Antelope Intros is a new GCU Today feature. Because the University is growing so fast with so many new faces, we wanted to introduce some of our new employees to the people around them in a way that is both fun and informative. We’ve created these Q&As to tell you a little about the new people sharing your office space. Employees are eligible to be featured in the month following their orientation.
SOMMER BELL
Job title: Outside Admissions Rep
Job location: California
What attracted you to GCU? The spiritual balance and support from a Christian perspective.
What do you do for fun and where do you find that outlet? Have dinner with friends, read books, go bowling, cooking, working out.
What are you passionate about? Extremely passionate about reaching our youth and encouraging them to use education as a stepping stone for their future.
Tell us something about yourself that most people don’t know: Youngest and first of five children to graduate high school, go to college and attain both bachelor's and master's.
What are you most proud of? My sister passed away during the start of my master's program and I had the opportunity to either quit or keep going. I made the decision to plan my sister's funeral while taking finals and conducting presentations for my MBA program. In two years I finished on time with a 3.0 in my program. I am proud to know that my sister would have been proud!
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MICHELE ECKERT
Job title: Doctoral Development Liaison
Job location: Tempe
What attracted you to GCU? The growth of our Doctoral program, the exciting changes and development on campus, and the positive attitude of all that I’ve met from GCU. I’m excited to be part of something that is new and changing every day.
What do you do for fun and where do you find that outlet? Travel is always high on my bucket list. After 20 years in hospitality, my international favorite is China. In the states, I’m all about the San Diego beaches and Napa Valley, Calif.
What are you passionate about? First and foremost – my family. I have two wonderful daughters, and a loving husband. And then there are Sam and Daisy, our golden and our bichon. I’m passionate about learning, trying to stay on top of all that is important to our potential doctoral learners. In my fantasy world, every master’s graduate has the opportunity to make a difference, and be a “change agent” through their doctoral degree. Finally, I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention my New York Giants – the best team in the NFL!
What are your favorite places or events in the Valley that you like to visit? The Scottsdale Film Festival (a great opportunity to enjoy independent films); definitely hiking South Mountain (I try every week to “just do it”); and though I’ve yet to get there, I’d like to see the new Musical Instrument Museum.
Tell us something about yourself that most people don’t know: I’m a pretty open book once you know me – until then, pretty quiet. Most people don’t know I love to read spy novels – CIA, adventure, anything I can immerse myself in when not dealing with family, friends and work!
What are you most proud of? Without a doubt my two beautiful daughters – 22 and 16. They are my proudest achievement and deserve everything they’ve accomplished thus far. I’m grateful for them and the other blessings in my life.
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BRETT SCHNEBELT
Job title: Academic Counselor
Job location: Peoria
What attracted you to GCU? I am friends with some of the employees here. I have heard nothing but good things about this company. Not only do they have a friendly environment, but I feel like I am part of something great. I have worked at other online schools (they will remain nameless) where I felt like just a number.
What do you do for fun and where do you find that outlet? I love trying new things and going out -- sports, camping, hiking, going to the movies and socializing at the bar. But don’t get me wrong, I have those days where I love just sitting on the couch and watching Netflix.
What are you passionate about? Music – I am in a local band called Westcott Avenue. Music is life, so obviously playing music is mine.
What are your favorite places or events in the Valley that you like to visit? I love camping and hiking, so the Grand Canyon is amazing. I also love Flagstaff, Sedona and Prescott.
Tell us something about yourself that most people don’t know: I am learning to speak German. My great cousin was Jimmy Doolittle (aka the guy who Alec Baldwin played in "Pearl Harbor").
What are you most proud of? Graduating ASU – Go Devils!
