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.
BRIAN ROTH
Job title: Videographer
Job location: 27th Avenue, Innovation Center
What attracted you to GCU? I was attracted to GCU by hearing so many great stories from friends about the work environment. It sounded like a great place to be, and I wanted to lend my expertise to this university.
What do you do for fun and where do you find that outlet? I train and work with horses in my spare time. I like taking horses that have a bad attitude and turning them into great trail companions. There’s something about gaining the trust of 1,200-pound animals and having them look to you as their leader.
What are you passionate about? I am passionate about the environment and animals and love telling stories through video for creatures that do not have a voice.
What are your favorite places or events in the Valley that you like to visit? I love riding horses in the McDowell Mountain preserve. There’s nothing like being on the back of a horse in the middle of nature.
Tell us something about yourself that most people don’t know: I’m originally from the city that never sleeps, New York. Guess you could call me an urban cowboy!
What are you most proud of? I’m proud of the quality friends I’ve made, I’m proud of the quality work I’ve produced in the film industry and I’m proud to be producing that tier of work for GCU.
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LAURA DI MEO
Job title: GL Fixed Asset Lead Accountant
Job location: 27th Avenue, Bldg. 71
What attracted you to GCU? The job duties are a perfect fit for me. I am happy to work for a company that aligns with Christian values. Also, the location is close to home.
What do you do for fun and where do you find that outlet? I enjoy hiking, bird-watching and dancing. I babysit often for my grandchildren, 2-year-old Jade and 1-year-old Bruce. They keep me laughing and wear me out, but it’s all good!
What are you passionate about? I've been bird-watching since age 9. It’s a thrill to visit new environments -- desert, pine forest, savannas, woodlands, beaches -- and see different birds in other states as well as foreign countries. God gave us jewels of the air to enjoy, and here in Arizona we have six species of hummingbirds. Sometimes it’s challenging just sitting in the brush, trying to fit in with proper clothing, and swatting flies or mosquitoes to keep them from chewing me up, just so I can get a good view of a purple gallinule or green heron foraging in the murky water of a pond.
What are your favorite places or events in the Valley that you like to visit? Riparian Reserve in Gilbert, Spur Cross Ranch and Boyce Thompson Arboretum.
Tell us something about yourself that most people don’t know: I haven't been in Arizona that long -- since October 2015. I'm previously from the suburbs of Chicago.
What are you most proud of? My three sisters and my parents. We all get along quite well, support each other and have healthy and successful relationships. I'm also proud of overcoming numerous hardships in life.
