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.
CAROLYN BROWN
Job title: Curriculum developer
Job location: 27th Avenue, Building 77
What attracted you to GCU? I fell in love with Grand Canyon University while working as a subject matter expert for a STEM course. The moment I entered through the security gate, I knew this place was unlike any other. The climate and culture of GCU is outstanding! I love that I am part of a family that is so kind and loving and also shares my desire to grow and learn.
What do you do for fun and where do you find that outlet? I absolutely adore traveling! I’ve been to 25 countries and love getting to know people from other cultures. Having a global perspective has molded me to be the person I am today.
What are you passionate about? Curriculum! No, seriously -- I love the stuff. I also share a passion for anything artistic/creative. Lastly, I am passionate about trying to keep my cell phone browser tabs under 20.
What are your favorite places or events in the Valley that you like to visit? I have lived in Arizona for only three years (Michigan native), but in that time I’ve discovered and come to love the Desert Botanical Garden. The annual Salsa Festival is one of my favorite events. Michigan does not offer such an opportunity (but we do have an Ice Fest!).
Tell us something about yourself that most people don’t know: My parents and my in-laws were married on the same day, same year, and my husband and I are only 10 days apart with both of us being the first born, after both of our parents hit the nine-year anniversary mark. Oh, and we each have one younger sister.
What are you most proud of? Working hard in my career so that I can work at the university. My father spent 20 years in K-12 education and 20 at the university level; I’ve spent seven in K-12 and who knows how many at the university level! I’m also proud to be a Lope, of course.
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ALHELI CHAVEZ
Job title: Academic administrator
Job location: 27th Avenue
What attracted you to GCU? The warm, welcoming environment.
What do you do for fun and where do you find that outlet? Getting out, getting to know and enjoy the city and the surrounding areas. I’m always willing to try something new and different.
What are you passionate about? Providing a fun, happy and healthy life for my family and myself.
What are your favorite places or events in the Valley that you like to visit? Hiking, enjoying amazing views from mountain tops. My favorite view so far is from Echo Trail on Camelback – it’s a tough hike but definitely worth the view!
Tell us something about yourself that most people don’t know: I recently relocated to the area from El Paso, Texas, with my fiancé and our two dogs in September of last year for a position he was offered in Phoenix. He is also a student here at GCU in the MBA program. We actually stayed at the GCU hotel when we first got here, so we loved the environment from the get-go. I miss my family and friends dearly, but I already feel at home!
What are you most proud of? My mom. She’s my biggest inspiration. She’s a strong, independent woman, beautiful inside and out.
