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.
MICHAEL McCABE
Job title: Curriculum developer
Job location: 27th Avenue, Building 71
What attracted you to GCU? I received my first master’s degree from GCU in 2008 when there was only five to six main buildings on the campus and I have followed the massive growth since. GCU offered a world-class, affordable, Christian education and was on the verge of a massive rebirth. Who wouldn’t want to get behind that movement? I knew at some point I needed to work for GCU -- I have been blessed for that vision to become a reality.
What do you do for fun and where do you find that outlet? Other than spending quality time with my wife (Crystal McCabe, a College of Education instructor) and sons, I enjoy going to as many concerts as possible. Live music feeds my soul and provides that cathartic release from the stresses of life.
What are you passionate about? Family, education, music, faith and pizza.
What are your favorite places or events in the Valley that you like to visit? We gravitate toward family events, shopping and movies at Desert Ridge Marketplace -- especially the nightly “snowfall” during the Christmas season. Nothing beats a Lopes men’s basketball game at GCU Arena, though -- the atmosphere and energy is insane!
Tell us something about yourself that most people don’t know: I hosted a weekly radio show, playing current rock music, while getting my undergraduate degree from 2000 to 2004.
What are you most proud of? My wife and two sons -- they are amazing!
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JESSICA BARAL
Job title: Marketing project specialist, Online Marketing
Job location: 27th Avenue, Building 71
What attracted you to GCU? I graduated from GCU in spring 2017 with my bachelor’s in communications. I was so excited to see the growth happening at GCU and wanted to lend a hand in facilitating that growth.
What do you do for fun and where do you find that outlet? I love to play with my puppy at home, listen to music, cook and visit great places on the west side of Phoenix.
What are you passionate about? Food! I make it a goal to try a new recipe each week, which has been a lot of fun.
What are your favorite places or events in the Valley that you like to visit? My favorite spot in the Valley is Westgate. It’s a great place to eat, shop and people watch.
Tell us something about yourself that most people don’t know: I am a huge Civil War buff. I grew up around the little town of Gettysburg, Pa., where the turning point of the war took place. I loved visiting the battle sites and would even take friends on “tours.”
What are you most proud of? Moving from Pennsylvania to Arizona is way up there. After moving here, I was able to finish my bachelor’s and simply enjoy all that this beautiful state has to offer.
