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.
KEVIN SHEPHERD
Job title: Enrollment counselor
Job location: Peoria
What attracted you to GCU? The reputation of the university because it says to me that the university has a presence in the area, and purple is my favorite color.
What do you do for fun and where do you find that outlet? I like to travel and try different foods. I’ve traveled all across the states and Mexico, but my most memorable experience was to D.C.; It was surreal to see the White House and all of the other significant landmarks. But, in Hawaii, I got to try had Poke, a raw fish salad that is an island fixture.
What are you passionate about? I’m passionate about my faith, family, my career and personal growth. Faith is what I rely upon daily and in between obstacles. My family is why I strive to be better. Every day I strive to grow personally (gain knowledge, health, fitness, love, relationships) as well as professionally.
What are your favorite places or events in the Valley that you like to visit? I’ve only lived in the Valley for two months – I’m from Lemoore, C.A., but have attended several sporting events already. I like that the area offers such a varied form of sporting activities to play or watch. I attended a couple of Padres games in Peoria as well as a Suns game within the last month. I love most sports but football (a San Diego Chargers fan) is my favorite. I plan on checking out as many GCU sporting events as possible and would also like to do some hikes and other outdoor activities the area has to offer.
Tell us something about yourself that most people don’t know: I’m terrified of skunks. One time, at a beach in San Diego, I saw a pack of five skunks a foot away. They freak me out.
What are you most proud of? Being the eldest of five boys and a father of two, I am most proud of being the first person in my family to graduate college (Sacramento State).
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DANIEL BUCHALTER
Job title: Doctoral Specialist
Job location: Tempe
What attracted you to GCU? The corporate culture, camaraderie and support within the organization from the students, employees, and management. It was very apparent when I had the opportunity to tour the campus.
What do you do for fun and where do you find that outlet? Completing my second Master of Arts in Human Dynamics and putting two children through college. My son, Jacob, is at the University of Arizona doing a double major – one in graphic design and the other in business administration. He will be our 27th family member to graduate from there. I never attended there. My daughter, Abbey, is at Chandler/Gilbert Community College pursuing a major in English to become a writer.
What are you passionate about? Learning about how and why people think the way they do. It’s still an ongoing process that keeps my mind stimulated and increases my knowledge.
What are your favorite places or events in the Valley that you like to visit? The annual ostrich festival in Chandler where they race ostriches. It’s great fun, food, and atmosphere. I also like to attend football events at the University of Phoenix stadium and anything that has to do with the U of A, of course. Even some high school games that involve Desert Vista.
Tell us something about yourself that most people don’t know: I am a big teddy bear. Actually, the more I think about it, more like Shrek – rough and gruff on the outside but soft, caring, and fun loving on the inside
What are you most proud of? My MBA in Management because, first, it wasn’t an easy program. Second, it validates the 19 years I spent in the Financial Services industry without a degree. Previously, I worked for the Retirement Division of MetLife for 10 years, the American Annuity Group for 2 years, and owned my own company, Platinum Financial Solutions for 5 years, then went into the higher education field.
