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.
KEITH McCORD
Job title: Senior graphic designer
Job location: 27th Avenue
What attracted you to GCU? GCU has a great opportunity for growth with an amazing establishment of employees that truly cares about the community that it is located in, one that believes in giving back and helping people who may not have the chance to prosper elsewhere.
What do you do for fun and where do you find that outlet? I enjoy sports and assist in coaching my 11-year-old son’s games (football, basketball, and more).
What are you passionate about? I am passionate about education – I believe that it is crucial for everyone to always strive to learn more; to push themselves out of their comfort zones at times in order to gain a better understanding of the world around them. It may be something small, such as a child learning about ancient Egypt, or something equally as vast and daunting, such as a middle-aged individual making the decision to move forward and obtain a degree.
What are your favorite places or events in the Valley that you like to visit? I love music – all kinds – and attend quite a few concerts, performances, etc. As for location, that varies greatly. I’ve walked to the local coffeehouse to listen to an up-and-coming band, driven to Tucson for a smaller show, and even have flown on a whim to another city to catch some good music. It is something that is best experienced in person and live!
Tell us something about yourself that most people don’t know: I am an Arizona native. We are a VERY rare breed in a highly transient state. People are often amazed for some reason when I tell them this! Also, I am double-jointed in my thumbs. (Maybe the latter is more interesting.)
What are you most proud of? My son. I enjoy watching him grow into the fine young man that he is becoming, from the first steps he took to the polite and helpful gentlemen who opens and holds the door for everyone. He truly is an amazing person.
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STEVE WOODS
Job title: Student service counselor
Job location: Peoria
What attracted you to GCU? I wanted to belong to an Christian educational institution that is growing and thriving. I believe GCU is changing the face of online Christian education with its state-of-the-art online classroom environment, a strong student support system and leadership with vision on a mission.
What do you do for fun and where do you find that outlet? I love everything about playing in the water, from swimming to SuperJet waverunners on the Colorado River or water skiing. I learned how to swim before I could even walk.
What are you passionate about? I’m passionate about my faith in Jesus and my daily walk with Him. There is nothing more important to me than my personal relationship with God.
What are your favorite places or events in the Valley that you like to visit? I enjoy many Christmas events, such as the Botanical gardens “Luminary of Lights” and the city of Glendale's one million Christmas lights, called Glendale Glitters.
Tell us something about yourself that most people don’t know: I like to collect 1/18 scale Diecast Cars. At one point I had more than 200 cars in my collection.
What are you most proud of? I’m the author of a 365-day devotional book called "Wisdom for Everyday Living." The book was written by more than 100 of the most influential Christian leaders, including megachurch pastors, CEOs, presidents of Christian universities and leading authors in America. My publisher had me promote the book through Christian radio and TV all over the U.S. The devotional book can be purchased at any bookstore or online in a hard cover or digital format.
