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.
JON TURSKI
Job title: Internal auditor
Job location: 27th Avenue, Building 71
What attracted you to GCU? The main reason I wanted to work for GCU is because of how genuine it is. Previously I worked for about six years as a senior finance advisor at a university that didn’t have the same environment, attitude, values and sports atmosphere like GCU. In addition, GCU has done so much for the community, which I believe is the reason why the community is giving back to this university. GCU gives me the opportunity to be part of something bigger by getting to know students and the faculty and through sporting events. I enjoy my team and what we do. We are in charge and responsible for so much and making sure as a University we are following all policies and procedures correctly.
What do you do for fun and where do you find that outlet? I love spending time with my family, playing softball and going to the gym. The gym is my outlet.
What are you passionate about? Family time -- trips, playing at the park, spending time with my wife, Lynne, and reading a book to my twins, Patrick and Alyssa, at nighttime.
What are your favorite places or events in the Valley that you like to visit? I would have to say watching GCU basketball and hockey. Outside of GCU, I enjoy cheering on my home team the Cardinals. My family and I will catch a baseball game for the Diamondbacks.
Tell us something about yourself that most people don’t know: I played eight years of hockey and eight years of football.
What are you most proud of? Being the first person in my family to have earned my MBA.
*****
MONICA MENDOZA
Job title: University development counselor
Job location: Houston, Texas
What attracted you to GCU? Its Christian values and the fact that it’s a university. I love working with students and in education. I feel it's important to keep the Christian values in the school setting.
What do you do for fun and where do you find that outlet? I love spending time with my family. I have a 7-year-old son, and we enjoy outings to the movies, vacations, museums, musicals and plays.
What are you passionate about? I love being kind to others. The world is getting scary and we need to be able to provide a sense of peace within our society.
What are your favorite places or events in the Valley that you like to visit? I love Arizona even if I’m just there for training. I have been to the Grand Canyon once, and it was such an amazing experience that I'm hoping to do it again soon.
Tell us something about yourself that most people don’t know: I was a probation officer when I was in my twenties and it was a very exciting job. I have a Master’s in Criminology, and I love criminal justice.
What are you most proud of? My son Jacob -- I admire his ability to see beauty in the little things that we as adults take for granted sometimes. He is very kind!
