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.
DENNIS REIBER
Job title: Curriculum developer
Job location: Annex II
What attracted you to GCU? I was drawn to the fact that it is a Christ-centered and Christian-based environment. There are so many distractions out there in the world that take us away from God that it was refreshing and inspiring to find an organization that centers on the Gospel message.
What do you do for fun and where do you find that outlet? I love camping and being outdoors. We have taken several trips up to the Payson area and I would like to explore the Sedona area. There is nothing more breathtaking than watching the sun come up over a mountain ridge or spreading its rays across a valley floor. Those are the times I feel closest to heaven.
What are you passionate about? I am an avid fan of "Star Trek" and have collected Superman comics for years. When the opportunity (and the inspiration) occurs, I enjoy writing poetry and short stories. I have had the blessing of having several of my works published in the past and hope someday to publish the full scope of my writings.
What are your favorite places or events in the Valley that you like to visit? My wife and I enjoy going to the antique car shows when they are in town. Cars from the ’50s and ’60s, especially, have a charm and aura around them that just cannot be duplicated.
Tell us something about yourself that most people don’t know: I am an Eagle Scout -- BSA Troop 76 out of Lakewood, Colo. -- and some of my most enduring life lessons were learned in the Rockies of Colorado.
What are you most proud of? Next to my three daughters and their families, I am most proud to have been a part of the military history of our nation. I served 20 years as an MP in the Army, and the places that I was able to travel and take my family were experiences and memories that will live with all of us forever.
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ALICIA JONES
Job title: Enrollment Counselor
Job location: Tempe
What attracted you to GCU? I love how GCU is a private Christian university first. In addition to this, GCU enables the busy adult learner to achieve their educational goals, no matter where they reside, through the online modality. GCU puts people first and takes pride in the exceptional support they provide for not only their students, but also with their faculty and staff. There is a sense of unity on the floor and everyone strives to go above and beyond every day.
What do you do for fun and where do you find that outlet? I love spending time with friends, singing karaoke, barbecues, any type of gathering is fun for me! Making time for the people you love -- friends and family -- is very important. I also find exercising enjoyable and a great way to de-stress.
What are you passionate about? Self-expression and finding our muse in life. I have a passion for acting and theatre, any form of dance, comedy and improv, and people who express themselves through music and voice.
What are your favorite places or events in the Valley that you like to visit? I love the local indie music scene and will watch a live show at many local venues, such as Club Red and the Sail Inn. I love going to First Fridays, seeing local comedy acts and community theatre. Anything live!
Tell us something about yourself that most people don’t know: I am part of an alternative choral group called the Arizona Vocal Project. Imagine a choir of 50, singing songs from Muse, Evanescence, Sting, Radiohead, Damian Rice and more. We have the opportunity to perform at Carnegie Hall in New York City next year. I also used to sing in a rock band.
What are you most proud of? I am proud to know that no matter how old I am or what obstacles I have faced, I have made sure that I made time for the things I love. Singing and acting are big passions of mine, and I am proud that I have made strides to pursue what I love to do.
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DOUG LANE
Job title: Enrollment Counselor
Job location: Tempe
What attracted you to GCU? GCU was hiring, I needed a job, a friend worked here and spoke very highly of GCU.
What do you do for fun and where do you find that outlet? Very little. I cannot wait to start classes. I love learning and plan to take classes as soon as I can. I also enjoy landscaping, new installs, redo’s and updating the look. Free quotes ; )
What are you passionate about? Wrestling, learning, making money, project management.
What are your favorite places or events in the Valley that you like to visit? Mormon Temple in Mesa, any place providing free food.
Tell us something about yourself that most people don’t know: I am originally from Maine and spent four years in the Navy as a diver.
What are you most proud of? My four children. They are all exceptionally intelligent (they get this from their mother), great kids with many talents.
