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.
JONATHAN APER
Job title: University counselor
Job location: 27th Avenue
What attracted you to GCU? A friend of mine speaks very highly of GCU’s Masters of Professional Counseling program, and when I inquired about it for myself I also decided to apply to work at the school. Besides that, GCU has an incredible reputation and so much impressive growth. It’s hard not to want to be a part of that.
What do you do for fun and where do you find that outlet? I’ve most recently taken up rock climbing. Usually I climb inside at Phoenix Rock Gym, but I have gone outside a few times. That’s a whole other beast.
What are you passionate about? Theology and counseling! Between learning more about God and a desire to help people heal and grow, I have a lot to learn. But anytime someone asks me “church questions” I really light up, and I love talking to and encouraging people.
What are your favorite places or events in the Valley that you like to visit? I love hiking (when the weather is under control). My favorite mountain is Superstition. Also, the Musical Instrument Museum is pretty amazing.
Tell us something about yourself that most people don’t know: I am classically trained in music and have played the viola for nearly 15 years.
What are you most proud of? I can clap with one hand. I’m not sure how to explain it -- I just take my hand and swing it in such a way that I clap with only the one hand. You can see me in person for a demonstration.
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KATE MILLER
Job title: University counselor
Job location: 27th Avenue
What attracted you to GCU? I love the mission that GCU has to educate and equip servant leaders. My beliefs also closely align with the statement of faith that GCU’s value-based curriculum comes from. I appreciate the high value GCU places on transparency and am honored to work for an organization that truly has its students’ best interests at heart.
What do you do for fun and where do you find that outlet? I practice yoga at CorePower most days after work. I also love to hike, go two-step dancing and play with my dog. On a lazy day I love to lounge around with my pup and watch "Grey’s Anatomy" or "Friends."
What are you passionate about? My personal relationship with Jesus Christ, my love of coffee and my conviction that sushi is delicious.
What are your favorite places or events in the Valley that you like to visit? I love the Scottsdale farmers’ market on Saturdays. I also love the Flower Child restaurant and going to Dierks Bentley’s Whiskey Row on Wednesday or Thursday nights when there is two-step dancing.
Tell us something about yourself that most people don’t know: I was a Division I athlete in college. I went to UCLA and rowed all four years I was there.
What are you most proud of? Graduating from UCLA in four years while maintaining my full-time athletic schedule. I also am the proud dog mom of Shiloh, the most well behaved and adorable 2-year-old cockapoo you will ever meet.
