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 fun and informative. Employees are eligible to be featured in the month following their orientation.
ROBBIE HART
Job title: University counselor
Job location: 27th Avenue, Building 71
What attracted you to GCU? I’ve been told I look great in purple! I went to undergrad at a very small (500 student) Christian college in Kansas. I felt I was led to GCU to complete that circle that started 27 years ago. God has led me on a wonderful and crazy journey, and I know he wants me to use that journey to help others on their journey.
What do you do for fun and where do you find that outlet? Now that’s a loaded question. On my own, I like enjoy my own private carpool karaoke -- rocking out in my convertible Fiat getting funny stares from other drivers on the road. I also spend a great deal of time with my dog, Theo. We’re both thinking about going semipro in the napping category.
What are you passionate about? God and bacon!
What are your favorite places or events in the Valley that you like to visit? I live across the street from where the Chicago Cubs play in the spring and I make it a priority to get in a few games every spring training. I also spend a lot of time at Tempe Town Lake at all of the races, events and festivals.
Tell us something about yourself that most people don’t know: My name is Robbie Hart -- yes, just like the character Adam Sandler played in the movie "The Wedding Singer." One of my claims to fame, or better yet -- proof of God’s omnipotence -- is at a previous job I actually spoke with someone named Julia Guilia. Any of you who know the movie will get how magical of an experience it was for Robbie Hart to speak with Juila Guilia! Also, when I was 8 years old, I took third place in the California state bowling championship for my age group. That same month I took the gold medal in the Los Angeles County hula-hoop competition. I’m just sitting here now, waiting for the Olympics to call.
What are you most proud of? After a long and winding road, I am most proud of the impact I am having on those around me.
****
KARSTEN KEM
Job title: Sponsorship sales associate
Job location: 27th Avenue, Building 66
What attracted you to GCU? I had a fantastic experience as an undergraduate here at Grand Canyon University. I love GCU’s Christian heritage and dedication to its students and surrounding community.
What do you do for fun and where do you find that outlet? I enjoy hanging out with my wife and our pet tortoise, Eeyore.
What are you passionate about? I love meeting new people and being a part of something bigger than myself. GCU has offered me so many unique opportunities and relationships since I began my tenure as a student/student-worker.
What are your favorite places or events in the Valley that you like to visit? My friends and I love golfing at the GCU Golf Course as well as catching an occasional D-backs game downtown.
Tell us something about yourself that most people don’t know: In my senior year, I spent dining dollars at GCBC every day of the year. Also, Thunder and Paul Danuser, College of Education professor and the public address announcer for the men's basketball games, crashed my wedding! The wedding party did a full Purple Pregame Party upon entry at the reception.
What are you most proud of? I take pride in being teachable and enthusiastic!
