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.
KRYSTINA WHITTEN
Job title: Student Services Advisor
Job location: Kaibab
What attracted you to GCU? I was really looking for a place to work that shared my principles and values and maintained an environment of positivity and student focus. I definitely feel like I’ve found that here.
What do you do for fun and where do you find that outlet? I enjoy scrapbooking, running, watching the Arizona Diamondbacks and going to Disneyland as much as possible!
What are you passionate about? I tend to be passionate about everything I do. I recently completed my first half-marathon and am training for two more this month.
What are your favorite places or events in the Valley that you like to visit? I love Chase Field! I’ll never turn down a trip to the ballpark to watch the Diamondbacks play.
Tell us something about yourself that most people don’t know: I was published in an anthology of poetry in the third grade.
What are you most proud of? Overcoming a lot of adversity to live the life I believe God wanted me to live.
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MICHAEL TREVILLION
Job title: Division Lead/Associate Professor, College of Education
Job location: College of Education
What attracted you to GCU? I was an adjunct faculty member at GCU from 2001-2004 and left to focus on my primary career in K-8 school administration. My goal was to one day return to GCU when I was done playing school principal.
What do you do for fun and where do you find that outlet? I love music! I am a solo artist and the lead singer and guitar player for a local country/classic rock band.
What are you passionate about? I am passionate about providing engaging, authentic classroom learning experiences for future teachers and teacher leaders with a transformational-servant-leadership philosophy embedded throughout my content delivery. I have a passion for leading and empowering people to employ their strengths and gifts, in addition to promoting their self-efficacy for the benefit of the organization or task at hand. I am also passionate about team building with colleagues to promote positive morale in the workplace.
What are your favorite places or events in the Valley that you like to visit? Being a Phoenix native, I probably take for granted too many wonders in this desert. However, my favorite Valley-ish place to visit is Lake Pleasant. Nothing is more relaxing than floating on my boat and enjoying the sun and water with family and friends.
Tell us something about yourself that most people don’t know: I am the first of my immediate family to graduate from high school, college and so on! This blessing God has given me has been my testimony throughout my career as an elementary school teacher, high school baseball coach and then as a teacher of teachers in my roles as school principal and professor. My message: Even the most unlikely child can learn and succeed, so make sure they never lose faith in themselves, knowing their teacher never stopped believing.
What are you most proud of? I am most proud of my son and future 'Lope, Patrick. He is really smart, a good athlete and musician, and has a
beautiful heart -- when he’s not being a teenager!
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MELISSA MEHAFFEY
Job title: Marketing Event Planner
Job location: 27th Avenue
What attracted you to GCU? I firmly believe in the connection between a student and their school. I was excited by the thought that I could be a part of helping to bring new 'Lopes into the fold!
What do you do for fun and where do you find that outlet? I love spending time with my boyfriend and our friends, and each month a different friend will host a game night at their home. It is a fun way to socialize without spending too much money.
What are you passionate about? My alma mater, the University of Oregon. Go Ducks!
What are your favorite places or events in the Valley that you like to visit? I enjoy dining at restaurants that have patios with fabulous Valley views. Most recently I’ve dined at Different Pointe of View in Phoenix -- amazing food and fantastic views of the sunset.
Tell us something about yourself that most people don’t know: I have been to Graceland eight times.
What are you most proud of? The strong connections I have with my immediate and extended family.
