By Marette Hahn
Career IMPACT Center
With a dazzling, ear-to-ear smile and a work ethic second to none, first-semester senior Rich Martinez, a facilities housing team member assistant, is April’s Student Worker of the Month.
The Business Management major continually brings his positive attitude and energy to his role in ensuring the cleanliness and safety of GCU’s housing facilities. Balancing class, intramural sports, working out and homework, Rich approaches his student worker position with passion and energy and focuses on building relationships with full-time staff and his fellow student workers. Sports-minded as he is, Rich approaches everything as a team.
Johnny "Ralph" Niebel, the facilities manager, nominated Rich because he “takes the time to go above and beyond to assist with tasks. … Every day at facilities is different, and Rich is always up for new challenges. He is always ready to help with anything and to take on new tasks.”
Rich is from a small town in Nevada and wanted to go somewhere new so he could really be himself. He explained that he has changed and grown a lot since coming to GCU and attributes this to the people he has gotten to know in his time here. “Johnny always preaches one thing – God first, family second and I’m third,” he said, noting that Johnny also reminds him that he is a student first, so his academics are a top priority.
When he’s not admiring planes (he hopes to someday work for Boeing Military Aircrafting or Northrop Grumman), working, or doing homework, Rich is playing intramural beach volleyball and intramural soccer. A three-sport athlete in high school, Rich thoroughly enjoys the competition – all with one of the biggest smiles you’ve ever seen.
Rich appreciates the opportunity given to him through his connections. He thanks his aunt, Miriam Acero, HRSC representative, and Johnny and his team for giving him the opportunity to work and grow in his role.
As Johnny said, “Rich is an extraordinary individual and servant leader. … It is truly an honor to have a young man like Rich in our department.” And we would like to add that it is an honor to have you here at GCU, Rich! Thank you for your hard work and service!
