Bachelor's Degree in Chemistry

Traveling to over 15 different countries

My family

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be?

I don't Zinc so!

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

My musical abilities.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Go

Read

Explore

Engage

Nature

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Waterworks Professional Growth Program Manager (Program Manager A) for Washington Certification Services

I have a Masters in Teaching and BS in Cell and Molecular Biology, I was a high school science teacher for 5 years and a small business owner for 3 years.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I always wanted to work in a college atmosphere. I enjoy the energy, motivation and ambition of staff and students here.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

Mostly 90's Rock and Stand-up Comedy.

What was the very first job you ever had?

Tennis Instructor

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

The people I work with are amazing and everyone here has been very welcoming.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

Learn ALL the acronyms associated with my program.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

Raising a brilliant and energetic little 4-year old; staying close with my family and friends; and purchasing our first home with my husband, which took years to accomplish.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I can play Rockband Guitar (it a video game) on Expert level.  It would be cooler if it was the real thing I know, but still a "skill".  Maybe not J

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

My name is Iqbal Halimi. I work as the Workforce Education Coordinator at Green River College. I joined the team a week ago and am looking forward to working with my new colleagues to accomplish our goals and contribute to the overall missions and objectives of the college.

I began my career in 2002 as a teacher and moved on into leadership and management positions at different international organizations. In the past 16 years, I managed and implemented 14 basic education and workforce education projects. These projects touched the lives of many low-income families.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

A major reason that I applied for work at Green River was that I really admired the college's vision and values, which focus on student success and programs that address the needs of different communities. These mesh well with my past work endeavors and my future goals.  I want to see students from all parts of society overcome barriers and achieve their dreams.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

When I am in the car alone, I like to listen to different radio stations and hear the songs they play. When it's raining, I just want to listen to the rain. However, if my two-and-a-half-year-old daughter is in the car, as soon as she sees a few drops of rain, she sings the well-known song that says "Rain, rain go away, little Johnny wants to play." She is very much an outdoor person!

What was the very first job you ever had?

I started serving people as a teacher. I made mistakes, but I learned from those. One lesson that I have drawn from my work as a teacher and from working with teachers is that not only do teachers matter more than any other single factor in delivering quality education but that a teacher can also play a crucial role in initiating bottom-up reforms in a school. I have seen it happen many, many times.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I am really pleased that I am in direct contact with students. I already frequently see them and am learning from them. Honestly, they are our allies and we are their allies.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

I want to help as many eligible students as possible through my department to get workforce education funding and complete their education.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

I have had several notable accomplishments in my life. Probably the most notable was that I completed my master's degree in international education at the University of Massachusetts and in the course of that work made many new friends of different nationalities with whom I am still in touch professionally and personally. Although we are in different countries, we rely on each other's knowledge, skills, and expertise.  Another accomplishment that I happily look back on is that I have managed to travel to eight different countries and learn a great deal about a wide range of issues from people that I had never met before. Each different cultural experience taught me an important lesson. Finally, one other accomplishment that stands out is that I learned how to play cricket. I applied different strategies to learn this sport and managed to play some serious games. The secret for learning this game, and I am sure for other sports, is to spend time with your team members and learn from their expertise. Each team member has their own unique sets of skills.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

I will go with Iqbal or Ikbal. Iqbal means luck and it's good to have some luck in life. That will serve as springboard.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

When I was student, I was good at preparing short photo films (video presentations) that complemented the group presentations that I led at my school. My classmates liked those pictures and the background music that I chose. I like to use metaphors and images because they are powerful communicators.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

I don't know how good I am at this, but I will give at try. I would say "Go Run with Ease and Energy Now."

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

My new title is Foundation Development Specialist. Prior to this position, I worked at Virginia Mason Foundation, Nordstrom, and stayed at home with my daughter who is now eight years old.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

There are quite a few reasons I applied. I was hoping to build on past development experience and the thought of doing that in support of local college students and faculty was very exciting for me. Some GRC community programs were already on my radar, especially GRCF's ICA Art Docent program. And, when I learned about the honey bees, I was in.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

NPR for news or I shuffle music on my 15 year old IPod.

What was the very first job you ever had?

My first job was a sales clerk at Nicholson's Drug Store in downtown Sumner, WA.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

It is hard to pick just one thing, but overall, I'd like to learn how best to prioritize my tasks and simplify processes (when possible) so that I can spend time getting to know our donors and support our team.

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

My new title is Program Coordinator for the Enumclaw Campus. I worked at Green River College a little over 5 years ago, where I was the Program Coordinator for Community Outreach. I'm very happy to be back. Since I've been gone, I've worked for Girl Scouts, Junior Achievement, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Merrill Gardens Senior Living and Washington State Parks! A lot of places over a small span of time, looking for that perfect 'fit'. I have several years of programming and management experience, along with event planning, enthusiasm and thinking 'outside' the box.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

In my quest for finding the perfect job, I discovered that what I really enjoy is education, nature and being outside. With that in mind, I decided to take a leap and go back to school to pursue becoming a park ranger. Recruiting for Green River, I know that we offer one of the best (if not the best) Natural Resources programs. Naturally, I decided to come to Green River for my new degree. To support myself while in school,  I started working as a Safety Officer at the Kent Campus. When the Program Coordinator position opened up at Enumclaw, I knew this was a perfect fit for me and that I could be a true benefit to the campus. I'm ecstatic that I was able to land the position and work at the college that I love while attending classes.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

I'm commuting from Lakewood, so I have almost an hour to enjoy listening to several different things. My 'go to' is NPR or KOMO news radio in the mornings and also enjoy 90's alternative rock or hits from the 80's.

What was the very first job you ever had?

I worked at a lumber re-manufacturer, where I ran a machine that made molding and handrail, and I was also a certified lumber grader for light structural and decking.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I love working at satellite campuses! You are able to establish close relationships with your team and the community. I'm also just happy to be back at Green River in general. I've enjoyed reconnecting with former co-workers as a student over the past 3 quarters and as a safety officer over Fall Quarter.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

Enhancing the experience of the students out here at Enumclaw. I am a firm believer in 'Think Student, Then Decide' and that is what drives my decisions here. There are exciting prospects out here and I'm looking forward to supporting new endeavors!

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

• Backpacking 20-miles, alone in the Olympic National Park
• The legacy that I've left behind at all of my past employers
• The solar system diorama I did in 5^th  grade

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

Tim the 'tool' man – I am pretty resourceful and I'm able to find possible solutions to a problem.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I would not be in the talent show. I more than likely would be the one that emcees, finds the talent (by encouragement), or advertising the event and getting people there.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?
Groups
Require
Energy,
Empathy &
Nourishment

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Sharmarke Ahmed

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

My position is Trio Educational Planner/Transfer Specialist. I graduated from the University of Northern Colorado where I was a Graduate Hall Director/ University Apartments Manager and later a Career Counselor.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I started at Green River College and finished my A.A. Degree. After I graduated with my Master of Art in Higher Education and Student Affairs Leadership from the University of Northern Colorado, I knew I wanted to work for Green River College. I have so much love for this institution.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

I listen to music old or new. Hip hop, R&B, Pop Music, and the list goes on.

What was the very first job you ever had?

When I was in eighth grade I cut grass for my neighbor then the rest of the neighbors after I got better at my position.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

One-on-one with the students, making an impact on students' life, and field trips.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

I just want to get better in my position and get to know as many people as possible at Green River College.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

Surviving the civil war in Somalia, getting a full ride scholarship from Bill & Melinda Gates, and getting my Master's Degree.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

I have been called 'Shark' all of my life. In the future, I would love to be called 'Dr.Shark'.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I love doing stand-up comedy and just enjoy making people laugh.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Green River Effective Efficient Network

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Chris Casey

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Hello! My name is Chris Casey, the new Judicial Affairs and Compliance Officer.

My career has been a combination of residence life at Illinois State University, Colorado College, and Green River College coupled with student conduct at the University of Texas at Arlington and now Green River College. You might have seen me handling cases for student conduct this past year and it's finally time for me

to transition to the role full time. I've got lots of big ideas and methods to maintain a high standard for our students throughout their education here.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

So many things! The wonderful people I get to work with every day, the gorgeous setting for the institution, and, certainly the main reason, our engaged, thoughtful, and motivated students. Our president has outlined our core values that focus on our students with strong educational programs and wrap-around services to ensure success. These are core values that I hold on my own and it's a wonderful place to work!

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

If you've been to my office you might notice I listen to music a bit on the harder side. Genres like deathcore, industrial, djent, or just straight heavy metal. Nine Inch Nails is my favorite band!

What was the very first job you ever had?

I started working in the family red delicious apple orchards when I was a kid. Does that count? My first paycheck was through a local grocery store where I stocked shelves and mopped the floors. It was good, honest work when I was 16.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I'm excited to engage our community and illustrate how student conduct can support our faculty, staff, and students in maintaining a high level of standard both in behavior and academics. Student conduct is an excellent office to set that expectation throughout the college. Oftentimes alleged violations come from a lack of something: knowledge of the process, motivation to be competitive, understanding of the college system, etc. I hope to remedy all concerns in an equitable manner.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

I want this office to be seen as a resource for education and support. When faculty, staff, and students understand when to report alleged conduct violations, how to report to this office or Campus Safety, and how to get involved with student conduct that would be a victory. We can do that in a year!

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

I'm proud of the family I've built with my wife, our daughter, and our son due in May. We're a solid little group.

I'm proud of work I've done for students over the years. I stay student focused in everything I do and sometimes that leads to hard decisions. Though the letter, card, or email you get every once in a while where someone was appreciative or recognized your work keeps me motivated.

I'm proud of my work / life balance. It's absolutely important to love your job (I do) and I also think it's healthy to maintain an active and engaging life outside of the office. You've got to make this life count!

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

My staff often said "Boss Man" which I rather liked. Students have said Mr. Chris but that might be a bit too formal. My past supervisor called me Jason a lot though I think that was on accident.

Just remember my name, that's all I would like. No need for a nickname.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

Well, my bowling average is 180. Though that's not incredibly exciting. So I'd say my ability to skip. I honestly didn't learn how until I was in college but I've gotten quite good at it over the years.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Gummi bears, send them

Right now to me

Everybody

Everyone

Need them, please.

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

I am a graduate of the Green River court reporting program and have been a real-time closed captioner for the past 13 years. I have captioned everything from the Olympic Games to your local newscasts and everything you can imagine in between.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I learned about the job opening from one of my former instructors, who encouraged me to apply for the position.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

Mostly talk radio

What was the very first job you ever had?

I worked cooking burgers and making drinks for Orange Julius.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

It's a new challenge for me in my career and will expose me to things I haven't yet had a chance to experience.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

Organize and caption a large majority of the online videos that Green River offers.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

Graduating from court reporting school, captioning the Olympic Games, and being parent to my two boys.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

Pippi, because I sometimes wear my hair in braids and have a lot of freckles.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

My crochet and knit creation

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Great Reason Everyone Enjoys Nature

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Justin Dampeer

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Hello! As the new Director of Basic Skills, I have a background and passion for providing educational access to historically marginalized populations. I have worked in TRiO Student Support Services, Workforce Education, and ESL/ABE as both faculty and staff member. I also taught pre-school for a couple of years and did SAT Prep.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

Coming from Highline College, I had previous positive experiences collaborating with faculty and staff here at GRC. Also with a passion for serving our students of color and immigrant and refugee populations, I knew I needed to stay in South King County.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

My pump up song to get me ready for the day is Des'ree "You Gotta Be."

What was the very first job you ever had?

The first job I ever had was at a Sonic Drive-In as the fry cook in Mississippi where I grew up.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I am most excited to work with our college to improve access for all students.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

Eat at all the good restaurants in the Auburn area.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

Being a good son to both my parents

Graduating college (first in family)

Helping others graduate college

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

Take Out would be my nickname, because I don't cook. EVER.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

My hidden talent is that I'm shameless. With that said, I would perform a choreographed skit/dance to Janet Jackson's "Nasty."

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Get

Ready

(for)

Energy

(and)

Enthusiasm

Now

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Tori Engstrom

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

My new title is the Program Coordinator in the Running Start Office. I previously worked at Seattle University in the Disability Services and South Seattle College as a college coach/mentor in the Pre-College TRiO Programs. I am finishing up my masters' degree in Student Development Administration at Seattle University

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I absolutely love the campus and the environment that surrounds it. My mom's family was raised in Maple Valley, so I am very familiar with the area and want to give back to this community. I also am passionate about working with the student population that GRC serves.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

I listen to a little bit of everything, but my favorite music is Rock (Heavy Metal, Modern, Punk, and Alternative). I also like to listen to Hip Hop, Rap, some electronic music, and I  love folksy/chill kind of music.

What was the very first job you ever had?

My first job was working at a Youth Center. I got to work with middle school and high school students in a Boys n Girls Club-like setting every day after school. I got to chaperone field trips, plan events, and help the students with homework.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I'm excited to be working in a full-time position that supports my education. Since my own time in Running Start, I have wanted to give back to that program. I am also excited about the Running Start Club that is associated with our office and hope to be a supportive role in that!

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

I just got connected with GDEC and I am super excited to participate and contribute to that. I'm hoping I can find a way to grow with Green River. I am very excited for the possibilities that Green River has to offer me.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

1. Being nominated for Student Employee of the Year at WWU
2. Getting accepted into Seattle University's Student Development Administration M.Ed program
3. Being offered the Program Coordinator position at the Running Start Office here at GRC

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

I've never really had any other nicknames because Tori is technically not my first name so getting everyone to call me Tori seems like a nickname to me haha

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I love to sing and dance, I can play the piano and sing

I also have been told I have a good sense of humor and people tend to laugh when I talk to them so maybe some stand-up?

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

G – Grrrrrreat

R– Retro

E– Energetic

E– Extra

N– Nifty

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Hola, my name is Fernando and I have the privilege of being the program coordinator in the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. I am bilingual in Spanish and English and proud to be from the Latinx and LGBTQ+ communities.  Prior to my new role, I served as the Latinx Peer Navigator for the Office of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion; had the honor of being President for the Latin@ Student Union; and co-founded the Latin@ Student Union's event Fiesta Latina, deemed the "Best Event" during the 2017-2018 scholastic year.  In addition, I was an AmeriCorps member implementing before and after school programs for secondary school students who needed supplemental academic support and guidance.  Moreover, I was a Lego Robotics and STEM Instructor for a Lego franchise.  In every professional capacity, my passion led me to help and serve others.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I was a student employee in the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion during the 2017-2018 academic year.  That year helped confirm my desire to dwell in a relational space that acknowledged, celebrated and empowered my way of being, my identity and intersectionalities.  During this time, I also had an opportunity to ignite my leadership qualities, and expand personal and professional development. I am excited to expand in-depth concepts and nuances regarding DEI initiatives and projects.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

It depends on the day of the week and my mood. I could listen to anything from cumbias and reggaeton to alternative and instrumental.

What was the very first job you ever had?

My first job was at an apple pie (and pumpkin) factory.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I am extremely enthusiastic to connect and support students through various programming, services, and resources our office provides on campus. I look forward to the plethora of intercultural and diverse events, forums and workshops our office and students host throughout the year.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

I want to fully immerse myself in Green River to make connections and build relationships throughout campus so I can better serve our communities on and off campus.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

• I'm the first one in my family to pursue higher education.
• Completing my year of service in AmeriCorps
• Coming back to GRC as a program coordinator.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

I can't think of a specific nickname, but I'll make the assumption it would have to be something with lovely, or being positive.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

Spoken word.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Graciously

Recognizing

Excellence

Empowerment and

Narratives

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

My new title is manager of The Paper Tree Bookstore. I spent 10 years as a retail store manager at JC Penney.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I wanted to work in an educational setting and make a positive impact on people.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

Audible – currently Me Before You

What was the very first job you ever had?

Dishwasher at 13 ½ years old

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

Working with my store

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

Get to know faculty and staff in school to promote sales

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

• First in my family to attend college and graduate with 4 year
• Married 20 years to Curtis Vinson.
• Managed stores like my Grandfather did.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

Woody Woodpecker- sometimes I laugh a lot .

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

Dress and act silly / comedy

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for? Green

River

Educational

Experience

Newsletter

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Hello all!  My name is Makoa Rosa and I am the new Program Assistant for Athletics and Recreation.  I am an ex-collegiate athlete, so I'm extremely excited to enter a career in the same field.  I come from an athletics background and was working in athletics at Highline College prior to this position.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I have always lived in the Auburn area, so I was very familiar with Green River's  campus and culture prior to applying.  As soon as I saw an opportunity open up within the athletic department, I was quick to submit my resume.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

Typically a combination of classic rock or country music (odd I know).

What was the very first job you ever had?

My first job was as a tennis coach.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I'm really excited to improve athletics and see the program expand and grow as a whole.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

In my first year at Green River, I would love to see at least one sports team make it to the championships.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

• Graduating college with honors
• Getting a scholarship to play collegiate tennis
• Taking Highline College's tennis team to the NWAC finals

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

My nickname would probably be Mac.  Often times "Makoa" is hard for people to pronounce, so this might save people some trouble.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I can do some cool tricks with a tennis racquet and ball.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

G: Gators

R: Really

E: Enjoy

E: Experiencing

N: Nature

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Mark W. Brown

Greetings Green River Colleagues! My current role is Learning & Development Manager.

I've been in the world of learning and development for over 15 years and most recently served as Training Manager and curriculum lead at University of Michigan, where I was responsible for leadership development programs. I also researched, designed and facilitated courses on generations in the workplace, managing the generational shift, which focuses on Millennials in the workplace, onboarding and performance management. I'm looking forward to getting to know and work with everyone here at Green River!

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I was looking for a position that would offer a level of creativity and challenge.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

I listen to NPR on either KNKX or KUOW.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

Creating and developing a world-class learning organization for students, staff and faculty

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

The one thing I'd like to accomplish is creating a stellar orientation and onboarding process.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

Completing my MBA with a specialization in Human Resource Management, owning my own catering business, and helping to raise my nephew.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

Can we have a bake-off? I think cooking or baking something would be my talent.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

G racious

R espectful

E ngage

E nergize

N urture

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Samuel Krahn

My new title is tenure track Music Instructor in the Department of Music and Theater. My background is in music composition, classical and electric guitar performance, electronic music, and improvisation. Before Green River, I taught as a faculty member at Montana State University, the University of Providence, Great Falls College – MSU, and as a Graduate Instructor at the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities. I received a Ph.D. in music composition at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, a M.Mus. in music composition from Roosevelt University, and a B.Mus. in classical guitar performance from Boston University.

As a composer, I participated in the 17th World Saxophone Congress and Festival, the New York City Electroacoustic Music Festival, the MATA Festival in New York City, the Source Song Festival in Minneapolis, the 2015 Root Signals Electronic Music Festival, the 46th Ball State Festival of New Music and the 70th annual Cheltenham Music Festival in England. In 2017/2018 I was an Artist-in-Residence at the Paris Gibson Square Museum of Contemporary Art, where I created an interactive sound art installation: Sound/Play. I received a grant from New Music USA for a new 35-minute work for saxophone and electronics and was a recipient of the 2017 Montana Arts Council Artist's Innovation Award.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I was impressed with the growing music program and saw potential for expansion in the program within my own area of expertise. Also, when I interviewed, I was struck by the beauty of the Auburn campus.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

This list changes often: Frank Zappa, Prince, Bob Dylan, Sun Ra, Segovia, 20-minute drum solos, noise, etc.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I am enthusiastic to share my musical knowledge with students and to get students excited about creating music and sharing their work with the community.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

My primary goal this year is to create a recording studio space in the RLC building for music students and for future interdisciplinary collaborations.

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Kim Macias

Program Coordinator-Enrollment Services

Worked at San Diego State University as an Administrative Coordinator/Residency Specialisfor 20+ years in Office of the Registrar

What drew you to apply to Green River?

After looking at open positions, the position I applied for was a perfect fit to what I was currently doing at SDSU, after relocating to Washington I was looking to get back into the same kind of position.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

SiriusXM-station 53

What was the very first job you ever had?

Working at Wendy's

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

Being able to work with and help students, faculty and staff in person.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

Become a valuable team member in Enrollment Services, and get to know our students as well

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

• Graduating from Dental Assistant School
• Working with SDSU for 20+ years
• Relocating from out of state and finding my new job

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

Bubbles…I guess because of the personality

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Great

Rocking

Excellent

Education

Now

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Scott Beals

Greetings Green River Clan,

I am the Building Secretary for the second floor of Salish Hall supporting the Business, Fine Arts, and Social Science Divisions. My first 19 years of life were spent in Western Massachusetts. After that, I lived in Sedona, Arizona for 16 years, California for 14 years, and the past year in Auburn, Washington. I have worn many hats throughout my life. Here are just a few of the things I have done: banking, artist, gallery owner, jeep tour driver, Colorado River guide, real estate agent, server, restaurant manager, licensed general contractor, business owner, graphic designer, print broker, volunteer, step-dad, and more.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

My wife, Emily, received a full-time, tenure-track English Faculty position here at GRC last year. Having left my general managing job in Central California – I was spending time winding down a bit when my wife said the second floor of Salish Hall needed some help. I started in a temporary capacity last spring. It has been a pleasure immersing myself in the culture and environment of GRC as well as meeting and developing relationships with an amazing group of faculty and staff. This led me to apply for the permanent position.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

Mostly silence as I let my mind wander in the well-worn path of the drive. Occasionally, some classic rock or 80's – my time period!

What was the very first job you ever had?

My first paying gig was grounds crew over the summer at my high school after ninth grade. Weeding, loading up debris, and trips to the landfill – oh myyy! Now, re-read that last sentence in George Takei's voice!

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

Engaging and learning about the many cogs in the GRC wheel to be an effective, compassionate, and confident guide (concierge?)/resource for students, faculty, and staff. Also, this position syncs up nicely with my wife's schedule.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

To visit every department listed on greenriver.edu from the Assessment and Testing Center to the Writing Center. I'd like to meet someone from each department and learn a bit about what they do. There are 36 listed (maybe more not listed there?) so that is about one per week.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

Number one – marrying my best friend and partner in life. We will celebrate 11 years next July. A special one since 11 is our lucky number. Number two – helping to raise two boys after their father had passed away. Number three – being instrumental in helping to raise hundreds of thousands of dollars for our son's high school football program over a four year period of time.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

It would be "Scooter". I tend to walk very fast and with purpose – almost as if I were motorized – hence, scooter (also, it's what my sons call me!).

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

Finesse in ice skating. Too bad we don't have an ice rink here!

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Goal Resetting, Each & Every November!

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Whitney Miller

I am a Budget Analyst 2. After college, I started my career at Chasing Fireflies, where I worked my way up from an Accounting Assistant to a Staff Accountant during my 8 years with the company. Then, I worked at Pierce County as an Accounting Assistant 2 before coming to Green River College.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

When I read the job description it sounded like what I had been looking for and was the only one I was really excited about. I just had the feeling that I would enjoy the work and it would be a positive environment.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

I like a lot of different types of music, but I often listen to country music on the way to work.

What was the very first job you ever had?

My first job was as a File Clerk at a doctor's office.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

Honestly, all of it is exciting to me. From the work, to the environment and people, to the commute, it has all been exciting.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

Along with learning the ins and outs of my position, I would love to be a part of the Green River community and get to know my colleagues.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

Working full time while completing my second degree, buying my house, and the relationships I have with my family and friends.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Goals Realized Excellence Enhanced Now

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Justin Core

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

I am the Manager of Recruitment and Outreach for Green River College.  I am a native of Tacoma, Washington who served the first ten years of my career in the Washington Community and Technical College system.  I spent the last 18 years as the Director of Student Engagement in the Oregon Community College system.  I hold an MA in Organizational Leadership and a BS in Organizational Communication.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

Growing up in the Puget Sound area is such an important part of who I am. I was drawn back to the area after almost two decades of living in Oregon.  My brother is a graduate of Green River College and many of my friends attended the college before transferring to a university.  I am really excited about the position and the possibilities that exist for recruitment and outreach.  When I applied, I saw this position as exciting, rewarding and challenging.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

Right now I am listening to HOT 103.7.  100% Throwbacks.  If that's not on, then I'm listening to P!nk.  I can never get enough of her honest, funny and real lyrics.  She stands for so much more than music.

What was the very first job you ever had?

When you grow up the son of an electrician, you have no choice but to work for the family business. I was an apprentice electrician from age 15-25.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I am really excited to tell the story of Green River College and engage prospective students.  I like the challenge of showcasing our programs and encouraging students to attend college.  I enjoy meeting new people, creating positive relationships in the community and long walks on the beach.  Okay…..the long walks on the beach part isn't true.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

I hope to foster positive relationships on campus and in the community to better serve and provide opportunities for students and prospective students.  I plan to widen our reach to underserved and non-traditional students.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

• Graduating from college and working in higher education. Serving as a mentor to hundreds of students in my career as a Student Life advisor.
• Being elected to International President of the Circle K Service Organization. I spent my junior year in college traveling around the world speaking to colleges and organizations about community service.
• Being a son. I won the parent lottery.  Through hardship and difficult times, my parents were amazing.  I owe them everything and I worked hard to make them proud.  RIP Dad.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

"JC."  Simple enough since it's my initials and what people have called me the last two decades.  But, I also go by "Juice" — nickname I had growing up.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I have been a DJ and emcee since I was young. So I would spin the hits and get the crowd hyped. J

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Get

Real

Electric

Energy

Now

On Thursday, September 20, we celebrated 83 faculty and staff service anniversaries. Besides the incredible number of honorees, this year's awards were notable for another reason: we presented them on their own day during opening week. This gave us an opportunity to include the entire board of trustees as well as giving our honorees an even that was entirely dedicated to them. We've included a few photos of some of this year's winners along with the full listings below!

Thank you to our recipients for your years of service to education! Thanks, as well, to the Conference Services and Media Services crews for helping make this year's event truly memorable.

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5 Years

• Patsy Cadwell
• Amy Davidson
• Neil Duldulao
• Lynette Edwards
• Laeticia Egesi
• Rebeka Ferreira
• Emilee Findley
• Jeanette Fohn
• Jacob Frye
• Brian Hansen
• Nicole Harris
• Aaron Hartzell
• Scott Hemingway
• Richard Hill
• Dana McCauley
• Jamie McCuaig
• Patrick Mumpower
• Bjorn Myhre
• Niki Nelson
• David Norberg
• Rob Olson
• Monica Paulson-Priebe
• Nadine Pavlov
• Melissa Porras-Monroe
• Richard Potsubay
• Deanna Rish
• Jennifer Rohan
• Ariadne Rooney
• Shanna Selvar
• Shannon Sharpe
• Katy Shaw
• Karl Smith
• Felisha Stephens
• Theresa Torell
• Laura VanSteenvoort
• Leonard Wainstein
• Larry Wild
• Chiae Wilder

10 Years

• Pat Carter
• Rhonda Daulton
• Anne Dolan
• Richard Douglas
• Kelly Eisenhour
• George Frasier
• Aaron Leavitt
• Wendy Lundquist
• Deborah Lynes
• Michael Moreno
• Rachel Neville
• Jenny Park
• Kevin Parr
• Jeff Perlot
• Sarah Postel
• Gavin Pyle
• Jane Swenson
• Jamie Vandette
• Benita Walters

15 Years

• Steven Brumbaugh
• Rob Jonas
• Paul Metivier
• Amanda Schaefer
• Chitra Solomonson
• Terry Waagan

20 Years

• Vik Bahl
• Steven Black
• Lansing Bryan
• Dawn Cleveland
• Connie Jones
• Lisa Michalec
• Jerry Marshall
• Jennifer Morgan
• Diane Pelletier
• Sidney Weldele-Wallace

25 Years

• John Avery
• Shirlyn Zeno-Bassard
• Mark Blaisdell
• Leslie Moore
• Patrick Navin
• Jessica Tichy

30 Years

• Gary Jones
• Liz Petersen

35 Years

• Susan Snow Davis
• Donnie Hallstone

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Jordan Harrington

I am working as a Financial Aid Program Specialist.  Before coming to GRC, I worked for three years as a delivery driver for a food bank.  For two years before that, I worked at Highline College at the Admissions Desk and IT Service Desk.  And I was a Tutor at South Seattle College for five years.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

The friendly staff and beautiful environment.  Also, two of my favorite IT instructors from Highline College came here to teach, so I knew that GRC was investing in those programs, which is great.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

I listen to 95.7 The Jet or Christian rock

What was the very first job you ever had?

I worked concessions at a roller skating rink when I was 16.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

Being part of a hard-working team and getting to know the folks who work and go to school here.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

Becoming more at home with my team, my new work load, and the campus community.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

Earning my Bachelor's degree (which took 11 years), buying my house in Burien with my wife, and surviving cancer.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

I was called "The Professional" at a previous job, which I thought sounded funny and sinister at the same time, as in – I'm a professional what?

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

Dancing

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Gators

Rally

Extra

Enthusiasm

Now!

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Monika Delfierro

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Educational Planner in the Running Start Office.

I received my master's degree in Student Development Administration from Seattle University in June 2018. During grad school I worked within the College of Education in graduate admissions and alumni engagement. I've also worked at Tacoma Community College within student engagement, orientation at the University of Massachusetts Lowell, and undergraduate admissions at the University of Washington, Tacoma.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

As a community college graduate myself, I have a love for community colleges and serving that specific student population. What drew me to Green River was the recommendations from current/former staff and students based on their positive experiences!

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

I love listening to Podcasts! Podcasts I am currently listening to are NPR, Code Switch, and Food for Thought.

What was the very first job you ever had?

The first job I've ever had was working at Jamba Juice, but I'm definitely more of an Emerald City Smoothie fan.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I'm really excited to work with students and learn about all the resources on campus to support them!

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

One thing I've love to accomplish in my first year at Green River is to get a photo with the Green River mascot, Slater.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

1. Being the first in my family to graduate from college.
2. Rescuing my first dog, Leslie Knope
3. Earning my master's degree

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I am a great back-up karaoke singer!

Opening week is just around the corner! As we prepare to kick off a new school term, we want to take time for celebrating our colleagues and their years of service at Green River. In past years, our service awards have fallen in line with Opening Day. This year, we're giving the service awards their own day during the opening week activities –Thursday, September 20, 2018 3:30pm-4:30pm. Thank you to our service award recipients, and to all of you, for everything that you do in Service to Education!

See 2018 Service Award Recipients below:

5 Years

• Patsy Cadwell
• Laeticia Egesi
• Rebeka Ferreira
• Emilee Findley
• Brian Hansen
• Aaron Hartzell
• Scott Hemingway
• Noah Hensley
• Richard Hill
• Jamie McCuaig
• Bjorn Myhre
• Niki Nelson
• Benjamin Orr
• Monica Paulson-Priebe
• Melissa Porras-Monroe
• Deanna Rish
• Ariadne Rooney
• Shanna Selvar
• Shannon Sharpe
• Yohannes Teferi
• Chiae Wilder

10 Years

• Pat Carter
• Rhonda Daulton
• Anne Dolan
• Richard Douglas
• Kelly Eisenhour
• Aaron Leavitt
• Deborah Lynes
• Gavin Pyle
• Jane Swenson
• Benita Walters

15 Years

• Steven Brumbaugh
• Rob Jonas
• Paul Metivier
• Amanda Schaefer
• Chitra Solomonson
• Terry Waagan

20 Years

• Vik Bahl
• Steven Black
• Lansing Bryan
• Dawn Cleveland
• Connie Hones
• Lisa Michalec
• Jerry Marshall
• Jennifer Morgan
• Diane Pelletier
• Robert Sjogren
• Sidney Weldele-Wallace

25 Years

• John Avery
• Shirlyn Bassard
• Mark Blaisdell
• Leslie Moore
• Patrick Navin
• Jessica Tichy

30 Years

• Gary Jones
• Liz Petersen

35 Years

• Susan Snow Davis
• Donnie Hallstone

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Teresa Regalado

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

I am the new Welcome Desk Project Coordinator. I worked the front desk for the Institute of Technology at UW-Tacoma for three years while I finished my Bachelor's degree.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I am familiar with the area as I attended Auburn Mountainview High School, so I've had exposure to Green River since then. The core values definitely had the greatest impact on me, as many of those are important to my own identity and when interacting and building relationships with others.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

"Oldies but Goodies"

What was the very first job you ever had?

Wendy's!

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I am excited to be in higher education and have the opportunity to help students in their getting started process.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

During my first year I would like to interact with and learn more about the many different programs and departments at Green River; be a helpful resource to incoming and current students; and be a helpful resource to my colleagues in student affairs.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

Graduating from the University of Washington Tacoma with my Bachelors in Criminal justice.

Volunteering with TPD and working with at risk youth to reduce recidivism rates in Tacoma.

Assisting my father in starting up and running his business.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Genuine

Righteous

Empathetic

Ethusiastic

Nurturing

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Tatyana Levchuk

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Hello Green River Family!

My name is Tatyana Levchuk. I have recently joined the Workforce Education Department as a workforce education coordinator. I came from Highline College, where I served students as a financial aid advisor for more than seven years. I feel greatly privileged to be able to continue work in a role that supports students in their academic endeavors.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

Green River is known for its commitment to providing access to higher education and employment opportunities to all who seek it, regardless of their abilities to pay. I wanted to be a part of it.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

Mainly Spirit 105.3

What was the very first job you ever had?

I got my first job at the age of 18, working as a food service worker at a children's hospital in Ukraine.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

The best part of my job as a workforce coordinator is hearing back from students about how they are overcoming their daily challenges and meeting their goals. It is also knowing that the work I am doing provides opportunities for others to grow and make an impact in their society.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

I hope to become a valuable team player and a good resource for our students.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

First, is my recent bachelor's degree from CWU. Second, is my new job with Green River; I really enjoy being a part of my new team. And third, is my family and my children. My son is getting ready to join GRC next year as a running start student, and I'm very excited about it.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

Organic—because I am known for preaching healthy lifestyle and organic food wherever I go.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I enjoy designing fresh flower bouquets, especially those that are locally grown. So I would create one of my favorite perfect bouquets.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

G-Global

R-Royal

E-Empowering

E-Emerging

N-Natural

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Rahel Weldu

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

I am the new Financial Aid Assistance Director. I have worked in higher education for over 12 years in various departments. Some of my roles involved overseeing Veterans Affairs, Financial Aid Office and Admissions/Outreach departments. I also have little bit of experience working in a school district as a Family Advocate and Community Engagement Liaison.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

Initially, the location was the reason why I stared looking into employment opportunities at Green River. However, the vision, mission and core values as stated on the website were what inspired me to apply for my current position.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

It depends on my weather/mood of the day:   Air1, NPR, audio readings etc.

What was the very first job you ever had?

My first job was working at Burger King as a cashier when I was in high school.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

Returning to the "financial aid world"! I did miss a little bit of dreaming about the never-ending Federal/State policies/updates in the middle of the night . More importantly, helping students with their financial needs to achieve their educational/career goals is what excites me the most!

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

During my first year, I would like to learn/adopt GRC's culture & establish relationships with different departments that allow me to be more resourceful in assisting our students and supporting my team.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

Three accomplishments that I am most proud of in my life are being the mother of my two amazing boys, personal development and outreach engagement that allows me to make a difference in people's lives in my community.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

 "Sweet Banty" is one of the nicknames… because kindness and harmony are most important values of mine, and I am a fighter who likes to challenges the impossible.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I do not think I have any hidden talent, but if GRC ever has annual talent show, I will go stand by the entrance to greet everyone with a big smile.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Guidance –for mentorship and leadership

Reestablishment – for change & restoration

Exploration – for new ideas and innovation

Engagement – for belonging and partnership

Nature – for acceptance of realities and facts

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Don Thomas

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

My new title is Health Occupations Educational Planner. I have worked in higher education as an academic advisor for approximately 7 years, with extensive experience on-boarding, retaining and preparing students who are seeking entry into competitive admissions programs.  I  graduate from  Kentwood H.S. and have a master's degree in Counseling and Student Personnel from Minnesota State University.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

The opportunity to work with more non-traditional students and the beautiful campus.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

Podcasts on finances and positive thinking.

What was the very first job you ever had?

The movie theater in Auburn.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

Working with health care students again in an advising capacity.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

• Going to graduations in May and June for students
• Received a master's degree and started a Ph.D. program
• Traveled to 30 of 50 US states

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

G– Guidance

R– Resilience

E– Engagement

E– Empowerment

N– Nature

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Daniel Fergueson

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

I am the new Director of Student Activities and Engagement.  I worked at Linfield College as the Director of Activities and Fraternity & Sorority Life for the previous 17 years.  Prior to that, I worked as the Coordinator of Student Programs at Shawnee State University after obtaining my master's in Education at Western Washington University.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

The mission and core values at Green River align with my desire to help students be successful both inside and out of the classroom.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

The Brock and Salk show on 710 ESPN, it allows me catch up on what is happening with the Seahawks!

What was the very first job you ever had?

I worked at Wendy's!

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

Working with a dedicated group of professionals and students who are committed to make campus life a vital part of the Green River experience.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

To help build a cohesive team that is striving to help students have their best experience.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

Graduating from Western Washington University with a master's degree in Education.

Serving 5 years on the Board of Directors for the National Association for Campus Activities (NACA), including being the Chair of the Board.

Competing as a collegiate hurdler during my undergraduate years.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

Ferg. That has always been my nickname growing up because it is easier to say that my full last name.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I would probably sing in a chorus, not a soloist, but am a decent singer in a choir.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Gators

Rock

Each &

Every

Night

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Dr. Rolita Ezeonu

New title: Vice President of Instruction

Brief professional background:

• 4 years in sales/customer service
• 6 years K-12 teaching experiences
• 20 years in the WA community college system
  • Highline College-adjunct faculty, full time tenured in Communication Studies, Dean of Instruction for Transfer and Pre-College Education, and Interim Vice President of Academic Affairs

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I was drawn to apply for Green River because I would be able to work for an institution that has great strengths, an engaged faculty and staff, and be able to continue to serve our students and communities in South King County.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

I listen to a variety of music from rhythm and blues, gospel, hip hop, Nigerian, Hawaiian, Samoan, and more Pacific Islander music.

What was the very first job you ever had?

My very first job I ever had was working for Burger King in Honolulu, HI.  I was 15 years old.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

To be able to make a positive difference and provide equitable experiences in higher education for our students, potential students and communities.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

Build positive and solid relationships across campus and collaboratively work on ways to for our students to be successful.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

Three accomplishments that I am most proud of are:

• Starting and finishing my dissertation and earning a doctorate degree
• Participating in 3 half marathons
• Being a mom to my children, Chinwe (19 years old) and Chike (14 years old)

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

Aloha.

I would choose this word/nickname because I grew up in Hawaii and have seen the spirit of "aloha" as something tangible.  To me it is seen as choosing to live each day with a spirit of joy and life.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

My hidden talent would be some form of dance.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Giving

Respectful

Empathetic

Energized

Noteworthy

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

I am the new Program Coordinator for the BAS (Bachelor of Applied Science) in Information Technology – Network Administration and Security degree.

I'm a graduate of Centralia College where I earned my BAS in Applied Management and then was hired to work as their BAS Program Specialist representing their four BAS programs (2014). I then moved to a job at Grays Harbor College as the BAS Completion Facilitator for their three BAS degrees (2017). I'm currently working on my Masters in Science – Management and Leadership degree from WGU.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I love BAS degrees and the opportunity that they offer students who may have previously felt unable to continue their education. It was exciting to think of working for a college with so many BAS program options.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

Mixx 96.1, because I drive a first generation Prius with only a tape player and the radio controls are on a terrible touch screen. So, I just set it to a station I know will work the whole way from Olympia to here.

What was the very first job you ever had?

I worked at a small hamburger restaurant called Mr. J's in Centralia WA when I was 16.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I'm excited about how much this college seems to truly care about students. From what I can tell, Green River puts students, and their goals, first and that is exactly how I like to work.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

I'd like to have a really solid understanding of who people are and what they do on campus. I'm terrible at names, but I love meeting people and work really hard to remember specifics about each person and what they are interested in.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

The three accomplishments I am most proud of are:

1. My kids: I have a two year old son, Brutus, and a two-month old daughter, Pavlina (we call her Finn). They are adorable and just as quirky as their mom and dad.
2. My career: I never knew what I wanted to be when I grew up and, considering what a terrible student I was for my associate's degree, I definitely never expected to work on a college campus. However, finding this awesome career option where I get to provide customer service to students who are taking steps to change their lives is rewarding, fun, and a great use of my creativity.
3. How weird I am (Can I count that as an accomplishment?): I like being different. I fully support everyone showing off what makes them unique and believe that the world is a better place if we embrace our peculiarities.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

Kat – I love cats. This is a lame response, but I have nothing better. Besides my love for cats they'll notice that I have a very loud laugh, I love bright colors, my love for houseplants is almost tied with my love for cats, and my idea of "professional business attire" includes facial piercings, visible tattoos, lopsided haircuts, and Fluevog shoes.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I might consider brushing up on my bassoon playing… it's been 7 years, but I keep telling myself that I'll get back into playing bassoon if I ever find the time. (I also say this about knitting, scrapbooking, photography, learning how to quilt, jewelry making…)

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Gigantic

Rainbow

Elephants

Enjoying

Nature

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Natalie Archer

I am the Administrative Assistant 4 for the Continuing and Community Education Department.  Prior to this position I worked in the Transitional Studies Department at Tacoma Community College, where I found my passion for providing education to our community.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I knew that my next career step was going to be at a community college and, as I looked into Green River, it was easy to see how passionate the staff is about the community and supporting each other and students.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

I typically listen to a variety of podcasts/radio shows. My favorites are TED radio hour, Lore and This American Life.

What was the very first job you ever had?

My first job was working at an ice cream shop and Rec. Hall in high school.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

As much as I loved my previous position as a front desk leader working directly with students, I am very excited to learn more about what goes on behind the scenes to keep a program running smoothly.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

During my first year, I honestly hope to learn as much as I can about what each department does and offers on campus.  You can never know enough about the resources and opportunities available to both staff and students.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

• Graduating from The Evergreen State College with my BA
• Receiving an award from Salon Today magazine for my visual merchandising work
• Selling my first piece of art at a gallery show

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

That's a tricky one! With a name like Natalie, it is easy to create a variety of nicknames.  The most popular one that seems to follow me is Natty.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

Reenacting every scene from the original Jurassic Park movie

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Greedy

Raptors

Eat

Every

Nectarine

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Tracy Norton

Hello! I am the Retention Specialist for the new MESA program at GRC. Most recently I served in Peace Corps in Cambodia. Prior to that I worked at UW Tacoma in Admissions and Advising. It's great to be at GRC and I am looking forward to getting to know the campus.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

The MESA program, the students, and the trails!

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

Traffic updates, NPR, or music.

What was the very first job you ever had?

At 14, I worked in a concession stand at a little league ballpark. I loved it.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I am most excited about the onboarding of MESA and to work with the amazing students at GRC.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

I plan to spend the first year getting to know the campus and growing the MESA program.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

Lip sync battle.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Go Read Everything, Everywhere-Now!

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Kevin Grossman

I'm the newest Business Advisor with Green River's Small Business Development Center. I love helping business owners start and grow their companies.  It is terrific being part of helping them thrive!

What drew you to apply to Green River?

Who could resist being a gator? I like water, warm weather and New Orleans –
laissez le bon temps rouler!

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

KNKX or podcasts

What was the very first job you ever had?

The first money I earned other than for chores was delivering the Spokesman Review newspaper.  The daily issues were pretty easy (although before sunrise except for summer), but the Sunday edition was quite a workout!

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I like to help people.  There are a lot of moving parts to make a business work. I've done many of them over the years, from picking up trash to a number of Board positions.  I can help folks because I've either done or been involved with what they're dealing with.  It is all about helping them move their businesses to the next level.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

I want to be a great connector between the College, the general community and the business community.  It's fun for me to get people together with related interests that might not have met otherwise, and see what great stuff comes out of those new relationships.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

1. I have three kids that are amazing – an accomplished chef, an incredibly engaging and effective retail store manager and an animal loving graduate student in immunology.
2. I redeveloped a 1920's building in a tough neighborhood that is now the center of a community revival.  A couple of weeks ago the Mayor chose to have a meeting with the Governor there, instead of her office, to highlight the positives of fixing old buildings.
3. I was a college trustee for a number of years, and am very proud of the innovative programs the faculty and staff accomplished for our community!

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

I've been called the absent-minded professor.  I get so into my work that at times I forget to eat or go home at a normal time when I'm in the grove of a project.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

Well, it's not a talent for a stage – but I do enjoy making food and feeding people. I get the best feedback from my baking.  Last week I made a killer Kalamata olive bread that I took to some friends. I may have set the bar too high – I don't know if they'll let me visit if I don't bring it again.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Grow Relentlessly,

Engage Everyone Nicely

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Melissa Sitzenstock

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

I'm the new Curriculum Program Manager in Instructional Support. I was previously at the State Board working on the ctcLink project, missed being on a campus the entire time. Prior to that spent 14 years at Bellevue College in Enrollment Services.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

The same thing that drew me to Green River to be a student: location, campus feel, the programs, and opportunities here.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

NPR

What was the very first job you ever had?

I was a housekeeper at a Victorian bed and breakfast in Port Townsend while in high school.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

Learning processes/procedures and relationship building that is required to manage the curriculum at the college

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

Become the subject matter expert in implementing change to curriculum and programs.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

1. Travel-Been to Australia, New Zealand, British Isles (UK, Ireland, Scotland), Caribbean, Mexico, and planning more.
2. My home, I love to garden and take care of our animals (horses, dogs, cat, fish, and any wildlife running around the property).
3. The self-awareness that higher education is my passion and the opportunity to do what I love.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

I don't want to limit the creative expression of my new co-workers, but it could be anything; the crazier, the better.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

My best hidden talent is my ability to sleep anywhere — on a bus, plane, boat — you name it, I can sleep there.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Growing

Restless

Eating

Everything

New

This past Wednesday, June 6, we celebrated 19 faculty and staff retirements at the annual Retirement Social! With over 60 faculty and staff members in attendance, we said 'thank you' and 'happy trails' to this year's retirees. See below for some photos!

Thank you to Conference Services and all of our volunteers who helped create a warm, inviting space for our Green River family!

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Kerry Kwon

My new title is International Student Advisor. I worked in Korea for about four years. I spent my first year teaching English and the following three years helping to implement and administer an English immersion program at an elementary school. Afterwards, I worked at ELS Language Centers in Tacoma as an International Student Advisor and TOEFL Administrator. I also worked at GRC for a little over a year as a part-time advisor before accepting my new role.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I love the campus and the view of Mt. Rainier from one of the trails.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

NPR

What was the very first job you ever had?

I worked at Knott's Berry Farm's Soak City Water Park in California. I distinctively remember having to wear cargo shorts and a Hawaiian shirt to work. I mainly worked in the kitchen inside one of the food stalls.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I get to talk to students. I am excited to be a part of their incredible academic journey.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

This is actually my second year but I'd like to meet more faculty and staff members on campus. I think everyone plays an important role helping students have the most wonderful college experience. I'd love to collaborate and learn from others.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

Getting married to my wife.

Buying my first home.

Going back to school and finishing graduate school.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

I'm not sure. When I was young kids called me Care Bear cause it sounded like Kerry.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

How much sushi I can eat in one seating.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Games

Recreation

Enjoy

Everything

Nice

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Su Hoon Tan

I am the Director of Conference Services. Prior to this, I spent the last 4 years as the Associate Director of Operations at the Joe Crowley Student Union, University of Nevada, Reno where I managed the operations and maintenance for a 165,000sf facility including event setup, staffing, safety and security, and retail tenant management. Prior to that, I was the Programming and Marketing Coordinator for 2.5 years where I did event planning and marketing for various programs and services within the student union.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I wanted to be in the Pacific Northwest because I was attracted to the greenery and outdoor activities this area has to offer. I did a ten-day road trip from Reno to Bellingham and back, exploring different parts of Oregon and Washington, and fell in love with western Washington. When the Director opening came up, it seemed like a good match since I met all the minimum and preferred qualifications. It was also an advancement opportunity in my professional career. I was ready for a change and decided to take a chance and applied for the job!  I am thrilled to join Green River College.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

Usually it's NPR, but sometimes I also listen to indie music.

What was the very first job you ever had?

Teaching people how to put on contact lenses as a Johnson & Johnson sales promoter at vision centers! (Vision care in Malaysia is VERY different than in the US!)

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

Learning about Green River College and its processes and procedures of operation. I only have experience in a traditional public four-year institution, so I am excited to be in a different environment.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

Build relationships with colleagues on campus, provide leadership to the Conference Services department and implement positive changes in our processes and procedures.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

First person in my family to graduate from college (and earn a master's degree), seeing some of my students become my professional colleagues within student affairs, and the only debt I ever had is a mortgage.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

Thief of joy – because I can be brutally honest! I am very practical and efficient in my interactions and approach, there's no point beating around the bush and wasting time!

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

Take me to a "All-You-Can-Eat" meal.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Get

Ready

Eat

Every

Nougat!

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Ariana Hoyt

I am the new HR Consultant 2 for Human Resources! After a few tough years finding the right fit, I attended Green River College and received my AA. I transferred to Boise State University where I earned my BA in Communications with an emphasis in Organizational and Relational Organization. While attending school at BSU, I worked in Payroll and Personnel Processing and eventually transitioned to Human Resource Services where I discovered my passion for working in higher education. I continued to serve BSU and worked for the College of Business and Economics in Advising Services, but homesickness finally set in, and I made my way back to Washington State where I worked in a temp position for Human Resources at Confluence Health. I am excited to be back in higher education!

What drew you to apply to Green River?

Like many employees that currently work here, I am a Green River alumnus. I had a very pleasant experience on campus after many months of feeling discouraged and worried about my future. I was planning on moving to Seattle, WA and happened to find the exact position I was searching for, it was icing on the cake that it happened to be my old college.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

This might sound totally mushy, but I like to talk to my boyfriend on the car ride to work, or my parents. If nobody is available for a chat, I listen to NPR or 98.1 classical music for something soothing before the daily grind.

What was the very first job you ever had?

Any Washington State University alums will recall a little calzone place in Pullman named Sella's. I worked as a waitress/cashier there before my first year of college. I smelled like pizza after every shift. I can't decide if that's wonderful or not.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

That I am serving an institution that provided me the resources and skills I needed to feel that I could be a successful and hardworking person in life. I think it's a wonderful transition that I left this college to pursue my dream of earning my BA and that I can return and offer everything I have learned.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

I would love to develop a process or system for something that may not be running very smoothly or that needs polishing. I would love to complete a big project to help things run more smoothly in the HR department.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

Graduating from college and having my family see me walk. I genuinely did not know if I would ever make it to graduation! Buying my first car, my Subaru Outback which I have had for close to ten years. And lastly, paying my very first student loan bill!

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

Usually, folks at the office start calling me "Ari", an abbreviation of my first name. People have always naturally called me Ari.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I'm really good at imitating voices and accents. I have very bad stage fright, so this is definitely a hidden talent!

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Go Rock Everything Energetically Now!

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Richard Nattinger

I am the new IT Specialist 3. I was previously the System Administrator for Children's Friend, a non-profit specializing in assisting at-risk children and families in Providence, RI. Before that, I worked for Atrion (now a part of Carousel Industries) as a member of their Workforce Agility team, specializing in staff augmentation for data center roles.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I received the foundation for the skills that I currently have from a state college in Florida and have always been thankful for the care that the staff took in setting me up for success. When I saw this job posting I thought that I would be happiest if I could give back in some way to the state college system and am very happy that I was selected for this role. I look forward to supporting the staff here in making success stories like mine.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

My radio has been broken for a while, but sometimes I will put on some J-pop, classic rock, or some alt rock. I've been on a bit of a Hamilton kick lately too.

What was the very first job you ever had?

I worked in a small pizza shop in Saint Augustine, FL as a dishwasher and was eventually promoted to preparing food.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I'm excited to work with such a large team and to help learn about the specific challenges we face in this environment. I like to be a part of the solution, so I look forward to helping the team tackle them!

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

Professionally, I would like to get comfortable with the environment this first year. Personally, I would like to get established in the area and get back into the classroom to begin working towards my Masters.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

I am very proud that I have been able to find a career that fits me and that gives me the opportunity to help people with my knowledge and skills.

I am proud that I have made such great friends that they are willing to help me make a crazy 3000 mile move so painlessly.

I am proud of how I left my previous job in a better place than I found it.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

I like to let the nicknames find me. They strike me as a kind of badge that you earn. Hopefully I get one for something positive, but even the ones you earn from something negative have wonderful lessons attached.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

Maybe finishing my girlfriend's sentences for her? We are good at it, but I'm sure anyone who spends that much time with someone else gets that way.

If G.R.E.E.N. where an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Green River Encourages Energetic Neurons

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Jacob Church

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

I just started working as a Data Analyst with the Office of Institutional Effectiveness. This is my first job in higher education. In my spare time, I'm also working on a statistics research project which will complete the requirements for my M.S. in Mathematical Sciences from University of West Florida. Prior to that, I earned my B.S. in Computer Science and Systems from University of Washington in 2012. For my most recent job, I worked as a laser engraver.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

Everything about the job and the college just seemed like such a great fit.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

It depends on my mood.

What was the very first job you ever had?

My first real job was unloading trucks at a Goodwill production plant in Tacoma.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

It's hard to say because everything is so exciting. I work with great people, and the work is challenging and rewarding at the same time. There's so much to learn and there are so many interesting projects to work on!

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

I want to learn as much about the college and the data as possible.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

I can think of two, graduating from University of Washington, and quitting smoking (4 years next month).

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

The new guy.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I don't usually step into the spotlight.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Get

Respect

Earn

Everything

#NoTime2Sleep

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Shannon Percell

I am the new Director of Athletics and Recreation and I'm so excited to be here at Green River!  I've spent the last 10 years in Northern California, most recently working at Sonoma State University.  During my time at Sonoma State I wore many hats.  I spent a number of years as the women's soccer assistant coach then transitioned to administrative side of athletics where I spent time as the assistant, associate and most recently the interim Director of Athletics.  Prior to arriving in California I coached soccer at the University of Idaho, the University of Montana and Seattle University.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

After spending time as the Interim Director of Athletics at Sonoma State University, I knew I was ready to take the next step in my career and become an Athletics Director.  In my search for this sort of work I came across the opening here at Green River.  As I was researching Green River College I began to fall in love with what it had to offer.  During my time interviewing, I was amazed by the people here.  Both students and employees were so welcoming.  I knew I found a place to call home.  Having a passion for athletics and a love for fitness, this position was the best of both worlds allowing me to work in both athletics and recreation.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

I listen to a little bit of everything.  I love trivia so I'm drawn to the morning quizzes on the various stations.  I also channel surf to find songs I like.  I don't have a favorite genre of music so it's easy to find something good to listen to.  I used to live five minutes from work so the commute is something new to me but I've been enjoying it.  It allows me time to think and relax.

What was the very first job you ever had?

When I was young I used to mow my neighbor's lawn for $5.  It seemed like such a great job to a young kid back then but looking back it was a big yard (front and back) so I definitely earned my money :).

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I'm excited to work with a more diverse population of students.  I have enjoyed my first few days in the RAC getting to know the students and student-athletes.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

I'd love to build stronger relationships between athletics and other departments on campus.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

I am proud of my three sons (Owen, 8, Duncan, 6 and Parker, 3).  They challenge me to be the best parent I can be.  I have really missed them in the transition as they have stayed behind in California to finish school.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

Former coworkers have either called me Sha-nay nay or Schmannon.  I think by calling me those names it brought a lighthearted atmosphere to the office environment.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

My kids seem to think I'm great at telling jokes.  They always laugh no matter how bad they are.  I'll admit that my jokes are really corny but that's all I can think of for a talent.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Get invoved

Respect one another

Encourage others

Excellence everyday

Never stop growing

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Ruth Mueller

My new title is tenure track Ethnomusicology Instructor for the Department of Music and Theater. For those of you that are wondering, ethnomusicology is an interdisciplinary field that engages with the study of music in the cultural context. My work as a musician and ethnomusicologist has allowed me to travel to many different countries and to live on three different continents. Through my Ph.D. (University of Sheffield, UK) my research focused on South Korean traditional music, cultural preservation, gender, and identity. As part of my new position I will be starting a Korean drumming ensemble. Keep an eye (and an ear) out for us!

What drew you to apply to Green River?

Ethnomusicologists in university programs usually focus on either a variety of coursework for general education that uses music as a tool to discuss and experience culture and identity or it focuses on graduate teaching in the methodological approaches to the field. As someone that is dedicated to the former I wanted to be at an institution that specializes in this kind of teaching and where my work would be the primary focus.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

I listen to NPR. I think that it is incredibly common among musicians not to listen to music when driving or as a background activity. It is hard for my brain not to focus on music when it is playing. When you work with music all day, listening to spoken word on the drive is a good way to transition.

What was the very first job you ever had?

My first official job was working at the Muny Theater in St. Louis, Missouri. I was always into music and theater and while I wasn't nearly good enough at fifteen to audition, I did get a job in the dining pavilion busing tables before each show. I got to see most of the shows for free and was able to wander around the stage construction and costume areas and what not. In spite of the sweltering heat and brutal humidity of St. Louis summers, I did this job for three summers and loved it.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I am excited about bringing a new field of study to the college! Ethnomusicology is such an interdisciplinary field. I look forward to collaborating with my new colleagues around campus and creating some new and exciting coursework.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

I will have a drumming ensemble starting in autumn quarter. My goal in the first year is to create a space for music and sound as a way to experience the rich cultural diversity of our campus.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

-Being a generous and kind human being with strong and meaningful relationships

-Being a fearless and adventurous traveler

-Investing in my education. I love being a student and I hope curiosity helps me to be an effective teacher.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

Oh, it would probably be something awful like "Sally Sunshine." I am not always bright and happy, of course, but I approach my work with excitement and with a smile on my face. Even on tough mornings I think it is important to greet people with warmth and create a sense of community.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

This is a bit of a tricky question for those of us in the Department of Music and Theater. We are used to displaying our talents, but hidden talents are a different story. I guess I would make a really tasty chocolate cake. I would offer to do it blindfolded, but we all know that would be a huge mess. I might be talked into doing it while hopping on one foot or while playing a kazoo.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

G – generous

R – refreshing

E – engaging

E – exciting

N – nurturing

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Kristine Schroeder

I am the Director for the new MESA Program at Green River. I most recently worked as the Director for SHINE: Seattle's Hub for Industry-driven Nanotechnology Education, but I started my career in higher education as a Lab Technician for the nanotechnology, chemistry, and anatomy/physiology labs. I have also had the opportunity to teach a few chemistry, nanotechnology, and continuing ed courses. Before higher education, I worked at a credit union and bank for several years in member services and as a loan officer.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

When I went back to school for my science degree, I was in the MESA program at a community college and university. I attribute the support of the community college system and MESA as major factors for my success. I found out that WA MESA was expanding its community college program, around the same time the project I was working on was ending, so I jumped at the opportunity to apply here.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

I rotate between a few things, usually reggaeton, funk, or jazz stations on Google Play. I also want to become fluent in Spanish, so sometimes I work through Spanish lessons on Audible.

What was the very first job you ever had?

In high school, I worked at the first Cold Stone Creamery in San Diego County.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

My position aligns closely with what I am passionate about, which doesn't happen a lot in life, so that's pretty awesome.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

I want to make good connections across the campus and recruit a strong group of students into the MESA Program that will help establish a supportive community culture.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

• Earning my college degree; I am the first in my immediate family and possibly the only one in my super-extended family to earn a science degree.
• Having the courage to start over, both in my professional and personal life.
• Being a positive influence on my little cousins.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

Tammy in HR has already started calling me the "Crow Lady" but she is still searching for a more appropriate name. If I had to choose, it would be a toss-up between two nicknames:

• Crow Master (in training)
• Ultimate Neighborhood Cat Wrangler

I think these names are self-explanatory. J

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I don't have an answer for this one.

If G.R.E.E.N. where an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Greatness

Requires

Effort

Education (and)

Never giving up

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Melanie Willers

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

I am the Administrative Assistant I in the Facilities Department. I have a lot of variety in my professional background: Administrative Assistant at John L. Scott Real Estate, driver for Access, School Bus Driver, Special Needs Para educator, Parts Data Coordinator, Customer Service Representative, and Customer Service Coordinator and Panasonic.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I felt I was ready to get back into working a full time job and I have been a student at Green River a few times and really liked the campus.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

Usually I listen to Hair Nation or Ozzy's Boneyard on Sirius XM but once in a while I will listen to Beatles Radio or Jazz.

What was the very first job you ever had?

The very first job was cleaning horse stalls after school on a farm in Maple Valley

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I enjoy learning new things and research to get things straightened out and I get to do that. The people are fantastic and I enjoy coming to work every day.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

Getting to know the names of all the people I work with.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

Having my awesome 3 children, surviving cancer and buying my first house all by myself.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

I have no idea

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I have no talents at all and that is not a joke

If G.R.E.E.N. where an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Great Dane

Rottweiler

English Mastiff

English Bulldog

Newfoundland

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Sirena Clark

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

I am the new Program Coordinator for Continuing Education. I recently left an assignment with Kent School District where I worked as a para educator and administrative assistant throughout the district in many different programs.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

When I noticed this job listing, it sounded like such a dynamic position that it immediately caught my attention. I absolutely love this campus. I received my AA here and fell in love with the trails, natural setting, and the culture of this college, not to mention the incredible staff.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

I recently got into the habit of letting my mind wander and absorb the silence on my ride home, but occasionally I channel surf on the radio or listen to podcasts. My new favorite is Arm Chair Expert.

What was the very first job you ever had?

I actually started babysitting for my neighbors when I was nine years old and that continued to be my job until I turned 14 and started working at a boarding facility for horses.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I think the opportunity to interact with so many different people,  the broad scope of what I do, and the access to constant learning.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

I would like to be highly involved in growing our program at Tahoma High School and Regional Learning Center. It is in my backyard and I see so much potential for Green River CE to be a positive force in this particular community.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

• Going back to school later in life and finishing my AA.
• Building friendships and relationships that are sustaining and meaningful.
• Never giving up on my goals.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

Well at the moment it is Clarky, a result of my first name sounding too much like another co-workers.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I would faint back stage so I guess we will never know.

If G.R.E.E.N. where an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Genuine

Riveted

Engagement in

Education

Nourishes

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Jennifer Joy

I am the incoming International Recreation Coordinator! Before coming to Green River, I was engaged in two positions abroad from August 2016 through November 2017. First, I taught high school English at a Nanjing University-affiliated public high school in China, and then continued on to a Fulbright English teaching grant in Malaysia.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I first zoned in on Green River when I learned how strong their international programs were for a school of this size and caliber. Once I saw a position offering the chance to work with international students in sports? I was locked in!

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

I enjoy sitting in the quiet peace that is unique to mornings for the first portion of my drive. In the last ten minutes before arriving at GRC, I'll probably turn to a Spotify or Pandora playlist of mine.

What was the very first job you ever had?

My very first position was teaching English at a Nanjing University-affiliated public high school in Nanjing, China.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

While maintaining the sports that we regularly provide (basketball, volleyball, soccer), I'm excited to seek out special programming and tournaments such as fun runs or Frisbee tournaments. I'm also excited to finally learn more about soccer, since it seems like everyone in my life just happens to be a huge fan.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

I expect that it will take a year for me to have a complete handle on this job, and an understanding of everything that the college offers. I'd love to just really know all the ins and outs of Green River.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

1. I was very proud to gain my bachelor's degree in Chinese language and history. I was a heritage speaker at home during my childhood, but formally studying the language really brought an additional layer of understanding and appreciation.
2. My experience with Fulbright Malaysia was unforgettable! Being awarded the fellowship in the first place was huge, but then living through that year in a rural and very conservative area of Malaysia was an enriching experience.
3. I'm proud of the relationship I have with my 2 sisters. They are my best friends and I'm always looking for the next chance to see them in person.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

Probably Joy… time and time again, people continuously do not know which is my first and last name. But I like both anyway, so it doesn't bother me!

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I imagine I would be in more of a supportive role… Someone is really experienced at baking cakes? I'm the taste tester. Someone is really knowledgeable about trivia? I'll act as the opposition to lift their performance higher. Someone is awesome at darts? I offer myself as tribute to hold the target…

If G.R.E.E.N. where an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Green River Excellence Entering Neighborhoods!

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Chelsea Falk

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

I am the newest Program Coordinator within the Financial Aid Office. I started my career in education as a high school biology teacher and transitioned recently into work surrounding college access. I worked most recently within the TRiO, Upward Bound, and Talent Search programs of a Tacoma non-profit organization; while there, I helped low-income, first generation students realize and achieve their college and career goals.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

In all honesty, a good friend came to Green River shortly before me and consistently told me of the intentional, student-centered work being done on campus here. The more she talked about it, the more I wanted to be a part of it! I looked towards the Financial Aid department in particular because I see it as an extension of my work in TRiO. Financial barriers and struggles in navigating a complex higher education system were huge hurdles for my high schoolers; I saw this position as a proactive way to act as a resource for students once they arrive at college.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

Depends on the day! Most days, I listen to practice tracks for my upcoming choir concerts. Other days, probably alternative rock (Nirvana-type stuff… makes for a nice commute!)

What was the very first job you ever had?

I was called a WayFinder. It was a temp job through a staffing agency that lasted about three months. An urgent care clinic moved from one building to another, and my job was to sit at the old building and redirect clients to the new building down the street. I was paid a few bucks over minimum wage, my best friend and I were the only two on the shift, and we saw maybe two people in a 40-hour work week. My job was to literally say "hi, are you looking for the urgent care? They've moved down the street. You'll take a left at the light (point) and then the next available right turn." It was so weird. But some good money before heading to college!

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

Easy! Helping students navigate this complicated process in a way that allows them to share that know-how with their communities. My hope and goal is to become useless; by that, I mean to focus on empowering and educating so that students feel as though they have the resources, supports, and knowledge to navigate the process on their own. Each time I see the "aha!" learning light-bulb go off as a student understands the process and their place in it, it's the best!

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

Well, at this point, just to fully understand financial aid! I've been told that takes a few years… but if I have the cognitive capacity to extend beyond my nose, I would love to be a part of developing resources and strategies that engage and empower students in the financial aid process. I am also passionate about being part of financial aid outreach to local schools.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

Wow, my whole life?! This might be too general, but every student that came through my classroom door was my proudest accomplishment in a different way, either through educating their mind or educating their heart. I am exceptionally proud of where my students are now, and love being able to see some of them around campus! Second, I was awarded the Vicki Lewis Humanitarian Service Award through Whitworth University's School of Education in 2011. Third, I found a way to have 12 fetal pigs last for 5 rounds of dissections with 35 students per class. I still don't know how, but I did it. OH! Fourth, my phenomenal husband and I have kept our cat alive for 6 years, so there's that.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

If I'm being honest, probably "Extra". I've heard some comments about my high energy! If not that, probably my most used phrase, "Umm, question".

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I can quote almost every "The Simpsons" episode ever made?! I know everyone expects me to say singing, but I sing in a big group for a reason. So unless anyone wants to join me on stage, Simpsons it is!

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Genuine Relationships Engage and Empower Newcomers

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Jason Ahlquist

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

I'm a graphic designer for Creative Services, under the Office of College Relations. I've been a designer or working in related positions for over twenty years. Most of my experience comes from the newspaper industry, where I had additional duties as a page editor and copy editor. During the onset of the dot-com revolution, I worked as a newsroom technology consultant for a software company that provided publishing solutions for newspapers and magazines. That position gave me the opportunity to help over a hundred publications across America learn and leverage the rapid technological changes happening in the industry.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I started here as a student, continuing a business degree that I'd started in Michigan. It has been my recent goal to use my creative talents, and what I've learned about the patterns of technological change over my career, to help people and institutions be better at pivoting ahead of trends and communicating course corrections effectively. Entrepreneurship seemed like a natural fit for that. But when the opportunity to live that purpose for an organization whose very charter is about equipping people with the tools to leverage change in their lives came along… well, that was a bit of a no-brainer.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

I live a six-minute walk from the main campus, so no parking struggles for me. In general, when my headphones are on, I'm generally listening to science fiction or non-fiction audio books or a mix of techno and old-school punk rock.

What was the very first job you ever had?

A friend and I shared a few paper routes in my hometown. We came up with a system where we could cover more territory together and have each other's back if we were sick.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I wake up every day excited about the opportunity to tell to someone out there that a college education is not out of their reach – that no matter who they are, where they start or what's in their way, they deserve the kind of life-improving changes that higher education can help with.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

Aside from producing great communication tools, I'd love to help nurture the "service" in Creative Services.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

• I raised two great kids who moved here with me from Michigan. My youngest, Hunter is a student here at Green River!
• I've spent most of my career working for institutions that exist to serve their community. I really feel like my work life has been full of purpose.
• In my spare time, from the year 2000 to 2016 (with some breaks here and there) I ran an entertainment website (marsdust.net) that let me interview famous writers, rock stars and artists. Last year, it let me get an hour-long interview with George RR Martin.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

I don't know… Headphones? I wear my headphone a lot when I need to focus on different tasks.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I've always wanted to try my hand at stand-up comedy.  But my hands would rather sit. (dodges tomatoes from the audience)

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Green

River:

Equipping

Everyone's

New…

Heather Foss

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Hi! My name is Heather Foss.  I'm the newest member of the Green River College Foundation Team, and serve as the Development Specialist who manages the scholarship process and alumni relations!  For the last 14 years I worked at another community college, and served in every position within the Foundation during that time!

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I'm super excited to be here!  I am alum of Green River and I've always lived in this community, growing up in Covington and living in Maple Valley for several years.  The prospect of carrying on the great work of scholarships, and building up our alumni program seemed like the perfect opportunity!

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

My commute is pretty short compared to what it used to be! – now I either catch a little Kiro Radio news or 96.5 on the way in!

What was the very first job you ever had?

Working in the x-ray department at Valley Orthopedic.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I'm particularly excited about re-launching our alumni program and really building on the great work that has already been done.  I'm also excited about our new scholarship software that makes applying for scholarships easier for students!

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

I would love to build up our alumni program; hold our first-of-many alumni events; and lay the groundwork, for years to come, as one of the best examples of a community college alumni program!

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

Can we make it four?  I have four great kiddos who I'm really proud of!

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

OMG I'm too new – I have no idea!

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

Maybe I would sing if it was the right song and could work up the courage to do it!

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Green

River

Education

Everyone

Needs

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Jaime Sterio

I am the Director of Recruitment & Outreach

After graduating from WSU (GO COUGS!) in 2009 I became an AmeriCorps member at Lake Washington Technical College. Once my term of service ended I moved back to Eastern Washington and worked at a winery in Benton City, where I learned the important tour guide skill of talking and walking backwards at the same time.  After mastering that I moved back to this side of the state and was Lake Washington Institute of Technology's Coordinator of Outreach & Recruitment for the past 6 years (for over 4 years I was their only recruiter).

What drew you to apply to Green River?

Several reasons; 1) I live in Auburn and have been commuting to Kirkland for 4 years so I was ready to work closer to home, 2) I was ready for a new challenge and Green River happened to have a position open in my area of expertise.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

Depends on my mood, but usually something in the genre of alternative or pop.  Lately I've been listening to Grace VanderWaal, The Score, or the soundtrack to The Greatest Showman.

What was the very first job you ever had?

A bank teller at a credit union

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

Working for a larger college; more people for me to collaborate with

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

Organizing an all-college open house

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

Graduating from college, buying a home, and loving who I am

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

Maybe, DisNerd – Disney nerd.  I love movies in general but I am a Disney/Pixar fan for sure.  I follow podcasts and blogs about Disney/Pixar that talk about changes in the parks, upcoming movie tidbits, new collectibles coming out, etc.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I can pogo stick.  It's been a while but, I can jump rope on a pogo stick, bounce a basketball, and pogo with no hands (not all at once, of course)

If G.R.E.E.N. where an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Gators

Revolutionize

Education

Experiences

Naturally

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Cathy Alston

My title is, Director of Workforce Education. I have been working in Higher Education for the past eight years. While in Higher Education, I have worked in different capacities throughout Student Services. I managed a Veterans Resource Center for Hopkinsville Community College, KY. Upon moving to the NW, I have worked at South Puget Sound Community College as the Military Outreach Specialist and Veterans Certifying Official. Later, for the same institution, I worked as an Educational Planner and managed the Worker Retraining Grant. In addition as an adjunct professor, I taught a Human Development course called "Enhancing Student Success."

Prior to working in Higher Education, much of my professional life has been working with military service-members and their families on military installations. I hold a Master's Degree in Education, and an undergraduate degree in Communication Arts.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

Green River College offers a wide range of degree options for students. Because of my involvement with Workforce Education, I was impressed with the quality of the short-term degrees and certificate programs that could result in high-wage employment for students. I was equally impressed that Green River College also offered Bachelors of Applied Science degrees. Green River College is committed to helping students achieve not just a job, but a career.

However, academics was not the only draw to this institution. Diversity, Equity and Inclusion were more than just words. It is the culture of the campus, from the President's Office all the way down the organizational ladder. As a person of color, this is extremely important to me, not just for myself professionally but for the students we are here to help towards completion.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

My go-to is NPR. Sometimes to switch things up, I will listen to leadership/management books through Amazon's Audible.  The most recent books that I have listened to on my commute from Olympia are, "Lean In: Women, Work and the Will to Lead" and "Who Moved My Cheese?"TED Talks are also another option that I will sometimes choose.

What was the very first job you ever had?

My very first job was working for the YMCA as a camp counselor for the summer.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

Aside from working with a great team, I am excited about the opportunity that I have to affect change. I have always desired a position that would allow me to make a difference in an impactful way. This position affords me the opportunity to be that agent of transformative change, not only for students but also for the organization.

What is one thing you would love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

During my first year, I believe it is more important to establish a collaborative culture with my colleagues across campus disciplines. I choose this as opposed to establishing processes or increasing FTE's because all these are possible, plus much more, through teamwork and collaboration.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

I am most proud of my marriage of 33 years, my two wonderful children (who are living happy and productive lives), and completing grad school while my husband was deployed to a war zone. I had to balance school and being a single mom for a year.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

Queen. Workforce Education is my kingdom and I run it!

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

No hidden talents. I've been told that no one tells a story quite like me.

If G.R.E.E.N. where an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

GROWING

READY

EXCELLENCE

ENERGIZED

NURTURING

Timothy Henry

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

My new title is Senior Director of Financial Services; I am a licensed CPA (thank you, Susan Davis) and have about 20 years of public sector accounting experience.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

Having worked here before, I knew it was a great environment with a lot of energy and dedicated staff. This position is just the right fit at the right time.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

Contemporary Urban Folk Rock Fusion

What was the very first job you ever had?

My very first job was picking blueberries. I may have stuck with it but ended up consuming a lot of my earnings.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

Leading a great team of people.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

Clean financial statement audit

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

• My 30+ year marriage
• My relationships with the great people I have met along the journey
• My BA, MBA, CPA—first in the family to go to college!

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

Carrying a tune in a bucket—in other words, none

If G.R.E.E.N. where an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Great

Reasoning

Eventually

Ends

Nonsense

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

International Student Advisor.

Zachary Williams

I worked in the International Programs office as a drop-in advisor for a little more than a year before moving to my current position.  Previous to GRC, I lived and worked in Japan for eight years.  First, I spent 3 years as an Assistant Language Teacher on the JET (Japanese Exchange and Teaching) Program in Shiga, Japan. Following that, I spent 5 years as the Director of International Education at Chuo University private high school in Yokohama, Japan.

Needless to say, I love Japan, and I love education!

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I was an exchange student myself when I was in high school and college.  When I saw the opportunity to give back to this community as an advisor, I knew it was my calling!  It has been a long road, but I'm so excited where it has taken me.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

I actually have only driven to work 2 times in the last year and a half.  Normally I ride my bike, or I bring my bike on the bus and ride home.  Regardless, I listen to a variety of Japanese bands (Jam Project, AKB48, Linked Horizon) and also enjoy listening to movie sound tracks (Gladiator, The Last Samurai, pretty much anything Hans Zimmer).

What was the very first job you ever had?

My very first job was as a paper boy.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

The opportunity to have an impact on the lives of my students is the most exciting.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

I would love to learn as much as I can about the entire process of recruiting, educating, and ultimately transferring our great students, and how I can improve that process for all parties.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

I've learned to speak and write Japanese at a high level, although I still have a long ways to go.  I've educated myself about personal finance to a high degree, so I know how money works.  Finally, I've developed a philosophy where I don't really let life get me down even when things aren't going my way.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

I can't even imagine. J

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I'm pretty good at Rocket League. J

If G.R.E.E.N. where an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Great Respect Eventually Earns Notice

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Elizabeth Rangel

• Coordinator for Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion-Retention & Community Relations.
• I worked almost 5 years at Highline College in Outreach and Admissions
• Before Highline, I worked in various ways in education from Kindergarten to the University.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I have always been an advocate for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. My dream is to one day be a Director of a Diversity or Multicultural Center. I was drawn by the position, but the day I walked on campus I felt like I was home.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

K-Love. My car is one of my sanctuaries and I spend a lot of time praying there.

What was the very first job you ever had?

My very first job I had was picking raspberries in the fields when I was 14 years old.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I love people! So the most exciting part is the ability to work alongside others that are just as passionate about loving others and being able to use my strengths in helping others.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

Meet others across campus and be foundationally strong in my department in order to be able to stretch, grow and develop my responsibilities in new ways.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

My stronger relationship with God.

My Daughter

The blessing of seeing those that I have worked with thrive and succeed more than they thought possible.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

I have been called Passion, Hope, and Light. I imagine it is because I love and encourage.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I would paint.

If G.R.E.E.N. where an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Greatness Requires Eternal Elevation Needed

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Staci Whitehouse

My new title is Human Resources Consultant 3/Classification and Compensation.  I came from working in the Kent School District, both in the classroom and for the administration. I have helped run our family construction and rental property business for the last twenty years and am a contributor to the Kent, Auburn and Renton Reporters.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

Green River is a great school with a beautiful campus that is ten minutes from my house—it doesn't get any better than that!

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

Country or rap or rock … okay, mostly country—I'm on a Sam Hunt kick right now.

What was the very first job you ever had?

In Cowiche — the little town where I grew up — students got a week off every fall to help the orchardists pick apples during harvest time; our paychecks coincided perfectly with the Yakima Valley Fair.  We made our money and blew it on corn dogs and haunted houses!

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I can organize the fun out of any activity, and that is what this position needs:  organization.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

Just making it through the first year will be an accomplishment in itself, full stop.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

The way my son and daughter love each other (they are 16 and 19), the longevity of my marriage (22 years) and the relationships I have in my life with friends and family.  Life is good.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

The "Questioner" because I never stop asking questions!

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I can still do a death drop on the bars…

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Go

Reach

Each

Expectation

Now

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Amanda Martin

Fiscal Technician 3/Cashiering

I spent 13 years working in retail, mainly management, and I have my cosmetology license.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I grew up on the campus. My dad is the carpentry instructor and my mom worked here as well. I also got my degrees and certificates from GRC!

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

Movin 92.5, music

What was the very first job you ever had?

Lab technician for a camera store – I developed film and pictures for customers. 1-hr photos are slim-to-none these days.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

Consistent schedule and weekends off to spend more time with my daughter.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

Personal growth in a different environment than retail.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

• Birth of my daughter
• Graduating college
• Becoming the first Target manager to be recognized as a Starbucks manager of the year (I ran Starbucks while at Target)

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

"Mrs. Graham" for my love towards Seahawks tight end, Jimmy Graham!

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

Singing

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Get

Ready for

Exciting and

Entertaining

New career

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

I am a Systems Administrator (IT Specialist 3). I've been working with computers in higher education for almost all of my working life, starting with working in my college music computer lab and recording studio. From there, I've moved on to bigger and better things, but I still enjoy putting my computer skills to use helping others learn.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I wanted to be in a bigger, more complex environment while still working in education; applying to Green River helped me meet those goals.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

Almost always music, but beyond that it really varies based on the day, my mood, the weather… I try to listen to a diverse mix of things to keep one genre or style from getting too stale.

What was the very first job you ever had?

I worked as a legal assistant and sometimes computer tech for my aunt.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I'm really looking forward to working with a new team on new technologies in a much bigger environment than I have before.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

I'd like to get to know all of the coffee shops in the area.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

• Achieving the Boy Scout rank of Eagle
• Graduating from college
• Being selected to perform with a Southern California honor orchestra

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

Though I work with computers, I have a fair amount of musical experience; I could perform some musical selections on my main instrument family, percussion instruments.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Good

Robots

Enter

Every

Network

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Title:  Instructor, Software Development

Professional Background:  I was a software developer at NCR Corporation in Dayton, Ohio and Sophia-Antipolis, France for 10 years, primarily writing marketing and help desk applications.  More recently, I did a short stint as a UW research analyst working on accessible mobile applications before becoming an independent web and application developer.  Three years ago, I started teaching software development courses as an adjunct at Highline College and then at Green River College.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

My former instructor, Tina Ostrander, had a strong influence on my decision to apply.  She is a fantastic ambassador for the college and its IT BAS – Software Development program, and she introduced me to the amazing faculty, staff and students with whom I now work.  Also, there's a huge need for qualified software developers in the industry right now and I really wanted to be a part of a bachelor program that is chartered with helping to meet that need.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

KCMS SPIRIT 105.3.

What was the very first job you ever had?

I had a small house cleaning / yard work "business" when I was in high school.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

Getting to help students learn about something that I'm passionate about — software development — and to see the skills and knowledge they develop make a positive impact in their lives.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

Finding a successful, happy balance between work and play!

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

• My three children, two of whom are at the UW and the other is a Running Start student at GRC.
• My marriage (we just celebrated our 24-year anniversary).
• Earning a Computer Science (second) BS degree at UW-Seattle while a full-time mom of three.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

Maybe Indy since I'm an independent software developer from Indiana.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I love to sing. ♫

If G.R.E.E.N. where an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Graphics,

Robotics &

Engineering

Enthusiasts

Network

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Title: Business Advisor for the SBDC.

My background includes working as a VP in New Business Development for a subsidiary of the largest bank of the world, having my own business, being a stay at home mom and working as a DJ at a Disco.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

Knowing that they were concerned about local small businesses and offered the position of Business Advisor.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

Talk Radio.

What was the very first job you ever had?

Babysitter.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

Helping small business owners in all forms.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

I would like to learn more about all that is available to me, whether it is GRC events or classes. Taking advantage of all the knowledge and creativity this college has to offer is exciting.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

Being a mom. My integrity. Helping others.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

Fun to work with. I enjoy my job and I am enthusiastic each day for the ability to help small businesses succeed and to work at GRC.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I am a business person with creative talent for helping businesses succeed. This talent does not translate well to a talent show.

If G.R.E.E.N. where an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

G – Growth of students, businesses and employees

R – Ready for the next step

E – Education

E – Enjoyment

N – Next generation of business owners

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

History Instructor for U.S. History and African-American Studies. I have been teaching since 2005 in the Bay Area shortly after graduating from grad school at George Washington University.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I spent the greater portion of the winter of 2016 & 17 applying to various positions & I came across the posting for Green River on LinkedIn.  It was something I knew I could excel at and I figured, "Why not?".

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

I either listen to KNBR 680 (Sports talk) or my iPod where I have songs & music ranging from Percy Faith to No Doubt to 2Pac.

What was the very first job you ever had?

I worked at Burger King as a cashier in the summer of '94 when I was 17 years old. I met & worked with some great people, but wasn't a huge fan of working there.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

Getting to know my new colleagues and finally having my own office!  I'm also looking forward to getting to know the students of GRC.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

Being able to replicate the success I had w/ my students at Diablo Valley College & Las Positas College, w/ the students at GRC & lose the "new" instructor label, so to speak.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

• My daughter, Grace
• Coming up w/ original research for my thesis that impressed James McPherson
• Being an inspiration for students I have instructed

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

Pop Culture because of my knowledge of TV shows, music & movies (& deep love for them!)

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

Playing my bass guitar and my impersonations of some famous figures.

If G.R.E.E.N. where an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Green

River – an

Energizing

Exciting

New beginning

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

My new title is Integrated Reading and Writing Instructor.

I returned to teaching four years ago after having a career in higher-education publishing.  I first taught for an organization that takes college classes into Washington State Prisons.  That work was especially rewarding as people inside prison are often hungry for learning.  I also taught at South Seattle Colleges, facilitated writing workshops for returning veterans at the VA Puget Sound, and have done instructional design work for the State Board of Community and Technical Colleges.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

Two things: the integrated reading and writing position spoke directly to my experience and interests, and I'd visited Green River when I worked in publishing, and always got a good feeling about both the students and instructors.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

I listen to a lot of NPR  in the morning.  Other than that, it might be a mix of 80s music, punk rock, or even some newer hip hop.  My kids are beginning to influence my tastes.

What was the very first job you ever had?

I think the first job I ever had was at a video store, which I loved because it meant I had access to a lot of movies.  Something we take for granted these days with streaming services.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

The courses I teach are at the beginning of a student's college career.  I love the opportunity of being able to provide practical tools and strategies for success that they'll (hopefully) apply throughout college, and likely beyond in their professional lives.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

I want to focus on learning more about the Green River student community, and ensure the courses I develop/teach respond to, and serve their needs.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I'd probably make everyone a meal.  Maybe Mejadra, a lentil and rice dish I like to cook that I learned from a cookbook called Jerusalem.

If G.R.E.E.N. where an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Get

Ready for

Engaging

Education

Now

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Hi, I'm a new Tenure-Track English Composition instructor at Green River. The year I graduated with a B.A. in English in my native country of Chile, I worked as an exchange instructor of Spanish at Central Washington University. While there I obtained a Master's degree in English Literature and worked in several community colleges until I was hired by Green River College 13 years ago.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I applied as an adjunct at Green River for its proximity to my new home back then. I stayed for its people, both students and colleagues; for its beauty; and for its excellence.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

Anything NPR, podcasts like Fresh Air, StoryCorps, Wait, Wait…Don't Tell Me! And lots of books.

What was the very first job you ever had?

I worked as a tour guide at a museum in Frutillar, Chile.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

Working with wonderful colleagues, both Full-time and adjunct. Being more directly involved in decisions concerning the school, such as committees, curricular decisions, etc.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

Tenure!

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

My children!

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

They already do. My birth name is Carolina, but in grad school my classmates started calling me Lina because my name was often mispronounced as the salad dressing (Catalina) by those who found rolling their r's a bit of a challenge.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I can knit scarves for the show judges!

If G.R.E.E.N. where an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Great

Rad

Excellent

Evergreen

Nonpareil!

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

I am a One-Year Temporary Math Instructor.  I got my Bachelors in Electrical Engineering at University of Washington and Masters in Mathematics at Washington State University.  After my Masters program, I worked as a part-time instructor for North Seattle College, South Seattle College, Highline College and of course, Green River College.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I have been a part-time instructor for Green River College for 9 years.  I love the environment around the school.  Sometimes, I walk on the trails in the forest.  However, what I love the most is the atmosphere of the Math department.  When I come to work, I don't feel I go to a job.  I feel like I am coming back home.  Everyone is like a family.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

I like listening to Chinese songs and radio 106.9.

What was the very first job you ever had?

I was a PC technician.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I think the most exciting thing about the job is I have a lot of time getting to know my students and to helping them when they need me.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

I would like to become a full-time instructor.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

Receiving my Masters degree

Marrying my wife

Becoming a math instructor

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

Polo man, since I love to wear Polo shirts.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I could be a singer.

If G.R.E.E.N. where an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Green River Excellent Education iNstitution

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

My name is Candis Eckert, and I am the new Director of TRiO. Prior to this role, I served as a TRiO program manager for a nonprofit organization in Tacoma working with the Tacoma, Bethel, and Franklin Pierce school districts.  In addition, I also served as a K-12 teacher in the public school system for over four years.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

Green River was an appealing campus community for many reasons.  For one thing, the campus is extremely lush and beautiful!  It's definitely a calm and peaceful atmosphere.  More importantly, I appreciated the fact that Green River is extremely focused on being student-centered.  In addition, knowing that diversity and equity was on the forefront of the college's mission was something that really resonated with me and the work I hope to do.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

I'm a bit embarrassed to admit but I listen to a podcast that discusses paranormal and crime activity around the world.

What was the very first job you ever had?

I had two first jobs at the same time – one was as a front desk associate for a children's museum and the other was a cashier at Panera.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

There are a few reasons why it's exciting for me. First and foremost, I'm excited to work with a community of students who are hoping to pursue higher education and a path that they are passionate about.  I've always loved being a mentor and guide to students with regards to their academic and career journey so continuing that work here at Green River is exciting!  This position also allows for a lot of creativity and innovation so the potential possibilities are endless.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

In my first year, I would love to build many relationships with staff and faculty in the hopes of creating collaborative partnerships.  We all have the common goal of supporting our students' success, and I think by joining forces, we can be a powerful network to create positive ripples within our student population.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

My three accomplishments are:

• I'm the first in my family to graduate from a 4-year university
• I used to be the kid who thought I wasn't smart enough and wouldn't get far in school. Now I'm pursuing my doctorate degree and am halfway done.
• Getting this job!

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

Probably the snack fairy – I like to bring in treats when I can, and I'm a firm believer that food can bring people together.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I would showcase my rusty piano skills. While I haven't played in over 12 years, I used to play piano for quite some time!

If G.R.E.E.N. where an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Gator

Ran

Everyday

Eating

Nachos

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

I am the new Program Coordinator for the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion.

I recently graduated from the University of Washington as a Political Science and American Ethnic Studies double major.

My professional background includes a lot of work with programming. From organizing a national conference to planning yearly conferences for high school students, I enjoy putting on events and working with students.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

One of my really good friends worked at Green River at the time and sent me the job posting. I looked through it and thought it would be a great fit for me. I didn't know much about Green River but I thought it would be an awesome opportunity for me.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

I usually blast SZA and put her Ctrl album on repeat.

What was the very first job you ever had?

My very first job was being an orientation leader at the UW. I really enjoyed working with students and being able to connect with them and their families. I also got to eat delicious food every day and meet many really cool people.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I love how much I get to interact with students, especially underrepresented students, because I can personally relate to many of the things they are going through. I am also excited to work for ODEI because I have a lot of experience doing work that ties to diversity, equity and inclusion so I'm excited to put my knowledge and experience to use.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

After the first year, I hope many of the students that come to our office will see me as someone they can trust and come to when they need help. Whether it's having a conversation or coming in to ask about resources, I hope students feel safe and comfortable coming to me.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

• Getting into college with $80,000 in scholarships
• Graduating college
• Planning a 700+ person national conference

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

Lil' D because I'm the youngest one in the office.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I would perform a spoken word poem. It's not much of a hidden talent though because I do performances as a side thing.

If G.R.E.E.N. where an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Green

River's

Energy is

Exciting and

Never-ending

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

I am the new TRiO  office assistant. I came to TRiO from International Programs at GRC, where I was a part-time program assistant for the Business & Admissions office. (Miss you guys!)

In another life, before I had kids, I worked for the Prosecuting Attorney's office. I also worked as a Russian/English interpreter, an insurance agent and have a strong interest in social media management.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I have always liked college campuses. I really enjoy the atmosphere of learning, new ideas, and looking towards the future. I wanted to work in higher education & looked for jobs at GRC. It is inspiring to be around people, young and not so young, who are pursuing their dreams. GRC has a beautiful campus and the people I have worked with have been amazing.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

I use Google Play app to listen to my music playlists or to podcasts. Some recent favorites are Financial Fientist, Philosophize This and The Science of Social Media.

What was the very first job you ever had?

Every kid's dream job – the candy store. I worked for Columbia Candy Kitchen in Columbia, CA, in Gold Rush country. Handmade candy made from old recipes passed down from a Norwegian grandfather. Stop by if you are ever on your way to Yosemite! I still buy their candy.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I get to learn about another program and more about how the college works. I met more amazing people and am excited to be a part of a, mostly, all new team and help implement the new vision for the TRiO program at GRC. I enjoy meeting all the students that come to us too.

What is one thing you'd love to acc omplish in your first year at Green River?

I plan to learn as much as I can about the different departments and programs. I hope to be able to add something valuable to the TRiO program and to help make it an even greater success. Also, I have been inspired to go back to school myself. So maybe take a class and experience the college as a student as well.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

Making it through the competition to become an AFS exchange student when I was 16 – the first high school exchange between the US and the USSR. That year has changed the course of my life. And from then on, I am very happy with everything that I was able to build in the USA: family, friends, work and opportunities.

If your coworkers  were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

Hmm, now I am curious myself. Perhaps I will ask.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I am an open book. I would have to quickly research and learn a talent, then hide it.

If G.R.E.E.N. where an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Great

Resources

Excellent

Education

Network

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Greetings!  My name is Emily Beals, and my new title at GRC is "Accelerated Composition Specialist: English Faculty."  I am certainly excited to roll up my sleeves and get to work!  I graduated with my Masters of Arts degree with Distinction in Composition Theory from California State University, Fresno in May 2016 where I was part of a dynamic teaching pedagogy training program.  For my three years working on my graduate degree, I was able to work as the instructor of record for numerous transfer-level composition courses, as well as the university's meaningful Summer Bridge and Early Start programs.

My thesis, The Contemplative Composition Classroom: Ontological Pedagogy for Meaningful Reading and Writing, continues to guide the Contemplative and Compassionate pedagogical practices I implement within each of my classes.  This study includes qualitative and quantitative data research from actual composition courses that reveals the incredible benefits of such implementation, especially within the first year writing classroom.  By creating these contemplative spaces within the writing classroom, the NCTE's Framework for Success in Post-Secondary Writing is advanced in practical and surprising ways.  This can especially be seen when examining the Framework's "Habits of Mind":  Curiosity, Openness, Engagement, Creativity, Persistence, Responsibility, Flexibility, and Metacognition (NCTE 4-5).  In fact, the research I've done on this topic has led to my more recent and current areas of study: 1. The applications of contemplative practices for the composition instructor, and 2. The adaptation and inclusion of mindfulness-based practices to the grading contract construct.

My academic involvement has provided an excellent platform for social justice activities especially during my graduate school career when I worked as the Statewide President for UAW Local 4123, the union that represents all the Teaching Associates, Graduate Assistants, and Instructional Student Aides within the entire California State University system (24 universities!).  During my tenure as the president of the Local, I led the organization of membership to the eventual contract negotiations and implementation of Teaching Associate Tuition Waivers for the Cal State, Fresno campus – a first time in the school's 100+ year history.  This monumental event started a grassroots movement for the inclusion of same policy throughout the other Cal State Universities – a movement that is changing the equitability and fair labor practices for graduate student employees throughout the state.  I continue to look for ways I can become involved in the advocacy of equitability and rights especially throughout the academic arena.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

Not only does the job completely reflect me and my experience, but GRC is in the area of the country where my husband and I have been longing to relocate.  This is especially true since my youngest son, Tyler, plays football and is attending Pacific University in Forest Grove, Oregon.  I'm a football mama down to my core, so being only 3 hours away from him will allow me to attend those games on Saturdays.  I could keep listing all the ways GRC drew me in, but, simply put, everything I read about, all the staff I've met, and all the students I have been privileged to speak with ALL radiate with the energy and purpose that aligns with my teaching and my personality.  I can't wait to get up there and get to meet everyone!

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

What I listen to on my way to work varies greatly on what kind of mood I'm in that morning.  Sometimes I prefer silence as I use that time to focus my thoughts for the day ahead; other times I feel like l need to know what's going on in the world, so I might tune into NPR or BBC News; then other times, I might want to sing my heart out, in which case, you'll find me listening to (and singing along with) Michael Franti & Spearhead, Train, or Alanis Morissette (Michael Franti is my all-time favorite!).

What was the very first job you ever had?

My first literal job was as a professional singer when I was only 9-years old – I continued singing professionally all my life (but that's another story and is best told over a few glasses of wine or a couple beers!).  My very first traditional job, however, was as a babysitter.  Babysitting earned me all my spending money from the time I was 12 until I got my first "real" job at The House of Fabrics – a fabric store in the local mall in Huntington Beach, California, where I grew-up.  As an interesting side note, I actually received my very first paycheck as a professional singer when I was only 9-year old!

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

There are so many exciting things about this new position.  I should probably say a bunch of pedagogical stuff here, but, in all honesty, the MOST EXCITING thing about it is that it's actually a tenure track position at an AMAZING college where I know I can learn, grow, and evolve in my teaching and leadership skills.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

In my first year at GRC, I'd love to start a faculty mindfulness meditation group AND a student mindfulness and self-compassion group.  I'd also like to accomplish a strong start for my first year in my tenure process, gain some insights about how to implement a service-based writing course, and engage in several meaningful committees on campus.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

My three accomplishments:  1.  My two amazing sons, Garrett and Tyler;  2. Overcoming incredible adversity after the death of my first husband; and 3. Completing my undergraduate and graduate degrees with high honors as a non-traditional student all while raising two children and working several jobs (if I had a 4^th – taking a risk on an online dating site where I met my fabulously wonderful current husband of 9 years – without his encouragement I would not have had the courage to complete my degrees).

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

(I had to actually ask my coworkers about this one!)

One of my coworkers, who shared an office with me for 3-years and then we continued adjuncting together, always calls me "Mama B."  When I asked him why he calls me that, he responded with this kind remark, "You have a very nurturing spirit and you are always there to listen and give advice to both your colleagues and your students."  Another coworker responded to this statement by saying, "Yep, Jacob has dialed in perfectly to your nickname!"  So, I'm sticking with it, even though it kind of makes me feel old, let's go with "Mama B!"

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

As mentioned previously, I was (and occasionally STILL am) a professional singer.  What I didn't mention was that I also play piano and write songs. And, for the record, I think it totally SHOULD exist!

If G.R.E.E.N. where an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

G – Green

R – River:

E – Excellent

E – Education

N – Non-stop!!!!

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Full-Time Biology Faculty. I am a lover of nature, in particular the insects. I got my Ph.D from the University of Kansas.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I was a student here and I loved the forest. I moved back to this area because of the mountains and Green River was the perfect place to want to land.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

103.7 ALL DAY EVERY DAY. Suga Rae all day every day!

What was the very first job you ever had?

Working at Diary Queen, making myself the thickest Oreo blizzards possible.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

Having the benefits of a permanent position, specifically making community connections and becoming part of the community on and off campus. .

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

Start undergraduate research on honeybees.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

1. I have been the best man in 4 of my friends' weddings.
2. My two children
3. Never losing sight that all life is connected, physically.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

The Bee Man. I think it is already there.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I would play Beethoven's Moonlight Sonata on the piano.

If G.R.E.E.N. where an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Green River Ecology and Evolutionary Nexus.    BELIEVE IT!

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

I'm the newest tenure-track Chemistry instructor here at Green River College!  I started out as a process engineer designing flares, process burners, and thermal oxidizers.  I enjoyed parts of that job but missed the varied human interactions of academia.  After a merger put me out of a gig I picked up teaching at Tulsa Community College and fell in love with it.  For the last four years I have been teaching Chemistry and Engineering classes at Tulsa CC and now am looking forward to teaching Chemistry at Green River.

What drew you to apply to Green River

Three reasons:

1. A community college is a college of the community – if you like the community you'll love working at that college. Auburn is a diversity-rich town with a great group of people that reflect the inclusive strength of a pluralistic culture. What's not to love!
2. Hiking trails – when I need a break from writing an awesome, but tough, exam I'll be able to clear my head by hiking!
3. Word of mouth – Green River is a well-regarded institution of higher education in this area.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

Jazz, Blues, and NPR news

What was the very first job you ever had?

Medical Library Assistant – I can shelve a cart of heavy journals in 10 minutes flat and navigate PubMed to find the craziest medical journal articles

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

I'm excited to work with a group of chemistry instructors committed to involving the students in the learning process through active learning.  I want to be the best instructor I can be for the students of today by reducing my "sage on the stage" lectures and increasing my active learning lectures.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

I am going to spend some of my office hours in the library's tutoring center to help students with Chemistry, Engineering and Physics.  Tutoring improves my ability to explain tough concepts and has been a part of my work as an instructor since the beginning.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

1. In 2012, I participated in NaNoWriMo – National Novel Writing Month.  During November of that year I wrote 50,000 words of a science fiction novel, completing the goal for that challenge.  I haven't finished the book yet.  I hope to within the next ten years if I can get my main character to relinquish their stereotypical viewpoints.
2. I redesigned two allied health chemistry courses at Tulsa CC into one combined course for the Dental Hygiene Program.  The course became more focused on Dental Hygiene specific applications and reduced the degree credit hours by 3 credits.
3. I married the love of my life back in 2010, taking a new last name of our own making.  We chose Centauri as a last name because we are both passionate about space exploration.  As the closest star system, the Centauri binary star system has often been used in science fiction literature as our closest space waystation.  We also chose Centauri because it is a binary star system.  The physics of it is utterly romantic.  There are two stars (Alpha and Beta Centauri) that are caught in
4.  each other's gravitational pull, held in the same space by the force of attraction between them due to their masses.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

Sunny – I am an eternal optimist.  I try to find the good in everyone; even the ones who say they hate chemistry.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

Since this talent show doesn't actually exist then I'll add that this talent show also has an exhibit hall where those whose talents are not in performance art could display their creations.  I would display the crocheted amigurumi animals that I've made.  My most recent creation is a T-Rex that I've named Rita Reptar as an homage to my recently deceased grandmother Rita Zinno and the 90's TV show Rugrats.  This 8" tall green T-Rex with blue stripes is a gift for my 2-year-old niece who is loves going to the natural history museum to see the dinosaurs.

If G.R.E.E.N. where an acronym for something, what wo uld each letter stand for?

Gators

Return

Eager to

Educate

Nightly

It's an acronym for a coalition of evening adjunct instructors who used to teach full time – perhaps they meet up for post-class pie and conversation at Denny's monthly?

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

I am a Secretary Lead for the Science Department. I have 20 years of patient care in healthcare with a strong background in Radiology.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I've wanted to work in a school or college environment for a long time. I saw this as a chance to do so.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

The Blend on Sirius XM

What was the very first job you ever had?

Babysitting

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

This position is a different environment than I have worked in for years. The transition from healthcare to school is very exciting to me.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

I would like to immerse myself in the college community. I believe this will help with my transition into working at Green River.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

1. Being hired at a higher education school
2. Raising my children to be good, moral, upstanding adults.
3. I'll need to see what accomplishments are still waiting for me.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

Probably Monica Geller. I love to organize everything and have a tendency to be a perfectionist.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

Organizing closets

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?
Generous
Resourceful
Enthusiastic
Energetic
New

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Assistant Director of Campus Safety and Transportation. 22 years in the Army in various fields to include Military Police.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I worked here a contracted Safety staff from September of 2016 to April 2017. During that time, I fell in love with the staff, faculty, and here on campus. In April of 2017, I filled in as the Interim Assistant Director of Safety and Transportation. I learned a great deal during my Interim status in this position. This solidified my decision to apply for the position.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

I listen to either news or comedy.

What was the very first job you ever had?

I was a dishwasher at a local restaurant during high school.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

Learning the administrative aspects of Safety and Transportation.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

Completing the implementation of a successful Building Captain Program.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

Having my daughter, retiring from the military, and completing my BA degree.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

Tony Stark, because I love gadgets and technology.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I have no hidden talent whatsoever.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?
Giving
Real
Excellent
Education
Nice

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

I am the Executive Assistant to the VP of Human Resources and Legal Affairs. My professional background includes a number of education-based administrative roles (Duke University Housing Management, Boston University Biomedical Engineering Department, Houghton Mifflin Company College Division), a couple of interesting outliers (Energenix Co and Nat't Bureau of Economic Research) and lots of professional singing.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I found out about the position opening and knew this would be an opportunity to both get back to campus work and continue going in the general HR-centered direction I had been going the past few years.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

If not my "iPod" on shuffle, I'm usually inclined to turn on NPR.

What was the very first job you ever had?

If we're not counting the summers spent cutting grass for my grandmothers, my first job was as an assistant in the housing management office for Duke's (then) North Campus.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

Getting to see a new side of campus life and digging into expanded HR functions.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

Getting a really good grasp of the various systems at play so that I can become an effective partner.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

• Living (even for a short time) in the New York City world
• Continuing to sing professionally
• Learning to play tennis after 30

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

I already have one: Duke. It's a callout to my alma mater: Duke University.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I would probably sing an aria.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?
Great
Reasoning
Entirely
Evades
Nebulousness

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Air Force Veteran served for 7 years.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I had previously worked at Seattle Central Community College part time and enjoyed and enjoyed the college environment.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

NPR, alt rock, folk rock, blues, bluegrass, country, rap, classical.

What was the very first job you ever had?

Washing airplanes at a flight school.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

A chance to see new processes and how they might improve.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

As much as I can.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

• I like to cook, it started out with some not so good food. It's gotten a lot better.
• I taught myself to sail with a 27ft racing sloop and a book I didn't read.
• The patience you learn as your get older to do the job right.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

No nicknames we gave in the military were ever nice or politically correct.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I have no hidden talent.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?
Green
Roosters
Enjoying
Eeating
Nuts

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

My name is Alexandra "Alex" Reyes. I am joining Green River College as a Workforce Education Coordinator. I have worked in higher education since 2007, having held positions as an Administrative Assistant, Financial Planner, and Registrar. At my previous campus, I was a WFSE Shop Steward, Employee of the Year nominee, and created campus-wide prototypes for the tenure notebook process.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

There were multiple things that drew me to apply to GRC. The campus is beautiful and peaceful! I wanted to work in an environment that was dedicated and passionate about working with students. I firmly stand by GRC's mission and vision to ensure student success through comprehensive educational programs and support services responsive to our diverse communities and to be ranked among the very best in student completion and success and be an invaluable community partner with robust and diverse revenue streams (www.greenriver.edu).

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

Lately I have been listening to Spotify's "Acoustic Covers" station. I'll also listen to Hot 103.7 for some great throwback songs.

What was the very first job you ever had?

My very first "real" job was as a sales associate at the Navy Exchange Fine Jewelry Department. I learned a lot about providing excellent customer service, sales, and inventory… even how to read diamonds and other gems.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

The most exciting part of being in my position is getting to work one-on-one with students, and helping them change their lives! Giving back to the community and watching students succeed in their goals is exciting, and if we can help them fund their education, that's even better!

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

One thing I would love to accomplish in my first year at GRC is watching the first GRC students I have worked with in Workforce Education graduate. When working with students, you work with them through their ups and downs, and watching them walk on stage to get their diploma is the most fulfilling thing about working in higher education.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

The three accomplishments I am most proud of are:

• Working on my master's degree
• Continuing to raise the coolest kid ever while working full-time and going to school full-time
• …Saving 15% or more by switching to Geico… :-)

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

"Central" because I am coming to GRC from Seattle Central College.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

Hmm… I can sing any Disney princess song *perks of having a five year old*

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?
Great
Remarkable
Encourage
Engage
Nourish

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

I am a new Program Coordinator here at the Assessment and Testing Center. I actually graduated with my AA here at GRC and then transferred to UW Tacoma afterward where I just received my Bachelor's in Art, Media, and Culture with a focus in Literature in June of this year. Prior to coming here, I used to work in primary education as an After School Program Leader.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

I thought it would be nice to come back as an employee to help students who may be struggling, looking for guidance, and paving their way for a better future, just like I was when I was a student here. Being in the assessment and testing center, I hope to be a happy and welcoming face for those coming in stressed out and nervous before taking their test.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

I mostly listen to Korean and Japanese music in the car, but the genres I listen to range from hip-hop, ballad, R&B, acoustic, instrumental to alternative.

What was the very first job you ever had?

The very first job I had was when I was 16, and it was in the mall. It was at a place called Daiso, which is a $1.50 Japanese store!

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

The most exciting thing about my position is getting to interact with students. I look forward to meeting all kinds of students and becoming acquainted with them throughout their journey here at GRC.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

The thing I want to accomplish the most this year is just remembering all of the passwords, procedures, departments, and names of my colleagues here at GRC.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

• The first would be having my family see me walk during my graduation.
• The second one is actually not my own, but is for my husband. I am always proud of his successes and the progress that he has made being a 1^st generation immigrant here in the U.S. It can be difficult living in a new country, so I am always proud of his perseverance and ability to maintain a positive mindset.
• Lastly, I am proud of the bracelet I made with my elementary students during summer camp. You'll probably see me wearing this around campus most days.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

That's a good question. I am not sure what kind of nickname they would give me yet! I guess I'll have to wait and find out.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

I'm pretty good at picking stuff up with my feet, but is that even a talent? Other than that, I make all sorts of miniature things out of clay! If you want a mini clay animal or piece of food, just let me know.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?
Get
Ready to
Educate and
Enrich
New Students

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

My new title is Program Coordinator at Financial Aid office and before that I was working as Program Assistant for the same office.

What drew you to apply to Green River?

Beautiful campus and opportunity to work with interesting and talented people many of whom I already know since I was GRC student myself.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?

My ride is very short – I live 1.5 mi from GRC so I usually don't listen to anything. On the days when we carpool with my daughter (she is a student here) we use that time to catch up with each other.

What was the very first job you ever had?

Picking apples in the orchard. It was a seasonal job and lasted couple of weeks.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

The opportunity to work with the students and help them to succeed.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?

I want to master some aspects of my job and get to know more people.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

My biggest accomplishment is raising my children to be the people they are becoming. Also getting my degree while being a full-time mom and a first-generation college student, and my job.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?

Don't know…need to ask them.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?

Well I can bake and decorate a cake.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?
Great
Resources for
Exceptional
Education
Now

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.
My name is Gustavo (Tavo), and I work in the student life office as a program assistant. I am ecstatic to begin my professional career at Green River College and embark on new adventures and challenges.

What drew you to apply to Green River?
I was a community college student at one point and always had the desire to inspire, in others, a passion for a higher education as my mentors once did with me.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?
My car ride to and from work is rather long, so music is always important in my car. I am a fan of many different music genres, but some of my all-time favorites include- Aretha Franklin, Dolly Parton, Carol King, Frank Sinatra, Kelly Clarkson and of course, Broadway showtunes!

What was the very first job you ever had?
The very first job I had was as a reading tutor. I worked with elementary school kids to ensure they were being exposed to literature and had the proper resources to explore all kinds of literature.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?
What I am most excited about is connecting with students and staff. Getting to know my community is very important as it will allow me to better assist others and make a greater impact all around.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?
During my first year at GRC, I'd love to build connections and get to know people from different departments on campus. I believe that greater things are achieved when you work together and collaborate with others.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?
One of my biggest accomplishments has been graduating college. I am a first generation graduate, so this was a very important event in my life.  Second, stepping out of my comfort zone and joining a cheer squad.  Third, waking up this morning…hey, waking up is always an accomplishment for me!

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?
Currently, my coworkers call me "Tavo." It's a shortened version of my name and is fun to pronounce.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?
I guess I would consider dancing and singing my hidden talents. Also, making people smile – smiling is essential!

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?
Generosity
Responsibility
Efficiency
Empowerment
Neighborly

Posted on behalf of Claire Gorenstein, Human Resources Consultant

Green River College's service awards presentation is just around the corner — on Opening Day, Tuesday, September 19^th.  Over fifty employees will be honored for their service to Green River College, ranging from five to forty years.

Many of our service award recipients began as part-time hourly employees and adjunct faculty. Cyndi Rapier, who began her International Programs career as a temporary part-time hourly Housing Assistant and Host Family Coordinator, appreciated the flexibility her hourly positions provided at that time in her life. Later, in October of 2001, she was hired into a permanent appointment working full-time, managing the International Student Housing Placement Program. Cyndi now serves as Director of International Housing. Green River is grateful to Cyndi and all our award recipients for their many years of service!

See 2017 Service Award Recipients below:

5 Years

• Corey Alix
• Edward Bloch
• Crystal Bolt
• Robin Bowles
• Natalya Bronitskiy
• Adam Brown
• Tim Broxholm
• Sheila Capps
• Srey Chea
• Heather Cornelius
• Sarah Dillon Gilmartin
• Lisa Finnsson
• Jamie Fitzgerald
• Kendrick Hang
• Kirsten Higgins
• Pam Kikillus
• George "Joey" Kissel
• Samuel Le
• Krishnan "Krish" Mahadevan
• Douglas Moran
• Kim Mucke
• Catherine Ushka
• Anthony Warnke

10 Years

• Darla Abraham
• Barry Bannister
• Mary Butcher
• Stephenie Cheng-Laboyne
• Jackie Easley
• Linda Flanigan
• Jeremy Hawks
• Cynthia Lemberg
• Lindsey Morris
• Erin Fernandez-Mommer
• Inja Parker
• Ron Riley
• Joshua Staffieri
• Catherine Wells
• Jamie Wells

15 Years

• Cynthia Rapier
• Patty Sherman

25 Years

• Crystal Gilliland
• Diana Holz
• Steve Kinholt
• Tawnya McLavey
• Shirley Quenga
• Harry Rosemond
• Socorro Trapp

30 Years

• Michael McVay
• Laura Moore-Mueller

40 Years

• Joe Baker

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.
I am the New Media Specialist on the College Relations team. I most recently worked in the private sector building and managing websites along with managing social media as a Digital Communications and Marketing Specialist. Prior to that I worked as a Digital Communications Specialist at the Phoenix Zoo in Arizona where I managed the zoo's social media, website, and communications efforts.

What drew you to apply to Green River?
After working in the private sector I really wanted to return to a position working for a public facing organization that was making a positive impact in people's lives.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?
I like to station hop and will find whatever suits my current mood.

What was the very first job you ever had?
The first paid job I ever had was working in the promotions/events department for a local chapter of Radio Disney. We would go out to events to entertain crowds, play games, and do giveaways.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?
I'm excited to be working for an organization that is impacting so many people.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?
I'd love to succeed in amplifying content and increasing engagement across Green River's social media channels.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

• Recently becoming a father and welcoming my twin daughters into the world,
• moving back to the Pacific Northwest (to stay!) after seven years away living in Phoenix,
• and finding a career that I enjoy and am truly passionate about.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?
I'd be known as "Zookeeper" because of my history working as a professional zookeeper with a variety of animals, along with ten years working within zoos & aquariums.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?
With two seven-week-olds at home my current talents seem to be drinking lots of coffee and functioning on little sleep.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?
Grevy's Zebra
Reticulated Giraffe
Elephants
Eland
North American Sea Otter – Ask me about some of the animals I've worked with!

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.
I'm the new Small Business Advisor for Green River's Small Business Development Center down on the Kent Campus.

Before I joined Green River, I most recently helped run marketing for Weyerhaeuser's Wood Products business. Reaching farther back, I have a history in education too as I served as the Assistant Director in charge of marketing and membership for WWU's Alumni Association.

What drew you to apply to Green River?
I currently serve as an adjunct in the BAS in Marketing and Entrepreneurship program, and saw this as a great opportunity to take it to the next level, and better serve my community, by joining the Green River team in a full-time role!

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?
Usually nothing … the car ride is my time to think.

What was the very first job you ever had?
Lifeguard at the local YMCA.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?
The ability to work with individuals as they pursue their dream of starting a new business!

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?
Sometimes the simple things are the most important … and truthfully, I just want to learn everyone's name!

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

• First and foremost, that I have a happy family, and healthy 2-year old daughter.
• I've been lucky enough to travel the country and see so many great sights along the way.
• That I've been able to make it this far in my career with never having to put on a tie.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?
I don't know why, but everyone at every job I've ever had has always just called me "Mauck" (my last name … I guess it's fun to say or something). But I also answer to "hey you" pretty well, too.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?
It'd be hard to show on the stage at a 'talent show', but take me to the river and I'd show everyone that I'm a pretty darn good kayaker!

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?
You know, it is really hard to write an acronym like this … so, here's the best I can do …

Green River is Excellent for Education Necessities

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.
I have done a little of everything. I have been a substitute teacher, a bellman/concierge, a real estate salesman, a tax pro for H&R block, a messenger for Brinks, Inc. riding in the back of an armored truck delivering cash and valuables. Marty currently works as a mail carrier in the GRC Mailroom.

What drew you to apply to Green River?
My wife alerted me, and she also works here. It has been a great first day.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?
105.3FM or 950 sports or 98.1 classical.

What was the very first job you ever had?
I was a pizza cook for Straw Hat Pizza. (home of the deep dish pizza for those of us seasoned enough to remember the 70s and 80s).

What about your new position is most exciting for you?
It's not my old position. Seriously, everything is fresh and exciting, and everyone is so polite and friendly!

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?
Being the best I can be and doing my job at a high level.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

• Making the good choice to marry my wife.
• Handling over 100 billion dollars in cash for brinks and never losing a dollar.
• I got a hole in one at Christy's golf club in Milton (course no longer exists).

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?
Not sure. I guess we'll be surprised!

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?
My ability to listen and encourage someone.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Great Responses Encourage Everyone Nicely

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.
I am the Coordinator of Recreation & Athletics. I will be managing the Recreation & Athletics Center (RAC) and be responsible for the operations and programming associated with the RAC. I have been doing collegiate recreation for 7.5 years. The past two years I was the Facilities & Operations Graduate Assistant in the Campus Recreation Department at Missouri State University.

What drew you to apply to Green River?
I am from Puyallup, and I wanted to start my career near home. Additionally, Green River has an excellent reputation, beautiful campus, diverse student population, etc. I felt like I fit in ever since I took my first step on campus.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?
I am a hip hop/rap/R&B guy. Also, I am a podcast guy. Everything from the Bill Simmons Podcast, Joe Rogan Experience, etc.

What was the very first job you ever had?
I was a baseball umpire for youth baseball when I was 16. I umped the machine pitch league for the Puyallup Cal Ripken League.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?
The people! I love working with students and with university staff/faculty. Green River's diverse population is definitely a plus!

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?
To grow our program offerings at the RAC. This includes more intramural programming, more group fitness opportunities, partnering with other Student Affairs departments, etc.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

• Overcoming hearing issues and a speech impediment when I was younger.
• Receiving my master's degree.
• Getting this job.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?
I have been called the "Godfather" before . . . probably because I am Italian and have "presence". That's what people tell me…

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?
Bad stand-up comedy.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Green (so many trees)
Revitalizing (vibrant campus climate)
Energetic
Ethical
Noble (school/campus community doing a lot of great things)

Posted on behalf of Green River Foundation

Announcing the 2017 Green River College Foundation
Distinguished Faculty Award Recipients

We are pleased to announce the following three recipients of the 2017 Green River College Foundation Distinguished Faculty Awards:

• Catherine Duva, ESOL, TSW Division
• Jamie Fitzgerald, English, English Division
• Dan Sorensen, Automotive Technology, Trades Division

On behalf of the Awards Review Committee, we commend all the 2017 nominees: Coleman Boettger, Dr. Neil Duldulao, Adriana Mendoza and Jody Segal.

The awards will be formally presented at commencement on Friday, June 16 at the Showare Center in Kent. We are sharing this information with the campus community now to give you a chance to congratulate the recipients and all nominees.

Thank you to the students, faculty and staff for submitting nominations and letters of support and to everyone for participating in the recognition process. Special thanks to Anthony White and Megan Evans for creating the faculty awards website.

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.
My new title is Program Assistant for Youth Re-Engagement Department. I have taught in a Pre-School program for the last couple of years, worked as a Supervisor in the agriculture business, plus was employed as a server and shift manager at a winery at Lake Chelan.

What drew you to apply to Green River?
I have always felt immense satisfaction in helping others. Working with pre-school and school age students gave me the opportunity to learn and empower other students to reach their full potential. I am excited and looking forward to this opportunity to help the Green River students.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?
On the car ride to work I enjoy listening to Movin 92.5 with Jubal and Brooke in the morning. I listen to all different music; country, R&B, Hip-Hop, banda, cumbias, corridos, and much more. Music is a getaway for me it takes me to a new world where I can get lost and relax.

What was the very first job you ever had?
The very first job I had was working as a busser/host at the BBQ for Lake Chelan Winery.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?
I will love the opportunity to work with older students and continuing to help and assist them in any way I can. I enjoy meeting new people and discovering ways to empower their lives.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?
I would love to master and excel at my position for my first year at Green River. I believe I will be a bigger asset by understanding every part of my position along with learning the programs Green River has to offer.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?
The three biggest accomplishments I feel most proud of is being the first in my family to graduate with my Bachelor's degree, paying for my education, and finally taking a leap of faith and starting my mezcal business in Mexico.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?
My office nickname would be Mimi because that is my childhood nickname. My older brother couldn't pronounce my middle name Noemi and as a result "Mimi" was the new me.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?
I would showcase touching my nose with my tongue.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?
Growing
Resilient
Educate
Enriching
Native

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.
Stage Technician I, Conference Services. I have over 20 years of experience in sound & lighting and theater production.

What drew you to apply to Green River?
I was a student of the P.E.T. (Professional Entertainment Training) program back in the 80s. I've also been a part-time employee of the Fine Arts Department for the past decade.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?
NPR, or podcasts like The Morning Stream, Film Sack, Current Geek, and T.W.I.T. (This Week In Tech). It varies. News can be depressing.

What was the very first job you ever had?
Seattle Bindery and Mailing. I was 16 years old and my dad's cousin (who owned the business) asked how old I was, and told me to get down to the shop. He handed me a mop. I was there for 30 years – not mopping. I was a driver and the manager of Shipping & Receiving Department.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?
This job used to be my hobby! I've always wanted to work full-time for Green River!

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?
IDK, stay employed!

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

• My 20+ year marriage
• My two children
• My work at Green River

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?
My former co-worker here at GRC gave me my nickname, "Adaptorman" over 25 years ago. I'm still known by that nickname to this day.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?
I played Alice from The Brady Bunch in a Music Company production, if anyone remembers the P.E.T. program. What more can you ask?

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.
My new title is Running Start Program Coordinator. As someone who is a previous running start student, I am beyond thrilled to be able to bring my background, skillset, knowledge, and first-hand experience into creating an even bigger sense of inclusion and equity in the RS department. When I was a RS student, I knew that I wanted to help others, and so I was originally going to explore a Psychology major. By the end of my senior year in High School – I realized that I liked UW Tacoma's "Management" major, as this gave me the opportunity to gain insight on leadership, interpersonal skills, conflict management, etc. My love for public speaking grew as I was given the opportunity to be the "Student Panel Moderator" at the UW Tacoma, even as Alumni. Being able to talk to prospective students and families about their educational pathway truly brought me happiness. During my time at University, I became involved in multiple extracurricular activities on campus. My passion for working in Higher Education stemmed from my student leader jobs as an Event Coordinator and Peer Advisor on campus. I was also secretary of multiple clubs, as well as involved with the Center for Service and Leadership. Because of my student leader positions, I was able to work with varying departments on campus, students, the community, families, staff, faculty, and my fellow colleagues. It was then that I realized my passion for helping people and Bachelors in Business Administration with a focus on Management from the UW Tacoma had finally found its purpose – Higher Education.

What drew you to apply to Green River?
(Read large paragraph above again) and I LOVED my experience at Green River when I was a Running Start student. Even after graduation, my friends and I would talk about how we missed the environment and culture of this campus. I was honestly so surprised when I saw the posting in the Running Start department because it fit exactly what I was looking for – a position in Higher Education. But not only that – it was a position that I had my own personal experience in.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?
I am an all types of music person. I'll listen to anything from Hip Hop to R & B to country to Disney. Right now however, I'm obsessing over "Scars to Your Beautiful" by Alessia Cara because I love the message hidden behind the song.

What was the very first job you ever had?
The very first job I ever had was at Jack in the Box…although I left it after only 3 months to go work at Sears, where I then worked for almost 3 years.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?
The opportunity to work with the students! I am so excited to be the voice for students, guide them, encourage them, and empower them. I'm also hoping to help create a more comfortable, welcoming, and inclusive environment because I've been a Running Start student, so I know how scary and nerve-wracking it can be to attend college at such a young age.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?
I would love to, and am actually in the process of, developing and implementing change in how the Running Start department builds communication between students and staff. I'm going to be creating more social media outlets that will allow the Running Start team to develop a better connection with the students!

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?
Being a first generation college student, I am so proud to say that not only did I graduate with an AA degree from Green River through Running Start – but that I was also able to complete my Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration at the University of Washington, Tacoma, in 2 years as well. I also, as odd as this sounds, feel proud to know that I have a good grip on where I think I'll be heading in my career and how I'll be developing professionally over the next few years.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?
Hmm…I'm not sure. I've had people call me Sweater before because they say that the pronunciation of my name sounds similar to it. I've also been called Fiji because I'm from Fiji Islands. In the office though, I could see them saying more of a phrase along the lines of "Shweta to the rescue" because I love to help out in any way that I can and am pretty good and juggling multiple tasks at once. I will come to the rescue for the Running Start team whenever they need me to!

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?
A lot of people don't know that I'm actually a theater girl. I've been participating in productions since I was 5 years old. My hidden talent would be that I can sing anywhere from the range of a low alto to a high soprano.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?
Gratitude
Respect
Enthusiasm
Equity
Never Give Up.

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.
Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.
I am the Natural Resources Program Coordinator, and I am excited to promote and increase awareness of our Forestry BAS degree program.

Formerly, I worked for 16 years in the home improvement industry as an account manager for Fortune 500 companies. I've managed and operated multiple sports nutrition stores and managed staffs of 15-20 people. I began my working career as a lifeguard and have always enjoyed working with and helping people!

What drew you to apply to Green River?
Completing a 2-year degree in Park Management, at the Auburn campus, I became highly impressed with the culture of the college. The diversity, community involvement and overall "family" atmosphere that our college fosters help create a very welcoming experience for those seeking higher education. Students are never just a number among many but an important addition to the overall success and achievement of higher learning here.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?
A mix of country, alternative rock, top 40 and 90s rap music. I'm definitely one to sing along and look like a lunatic while car dancing, just to survive the commute!

What was the very first job you ever had?
I worked as a lifeguard for 3 years at Wild Waves.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?
Working with the students and faculty of Natural Resources to increase awareness of our Bachelor degree program and our reputation of graduating some of the most highly trained and capable foresters in the field! It is extremely exciting to talk to employers all over the NW that know our student's reputation of being job ready from day one!

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?
My number one goal for my first year is to get our BAS program enrollment to 125% of our course capacity. Reaching past graduates of our 2-year program and retaining 50-60% of our graduating 2-year cohorts will allow this to happen.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

• Raising such incredible children, that truly seek to help others, is my proudest accomplishment.
• Completing my 2-year degree at GRC and being within one year of completion of my BAS in Forestry follows second.
• Third…working in the Tongass National Forest for the US Forest Service, last summer, hiking helicopter units through dense forest and being the most accurate data collector out of a group of 8, while being the oldest crew member, definitely makes me feel accomplished.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?
"Happy Holly." It's been a long-standing nickname. I rarely have bad days and love sharing my nearly limitless optimism.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?
How to climb a cell tower at work without getting caught!

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?
Generosity
Resilience
Education
Enthusiasm
Natural

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.
I am the Building Secretary for Cedar Hall. I was previously an Office Assistant for Salish Hall, Science Center, Cedar Hall and Technology Center. Before Green River College, I worked for Geico's Claims department and Mercer University's Enrollment Services in Central Georgia.

What drew you to apply to Green River?
I am drawn to the atmosphere at Green River College. We are blessed to work on a beautiful campus that is filled with interesting and talented people.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?
I am an audiobook fan! I like to "read" a book or two every week.

What was the very first job you ever had?
My first job was encoding checks with magnetic ink at SunTrust Bank. I loved it!

What about your new position is most exciting for you?
I think the Math and Technology instructors are so much fun! I also enjoy the interactions with students on a daily basis.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?
I would like to make the Secretary's Desk a place everyone feels comfortable stopping by for help. I want each person I work with to know they are welcome and understood.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

• I am proud of my volunteer work with Girl Scouts and FIRST Robotics,
• of the people my teenagers are becoming,
• and I am proud to be finishing my BS in Information Technology this year.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?
They call me "Katie-Bell" or "Katie-May". I'm not sure why. I think my southern accent explains it, in part, but southerners also call me "Katie-Bell". I was named for my grandmother. Her name is Katie Nell, so "Katie-Bell" really fits.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?
Since it doesn't exist, I will say stand-up comedy. I would be terrified if it did exist.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?
Get
Ready
Engage
Education
Now

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.
I am the new Development Specialist in the Foundation office overseeing the scholarship program. Previously, I worked at Charles Wright Academy as the Parent Association and Auction Coordinator and was the Summer Program Coordinator in the International Student Office at Saint Martin's University. I have also lived overseas in China for two years where I taught ESOL and studied Mandarin.

What drew you to apply to Green River?
I was a community college student myself at TCC and have always loved the environment of higher education.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?
I listen to mostly pop music but enjoy the occasional rock or hip hop station as well. I like to flip between five or six different stations while I fight traffic.

What was the very first job you ever had?
I worked as a dishwasher at a weekend retreat camp out in Yelm, where I lived in high school. I was thrilled to get a job at 16 and loved every minute of it.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?
I get to give money away to students! How fun is that?

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?
I would love to see the awareness for Foundation Scholarships to be increased on campus. We have a lot of scholarship money available, and I would love to see as many students as possible applying and receiving funds for school.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

• My two sons, who are 4 and 6 are the light of my life.
• Additionally, I'm very proud of finishing my BA degree, because I did so after my children were born, and it was very difficult.
• Finally, getting my first job in higher education at Saint Martin's University was a very proud moment in my life, because I had finally achieved my professional dream.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?
That's a tough one, but probably something like Ms. Coffee, because I drink a lot of it. LOL.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?
Well, I can't sing or dance for anything, but I do enjoy writing. Maybe a poetry reading of something I wrote?

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?
I love it here at Green River so far, and I think the GREEN acronym would stand for some pretty powerful words. Genuine, Riveting, Energetic, Equitable, and Natural beauty. I think all these words represent the Green River campus and people beautifully.

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.
I am the new Dean of Health Sciences and Technology. My background is in clinical research and higher education. I studied the effects of viruses in the body, how the immune system responded to the viruses and how multiple viruses seemed to be coordinating their efforts within the same host. I did my research at various institutions: Eastern Kentucky University, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Centers, Johns Hopkins, University of Kentucky and University of Washington. I have a bachelor's degree from Brescia University, master's degrees from Eastern Kentucky University and Capella University and a PhD from University of Kentucky.

What drew you to apply to Green River?
Green River had gone through a rough period in the school's history and I had heard that they were in the process of rebuilding. During this rebuilding process, they wanted to recruit eager, motivating and high spirited individuals to return to where the school was prior to the rough period; while keeping in mind that the focus was on making sure that students had the best opportunity for success. I love sharing knowledge and have a reputation of setting standards that students can reach but they have to meet me half way because I cannot force them to do anything that they do not want to. I was drawn to apply to Green River because I wanted to be a part of the revitalization of this great school and do all I can to assist in getting everyone back to where they were before the rough period.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?
This one is easy because I do not listen to anything but my thoughts…SMILES!!!

What was the very first job you ever had?
My first unofficial job was cutting my grandmother's and her friends' grass. My very first tax paying job was working for a catholic restaurant called St. Martin's Afro-German Tearoom as a busser/entertainer/waiter.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?
The most exciting part of my new position is meeting all the wonderful people and getting to know them better; not to mention, learning from everyone. I believe that there is an exchange of knowledge whether we realize it or not…we learn from all those that we encounter. So, Health Sciences and Technology be prepared to teach me all that you can…I am here to learn and help you the best that I can.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?
The main things that I would love to accomplish within the first year would be to be able to feel more at ease in this position and have gain a strong relationship with the individuals in Health Sciences and Technology. Next, I have set a goal to recognize all the administration, faculty and staff by first name. This will be a great challenge since I am bad with names.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?
First, my son…second, my continued education…third, having had the opportunity to find love.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?
Happy…because I always try to make at least one person smile a day; more is always better but the minimum is one.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?
A hidden talent to be showcased at the Annual Green River Talent Show…would be making shadow puppets in a marionette mini-stage. Seriously, I would have to say it would probably be ballroom dancing.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?
Grow continuously
Refresh your mind and thoughts
Explore the world around you
Experience life to the fullest
Never give up on your dreams

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.
I currently work as Program Coordinator with Washington Integrated Sector Employment (WISE) team in Business Division at Green River College. I have worked as Admin Assistant with Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), as Administrative Assistant with Louise Berger Group (LBG) funded by U.S. government, as Program Assistant with United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and as Admin Assistant with Conference Services at Green River College.

What drew you to apply to Green River?
GRC is a well-known college for serving a diverse community, I have an Associate degree in business from Green River College, previously worked with Green River, well familiar with GRC compound, and I love the environment at GRC.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?
Mostly news and sometimes music.

What was the very first job you ever had?
Admin Assistant with JICA.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?
Yes, definitely. I am very excited and delighted for being promoted from the position of Admin Assistant to Program Coordinator.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?
Despite of doing my own duties and responsibilities, I would also love to be a good team player where I could cooperate with others and contribute to the best of my abilities in order to achieve our goals.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?
First, getting my first Associate Degree in business from Green River College. Second, I am a Senior at Central Washington University (CWU) pursuing my Bachelor's degree in business with double majors in Finance and Management and will be graduating in Fall quarter 2017. Third, being selected for the position of Program Coordinator at Green River College. These are the three accomplishments that I am really proud of in my life.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?
I think that would be Raihan and that's because I go by this name as well.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?
I can speak five languages and I am a good Soccer, Volleyball, Cricket and Billiard player.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?
Great
Representation of
Equal
Employment
Numbers

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.
International Student Advisor in International Programs. I have worked in mostly in higher ed, but have some experience at a boarding school as well. I worked at Everest College in Bremerton, Solomon Christian School in Edmonds and Seattle Central College previous to coming here. I have been working with international students close to 6 years now and hope to continue that trend for a long time.

What drew you to apply to Green River?
I actually used to study here when I was in Running Start through Kentwood High School when I was younger. I have fond memories as a student here. Also, the change in responsibilities from my previous position at Central to the one here will probably give me more room to grow professionally.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?
Podcasts, Sports Radio, Spotify

What was the very first job you ever had?
I worked for a catering company for a couple summers while in High School. A lot of big corporate (e.g. Microsoft, Boeing, T-Mobile) summer bbqs were hosted there in North Bend. It was hard grueling work in the hot sun washing dishes in what was basically a metal box.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?
The fact that this is a homecoming for me is probably most exciting. So much has changed in the last 10 or so years!

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?
I would like to target and create a project that will be hugely beneficial to International Programs, Green River at large, whether it is our processes or to help our students.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

1. When I graduated with my bachelor's degree from WSU, that was probably my proudest moment
2. When I got my first career job out of college
3. When I bought my house

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?
A student once called me a "General", like a military officer, because of the tone of voice I have sometimes. He linked it to my upbringing since my father is ex-military. That nickname stuck with a lot of coworkers.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?
For the annual talent show, I would have to share my karate skills since I did it for about five years off and on.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?
Give
Respect,
Expect
Encouragement and
Nice things will come

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.
I'm the Program Coordinator for the Auburn Center and the Center of Excellence in Education. My professional background was primarily in the legal field where I worked as a legal secretary for a personal injury attorney for many years, as well as a docket clerk at a public defense agency.

What drew you to apply to Green River?
First, I'll start by saying I'm Green River Alumni…GO GATORS!! I learned a lot about myself at Green River with the support and guidance of faculty and student affairs. I earned my Bachelor's degree last year and thought it would be great to work in education and help support other students, so when the opportunity presented itself to return to Green River I jumped on it!

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?
On the ride to work I listen to a combination of Sirius Radio stations but I'm not sure what they are. As long as the music is upbeat, I'll listen to it.

What was the very first job you ever had?
My very first job was as a cashier at Taco Bell. I'm reminded of my first job on a regular basis, to this day my uncle calls me "Angelina Taco Bell".

What about your new position is most exciting for you?
What is most exciting about my position is that I have the opportunity to experience different perspectives of education. My position is actually two positions in one. In the morning I support the Auburn Center and the Aviation Program, and in the afternoon I support the Director of Center of Excellence for Careers in Education.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?
I quickly found out there's a TON of acronyms used in education that I was unaware of. So if I can be in on an acronym-filled conversation and understand what's being discussed, I'll be happy!

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

1. Returning to college after many years and earning my Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration from UW Tacoma.
2. Having raised three focused and goal-oriented children who are accomplishing their higher education and career goals.
3. My high school Spanish teacher said something that always stuck with me. A student said that a food we were trying for the first time was weird. The teacher told the student, "It's not weird…it's different. It's not better, its not worse. It's just DIFFERENT." I'm proud to say I've been able to maintain that mentality throughout my life, and it's shaped how I relate to new people and new experiences.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?
My office nickname would probably be Pollyanna. I always approach situations with a positive outlook and positive expectations, and have the ability to find the bright side to situations.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?
The hidden talent I would show case in the Green River talent show would be stand-up comedy…actually I don't think it's a hidden talent, I just like making people laugh.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?
Gaining
Really
Exceptional
Education
Necessary

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.
I am the IT Help Desk Analyst at Green River College.

What drew you to apply to Green River?
The professor that inspired me to pursue a career in IT told me that Green River College was a great place to work. I always thought working at a school helping people was something I wanted to pursue.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?
I love listening to video game soundtracks when I am driving to and from work.

What was the very first job you ever had?
The first job that I ever had was a waitress for my family's restaurant.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?
I am excited for the opportunity to help others and expand my own knowledge and understanding of the world.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?
I would like to learn Python by the end of the year. I would also like to earn my Cisco Certified Network Associate Security certificate.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

1. I earned my Cisco Certified Network Associate Routing and Switching certificate and
2. Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration through hard work and determination.
3. I am surviving in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?
The most common nickname that I have is "Jess" and "Jackie Chan." I got the "Jackie Chan" nickname, because I study Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and studied Tae Kwon Do. Also my first initial is "J" and last name is "Chan," so the nickname stuck.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?
My ability to stand awkwardly and uncomfortably on stage.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?
Be Gracious
Be Respectful
Be Eager
Be Enthusiastic
Be Noble

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.
I am the new cataloger in Holman Library. My professional background is all in libraries, in Washington, Indiana, and most recently, Montana.

What drew you to apply to Green River?
The opportunity to work in cataloging and technical services in a local college library with a strong community.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?
I'll listen to pretty much any music, usually in the car I'll have on one of the top 40 or rock stations – I flip through them a lot, I hate listening to commercials!

What was the very first job you ever had?
My first job was working as a library student assistant in college.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?
I'm excited to become part of the library team and the Green River community!

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?
I'd love to be able to get around campus without a map – I'm very directionally challenged!

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?
If I have any hidden talents, they're really well hidden, because I don't know about them!

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?
Great
Readers
Enjoying
Every
Novel – a fiction bookclub

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.
Website Designer/Developer – I have been building websites and website content since 2002. Worked with REI, HSN, and AutoNation.

What drew you to apply to Green River?
The location.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?
Usually morning radio shows like Brooke and Jubal. 92.5 FM.

What was the very first job you ever had?
My first job was at age 16 working for Eric's Landscaping.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?
I like the idea of a new website around the corner and would like to be a part of the transition process.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?
I would like to see the new website finished and up online.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?
I'm most proud of being a home owner, my career, and my travels.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?
Probably something like forward slash or something code and computer related.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?
Haha. I guess I would play a song on my guitar.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?
Green
River
Essential
Education
Northwest

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.
Senior Director of Financial Services. 20+ years in Accounting Management, including government/fund accounting, ERP (accounting) system implementations, audit and training.

What drew you to apply to Green River?
As a resident of the GRC district I have watched the growth and positive impact the College has for so many people. I want to be a part of something that is bigger than me. Contributing my core competencies to the success of the College allows me to strive for that goal. Also, this commute is beautiful.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?
Seattle Wolf radio.

What was the very first job you ever had?
Sorting returned bottles/cans (Oregon) at my family's grocery store.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?
Being a part of the College.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?
Learn as much as possible about our current accounting system (FMS) in order to lead our team successfully both in the short term and in the planning for success with the conversion to the new system (cTcLink).

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

1. Successfully raising my son.
2. Buying my house and two other investment properties all by myself.
3. Being a kind and generous person.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?
Nickname would be Searcher, because I am always looking for information and knowledge and sharing with others to help solve challenges.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?
How to sew on a button. Only because so many people never learn things like this any more.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?
Get
Receipts
Entered
Efficiently
Now!

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.
I have just been hired as the Full-Time Program Assistant in the TSW department (Transitional Studies & Wellness). I worked at this position as an Office Assistant (hourly) employee for four years.

What drew you to apply to Green River?
I was introduced to GRC when I came to USA and started as an ESOL student. In the last 10 years I got more involved with GRC. From 2012 I started as an employee. When a new position was available I could not miss being more involved with friendly faculty/staff and a beautiful campus.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?
On the way to work I like to listen to the radio, news and "Power Turkey" through the phone.

What was the very first job you ever had?
My first job was in upholstery in a furniture company.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?
Actually, I worked at this position for the last 4 years in the office with my supervisor and my two other colleagues. I was relying that they can help me with questions. The most exciting thing in my new position is that I'll be by myself in the KC office, and I must find a way out from any situation on my own. Also, I am excited to meet more students and form new relationships.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?
I love to help more students who are learning English and going through the path that I passed. I want to provide as much as confidence to the students at Kent Campus, so they do not have to run to Main Campus for their issues. Also, I would love to learn my job well enough and see myself as a Program Coordinator after a year.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

1. I raised two beautiful, intelligent and well-educated sons.
2. I came to USA with zero English and was able to get my AA degree as a Medical Office Assistant.
3. My career as a Program Assistant.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?
I do not like to give a nicknames to anyone and would not like to have one. All of us have been given beautiful names by our parents why not to use it instead?

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?
I have one singer and one poet among siblings, but unfortunately my parents have not presented me with any talents. I do enjoy sewing.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?
Get
Really
Excited about
Everything
Never stop smiling

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.
I've been hired as a Program Specialist for the Recruitment and Outreach Office. I have my Master's in Education Policy from the University of Washington. I have worked with college access and closing the opportunity gap for over 5 years now and am excited to join the Green River Community.

What drew you to apply to Green River?
I wanted to center my work on community outreach in higher education in South King County Area. South King County has become very diverse over the last couple years and I want to continue working with culturally and linguistically diverse communities.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?
On my way to work I listen to my Hip-hop station on Pandora. I need upbeat-feel good music on my way to work to help motivate me for a new day.

What was the very first job you ever had?
When I was 12 years old I worked out in the fields picking strawberries to help pay for school clothes. I still remember the first day of picking, it was very hard work and I told myself that I would make sure that I would never have to endure this kind of work when I got older.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?
I am eager to meet new colleagues, community partners and students! College access work is my passion, and I am excited to see how I can contribute to the Green River Community!

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?
I'd love to help establish new strategies on how to outreach to new communities. I am always up for a challenge and love innovating new ideas and projects that will produce positive outcomes.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?
The 3 accomplishments that I am most proud of are my graduations from high school and college. I was the first one in my family to graduate high school and attend college. I knew that my degrees were bigger than me; they were not only for my family but for my community.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?
The nickname would have to be Luna "moon". I am always in the movement night or day; social change is what drives the work I do.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?
I would perform Baile Folkorico "folkloric dance" from Mexico. I use to dance when I was an undergrad at Western Washington University and it was a lot of fun- not to mention a really great workout!

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?
Giving
Restorative
Equitable
Education
Needed

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.
I am a Program Assistant at Foundation for Success. Previously, I was Program Coordinator at South Seattle College's Georgetown Campus. My department, Corporate & Customized Training, provided employee training to local companies. My roles were marketing, program support, and interfacing with instructors.

What drew you to apply to Green River?
I knew I liked working at a college, but I wanted to work more directly with students. I love their energy and creativity. The opening at FFS looked like it would be a lot of fun and so far…it has!

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?
The speakers on my car were broken for a long time, so I previously listened to tires rolling. I fixed the speakers, and now I listen to punk rock or classic rock.

What was the very first job you ever had?
I was a Donation Station Attendant for Goodwill. It's a very fancy title for basically sorting people's used stuff and putting it in a truck. Separate your linens, clothes, and accessories when you go to Goodwill, people! They will love you.

I quit because lifting books and TV's was doing a number on my back, and I started studying at the University of Washington anyway.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?
I am most excited to be working with international students, plus I will get my own student worker!

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?
I would love to start taking some language classes at Green River. A long term goal of mine is to learn Chinese.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?
I don't like 'bragging,' but here are two things I am proud of accomplishing:

• Riding my mountain bike down one of Whistler's most difficult biking runs (Goat's Gully) and surviving
• Finishing a one month, 12 graduate credit S-TESL course with a 4.0
  

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?
Most people try to make my name into something longer, like Setherson or Setheriah.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?
Probably juggling. I'm not particularly ready for the circus or anything, but with a little (ok, a lot) of practice I could probably put on a decent show.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?
Gee
Rent is
Excessively
Expensive
Now

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.
I have been in the IT world for 20 years, supporting everything from desktops to large virtualized environments. I have worked with databases, systems management tools, and security initiatives. I hold many certifications from multiple vendors.

What drew you to apply to Green River?
I recently had my first teaching experience in Honduras and enjoyed it greatly. When I found this position I immediately applied, so that I could continue my teaching experience and pass on what I have learned.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?
Classic rock.

What was the very first job you ever had?
Dishwasher at a rib restaurant.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?
To be able to continue to learn about new technologies, as well as to share the information with others.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?
Become a great teacher.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?
That guy that drinks all the coffee.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?
My ability to watch an entire Netflix series in a single sitting.

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.
Hey, everyone. I'm your new evening custodian. Some of you will recognize me from the college lunch room. I have been told I make a mean breakfast burrito. This is my first non-cooking job in a while. I'm looking forward to a new opportunity.

What drew you to apply to Green River?
I know some staff members from my time in the kitchen, and they recommended it.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?
Sports radio. I have to keep up on my Seahawks.

What was the very first job you ever had?
McDonald's. It definitely was not my favorite job, LOL but it taught me a lot.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?
I have been cooking for many years, and I felt like I needed a change. It's also a better job for me and my family. I get to see my girls off to school. It's great to have that time with them before work.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?
I want to show I'm a hard worker. I want to grow in the company. That I know will take more than a year.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

• Winning a state title in my senior year – Skyline High 3A football champs.
• Graduating high school.
• Becoming a father. They're my world. That, and marrying my wife.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?
I think Batman. I'm a huge Batman fan! – Since I was 5 years old. I have been called that in the past.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?
I will be totally real with you. I have none LOL.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?
Green
Rainy
Evergreen
Emerald City
Northwest

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.
I am Green River College's new IBEST/ESL Career Pathway Navi-"Gator". My first position within higher education was at GRC's Assessment Center as a part-time proctor. From there, I transitioned to a full-time Assessment Specialist position at Tacoma Community College working mainly with the Transitional Studies/ABE/ESL/GED department. Feel free to ask me any and all of your ctcLINK questions; I have lived and survived it (and now I kind of like it).

What drew you to apply to Green River?
I left my favorite mug here 2 years ago, and I just had to get it back.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?
KIXI radio 880 AM.

What was the very first job you ever had?
I worked at an outdoor concert venue in New Jersey where I was able to watch concerts for free during the summer season and then dress up as an elf and drink endless hot chocolate during the winter holiday lights drive-thru show.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?

• The opportunity to be help grow and develop the I-BEST programs here at Green River.
• Also, the opportunity to MAYBE see a wild bear.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?
I'd love to have created a strong network of communication throughout different departments, so I can confidently direct students to resources on campus that will support them through their educational journey.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?
I successfully orchestrated a "traditional" Thanksgiving Dinner in Finland for 20 international students, even after completely overestimating the size of a European oven. I also am proud to say that I do not have a "Jersey Accent" from growing up on the "shore."  As well as my affinity for quotation marks, "apparently."

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?
My previous office nickname was "Princess Cassie," however I would like to relinquish my throne and perhaps go with something more casual similar to my nickname in college, "Scrappy."

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?
I think I could manage a bang-up lip-syncing performance to the Police's "Roxanne." I happen to rehearse rather regularly when home, much to the frustration of my downstairs neighbor.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?
Green
Reen
Een
En
N
(I am very sorry I couldn't think of anything. This might correlate with my struggles in Scrabble and Bananagram.)

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.
I will be working as a custodian on swing shift at Green River, helping to keep the school looking great at all times. I have worked in the custodial field for about 4 to 5 years in places such as Marshalls, Jack in the Box , Clean as a Whistle company, and Hallmark Manor Nursing Home. I also spent 13 years in the baking industry working for many different companies.

What drew you to apply to Green River?
I came to Green River looking to work for a good place, to grow as a top notch custodian and to enjoy the beautiful campus area it offers.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?
On the car ride to work , I listen to 710 for all the sports information and current happenings.

What was the very first job you ever had?
The very first job I had was working at the Windmill nursery in Sumner for about 4 months.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?
I am looking forward to learning new ways and styles of cleaning and building care for the campus.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?
I want to accomplish in year one the routine and ordinary things that are wanted and needed done.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?
The 3 top accomplishments in my life are: 1- traveling to a foreign country for the very first time and by myself.   2- Meeting and marrying my future wife from the Philippines.  3- Taking care of my injured mother in 1990 and caring for my father who had a very bad stroke in 2001.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?
If I were given a nickname it would ether be FLASH, because I really like thunderstorms, or CRICKET, because I can whistle a cricket-like sound and other whistling sounds

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?
My best talent is painting landscape types of pictures in acrylic paint.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?
Graduation
Reading
Education
Exam
Necessary

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.
I will be the Extended Learning Program Manager within Extended Learning and International Programs. My background is in international development and higher education. I have coordinated university-based civic engagement initiatives in Colorado and worked with various NGOs to support international exchange and development activities benefiting communities in Tibet, Afghanistan and Uganda. After graduate school I spent 2.5 years working for the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) Office of Transition Initiatives, providing support to countries in transition to democracy.

What drew you to apply to Green River?
I am a passionate advocate for international education and promoting cultural understanding through exchange, so I was drawn to the robust international program here.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?
Radio stations: C89.5, NPR, KEXP, or whatever is commercial-free at the time.

What was the very first job you ever had?
As a teenager I cleaned my mom's quilt shop a few days a week after school.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?
I am most excited to meet and support students from a diverse range of countries and backgrounds.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?
I hope that I can identify a process or system that needs improvement and can implement concrete changes to increase efficiency.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

• Buying a first home with my husband this year
• Completing my Master's in Public Administration
• Maintaining friendships from childhood and places I've lived cross-country

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?
The Taskmaster. I strive to be efficient and am always eager to assign action items and deadlines in meetings.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?
Photography. I have a tradition of taking a Photo of the Day and posting it on social media. The tradition began in spring 2011, when I was living in Washington, DC. I just had to get out of my office in the basement, where I usually ate my lunch and rarely saw daylight. I walked out and noticed the tulips had bloomed. It was a refreshing sight amid the concrete jungle of the city. Since that day I have challenged myself to take a brief break during the workday in search of a unique picture. I don't always do it, and they aren't always that unique, but I enjoy the hunt and the reminder to look outside of myself once in a while and notice the beauty that surrounds us.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?
Great
Reality
Everyday
Enthusiasm
Nonetheless

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.
I am very excited to be the new Program Coordinator at the Kent campus! Before coming to GRC, I worked as an international students' recruiter in a Japanese school in Tokyo, Japan. Then, I worked as an account executive for a telecom company. After arriving in the United States, I was a Chinese language tutor for children and adults. Then, I worked as a buyer for an import/export company. After a few years of being a full time mom (the most difficult job of them all by the way!), I went to work for a non-profit agency, which helps disabled people manage their social security monetary benefits. I've also been an assistant teacher for the ESOL program here at GRC, as well as a computer lab assistant. Now I am here full time, and I could not be more excited! I look forward to working with you all and having many rewarding years at GRC.

What drew you to apply to Green River?
I was drawn to GRC because it enables me to use my language skills and my experience working with people from many different cultures. I also enjoy the idea of being able to share all of my experiences with everyone.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?
I listen to everything – my kids' pop music, to news radio and soft rock.

What was the very first job you ever had?
The first summer after I graduated high school, I worked as a translator for the Pan- Asian games in Beijing.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?
I am most excited about being able to work with so many of the wonderful stuff and students here at GRC, many of whom I know already.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?
In my first year at this position I plan on mastering the many aspects of my jobs – there is so much to learn.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?
I am so proud of my two daughters and my niece. They make me proud every day.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?
I don't know…

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?
My hidden talent would be my ability to clear the room when I sing.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?
Genius
Resource
Education
Environment
National

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.
I am the new Director of Student Financial Aid. I started working in financial aid in 1999, back when the FAFSA was on paper and we weren't sure if computers would work in the year 2000. I have worked at several different colleges in my career which gives me a unique perspective on the many different ways we can help students. Most recently I have been the Financial Aid Supervisor of the Puyallup campus of Pierce College.

I have a strong passion for helping students take their next step and helping them change their family tree through Financial Aid. Financial Aid made my education a reality, and I love being a part of changing so many student lives.

What drew you to apply to Green River?
I love how the mission of Green River highlights a student focus. Responsive services is the perfect way to describe my view of customer service. There is no one-size-fits-all answer in financial aid. I'm excited to work for a college that has this viewpoint in its DNA.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?
I love listening to podcasts. A few that are always downloaded on my phone:

America's Test Kitchen, Revisionist History, Radiolab, This American Life, Freakonomics, Plant Money, Serial, Reply All, and Homecoming

What was the very first job you ever had?
My first job was at Subway. I started working when I was just 14, which meant I couldn't touch the ovens. In my interview I made the joke that the witch from Hansel and Gretel might push me into the oven if I were less than 15. I'm confident this sealed my new job for me and got a lot of laughs. I learned a lot of great customer service skills in my time at Subway (and I can make a sandwich in less than a minute).

What about your new position is most exciting for you?
I am most excited about leading a new team and leveraging technology to help us serve students faster and better. I have great ideas of how we can minimize barriers for students so they can get enrolled faster and have better support while enrolled.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?
My goals are to streamline the process of financial aid for students and decrease the processing time.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

• My three boys (8, 16, 19) and the great men they are becoming (and, of course, my husband who guides our family so well).
• Completing my Bachelor Degree while a single mom, working full-time
• The changes I made at Pierce Puyallup including decreasing processing time and making the financial aid department the friendliest place on campus.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?
I asked my former staff at Pierce for suggestions: Sunshine, Bubbles, Financial Aid Guru, Smiley, Sparkles, Pollyanna (because I always see a silver lining), SuperSquirrel (Think "squirrel" in the movie UP, always being pulled in multiple directions, but able to navigate it with grace and get everything done).

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?
While it isn't a hidden talent, I love to cook. So I would offer to cater the talent show and let people with real talents perform.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?
Guiding
Resources
Education
Equity
Nourishing

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.
Welding Instructor Tenure Track – Fall Quarter 2016. After attending Scott Schreiber's welding class in 2004. I went out in the real world and began my welding career. I worked for many different companies, some fab shops, manufacturing, and repair shops. In 2013 I was offered a chance to teach for a quarter to fill in for Casper Fox. From that moment on I was hooked on teaching. I then became Casper's instructional aide for about a year and a half. It was at this point I was offered to teach the weekend welding class as an adjunct. Of course I jumped on it. I've been teaching the weekend class for a little over a year now. Since 2013 I have maintained two jobs welding Monday-Friday and Teaching Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Needless to say but I'm looking forward to just teaching in the fall of 2016.

What drew you to apply to Green River?
I enjoy the people I work with and all the new people I meet each new quarter.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?
On the way to work I like to listen to talk radio and news. This keeps me up to date on current events and what's going on in the world.

What was the very first job you ever had?
My first job was McDonald's at the age of 16.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?
Right now it's getting down to one job and having more time to spend with my wife and kids. However, I'm also excited to take on more responsibilities and help grow the welding program.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?
One thing I would love to accomplish is getting the welding robot class up and running.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

• My wife,
• my four kids and
• my career as a welder/teacher.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?
I don't know – something bad, LOL!

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?
I don't know. All of my talents are front and center for everyone to see all the time.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?
I got nothing for this one sorry.

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.
Help Desk- Desktop Support Team. I spent 5 years at Best Buy, I worked my way up from Seasonal Geek Squad to Geek Squad Supervisor, then got promoted to Best Buy corporate and did Competitive Intelligence and Analysis. From there, I worked for a few smaller businesses. Finally, I settled in at a Business-to-Business IT support company and did Tier1 Support, Dispatch and IT Project Management.

What drew you to apply to Green River?
I heard wonderful things about how great of a place this was to work and the fantastic opportunities to learn and grow in a positive work environment.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?
I like to listen to many different kinds of music on my ride to work. Today, I listened to Bruno Mars, Shinedown, Eric Clapton and Jay Z.

What was the very first job you ever had?
I worked at Wild Waves and operated the Ring-Of-Fire. I transferred to the Games Department and got really good at playing fair/carnival games.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?
I love the opportunity to help resolve IT issues for employees and learning from the tougher IT issues that come along the way.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?
I want to get my CCNA Certification: Routing and Switching.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

• I am a proud father of 2 wonderful children.
• I Beat Cancer!!
• I learned to play the guitar and have performed Live.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?
Probably NATE! That is one of my common Email signatures coming from a background of working with a lot of other people named Nate and it was an easy way for people to remember which Nate I was.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?
I would perform standup comedy. I have always enjoyed making people laugh.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?
Great attitude!
Ready to learn!
Every day have fun while being the best!
Each day brings something new!
Never stop smiling and laughing!

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.
I've been hired as a Math Tenure Track Instructor. I have a B.A and M.A. in mathematics, and I have about 10 years experience teaching math at the high school and college levels in New York City and the San Francisco Bay Area.

What drew you to apply to Green River?
I wanted to work in higher education, and was interested in working in Washington state. I scoped out Green River, and loved the campus and people that I met.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?
I listen to various podcasts or music from my collection–swing jazz, country blues, Bob Dylan etc.

What was the very first job you ever had?
When I was 12 years old I had a job in a local delicatessen in New Jersey, where I grew up. I washed dishes, did mopping, sweeping up, cleaning tables, etc.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?
I am most excited to meet and work with new people, colleagues and students.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?
I'd love to give each one of my students an exciting learning experience and motivate them to work towards great success in their studies. I would also love to get to know the people and culture at Green River, and see how I can fit in and contribute.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?
I'm most proud of my family. I'm a pretty good musician. I've also cultivated an adventurous and curious mind.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?
Lefty–I'm left-handed.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?
I would sing, play piano, guitar & harmonica. I've also been known to bust out some dance moves from time to time.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?
As my wife often reminds me, "Greatness rarely entails excessive napping."

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.
Hello, my name is Michael A. Wood, and I have just recently been honored by being allowed to accept the new Engineering Tenure Track position at Green River College. I have been teaching since the first year I left Colorado State University nearly 20 years ago. I began by teaching Mathematics for nearly 15 years at which point my wife and I decided to move to the state of Washington where I spent a year teaching High School Mathematics getting my feet on the ground in the new state, and at which point I began teaching I.T. as an adjunct at GRC. During my adjunct time, while I spent a great deal of time teaching in the I.T. Department, I was also privileged to have a chance to work/teach in both the Engineering/Computer Science department and in the Mathematics division.

What drew you to apply to Green River?
After my time teaching High School, I wanted to shake myself up a little bit and try to stretch my abilities some. So I decided to jump outside my comfort zone of teaching Mathematics and try teaching some computer science/IT at a college setting.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?
I tend to be very involved with learning new stuff, so it tends to be some sort of podcast about current events or scientific ideas. I will also admit to a bit of a nerd/geek leaning, so there might be a gaming podcast mixed in there as well.

On the rare case it is musical, it tends to be something instrumental without words.

What was the very first job you ever had?
My very first job when I was 16 was working as an I.T. person for my school technology division. I would spend 2-3 hours after school every day driving to various elementary/middle/high schools fixing computers, and then during the summer going around to clean out the computer of all the gum/gunk/dust.  Let me tell you, elementary students can fit some nasty things inside a computer.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?
I am excited to be able to work with several different departments and try to find a way to work/combine the joy of computer science to the other departments.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?
I would love to be able to work with the IT department and develop an integrated approach to teaching programming that can bridge both departments and increase the shared load of both departments.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

1. Marrying my wife,
2. going back to get my master's in applied Mathematics while still teaching, and
3. the advancements made by my former students.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?
"The Resource". I tend not to be too vocal during meetings and activities, but I listen to everything and have the ability to recall a great deal of information, so people in the past have come to me to recall what was said at prior meetings.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?
I honestly don't know what I would do at a talent show. I would most likely be the one behind the show making sure that everything occurred in an organized manner, keeping the flow going and the acts in line, and then sneaking out before the bows were taken at the end.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Giving
Responsibility
Enough for
Every
Need

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.
Aviation Instructor – Tenure Track with fourteen years of teaching experience as an FAA certified flight instructor and three years of experience teaching chemistry and mathematics in community colleges.

What drew you to apply to Green River?
I am a product of community colleges, and I wanted to serve the same community that educated me, a high school dropout. Also, the aviation program we have at GRC attracted me to this specific community college.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?
SPEED METAL!!! VERY LOUD!!! Overkill, old Metallica, Megadeth, Slayer, Iron Maiden, and Judas Priest are some of my favorite bands. I also listen to techno – anything with energy that sounds great when played loud and fast.

What was the very first job you ever had?
I was working two part-time jobs when I was only fourteen. I flipped hamburgers at McDonald's in Blue Ridge, Georgia during the evenings and weekends, and I was also a roofer for Blue Ridge Roofing in Morganton, Georgia during the weekdays.  I hated both jobs, because they were both very hot environments, and I was constantly sweating.  Plus, my bosses were mean and uneducated, so this initial work experience was great motivation for me to stay in school.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?
This position provides me with an excellent opportunity to combine my teaching experiences in community colleges with my teaching experiences on airports into a common mission, which is something I have always sought my entire adult life.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?
I want to fix the VA funding issues we have for students in our department that want to learn how to fly. While the problem of the funding abuse is a nationwide issue, I want GRC to lead the nation in finding and implementing the solution. We owe it to our veterans to resolve this issue, immediately. With the huge worldwide pilot shortage we are facing, I am committed to ensuring that this void is first filled by those who have served our country and protected its freedom before filling this void of professional pilots by only the wealthy. I view this problem as an emergency situation that demands immediate action from our college's administration and from our politicians, and I am prepared to do whatever it takes to get our veterans in the air as soon as possible. I am willing to take on any politician or administrator that opposes this effort and make their resistance political suicide, if necessary, in order to fight for our veterans and their educational goals. Any support you can offer me with this will be greatly appreciated.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

1. Earning my BS in Chemistry with Cum Laude honors from a historically black university,
2. Earning my MA, Liberal Studies while living below the Federal poverty level, and
3. Earning my pilot & flight instructor certifications and self-funding that burden.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?
I have been called "Ben-jammin'" before because it is word play on my full first name, Benjamin, while recognizing my love and talent for music.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?
Maybe it should exist! Then, I can play the piano for my colleagues. I can play "The Last Date" by Floyd Cramer, "Moonlight Sonata" by Beethoven, and a few other songs, some of which are my own creation.

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Giving
Respect to
Everyone
Encourages
Networking

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.
I am so excited to become an Engineering Instructor. I got my Ph.D. degree in Materials Engineering and Science in December 2015, so this will be my first job (and hopefully a lifelong job!). During my study toward Ph.D. degree, I have worked as a research assistant and teaching assistant for the Materials and Metallurgical department, and Math department at South Dakota School of Mines and Technology. I have taught a wide variety of engineering courses in college and enjoyed it!

What drew you to apply to Green River?
I met a very nice HR person from Green River College, Mr. Kirk Walker, at a career fair in Seattle, who introduced Green River College to me. After doing some research about the school, I knew I wanted to work here. Not only because it's a diverse campus, but also the opportunities it provides for professional growth.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?
NPR (National Public Radio), which delivers breaking national and world news. Also top stories from business, politics, health, science, technology, music, arts and culture.
KING FM 98.1, classic music.

What was the very first job you ever had?
Research assistant at Graduate School at South Dakota School of Mines and Technology.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?
The most exciting thing is that I'm not a teaching assistant any more, I will be a teacher! Teaching is the most rewarding job in the world. You get the opportunity to influence someone else's life and guide them in making the right choices in life. Isn't that great?

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?
Students looking forward to taking my classes.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?
Becoming:

1. a Ph.D.,
2. a military spouse,
3. and a mom!
   

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?
I will leave it to them to decide.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?
Dance!

If G.R.E.E.N. were an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Get
Responsibility
Enthusiasm
Energy
Now

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.
My name is Kara LaValley, and I just recently accepted the Temporary Full-Time Nursing Faculty position. Prior to this, I worked as an adjunct nursing faculty member here at Green River. I graduated from the University of Washington with my Masters in Nursing focusing on Public Health and Nursing Education, and I am currently a Nursing Ph.D. student and a Robert Wood Johnson Future of Nursing Scholar at the University of Washington. My dissertation focuses on the impact of adverse childhood experiences on neurologic, biophysical and psychosocial development. When I am not teaching and going to school (which is almost never!), I work per diem as a Nursing House Supervisor and a floor nurse in the CCU and the ER at St. Elizabeth Hospital in Enumclaw.

What drew you to apply to Green River?
I am a former Green River student! I obtained my AA and completed all of my nursing pre-requisites at Green River while working part-time in the campus bookstore. For me, Green River feels like home. So naturally, when deciding where I wanted to pursue my career in nursing education, Green River was at the top of the list.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?
My drive to work in the mornings is relatively short, and I am not known for being a morning person, so oftentimes I actually don't listen to anything on my drive to work in an attempt to work through my day and wake my brain up. On the drive home, however, I listen to various radio stations, podcasts or my iTunes-depending on my mood. This is my relaxation time!

What was the very first job you ever had?
The first job I had was working in the Women's Department at Burlington Coat Factory in the Supermall (back when it actually was the Supermall!). I then QUICKLY transferred to the registers where I worked as a Customer Service Manager for 3 years.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?
I love teaching and I love nursing, this is the best of both worlds! I get to enrich the minds of future nurses and healthcare leaders.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?
I would love to see the Nursing BSN program become a reality this next year! Nurses are the backbone of healthcare and with the ongoing complex changes to the healthcare system, advanced nursing education is vital to enhancing patient care. It would mean the world to me to be a part of that!

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

1. Getting into the number one doctoral nursing program in the country (GO UW!) and earning the prestigious Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Future of Nursing Scholars Award.
2. Working full-time as a nurse while going to school full-time to obtain my BSN and MN at UW and graduating a 4.0 GPA.
3. In High School, I was a member of the Jazz and Chamber Choirs at Auburn Sr. High. In the four years that I participated in choir, the school was awarded a Grammy Signature School Award (from the actual Grammy Foundation) each year!

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?
Giggles-no questions asked. I have a very boisterous and contagious laugh. You always know where I am when you hear me laugh, which is quite often.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?
That depends, do you want actual talent or stupid human trick-because I have both! Actual talent, I would sing. Stupid human trick, I can sound exactly like a crying baby…and yes, it is as creepy as it sounds.

If G.R.E.E.N. where an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Giving
Research
Education
Equality
Nursing

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.
Automotive Instructor:

• I was an automotive technician for GM/Saturn after Graduating from Green River with my AAS in Automotive.
• For the last 11 years I have been teaching automotive at Kentlake High School.
  

What drew you to apply to Green River?
As a student I attended Green River. And I knew they had an excellent automotive program. For the last 5 ½ years I have been teaching night classes, and knew when the opportunity came to go full time, I would apply.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?
Anything but commercials. Could be talk radio, Rock, Country, or anything but commercials.

What was the very first job you ever had?
I got my first job when I was 14. I delivered newspapers on my bicycle every morning at 4:30am.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?
I am excited to work with adults that are career bound, not students that are only worried about graduating.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?
In my first year, I would like to iron out the bugs that come with a new building, and have a seamless transition from the previous instructor to me, the new instructor.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?
My Children: Carter (6), Beckett (3 ½) and Roslyn (2)

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?
Many people know me as "Suberdave":
Suber: I love Subaru's, and I am active in the Subaru community.
Dave: That's my first name.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?
I have no hidden talents.

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.
I have just been hired as the High School Completion Full-Time Instructor, Tenure Track, having taught at Green River for about 3 years.  I began as the first iGrad instructor at the Kent East Hill location and then began teaching GED, ABE and HS21+ on the main campus.  I have been in the community college system for about 10 years working at North Seattle, South Seattle, Renton Tech and finally, here at Green River.  My bachelor's degree is in social science and my master's degree is in adult education and distance learning. Teaching is my passion.  It is a privilege to help students achieve their educational goals. I feel fortunate to have a career that brings me so much personal satisfaction.

What drew you to apply to Green River?
Even before working here, I heard of Green River's reputation for having a top notch ABE program and once I arrived, I felt immediately at home. Everyone I work with is so supportive and makes this an enjoyable workplace. I feel a sense of comradery with all of the faculty and staff in my department.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?
I have recently taken up listening to audio books in the car. My favorite read lately was, "The Boys in the Boat", about the UW rowing team that competed in the 1936 Olympics.   I am also a sucker for a certain radio station known for making prank phone calls.

What was the very first job you ever had?
My first job was dusting shelves at my father's grocery store when I was 9 years old.   From there, I worked up to butcher's assistant and finally, cashier.  While it wasn't always easy to work for my dad (I recall getting fired once in third grade), it instilled in me a strong work ethic.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?
I am looking forward to spending all day, every day, doing what I love.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?
I want to get on a first name basis with individuals throughout multiple departments on campus.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

1. My 3 children
2. Completing 10 marathons
3. Achieving the dream of living in Hawaii for a period

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?
One of my previous employers dubbed me, "The Bulldog." Whether that was because of my height, or my tenacity, I am not sure, but it was probably both!

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?
I can't say that I have a stage-worthy talent per se, but I do enjoy sewing and have taught many kids in my community how to sew.

If G.R.E.E.N. where an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Gregarious
Runners
Exude
Energy
Naturally

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.
My name is Tiffany Quatmann and I so excited to join the Green River team as one of the new IT Specialist – Systems Administrators. I have just over twelve years of experience working in technology related positions. The last six of those years working in Academia. Most recently I am coming from Arizona State University where I progressively worked as a Systems Analyst. I currently have two undergraduate degrees and I am working on my Bachelors.

What drew you to apply to Green River?
I am relocating to Washington state and my passion of working in Acadamia lead me to look for work at the surrounding colleges. I feel in love with the campus at Green River College and when I dived a little deeper into the programs offered I knew it was the place for me.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?
News. I know. But it is actually a wonderful way to get my brain up and running, thinking critically and preparing for the day.

What was the very first job you ever had?
Subway at Paradise Valley mall in high school. It was amazing opportunity to for a high school student to work at the mall close to home. Although, I cannot eat Subway anymore.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?
Learning more. This position offers a broader range of opportunities and room for growth.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?
Completely immerse myself in the community of Green River.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

1. Raising a beautiful and loving family.
2. Going back to college and completing a degree.
3. Giving back to my community.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?
Tiffy. That has always been the one I was given.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?
I would showcase a range of quilting projects that my daughter and I have worked on over the years. Although, I might have to track some of them down.

If G.R.E.E.N. where an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Generating
Renewable
Energy
Environments
Nationwide

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.
I'm fresh out of college with my B.A in Financial Economics and a minor in business administration. My new title of Fiscal Analyst 1 is a great beginning to establishing my professional background in Finance.

What drew you to apply to Green River?
I was initially drawn to Green River by the job posting for the Fiscal Analyst 1 position because I was being selective in my job search and few positions fit my preferred criteria. But once I visited the campus I was further drawn in by the friendly employees, and the over all culture of the college.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?
As of day two, I am still listening to the soothing sound of my google maps, and the beautiful rain of the PNW.

What was the very first job you ever had?
My very first job was working at McDonalds for $8.00/hr in high school.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?
I'm most excited to be working and expanding my knowledge and skill set in my field of passion.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?
I would love to meet new people, and build new relationships.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

1. Growing up,
2. Going to school and
3. Getting a job.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?
I have no idea, because I just met them!

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?
I would showcase my dolphin training talent, which doesn't actually exist.

If G.R.E.E.N. where an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Get
Ready
Enjoy
Every
Nanosecond

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.
I'm honored to be selected for the HR Consultant 3 – Recruiter role. I spent 25 years at Boeing, 16 years of which were in recruiting. I have a passion for building relationships and developing lasting friendships.

What drew you to apply to Green River?
I was looking to make a difference in college-age students.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?
I flip through music channels. Old school and current! (no country).

What was the very first job you ever had?
I worked at a daycare – 3 year olds.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?
The diversity of the partners and customers.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?
Understand how things work and make a positive impact.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

1. My Son.
2. My love and support for my extended family.
3. My work at KentHOPE.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?
Hmmmmmm, hard one- "Tam" I guess.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?
Play French horn.

If G.R.E.E.N. where an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Gifted
Relationships
Everyone
Enriched
Namaste

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.
I am a Workforce Coordinator. In my previous position I was an Office Assistant at Workforce Education. Most of my professional jobs have dealt with retail.

What drew you to apply to Green River?
I already enjoyed working part-time as an employee in the Workforce Education Department. When I found out about the new position, it was a no-brainer to apply.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?
It depends on my mood in that moment. It could be: Sports Talk Radio, Podcasts, Country Music, 90's Hip-Hop, Motown, Classical Music, Soft Rock, Pop, Christian Music and NPR.

What was the very first job you ever had?
I started working when I was 16 at TJ Maxx as a cashier.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?
I am excited to inspire students to reach their full potential.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?
I want to engage, listen and find solutions to students' barriers that prevent them from reaching their goals.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

1. My close relationship with my family
2. My experience in working with challenging students
3. DIY projects
   

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?
I have no idea.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?
I would say my talent would be a dance number.

If G.R.E.E.N. where an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

God
Rise Up
Education is the most powerful weapon (Nelson Mandela)
Encounter many defeats, but we must not be defeated (Maya Angelou)
Nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you (Marianne Williams)

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.
My new title is Program Assistant for IESL on the Kent Campus. I started my career in education as the lead writing consultant for Highline College's Writing Center. I continued working in higher education as a housing coordinator for Kaplan International English, placing international students with American host families. Most recently, I taught English to K-12 students at a learning center in Bellevue.

What drew you to apply to Green River?
I'm passionate about connecting with and serving students. I love helping to support others in their educational goals, especially international students, and Green River is the perfect opportunity for me to do that.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?
When I'm driving into work, I'm usually listening to NPR. I'm a big news-junkie. It's important to me to know what's going on in the world.

What was the very first job you ever had?
My first job was running concession stands for Kent Little League. I loved watching the games, and getting free hot dogs was definitely a plus!

What about your new position is most exciting for you?
It's always exciting to meet people from all over the world and learn more about their cultures. That's something that I loved about working with international students before and that I'm looking forward to enjoying in my new position in the IESL office.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?
I'm in a very unique position as the first full-time program assistant for IESL on the Kent Campus, so it's important to me in this first year to make this job my own and to learn how to best support a team working across multiple campuses.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

1. The first accomplishment I am most proud of is being the first person in my family to receive a bachelor's degree.
2. The second accomplishment is receiving my MFA in Creative Writing and being able to finish my thesis during a particularly chaotic year, which involved leaving my job, getting married, and moving.
3. The third accomplishment I am most proud of is the meaningful relationships that I've been able to build with students.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?
My office nickname would probably be something like "smiley." I'm a habitual smiler, even when I'm not paying attention.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?
I'm a prose writer, so I suppose I could tell everyone a story.

If G.R.E.E.N. where an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Genuine
Responsiveness
Educational
Encouragement
Nurturing

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words. Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.
My name is Sean Taggart, and I am the new Assistant Director of Campus Safety, Parking and Transportation. My professional background spans 20 years and includes security, safety and transportation experience in a wide range of environments including educational institutions, Fortune 500 companies, 5 star hotels and resorts and many others. I hold a Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice and will complete my Master's Degree in Security Studies in October. I also hold a Certified Protection Professional certification through ASIS.

What drew you to apply to Green River?
The campus and the people are what drew me to Green River College. From the moment I stepped foot on the campus I was made to feel welcome. In addition, the opportunities that this position has to offer are a perfect match to my experience, training and education.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?
Being from Texas, I tend to listen to a lot a country music traveling back and forth to work.

What was the very first job you ever had?
My very first job was working as a camp counselor for a large Boy Scout camp in Bastrop, TX.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?
The fact that this is a new position is very exciting. Along with that, the fact that I will be able to work with a wonderful group of individuals was an incentive to accepting this position.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?
In my first year I would hope to gain a deep understanding of the school's culture and people and how in my role in Safety, Parking and Transportation I can best serve them.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?
My biggest 3 accomplishments in life would have to first be my wife and our marriage, second would be obtaining my master's degree this fall, and third would be where I am in my professional career

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?
Chef, because I love to cook.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?
Live cooking demonstration.

If G.R.E.E.N. where an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Great
Ripe
Environment
Educating
Nations

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words. Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.
My new title is Program Support Supervisor. I have been in customer service my entire professional life. Most of that time has been spent working in casinos from frontline to management positions.

What drew you to apply to Green River?
Working in casinos sounds fun, right? No. After 10 years of "hustling" (as we called it) I was done. I saw this position and thought I'd be a pretty good fit. I received my Bachelor's in Sociology in 2008 because I really wanted to help others. I felt like this would be a position where I felt I could give back to others and the community.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?
I live close enough to walk to work!!! It's awesome! But in the shower I listen to 950 KJR. I am a Slickhawk fan boy. I got a selfie with him at the USMNT match at Centurylink earlier this summer.

What was the very first job you ever had?
Cashier at Burgerville.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?
The most exciting part for me is that I finally have a position where I have the ability to help others. I've been in this position for 3 weeks now and every day I feel like I am making a positive difference in other people's lives.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?
I haven't really thought about it. I just want to come to work, do my job, and go the extra mile for the people I work with and the students.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

• Being the first person in my family to attend college and graduate.
• Getting married to the best person I have ever met.
• Being true to myself. (Don't know if that's an accomplishment.)

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?
I asked my coworkers about this and Joshika said, "Bear!" which is actually what my wife calls me. So there you go.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?
I guess I could give them really solid fantasy football advice. I used to write my own blog (pretentious face).

If G.R.E.E.N. where an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Goblins Rarely Ever Engage in Nurturing……I'm bad at acronyms.

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words. Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.
I am the new Junior Web Application Developer on the Web Team. I have a BS in Computer Science and previously worked in Seattle for a small web development company. Go (CWU) Wildcats! I mean…Go Wildcats and Gators!

What drew you to apply to Green River?
The area and the campus itself. The campus is gorgeous and only a jump from home.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?
Star 101.5 or my Spotify playlist, which includes bands like Skillet or Thousand Foot Krutch, as well as classical music by the Piano Guys!

What was the very first job you ever had?
My very first job was delivering weekly newspapers and ads as a teenager in Germany.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?
Learning new things! Also, working professionally (previous jobs at colleges were student jobs) in an educational setting.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?
Be an asset to my team and help people on the campus.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

• Getting married to my best friend,
• moving back to the US by myself and establishing myself over here, and
• getting my Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?
B-Three or B3. There are two more Brians here in the IT department. I was the last one to arrive. I have also heard Brian M before from a co-worker.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?
Do a comedy routine in German.

If G.R.E.E.N. where an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Getting a
Rockstar
Engaging
Education
Now

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.
My name is Aileen Velasquez-Soto, and I am the new administrative assistant for the facilities department. I just graduated from the University of Washington with my degree in Communications, and I am beyond excited to start working at Green River.

What drew you to apply to Green River?
I used to be a student at Green River. I started right after high school and graduated in 2014. When I saw the position open I knew I had to apply. Being part of a college, though, has taught me so much and is what made me apply.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?
I like to start my morning with something that gets me excited for the day. It can be country, pop, or anything in between.

What was the very first job you ever had?
My first job was in high school. I worked at a McDonalds close to my home. I met some great people there, and it taught me the fundamentals of what it takes to be a great employee.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?
I think the most exciting part about my new position is being back on campus. I love the environment at Green River and can't wait to be back.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?
I can't wait to just learn. I know I am going to be working with some great people in the facilities department, and I can't wait to learn from them and help them in anyway I can.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?
My greatest accomplishments so far are:

1. Being the first in my family to graduate from college.
2. Going to school and working full time while managing good grades.
3. Being chosen to study abroad in Spain and experiencing a new culture, meeting new people, and interning at a great place

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?
People usually call me A or Velasquez. It's just something that has stuck with me since I was younger.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?
I love to take pictures. Photography is a new hobby of mine. So, if we had a talent show, I would showcase some images.

If G.R.E.E.N. where an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Great school
Respectable people
Energetic students and staff
Exciting environment
New place for opportunities

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.
My title is IESL Student Advisor, and I am working within International Programs. For the past year, I've been in this role part-time and am excited to be coming aboard full-time. Before I came to Green River, I was at the University of Pennsylvania pursuing an M.S. Ed. in Higher Education while working at Haverford College as an academic consultant. Before that, I taught math in middle school and worked at a test prep center!

What drew you to apply to Green River?
I had applied for an AmeriCorps position at Green River years ago – I had been accepted for the position, but the grant fell through at the last minute. Even though the position didn't work out, I remember having really good feelings about the atmosphere and the people!

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?
Podcasts – ranging from recent news in higher education to Korean comedy.

What was the very first job you ever had?
My very first job was probably a tutoring job. I tutored almost half my life!

What about your new position is most exciting for you?
The most exciting part of my job is coming up with new ideas with our team. We are currently working on student engagement within the IESL program, and we're excited to get students active and involved outside of the classrooms!

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?
I'd like to collaborate across campus and get to know more faces outside of International Programs.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

• Getting my graduate degree! The ten months I spent in Philadelphia were probably the most emotionally draining ten months of my life – I think there was a point in the final stretch where I wanted to come back home, but with the support of family and friends, I was able to complete the program. Being the first to attend graduate school in my family was a huge accomplishment for me.
• Changing majors in college! My parents thought I was going to medical school ever since I was a baby, so the day I told them I wanted to pursue education was not a good day. I had studied natural sciences (without much interest) all throughout the first couple years of college, but then decided to pursue psychology and music – one of the best decisions of my life. I remember feeling as if I had let them down, but now, they are my biggest supporters.
• Getting married! My friends thought I would be the lonely cat lady yelling at kids on the front porch, so it was a huge surprise when I started dating my husband. We recently got married and spent a week in Bali for our honeymoon!

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?
"Neat-freak" is the go-to nickname that I've been given everywhere else. I'm not crazy neat, but I do like to have things placed in a certain way, especially on my desk.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?
I would probably set up shop and write everyone's names with a pointed pen. I picked up calligraphy a year ago, and I've been doing commissioned work for the past six months!

If G.R.E.E.N. where an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?
A Gentle Reminder that Equity in Education is Needed.

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.
My new title is Director of Procurement. I've worked in procurement for the State of Washington for over 25 years.

What drew you to apply to Green River?
I've always been impressed with our state's community college system. I'm inspired by people who study and learn.  I just had to apply for a job where I could use my professional skills and work in a learning environment!

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?
I like audio books, NPR and 107.7 The End.

What was the very first job you ever had?
I worked in food prep at the University of Washington student union building.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?
I'm excited to get to know, and work with my new co-workers.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?
Along with continuing to provide excellent procurement services, I'll work hard to become an accomplished ctcLink user.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

• Raising my two sons
• Helping my older son become an Olympic athlete
• Being a good family member and friend

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?
It would have to be something to do with smiling. I smile a lot.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?
I'd discover an unrealized talent for the fiddle or banjo and play some bluegrass.

If G.R.E.E.N. where an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?
Grow and Reach every day. Educate yourself. Enjoy life. Nurture family and friends.

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

My new title is Program Specialist 2. I would be engaged in two main roles. For part of the year (STP – 20%) I would be the key activity and event planner for visiting international students, which are here for just a short while. For the other part of the year (Housing – 80%) my focus would be on the International Student Housing Program. Duties would include consulting with students regarding their housing choices, interviewing host families and home visits, facilitating move-in, tracking, coordination, and attending host family meetings.

What drew you to apply to Green River?
I immigrated to the U.S from China 5 years ago. I graduated from Green River College in 2013. I got lots of help and support from instructors and other staff. Now I want to pay back and help other students.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?
I like to listen to Spirit 105.3, which is a Christian music radio.

What was the very first job you ever had?
My very first job was an employee in an international travel agency in Beijing, China.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?
I work with international students, which is very exciting for me.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?
I would like to know all the host families in my first year at Green River.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

• I met my wife and got married in China.
• I have two wonderful children.
• I got my Bachelor of Science degree from University of Washington, Tacoma.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?
I prefer "Beatles" because my name is Jude.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?
I probably would sing a Chinese song.

If G.R.E.E.N. where an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Gentle
Respectable
Experienced
Exploratory
N utritious

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.
I am an International Student Advisor. Before working at Green River, I was Assistant Director of Enrollment Services at Associates in Cultural Exchange and then worked as an International Student Advisor at Seattle Central College.  I also wrote reference content for National Geographic Education, covering topics ranging from typhoons to the Great Pacific Garbage Patch. Currently, I am completing a master's degree in International Education from the School for International Training.

What drew you to apply to Green River?
I worked in international student advising in Seattle before and met many Green River employees and attended their workshops at conferences. I always appreciated their friendliness, their innovative ideas, and their clear commitment to international student success.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?
I listen to KUOW, KEXP, and podcasts like Risk, Invisibilia, and 2 Dope Queens. I also love pop music and classic rock.

What was the very first job you ever had?
At 14, I started working at the Vermont Confectionary. I made chocolate pops, filled candy jars, scooped ice cream, and cut cheese.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?
I am most excited to collaborate with my fellow advisors and other Green River staff to support international students in their academic, social, and personal development.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?
I would love to work on programming that connects international students with local students.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

• Winning a slam poetry competition at 15. I was a very shy student and I found my voice through poetry. I will never forget the loud cheers ringing in my ears after I finished presenting my poem. After that experience, I went on to write and perform more poetry and also performed in plays and musicals.
• Completing a year as an international exchange student in Lima, Peru. As a teenager from a rural town, I found it difficult to adjust to life in a large foreign city. I am so glad that I stayed for the entire year; I learned so much about myself, my own cultural background, and the amazing people and places of Peru.
• Giving a speech at my sister's wedding. My sister was just recently married and she means the world to me.  We both love music so I wrote a speech that incorporated short clips from some of our favorite songs.  People laughed! They cried! But I cried the most.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?
My nickname would "Zen Master" because I remain calm during difficult situations and I am a patient listener. On the other hand, they may name me "DJ Andrew" because I love to throw dance parties and encourage people to move and have fun.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?
I was part of a whistling acapella group in college. I can whistle the entirety of "Bohemian Rhapsody" if you ask me nicely.

If G.R.E.E.N. where an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Gracious
Resilient
Energetic
Engaged
N atural

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

Title: Graphic Designer

I have decades of experience as a graphic designer graphic here in Greater Seattle. For 13 years I owned a graphic design studio based in Fremont, "the center of the universe". I am passionate about great design and spent several years working with our community on pro-bono work while raising my three children. Brand work is where I excel and look forward to contributing to Green River's marketing efforts.

What drew you to apply to Green River?
Two things: 1) Location 2) Community. I've spent several years offering my skills to elementary and primary education. So it just seamed fitting to continue with higher education.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?
Current music.

What was the very first job you ever had?
Pulling weeds over the summer.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?
The people.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?
Meeting a new person every day.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?
Marissa my daughter. Mikko my son. McKenzie my daughter.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?
Coach. I'm a volleyball coach.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?
My ability to know when it's a full moon.

If G.R.E.E.N. where an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Green
River
Exceeds
Expectations
N aturally

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.

My new title is Program Specialist 2- International Programs Business Manager Assistant. Prior to joining Green River, I worked in the international education industry in Bangkok, Thailand and the Online Travel industry in Bellevue, WA.

What drew you to apply to Green River?
What drew me to Green River was the strong international programs department and my passion to work with diverse student population.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?
I listen to pop and electronic music. My favorites are Taylor Swift, Calvin Harris, and Maroon 5.

What was the very first job you ever had?
The first job I had was being a cashier at the University of Oregon Bookstore (The Duck Store).

What about your new position is most exciting for you?
My favorite part is getting to work with students and very friendly office environment.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?
Make a positive impact on a student success or take an interesting class at Green River.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

• Built a house for a family in need in Mexico.
• Been a foreign exchange student at the age of 15.
• Got 2 job promotions in 1 year at the previous company I worked at.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?
Panda, because they can look serious but they are actually playful.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?
I play a Thai instrument called Khim.

If G.R.E.E.N. where an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Great
Remarkable
Enthusiasm
Energy
N atural

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.
I am the Natural Resources Coordinator. I graduated with 3 Natural Resources (Forestry, Water Quality, and Park Management) AAS degrees from Green River. I have worked for the College part-time on a Woodland Detention project since fall of 2011. I provide nature walks, introduce pre-kindergarteners to the forest, collect data, and write annual monitoring reports for local, state, federal, and tribal agency review.

What drew you to apply to Green River?
Working part-time at Green River College for over the past 4 years, I have acquired a deep respect for nature found both on our urban campus and in our back yard forest. I was also drawn to the positive working atmosphere in the Facilities Department and the support I have received from the Business Affairs.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?
I listen to the Danny Bonaduce and Sarah Morning Show.

What was the very first job you ever had?
I started working when I was 14 years old at Burger King with a work permit because I was so young.

What about your new position is most exciting for you?
I get to go outside look at the trees, hear the birds, and monitor the forested storm water Woodland Detention Facility, which includes Gator Pond.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?
I would like to write a comprehensive urban forestry plan focusing on the main campus. I would like to reach out to the campus community and start the conversation regarding the current state of ecosystem health found on campus and in the Woodland Detention study site.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

• Continuously accomplishing building a great life with my Husband.
• Putting off my career to raise my 4 children.
• While taking care of a family of 6, I have completed 3 degrees along with further study at the University of Washington. In addition, I am working on completing the last few remaining credits of my Natural Resources undergrad degree at Oregon State University.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?
I have been called Pollyanna at the office due to my sunshine personality.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?
I have trained my bloodhound Sara to do tricks other than searching for lost things.

If G.R.E.E.N. where an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

Green is the beauty I see on a dew drop resting on conifer needles.
Ready to serve my community and take pride in the stewardship of our beautiful forest.
Energy that is renewed by nature every day.
Education for the general community, disabled or nontraditional persons who may not   otherwise get a chance to walk in a forest.
N itrogen fixers are plants that draw nitrogen from the air and return it to the soil, which helps other plants grow.

We'd like to take a moment and recognize our newest employees to Green River. Please take a moment to learn more about them, in their own words.

Please tell everyone your new title and a little bit about your professional background.
My name is Philip Denman and I'm the new Assistant Director of College Relations. I earned my BA in Communications from Washington State University (Go Cougs!) and my Masters in Public Administration from the University of Colorado. Prior to joining the Green River team, I served as the Assistant Director of University Communications and Media Relations team at the University of Colorado – Colorado Springs.

What drew you to apply to Green River?
While I loved Colorado, my wife and I were both anxious to return to Washington. My wife – who is originally from Kent – accepted a new position in Tacoma so we packed up and headed west. I knew I wanted to stay in higher education and at the time my brother-in-law was attending Green River after his time in the military. Once I visited campus and saw how beautiful it was, I was hooked.

On the car ride to work, what do you listen to?
Either a podcast (Top 3: Nerdist, Dan Carlin's Hardcore History, and the Adam Savage Project) or an audiobook (Currently: A Song of Ice and Fire).

What was the very first job you ever had?
I worked at a Coldstone Creamery throughout highschool. And before you ask, no, I don't remember any of the jingles!

What about your new position is most exciting for you?
I'm really looking forward to getting to know the faculty and staff that make this campus such a wonderful place for our students to attend. I love meeting new people, and the only way to be successful in this position is to throw yourself out there and start making those connections.

What is one thing you'd love to accomplish in your first year at Green River?
Remember everyone's names! Kidding aside, we're in the process of giving the CommuniGator a facelift and I'm excited to highlight all the wonderful things our faculty, staff and students are doing.

What three accomplishments are you most proud of in your life?

• Earning my MPA: Neither of my parents graduated college so it was a big deal to attend and complete graduate school.
• Being a Division I NCAA sports photographer: There is no better place to watch a game than from the sidelines! Though I did lose a pair of prescription sunglasses after evading a USC defensive lineman running out of bounds. If you think those guys look big on TV, you should see them in person.
• Studying abroad: During my junior year of college I packed up and moved to New Zealand for 6 months. It was a life changing experience. The country is as beautiful in person as the Lord of the Rings movies make it out to be, and the people are so welcoming.

If your coworkers were to give you an office nickname, what would that be? Why?
Probably "that nerd" because my desk is covered in a variety of Star Wars, Lord of the Rings and Portal action figures and Legos.

For Green River's annual talent show (this doesn't actually exist), what hidden talent would you showcase for everyone?
I brew my own beer, so I'd bring a case of that in and hope it sways the judge's into giving me first place.

If G.R.E.E.N. where an acronym for something, what would each letter stand for?

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Source: https://greenriverhr.wordpress.com/category/employee-spotlights/

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