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.
BARRY REGAN
Job title: Instructor of communications; speech and debate team director
Job location: Building 6, College of Arts & Sciences
What attracted you to GCU? When I first visited GCU, I was shocked by how intimate the campus environment was, even in the face of exploding enrollment numbers. I was also impressed by how supportive members of administration were. Overall, from the beautifully landscaped campus to the sense of community cultivated by staff and faculty, I knew this is where I wanted to be.
What do you do for fun and where do you find that outlet? I am an avid sports fan, and I love to play disc golf, go hiking, and partake in a number of other outdoor activities with my wife and dog.
What are you passionate about? As director of the speech and debate team, I love working with my team members on their public speaking and argumentation skills. I believe that no skill is more valuable in the workplace than the ability to confidently articulate a well-reasoned opinion, and it excites me to work with students who are just as passionate about it as I am.
What are your favorite places or events in the Valley that you like to visit? Since moving to Arizona, I really enjoy attending spring training, Arizona Diamondbacks, Phoenix Suns and Arizona Cardinals games. In addition, I find it fun to hike at Camelback and South Mountain.
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BLAIR PETERSON
Job title: Online enrollment counselor, Military Division
Job location: Peoria
What attracted you to GCU? What attracted me to GCU is the investment that the company puts into its employees. GCU truly breathes servant leadership, and I’ve never been a part of something so wonderful.
What do you do for fun and where do you find that outlet? I love to hike. Nature brings me rest and simultaneously makes me feel alive. I also love to read and go to the movies.
What are you passionate about? I’m passionate about stories, which I know sounds weird, but what I mean is that everyone has a story/is living a story, and when I interact with people I’m becoming a part of their story. I like learning from people and always hope to make a positive impact no matter how long I am a part of their lives.
What are your favorite places or events in the Valley that you like to visit? I love Lux Coffee Shop and almost any bookstore. I love the smell of old books and am pretty happy with a decent Americano. Most of my favorite places are hiking trails. Dreamy Draw is probably my favorite hike in the Valley. Postino has great atmosphere and amazing bruschetta.
Tell us something about yourself that most people don’t know: As an Arizona native, I didn’t see snow fall until I was 22.
What are you most proud of? I was the first grandchild in my family to get a college degree.
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ALI BUCKLER
Job title: Online enrollment counselor, College of Education
Job location: Tempe
What attracted you to GCU? I was recruited by the head dance coach when I was completing my undergraduate, and I loved the atmosphere so much that I became a student here first. Now that I'm finishing my degree, I want to continue with GCU by being employed here.
What do you do for fun and where do you find that outlet? I love to travel. I usually try to do one international trip a year and a quick trip every month.
What are you passionate about? I am passionate about helping other people. I think helping people achieve their goals is something that is very valuable.
What are your favorite places or events in the Valley that you like to visit? I love to try new things, new places to eat, new places to go -- any time there's a chance for an adventure, I’m there! .
Tell us something about yourself that most people don’t know: I'm accident prone.
What are you most proud of? I'm proud of where I am at today and the path that led me here.
