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.
CIERRA BURNETT
Job title: Student Activities Coordinator
Job location: Main campus, Student Life Building
What attracted you to GCU? I’m a Southern girl at heart and never would have imagined that I’d move to Phoenix. A friend of mine suggested that I apply to work here, and I’m so glad he did. My staff -- Meghan, Carly, Kayleigh and Scott -- have made me feel at home even though I’m more than 1,400 miles away. I’m already in love and pinching myself right now because I still can’t believe it’s real!
What do you do for fun and where do you find that outlet? I am a dog mom to Prince, my 8-pound Maltese. When we’re not cuddled up watching a good rom-com, I love to go to Target and walk around for hours until my cart is full and my wallet is empty. I also love to read, write and sing like nobody’s watching.
What are you passionate about? I’m passionate about helping students, especially young women, realize the beauty of Esther 4:14. Each of us was created by God with intention “for such a time as this,” and He has graced each of us with a special calling that only we can walk in; no one else can do the work that God has set aside for you. I pray that I can be a light and encourage my students to embrace God’s amazing grace and love as they live out their purpose.
What are your favorite places or events in the Valley that you like to visit? I just moved here at the end of June, but so far my favorite places are campus (I mean, it’s GORGEOUS), downtown and the Chick-fil-A on Lopes Way (it’s like Cheers -- I walk in and everybody knows my name).
Tell us something about yourself that most people don’t know: In high school I was actively involved in choir, theatre and spoken-word poetry, and I competed regionally in all three. A not-so-threatening triple threat.
What are you most proud of? I’m most proud of my Memphis roots. Memphis is a city with a rich culture and the most incredible people in the world. There is a true spirit of resilience in the 901; we’re known as the city of “Grit 'n’ Grind.” Being raised in that culture has helped me stand strong in the face of adversity and is a huge part of who I am today.
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RYAN BREDOW
Job title: Vice President, Marketing, Canyon Christian Schools Consortium
Job location: Main campus, Student Life Building
What attracted you to GCU? Pretty simple, actually: the mission and vision this place holds. I loudly applaud the efforts here to serve others and be part of supporting communities, and I am excited to champion the vision President Brian Mueller and his team have for making Christian education available to a growing number of people.
What do you do for fun and where do you find that outlet? I love hanging out with my wife and our three young kids. I know that's probably cliche, but it's the truth. We all love sports (especially Lopes basketball), so going to football, volleyball, basketball or baseball games (whether it be high school, college or professional) is always a highlight.
What are you passionate about? Bringing the saving name of Jesus Christ to as many kids as possible. I have a deep passion for connecting kids to Christ and building a relationship with Him through the transformational gift of Christian education. Growing and promoting that cause is something I absolutely love, and having the opportunity to do so professionally is a great blessing.
What are your favorite places or events in the Valley that you like to visit? Considering that we actually just moved here this month after 12 years in Colorado and three years in Wisconsin, we are excited to find out. We are totally new to the Valley (and to the state, for that matter), so we are looking forward to learning more about the culture here and exploring it further.
Tell us something about yourself that most people don’t know: I have been to all 50 states. No idea if that's interesting or not, but I have found over the years that it isn't very common. We love to travel, and my wife and I have established the same goal for our kids to see all 50 as well.
What are you most proud of? By the grace of God I have been able to be an engaged and visible father for our three young kids (Bella, 8; Bo, 7; Bryce, 2). My father was my hero growing up in large part because he was present, and I want to ensure that I am just as relevant in their childhood as my father was for me.
