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.
JESSICA JOHNSON
Job title: Admissions Counselor
Job location: Building 25, Kaibab
What attracted you to GCU? The people! Everyone here is so nice! It’s refreshing to know there are still organizations out there that hire people for their loving, caring personalities.
What do you do for fun and where do you find that outlet? I play soccer. I was playing on a semi-pro indoor team until I severely sprained my ankle. Now, I play for fun whenever I can get a group of people together. I’m also planning a wedding, so that takes a lot of my fun time, as well!
What are you passionate about? I am passionate about the education industry. I believe in higher education and people investing in themselves for their future. I also love baseball… big fan!
What are your favorite places or events in the Valley that you like to visit? I am an outdoors person. I like camping and shooting, so my favorite place in Arizona is the open desert!
Tell us something about yourself that most people don’t know: I’m a nerd at heart. The only people that know that are my parents, my brother and my fiancé.
What are you most proud of? I am most proud of my family. My dad raised me and my brother since we were very young and has sacrificed so much so we could have a good childhood and grow into well-rounded individuals with good morals and ethics. My fiancé worked really hard to get through engineering school and is just the best ever! He is selfless and caring and I could not ask for a better person to share my life with. My brother is a United States Marine and served in Afghanistan in 2012. His tank was hit by a grenade and he was medically retired from the military. We thank God every day for bringing him home. My mom has had to work hard for everything in her life and she is going back to school to get her degree so she can promote to lieutenant for the city of Phoenix. I just love my family!
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MICHAEL FINELLI
Job title: Admissions Representative
Job location: Building 25, Kaibab
What attracted you to GCU? Christian environment/family atmosphere
What do you do for fun and where do you find that outlet? Exercise six days a week at Lifetime Fitness/hike South Mountain/attend sporting events.
What are you passionate about? My wife and people.
What are your favorite places or events in the Valley that you like to visit? Phoenix Open/Don & Charlie’s Restaurant/Phoenician Resort.
Tell us something about yourself that most people don’t know: Love THE OHIO STATE BUCKEYES
What are you most proud of? My dad! 83 years old and he still slalom water skis.
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BRIAN PLAVE
Job title: UDR – South Florida
Job location: South Florida
What attracted you to GCU? It’s great reputation and employment growth.
What do you do for fun and where do you find that outlet? I play tennis, listen to music, enjoy all types of puzzles.
What are you passionate about? I am passionate about my family and take pride in my career which involves helping others.
What are your favorite places or events in the Valley that you like to visit? I enjoyed a quick visit to Scottsdale, but would like to check out the actual Grand Canyon on one of my next trainings.
Tell us something about yourself that most people don’t know: I’m a world-renowned pinball player.
What are you most proud of? The connection with my family and closest friends.
