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.
KARI McKAY
Job title: Student services adviser
Job location: Peoria
What attracted you to GCU? The Christian community, my love of higher education, and GCU’s reputation for treating its employees well.
What do you do for fun and where do you find that outlet? I love trying new things, so I often find Groupons for things to do, such as horseback riding and glass blowing. Also, I’ve learned archery and gone kayaking from Cabela’s, which often has free activities. I believe in trying new things — you might really enjoy them.
What are you passionate about? Helping others achieve their goals.
What are your favorite places or events in the Valley that you like to visit? I enjoy live music and going to listen to local artists. I also enjoy live theater.
Tell us something about yourself that most people don’t know: I was an extra in the football stadium scenes for the movie “Jerry Maguire.” Several of the football scenes in the movie were filmed at Arizona State University's Sun Devil Stadium. A friend found out extras were needed, so I went with about 10 friends. We filmed for several hours to get a three-minute scene, the one where Cuba Gooding Jr.’s character is injured. We filmed in May but the scene took place in December, so the director was frustrated that people did not bring sweaters and warm clothing to wear. During filming, they sold concessions and raffled off prizes to pass the time. It was a long night but a fun memory.
What are you most proud of? In addition to working here at GCU, I’m also an adjunct instructor at a community college, teaching a class on how to succeed in college. This goes back to my passion for helping other achieve their goals. I’m very fortunate that both of my careers allow me to make a difference in the lives of others.
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RON PEARL
Job title: Web designer in marketing department
Job location: 27th Avenue
What attracted you to GCU? GCU has come a long way in the last few years, and I knew that it would continue to grow and be a prosperous university. Plus I had a colleague who already worked here and told me what an awesome company it is to work for, so I leaped at the chance.
What do you do for fun and where do you find that outlet? I have an amazing 8-month-old girl who takes up most of my time now, but I am an avid bowler and golfer. My wife and I live in the East Valley, so there are a ton of options to choose from. I was raised as a bit of a country boy in upstate New York and enjoy outdoor activities, such as camping and fishing.
What are you passionate about? I have a passion for being positive and always having a good attitude about things. Over the years I’ve come to learn that negativity will only bring you and others around you down, and I’d rather be moving forward than backward.
Tell us something about yourself that most people don’t know: I was offered a chance to be on the U.S. Bowling Congress circuit two consecutive years. I’ve been bowling for 28 years, and my average is about 218. I bowl once a week in a league, but I also attend tournaments around the Valley and across country. The USBC consists of amateur and professional bowlers. If you ever bowl in a league that is considered a “sanctioned” league, then you will become a member of the USBC.
What are you most proud of? I am a proud first-time dad. Our daughter is constantly doing something new and crazy, and walking in the door to see her smiling face is always the best part of the day.
