Antelope Intros is a recurring GCU Today feature that introduces some of our new employees to the people around them in a way that is both fun and informative. Employees are eligible to be featured in the month following their orientation.
KATE FLAVELL
Job title: Full-time faculty online
Job location: Tempe
What attracted you to GCU? My son and daughter-in-law (Chris and Colleen Eymann) met here and are graduates. Chris played basketball from 1992-94.
What do you do for fun and where do you find that outlet? Sing, play the guitar. I have led worship at a church for the last three years and performed in musicals.
What are you passionate about? My kids (all adults) and grandkids, and what is happening to education in this country today.
What are your favorite places or events in the Valley that you like to visit? Any sport that one of my grandkids is playing in.
Tell us something about yourself that most people don’t know: I have done ropes course events (rappel, tyrolean traverse, zip line) as a volunteer and one of the founders of Phoenix Youth at Risk.
What are you most proud of? The legacy I have left as a math teacher at two high schools in California and my grandkids. They are rock stars!
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TERESA RIBBE
Job title: Talent Acquisition Specialist
Job location: Colter Building 40
What attracted you to GCU? The Christian values, great reputation and the people!
What do you do for fun and where do you find that outlet? Shopping at any of the malls.
What are you passionate about? Animals.
What are your favorite places or events in the Valley that you like to visit? Sporting events, the MIM, the Herberger Theatre.
Tell us something about yourself that most people don’t know: I lived in Guam for two and a half years.
What are you most proud of? My family.
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NIZHONI SMOCKS
Job title: Program Specialist – Academic Policy & Program Management
Job location: Colter Building 43
What attracted you to GCU? Friendly atmosphere, great place to work, able to continue my education, a growing business.
What do you do for fun and where do you find that outlet? Serve in national leadership for Gamma Alpha Omega Sorority, Inc.
What are you passionate about? The rights and safety of children, education and diversity.
What are your favorite places or events in the Valley that you like to visit? Cityscape in downtown Phoenix – Stand Up Live & Gypsy Bar, Sacred Hogan Navajo Frybread Restaurant, Pearl Sushi in Chandler, the Westin Kierland Resort, iPic Theatres, Chandler Indian Art Market.
Tell us something about yourself that most people don’t know: I grew up on the Navajo Reservation in Chinle, Ariz., and would love to travel into space.
What are you most proud of? I'm the first person in my family to obtain a master’s degree.
