Member profile: Lindsay Bork

Lindsay received a 2014 "Volunteer of the Year" award from the University of Minnesota Communicators Forum. 

Research Program Manager, Natural Language Processing-Information Extraction (NLP-IE) group within the Institute for Health Informatics

Started working at the University of Minnesota in 2008 and started her current position in July 2013.

UMCF member since 2011.

What excites you about working at the University of Minnesota and for the Natural Language Processing-Information Extraction group?

I love working at the U because of the diverse and innovative environments existing here. There are endless possibilities for the kinds of work to be accomplished and I take pride that the effort being put in results in change at the individual level for students as well as at the societal level for our state and nation. 

What is your favorite place on campus?      

My favorite place on campus is the first level of Coffman Union. I love sitting in one of the oversized chairs and working or people watching or just enjoying the views outside, especially when there is a pianist playing. 

What do you consider to be a best kept secret about the U?

I think the best kept secret is the opportunities available here not only for personal growth but also employment. Before starting at the U as a student, it never occurred to me all of the roles that must be filled by staff to keep the University running effectively. I think this is something many do not consider. 

I'm happiest when:

I'm at the beach staring out into to the seemingly unending ocean, breathing in the fresh, salty air. 

Motto or personal mantra:

Be the change you wish to see in the world. -Gandhi

If I could do it all over again, I would:

Change nothing. Learn from past experiences, negative or positive, to create the future you choose. 

Member profile: Echo Martin

Echo received a 2014 "Volunteer of the Year" award from the University of Minnesota Communicators Forum. 

Communications Coordinator, Department of Horticultural Science

Started working at the University of Minnesota in 2012.

UMCF member since April 2013. 

Connect with Echo online: 

Facebook

Linkedin

What excites you about working at the University of Minnesota and for the Department of Horticultural Science?

I love to learn--about everything from biology to history to sociology--and working at the U allows me to continue to learn new things constantly even if I'm not taking a class here. People say that college prepares you for lifelong learning, and I think the U does a great job of fostering that even outside of the classroom. It's definitely improved my trivia scores.

When I came to the Horticulture Department, I thought that horticulture only dealt with flowers. Now I can tell you about the difference between sustainable and organic, the life cycle of two varieties of strawberry, and what plants changed Minnesota. No matter where I end up working at the U as time goes forward, I hope to continue learning new things about the world around me and the amazing projects taking place here.

Tell us about one of the coolest projects you've worked on for your job at the U?    

By far the coolest project I've worked on is the one I'm doing now. I'm leading a project to create an interactive e-textbook on how to grow and sell strawberries in cold climates. It's allowed me to work with a huge variety of people (researchers, farmers, videographers, conference organizers), and it's something I'm really excited to show off.

 

The program we're using to create it, Inkling, goes above and beyond most e-textbooks by allowing you to have widgets, guided tours, tests and quizzes in-text, zoomable images, videos, and more. Cold Climate Strawberry Farming is being released in early July and will be available at no cost, so if you have any interest in growing strawberries you should check it out. I really hope to work on creating more textbooks in the future, because this project has been a great experience.

What is your favorite place on campus?

The Display and Trial Garden on St. Paul campus. It's tucked away on the back corner of Gortner and Folwell Avenues. A lot of people who only visit campus on occasion don't go much out of the way of the campus connector route, so most of the visitors are staff and students who work in the nearby buildings. The garden is full of a variety of flowers, herbs, and shrubs, and even has a few different varieties of Minnesota grapes on the entrance trellis. The chipmunks and squirrels will even come right up to you because they're used to people tossing them food, and there's a pond with fish in it as well. If you've got a little bit of extra time when you come to campus, take a moment to eat lunch in the garden. You won't regret it.     

Your hometown and the first place you lived after leaving your hometown? 

I grew up in the tiny town of Roseau, MN in the northwest part of the state. For those who don't know about it, it's a beautiful little town of about 3,000 people and it is the county seat of Roseau County. It's 10 miles from Canada, near Lake of the Woods. Just to give an idea of how "middle of nowhere" rural Minnesota it is, here are some reference points: it takes one hour to get to the nearest Walmart or McDonald's, and two hours to the nearest Starbucks or mall. In any direction, including Canada. I suggest visiting there some time during the summer, and be sure to stop by Earl's Drive In.

The first place I moved to was Minneapolis. I came in 2008 to start college at the U, and decided this was a good place to stick around for awhile.

Motto or personal mantra:

The Sunscreen Song by Baz Luhrmann. Not quite a motto or mantra, but when I start to feel down or too worried it centers me again. Here's just one piece of great advice from this song:

"Maybe you'll marry, maybe you won't

Maybe you'll have children, maybe you won't

Maybe you'll divorce at 40, 

maybe you'll dance the 'Funky Chicken' on your 75th wedding anniversary

Whatever you do, don't congratulate yourself too much

Or berate yourself either

Your choices are half chance. So are everybody else's."

People may be surprised to know:

While I grew up in a small town, I traveled a lot when I was younger. My parents were fair vendors, so I spent every summer until I was seven traveling to and living at different state fairs across the country. After that I started spending summers with my older sister. With her I spent one summer at a Girl Scout camp in Ely, MN, a couple more summers in South Dakota, and a few more in Colorado. Today, fairs have a very special place in my heart and I get really excited about the Minnesota State Fair; you'll see me volunteering there and attending with friends as frequently as I can manage.

Member profile: Lisa Anderson

Web & Graphic Designer, Printing Services

Started working at the University of Minnesota in January 2011.

UMCF member since 2011.

What is your favorite aspect of your job?

I love that I have the opportunity to work with so many people and departments across campus. It is a unique and rewarding experience to be a part of one great organization and yet work on so many diverse projects.

What excites you about working at the U/your unit?

My co-workers are great. Not many people can wake up excited to go to work in the morning like I do. Our office is such an amazing working environment, and I couldn't ask for anything more.

What is your favorite place on campus?      

I love the Education Sciences Building. The historic building itself is pretty amazing with the bricks and beams, and the views of the river are beautiful. Having grown up along the Mississippi River, I feel a special connection whenever it is in view. So that is definitely my favorite building on campus.

What do you do for fun?    

Backpacking, remote camping, BWCA, biking, rock climbing, photography ... anything outside with my kids.

I'm happiest when:

... I'm camping on a remote beach. My favorite camping beach so far was a 4.6-mile hike to a remote beach along the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. It was absolutely amazing.

Before I die, I would like to:

... hike to the waterfall at the back of Honopu Valley, which is only accessible after a strenuous 11-mile hike on the Kalalau Trail, a quarter-mile ocean swim around cliffs, and finally climbing up a waterfall to get from the beach into the valley. 

Member profile: Cheryl Hoffman

Communications Specialist, Boynton Health Service, Public Health and Communications

Started working at the University of Minnesota and in her position in August 2013.

UMCF member since August 2013.

What brought you to your current job?

A former co­-worker told me how much fun he was having at Boynton. When a position opened up there, I immediately applied. As a lifelong Minnesotan, the University was on my hot list of places I've always wanted to work. There were more than 250 applicants, but  I made it! 

What excites you about working at the University of Minnesota and Boynton Health Service?

I love the vibrant energy on campus, and working at a place like Boynton where my work makes a difference. 

What is your favorite accomplishment at the University of Minnesota, so far?

Our tiny three­ person marketing team kept all the balls in the air over the last few months, despite being down a manager and writer. Go Team!

Your hometown and the first place you lived after leaving your hometown?

I grew up in St. Paul, but defected to Wisconsin for college­­ at the University of Wisconsin­-River Falls. 

What is your dream job (besides the one you have!)?

I've always thought it would be fun to drive a Zamboni for a day. 

People may be surprised to know:

I was a summer intern for a Minnesota congressman in Washington, D.C. As part of my duties, I lead constituents on tours of the U.S. Capitol. Coolest job ever! 

Message from the chair - April 2014

Hello communicators!

Communications professionals show amazing versatility at work. We can get pretty crafty on our own time, too! 

The conference committee has created an opportunity to showcase the talents of Communicators Forum members and U employees at this year's annual conference, June 19, to complement this year's theme "Craft the future." 

Along with the standard vendors, there will be a "craft vendor" space available. More information will be sent soon to members through the email list (forum-c@umn.edu). Printmaker, knitter, jewelry artist? It's your chance to show your colleagues another side!

Speaking of conference, in addition to lining up three amazing keynote speakers, the committee has filled the vendor fair, secured an all-day coffee supply, and is honing in on diverse, engaging sessions. And they have a special treat: All registered conference attendees will receive a free Dessa CD.

Conference registration to come later in April or in early May. Need to get budget approval now? Cost is $120 for members, $160 for non-members. (Membership is $40, and you can join any time--it's not tied to conference registration like it used to be.) 

Thanks,

Rebecca Noran, chair, Communicators Forum, 2013-14

Member profile: Bill O'Connor

Assistant Director of Communication, Orientation & First-Year Programs (OFYP)

Started at the University of Minnesota in December 2005.

UMCF member since 2006.

What brought you to your current job? 

I was working at Children's Hospitals and Clinics of Minnesota and decided that I wanted to work on a masters degree. My hope was to find a job at the U of M to take advantage of the Regents Scholarship Program. I started job searching and luckily found my current position. In spring of 2011, I earned a Master of Public Affairs from the Humphrey School of Public Affairs. 

What is your favorite aspect of your job?

Although many things are consistent, there is a lot of variety in my projects. Orientation and First Year Programs (OFYP) conducts focus groups, surveys, and is constantly looking for ways to improve. I like the balance of familiarity and change that happens in my job.

What advice do you have for communicators at the University of Minnesota?

We have so many talented colleagues throughout the University. I feel that many of my successes have happened because of the great people we work with and the willingness to share ideas and resources. Collaborate whenever possible! 

Your hometown and the first place you lived after leaving your hometown? 

Knoxville, Tennessee. In 1994, I finished my undergraduate degree but had no idea what I wanted to do. I found a job in Deerfield, Illinois working as a volunteer naturalist for Ryerson Woods, a preserve in Lake County. I taught basic environmental education classes, led nature hikes, and cared for an injured Red-Tailed Hawk named "Boo Boo". 

I'm happiest when: 

When I feel free: driving across the country, backpacking, biking, sitting in an unfamiliar coffee shop and people-watching. 

Before I die, I would like to: 

Live in another country for a few years, learn the language and customs, and experience life through a completely different lens.

Member profile: Ashley Piediscalzi

Multimedia Designer in Creative Services, University Relations 

Started working at the University in 2006 and has been in her current role since 2011. 

UMCF member since 2006. 

Connect with Ashley online: 

LinkedIn  

Twitter

What brought you to your current job? 

I was very eager to experience a work culture that was devoted to communications and communicators. University Relations has given me an opportunity to not only feel safe and supported as a designer, but it has also allowed me to grow and excel with new multimedia opportunities.

What is your favorite aspect of your job?

I am very lucky to work in a flexible environment that is very supportive of differing work styles. As a creative, I excel with a fluid work schedule that allows for mobility and sometimes unorthodox work hours. (Some of my most productive and creative times are in the evenings). So I am most grateful to work for and with colleagues that support and inspire our differences so we can all come together in the end to do our best work.

 

What excites you about working at the University of Minnesota and for University Relations?

I love working at the U of M for all the obvious reasons, but most especially for the optimism, energy, and creativity of the students. 

What is your dream job (besides the one you have!)?

I am a volunteer with the Twin Cities-based Animal Rights Coalition. As of late, most of my free time has been spent with these amazing people, who are trying to save the world one animal at a time. My dream job would be to do this kind of work everyday for the rest of my life--whether that's designing a social media graphic, handing out pamphlets, or holding up a protest sign.

Motto or personal mantra:

"Be the change you want to see in the world." --Gandhi

I'm happiest when:

I'm with my rescue dogs--Coraline, Jessie, and Tula.

Do I need to renew?

With the member drive email going out recently, we've received a number of questions from members about whether they need to renew. Here's how to check. Did you receive this newsletter? If yes, then you should be set. If it feels like you haven't received Communicators Forum emails or the newsletter recently, you can always check the member list. Want to be sure? Email umcf@umn.edu and ask.

Member profile: JoAnne Makela

Traffic Manager and Vendor Coordinator for Creative Services, University Relations

Started working at the University of Minnesota in 2005 and has been in current role since 2012. 

UMCF member since 2008.

What brought you to your current job? 

A colleague brought the job posting to my attention and it was so uniquely congruent with my skill set that I had to apply.

What is your favorite aspect of your job?

I love the people I work with. We all work on very fast-moving news and information on a daily basis, so there's no real routine that is reliable. The people I work with are quick on their feet and must respond professionally in all situations, yet we still manage to laugh a lot.

What excites you about working at the University of Minnesota?

I've worked in higher-ed or non-profits for most of my career and the U is the biggest place I've ever worked. I am proud to be part of a world-changing institution. And yet, it still feels like a small town with people who respect and care about each other.

What is your favorite accomplishment at the U, so far?

I earned my masters degree last year and I couldn't have done that without the Regent's Scholarship.

What advice do you have for communicators at the University of Minnesota?

Keep your eyes open and your head up. You are uniquely situated to tell great stories. So, tell them with enthusiasm and integrity. And then make sure to send them to University Relations so we can promote them for you!

Tell us about one of the coolest projects you've worked on for your job at the U?    

I helped coordinate the 2013 Year-End Video that highlighted U achievements from the past year. I got to meet some fascinating people and learn even more about what goes on here. It was a fun project with a terrific result.

What is your favorite place on campus?      

Farmer's Market on Church Street in the summer. The patio at the Campus Club. Rapson Hall atrium.

What do you consider to be a best kept secret about the U?

That you can get almost anywhere with minimal exposure to the weather. I love walking outside on campus, but during this latest Polar Vortex, I was happy to find as many Gopher Way passages as I did. I'm surprised more people don't use them. And the great restaurants and coffee shops in the Dinkytown and Stadium Village. People who don't work here or go to school here are missing out if they don't eat here.

Your hometown and the first place you lived after leaving your hometown? 

Erie, Pennsylvania. Then I went to college in Painesville, Ohio and grad school in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. I would live in Pittsburgh again.

What is your dream job (besides the one you have!)?

To own a winery and olive grove in Tuscany or Puglia and write murder mysteries.

I'm happiest when:

Reading a book that I never want to end.

Member profile: Jacqueline Brudlos

Communications Manager for Parking and Transportation Services

Started at the University of Minnesota in December, 2001.

UMCF member since 2001. My boss at the time, Lori Ann Vicich, was a big supporter of the organization. She believed in the value of communicators networking with others on campus.

Connect with Jacqueline online:

LinkedIn

Tell us about one of the coolest projects you've worked on for your job at the University of Minnesota?   

Grand openings are always a lot of work, but they are an opportunity to be really creative. When Parking and Transportation Services brought car-sharing to campus in 2006, our small committee brainstormed ways to make a splash on campus with this kick-off. What did we do? We hired an ice sculptor to carve a car out of ice on Coffman's Front Plaza. The Star Tribune, Pioneer Press, KSTP, WCCO, KARE and Minnesota Daily all sent people to cover the event/story. The successful launch ensured that a majority of students, staff and faculty heard the name Zipcar.  

What is your best/more amusing U-related memory? 

When the Metrodome collapsed in December of 2010, the University had several meetings with the Vikings. I was invited to one of the transportation planning meetings at the last minute. Without thinking, I grabbed my coat and walked into the meeting in my Green Bay Packers jacket surrounded by Vikings communications staff. I'm still surprised that no one made a joke. It was professional, I understand that.  But come on; that was a golden opportunity for a rivalry jab!

What is your favorite place on campus?  

I love to eat! Campus Pizza has the best calzone I've eaten IN MY LIFE and Big Ten Restaurant has fabulous onion rings. For a stunning view of East Bank, you can't go wrong with the fourth floor of Coffman at the Campus Club. I also love a quiet, contemplative moment in the glass elevator in McNamara; I find the mechanics to be fascinating.

Your hometown and the first place you lived after leaving your hometown? 

I grew up in a small town -- Dodgeville, Wisconsin with a population of 4,500 people. After graduating high school with a class of 88 people, I went to St. Cloud State University ("the big city"). I never would've imagined my life bringing me into the heart of Minneapolis with so many people around me.

Some of my favorite things

Favorite author: Kristin Hannah 

Favorite book: a tie between The Bridge Across Forever: A Love Story by Richard Bach and A Knight in Shining Armor by Jude Deveraux  

Favorite classic: Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte

Favorite website: alpha-shade.com (my artist husband's Web-comic) and for fun/nostalgic purposes, homestarrunner.com

    

Favorite brand? Hard Rock Cafe (I have their t-shirts from Atlanta, Las Vegas, New York, London, and Bahrain)

Favorite food and drink? Crab legs and Coca-cola

Favorite current TV show: "Person of Interest"

Favorite TV show of all time: "Beauty and the Beast" with Linda Hamilton and Ron Perlman

Favorite movie: tie between Casablanca and Titanic

Favorite musician or band: Storyhill 

The Top 3 highlights of my life: 

Marrying my wonderful husband Joe; white-water rafting in Idaho with a good friend; and skydiving with the University of Minnesota sky-diving club.

Member drive

All University of Minnesota employees with communication related job codes should be receiving the Communicators Forum annual member drive email on or near February 5. Please share this email with anyone you think would be interested in joining the Forum. 

Wondering if you need to renew your Communicators Forum membership? We will email you when your membership nears expiration.

Member profile: Janelle Nivens

Web project manager and content strategist, Academic Health Center Office of Communications

Started at the University of Minnesota in April, 2002 until January 2006 and returned to the University in February 2012.

UMCF member since 2012. 

Connect with Janelle online: 

Instagram: http://instagram.com/janellie23

Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/janellie23/ 

Flickr: http://www.flickr.com/photos/janellie23/

LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/janellenivens

What brought you to your current job? 

Prior to becoming a web project manager for the Academic Health Center Office of Communications, I spent twelve years in the field of career counseling. The last six years was at Capella University (online university headquartered in downtown Minneapolis) where I managed the Career Center's web presence, created online career courses and workshops and produced a number of YouTube videos. I grew more and more interested in web work and started a blog (now retired Minneapolis 81) and helped a Minneapolis business council revise their website and build a stronger social media presence. I regularly attended numerous professional development events and activities and eventually had enough confidence in changing my professional identity and applied for my current job. I knew that I wanted to return to the University of Minnesota and I am thankful that I was able to successfully change careers. 

 

What excites you about working at the University and for the Academic Health Center?

Because of its size and complexity, the Academic Health Center has unique opportunities and challenges. I am proud to be part of a web team devoted to making connections between all of the colleges, schools, departments, divisions, centers, institutes, hospitals and clinics. We are working on a number of exciting projects that will help external audiences find the information they need to make important health care and educational decisions. We are also working on ways to help AHC employees manage their online presence more efficiently and effectively. That said, above all else, I'm excited to help hundreds of web contributors pack up and leave UMContent and welcome them to Drupal with open arms. 

What is your favorite accomplishment at the U, so far?

Creating the Academic Health Center (AHC) Resource Hub (http://hub.ahc.umn.edu). This was done in conjunction with a redesign of health.umn.edu. We took this opportunity to extract the faculty/staff section of the old health.umn.edu site, which was in demand but difficult to find, since the site focused on health-related news. The new site provides a much needed, go-to source for employees to find key info and resources to do their jobs. I have created features create a sense of community and a dose of fun within the AHC such as the employee spotlights, screen wallpaper downloads, and announcements.

What is your favorite place on campus?

I love walking around campus and appreciate that we have access to so many beautiful spaces; many with views of the Mississippi River and downtown Minneapolis. Some of my favorites: Campus Club dining room and patio, Washington Avenue Bridge, Science Teaching and Student Services staircase, Education Sciences Building, and McNamara Alumni Center.

Your hometown and the first place you lived after leaving your hometown? 

I can't help but give the long answer. Fun fact: I've moved my belongings 17 times. 

I was born in Sioux Falls, South Dakota and moved to Sheldon, Iowa at the age of three. After high school, I left home to attend the University of Nebraska in Lincoln. Go Big Red! The football team won three national championships while I was there. 

In 1999, I moved to Flagstaff, Arizona to earn a master's degree in counseling from Northern Arizona University. My first professional job was at Grinnell College in Grinnell, Iowa and it only took 18 months to determine this fish needed to be in a bigger pond. Fortunately, the good people of the College of Liberal Arts agreed and hired me as a Career Counselor and pre-law advisor here at the University of Minnesota. 

I lived in St. Paul, St. Louis Park and Hopkins before landing in Minneapolis. I have lived in the City of Lakes for 10 years and feel like I'm finally home.

What is your favorite memory?

Visiting my sister in Namibia. I spent time in the capital city of Windhoek; watched big game in Etosha, dipped my toes in the cold Atlantic ocean in Swakopmund; and hiked the dunes of Sossusvlei. 

What do you do for fun?    

Take long walks. During the warmer months, I can be found on the Grand Rounds Trail with my husband, Scott. During our 10+ mile urban hikes, I enjoy taking photos of beautiful, curious, or unique gems of the city. A great benefit to walking all over the Minneapolis is enjoying its many watering holes. Craft beer is great fuel for more walking! Scott and I also take shorter walks with our Bichon Frise, Stewie.

Member profile: Sarah Oslund

Director of Communications and Public Relations, University of Minnesota Rochester (UMR)

Started at the University on July 28, 2008.

Sarah was nominated by Todd Reubold.

Connect with Sarah online:
Twitter: @sarahoslund
LinkedIn: Sarah Oslund

What excites you about working at the University of Minnesota Rochester (UMR)?
I love the unique nature of what's happening at UMR and in Rochester. Not only does UMR collaborate institutionally with the assets of Rochester to meet the needs of our students, but we are working hand-in-hand with the city, Mayo Clinic, and others to position Rochester as a destination for students, workers, and visitors. In the twelve years I've been in Rochester (almost six of those at UMR), it's been so rewarding to see the downtown become more and more vibrant. People can no longer say "there's nothing to do here."

Tell us about one of the coolest projects you've worked on for your job at the U?   
I've been told I have control issues (what?!) so having the opportunity to solely develop and manage UMR's mascot selection and naming campaigns was a dream for me... Community-wide reveal events, logo development, trademark and licensing, social media campaigns... it was one of the biggest and most enjoyable projects I have had the opportunity to manage in my time at UMR.

What is your best/more amusing U-related memory?
I spent months working toward the reveal of our mascot in 2009, engaging over 3000 people in text and social media campaigns, conducting focus groups about what attributes we did and did not want our mascot to exhibit, etc. By the night of the actual reveal, I had only one job left: on the Chancellor's cue, unclip the banner hiding the chosen mascot to reveal the new mascot and logo. The Chancellor was mid-sentence when I decided to make sure the clips were securely fastened and, incidentally, dropped the banner to the stage, revealing the new UMR mascot and logo to the hundreds in the audience but leaving the Chancellor, with his back still to the banner, clueless that there was no longer a cue needed. It was not my finest moment. Fortunately, he has a great sense of humor and rolled with it. I still get grief today from him, the students, and staff though.

My hometown:
Waldorf, Minnesota. Population: 179.
  
My dream job (besides the one I have!):
My college roommate and I have a shared dream: we are moving to Madeline Island to co-write a screenplay about the Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald.

Motto or personal mantra:
Make yourself happy. No one is going to do it for you. - Jodi Kelling (my sister who is 20 years my senior)

I'm happiest when:
I'm at our cabin in Chetek, Wisconsin. It is my own slice of heaven.

My favorites:

Favorite source of inspiration:
Pinterest. I'm an addict.

Word that annoys me:
"Glad" - why can't people just say "happy???"

Favorite food and drink:
Pizza and red wine

Favorite TV show and movie:
TV Show - Sons of Anarchy; Movies - Almost Famous and National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation

Favorite musician or band:
Toss-up between Stevie Nicks/Fleetwood Mac and Stone Temple Pilots

Favorite place on Earth:
Madeline Island

Pet peeves:

People who don't use the Oxford comma. And gum chewing.

Member profile: Adam Overland

Editor/Writer, University Relations Marketing Communications and Creative Services

Started working at the University in April 2008

UMCF member since 2008

When asked if we can find Adam online, he had this to say:
There are far better things to find online than me. Start with this YouTube video.

Adam was nominated by Andria Waclawski who appreciates his sense of humor and the energy he brings to the table.

What brought you to your current job?
 
For starters, a tremendous boredom with my last job. I'd begun post-college life by working for an airline in Minneapolis as a ramp-agent, aka those guys with the orange wands who direct aircraft and load your luggage. To be clear--I loved that job. The people, the airplanes, the cheese-curd eating contests (I ate 93 in 60 minutes*)...but two years in, a communications position opened up and I began writing and editing the company's newsletter. That was great for about a year, but the challenge wasn't there.
 
What excites you about working at the University and for Creative Services?

University Relations is packed with people who a) care about their work/the U of M at a level I've never seen in previous work; b) are talented in ways that consistently amaze me; and c) love to go to happy hours.
 
What advice do you have for communicators at the University of Minnesota?
 
Take classes. There's no better way to get to know the U than from inside the core.

Your hometown and the first place you lived after leaving your hometown?
Sioux Falls, SD (aka "The Big City")
Moved to Brookings, SD and shortly thereafter, to Anchorage, AK
 
What do you do for fun?   
Landscape/stone work, exercise, and anything outdoors.
 
What is your dream job (besides the one you have!)?
I'm torn. If I had a better body I think I would like to build rock patios, gardens, walls, etc. But alas, my back and knees weren't made for a lifetime of it. So I'm left with ink to make my mark, and I feel pretty good about that.
 
Motto or personal mantra:
"The rich get Richard, and the poor get Phil."

I'm happiest when:
I'm reading a good book in the sunshine.
 
Favorite book/author?  
Favorite authors via acronym-soup: KV, HST, and DFW
 
Favorite food and drink?
Steak and red wine.
 
Favorite musician or band?
Once upon a time it was Ween. I credit them with giving me a keen sense for the absurd. Today I don't play favorites.
 
Favorite place on Earth?
Looking down on it from an airplane.
 
People may be surprised to know:
That I can almost certainly bench press more than you, and that this is incredibly important information.
 
If I could do it all over again, I would:
Have been born with special powers. Specifically, I would have had a genetic mutation that made my bone density equivalent to steal, my muscle strength that of a bear, and with a built-in retractable cape.
 
Pet peeves:
Pay your bills on time.
 
Before I die, I would like to:
Go to outer space. I'm serious. I'm saving hard for it.

Member profile: Colleen Ware

Web editor, College of Liberal Arts (CLA) Office of Communication

Started at the University in December 1996 with CLA Student Services and left in 2003. Colleen came back to CLA in November 2006.

Colleen was nominated by Carrie Van Hallgren because "she knows so much about the U and is so versatile in that knowledge. I call on her for advice for all kinds of things. She always has time for my questions (or at least she pretends to!) and she always has such wise answers."

What is your best/more amusing U-related memory?
I met my husband in my German class when I was a student here. (Yes, to me German is the language of love.) He was absent the first day of class, and I remember thinking, "That loser's gonna lose his place in class." Good thing for me that he didn't.

What is your favorite place on campus?
I have many. I loved walking through the foyer of Northrop Auditorium (when it was open, of course), and Folwell Hall with its updates is wonderful. Walking into Rarig Center always gives me a thrill because it smells the same as it did when I was completing my theatre arts minor as an undergrad. I think our campus is beautiful. (Stuff it, Travel + Leisure!)

What do you consider to be a best kept secret about the U?
University Theatre and University Opera productions! Our students are amazingly talented. Go see them! Plus the tickets are so affordable. Tickets and events website

Member profile: Todd Reubold

Director of Communications / Ensia Director, Institute on the Environment

Started at the University of Minnesota in 2005 and has been in his current role since September 2007.

Todd was nominated by Andria Waclawski who has gotten to know Todd and thinks he has a great story to tell. Andria adds that he is leading a solid team at the Institute on the Environment and respects what they have built.

Connect with Todd online
Twitter: @treubold

What is your favorite aspect of your job?
The people I work with! They're all incredibly creative, professional and committed to making the world a better place. Plus they're really great people, too. Together we've been able to produce some wonderful work in support of the U's Institute on the Environment.
 

Tell us about one of the coolest projects you've worked on for your job at the U?
One of the coolest projects I've worked on is probably the launch of Ensia - a magazine and events series showcasing solutions to the Earth's biggest environmental challenges. Through Ensia we've been able to raise the profile of the Institute on the Environment with our core audience while also connecting with new environmental leaders around the world.  

What do you consider to be a best kept secret about the U?
The St. Paul campus! It's quiet, the trees are beautiful, parking is easy, the ice cream is fresh, the gardens are gorgeous and each morning we enjoy the sights, sounds and smells of livestock. What could be better?!

I'm happiest when:
I'm skiing down a blue or black run high in the mountains right after a new snowfall. Especially if the ski run is at Whistler, Big Sky, Breckenridge or Vail. Pure bliss!

People may be surprised to know:
I've been playing the drums since I was ten and I spent most of my 20's touring the country with my band while signed to an Indie label.

If I could do it all over again, I would:
Start playing tennis at the age of two and win a Grand Slam by 23. (Guess I'll just have to settle for hopefully going to a Grand Slam tennis tournament someday!)

Member profile: Carrie Van Hallgren

Producing Director for Theatre Arts & Dance

Started at the University of Minnesota in July 2012

UMCF member since Fall 2012

Carrie was nominated by Kelly O'Brien who thinks we'll all be envious of her job promoting University Theatre Arts & Dance and the Showboat.

Connect with University Theatre Arts & Dance and the Showboat online:
facebook.com/UMTAD
twitter.com/UMTAD
twitter.com/UMShowboat

What excites you about working at the University of Minnesota and for Theatre Arts & Dance?
The Twin Cities is an amazing city for theatre and dance. Our artists are revered locally, nationally, and internationally. Most of those Twin Cities-based theatre and dance artists are working with us, in some form of another. They are teaching and mentoring our students, they are directing, choreographing, designing, and writing for us and with us.

What is your favorite accomplishment at the U, so far?  
This summer we entertained 12,800 audience members on the University of Minnesota Centennial Showboat, a five year high for us, the largest number since the the economy tanked in 2008. The student performers on the boat this summer we extraordinary. I was honored to be working with them.

What is your favorite place on campus?      
Rarig Center. The big concrete bunker is buzzing with art-making 24 hours a day. In every nook and cranny a student or faculty member is creating a scene, a design, or a performance that will move you or shock you.

Your hometown and the first place you lived after leaving your hometown?
My hometown is Platteville, WI. I lived there for 18 years and then moved to Davidson, NC for college.

The Top 3 highlights of my life:  
Aside from wedding my husband and the birth of my two kids, I had the opportunity to work on projects with Royal Shakespeare Company, Manhattan Theatre Club, and Yale Rep as a young professional.

People may be surprised to know:  
My husband put his career in public radio on hold to be a stay at home dad with our two kids.  And he used to work for Ira Glass, so that is really saying something.

Member Profile: Chuck Tombarge

Director of Public Relations/University Relations

Started at the University of Minnesota in January 2012

UMCF member since 2012

Chuck was nominated by Kelly O'Brien who admires him for managing the University's reputation and believes we should all have a deeper appreciation for what that takes.




Connect with Chuck online:
Twitter: @ctombarge
Facebook: facebook.com/chuck.tombarge
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/chucktombarge

What brought you to your current job?
I was seeking a change after 7.5 years doing public affairs agency work. Specifically, I wanted to work for a single, mission-driven organization. A former colleague who was aware of changes in University Relations suggested I watch for this position posting. She believed the position would be in the sweet spot of my media, public organization communications and public affairs experience. I applied and everything fell into place. It was a great fit.

What is your favorite aspect of your job?
I love the variety. There is always something new, exciting -- and challenging -- happening at the U. It also feels like I'm experiencing college all over again. Having graduated from a private, liberal arts university (the University of St. Thomas), my college experience was much different than what is a Big Ten experience. I'm really enjoying the Big Ten, research, land-grant university experience.
 
What excites you about working at the U and for University Relations?
University Relations is incredibly fun because we touch all aspects of what the U does, and we have an opportunity to work with colleagues in all capacities across the U of M system. I enjoy supporting and helping to amplify the amazing things that happen on all of our campuses every day.

What is your favorite accomplishment at the U, so far?
Building a News Service team that pours its heart and soul into everything it does. We are well equipped to support our colleagues across the system and when we misstep, we are usually the first to point it out and find a solution to correct the situation. The News Service -- and everyone in U Relations and Gov Relations -- truly work as a team and have each others' backs. I'm proud to work among such great professionals.

What advice do you have for communicators at the University of Minnesota?
Be willing to ask for help and tap each others' expertise when you need to. There is a wealth of experience and unique expertise among the U's communicators. And the collegial and collaborative atmosphere among communicators is second to none.

Tell us about one of the coolest projects you've worked on for your job at the U?
Though I'm at arms length from it, I've enjoyed my involvement in and watching the Discover/new UMNews web site come together. It will be one of the most visible representations of how U Relations and the News Service are approaching media relations and communications in a new way. Rather than being bound by our own structures and tools (e.g. a press release vs. a web site story vs. a media advisory), the site will present all great stories as great content. That will make the site seamless for visitors and should allow all of the communicators involved a more effective way to achieve our common goal of effectively telling the U's story.

What is your best/more amusing U-related memory?
The team trips to the Big Ten News Directors conferences in Nebraska and Wisconsin with the U's News Service team.

What is your favorite place on campus?  
I really like the St. Paul campus, despite the limited amount of time I'm able to spend there. The green, open space makes it feel like a retreat in the city.  

What do you consider to be a best kept secret about the U?
That it truly is a world-class University. Growing up in Minnesota, the U wasn't looked to as a place that provides a great education, a personal student experience and the location of life-changing research. I think Minnesotans and others are beginning to catch on, but there is more work to do.

Your hometown and the first place you lived after leaving your hometown?
St. Anthony Village, MN. My first job out of college was as a reporter for the Austin Daily Herald in Austin, MN.

What do you do for fun?   
Travel and being outdoors in fall.

If I could do it all over again, I would:
Study abroad in college.

Member profile: Andria Waclawski

Creative Services Lead for the Office of the VP for Research

Started at the University of Minnesota in September 2006

UMCF member since 2006

Andria was nominated by Kelly O'Brien who is excited to hear more about Andria being a Google Glass beta tester.

Connect with Andria online:
Twitter: @SoBatman
Facebook: facebook.com/word.srsly
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/heyandria/
Personal website: heyandria.com   

What is your favorite aspect of your job?
My job is super varied (graphic design, photography, strategy, web design, and more) and has changed over the years, but getting out to take photos/interview researchers, meet their students, and learn about their work has been a constant perk. Bonus: Working for a University-wide office means I get to work with people in all the various colleges/units. There is so much going on here; it's staggering and inspiring and intimidating all at once.

What advice do you have for communicators at the University of Minnesota?
It's a big place and we've got a lot of work to do to get the word out. The most important lesson that I've learned is to see where you can partner and coordinate with fellow communicators to get the most out of every story and ultimately deliver a more consistent, informed message to your audience. It also doesn't hurt that this can help dodge the dreaded Duplication of Effort.

Tell us about one of the coolest projects you've worked on for your job at the U?   
Right now, I'm working on a special project called U of M Explorer (umnexplorer.com). I was selected by Google to join their Glass Explorers program--sort of an alpha test for their new wearable technology platform--and I've been using Google Glass to bring a new perspective to the storytelling I do on behalf of the U of M. It's been a unique experience to say the least and I'm excited to do more with it.

(Want to join Andria in her umnexplorer.com adventures w/@googleglass? Click here for more information.) 

My favorites:
Book/author:
Either the bizarre J-Pod by Douglas Coupland or the Scott Pilgrim series by Bryan Lee O'Malley.

Website:
YouTube. Come for the cute animals, stay for the PBS Idea Channel, Crash Course, Mental Floss, and more.   

Source of inspiration: 
HOW Magazine, Pinterest, and being behind my camera (be it my Nikon or iPhone). 

Favorite word and word that annoys me:
Dude and twee, respectively.

Food and drink:
I am a fool for toast with butter and Tupelo honey and a hot cup of peppermint tea.

TV show and movie:
I tried to answer this question for 15 minutes. If anyone wants to go talk movies and tv with me, let me know. I love City Lights and The Wire just as much as I love Galaxy Quest and Fawlty Towers.

Musician or band:
This is just as hard to answer as the previous one, but I can say that I often turn to Spotify genre stations based on David Bowie, The Beastie Boys, and Nina Simone.

Place on Earth:
So far Bogotá my most special destination, since I got to explore my Colombian heritage (the music, the food, the art, the lifestyle, the natural landscapes). 

The Top 3 highlights of my life:

• Going to Comic Con International in San Diego
• Seeing a Shakespeare play at the Globe Theater in London
• That one time Hugh Jackman touched my hand

People may be surprised to know:
You can act as your own marriage officiant in Colorado. I know, because I eloped there almost two years ago and married my best friend at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science. Related fun fact: You can simply show up at a museum in a wedding dress, take a bunch of pictures, and get married for the price of a regular admission.

Member profile: Matt Tveter

Matt Tveter
Communications/Organizational Effectiveness Coordinator in Academic Support Resources

Started at the University of Minnesota on October 29, 2012

UMCF member since 2012

Matt was nominated by Kess Knight who had this to say: Matt's energy is contagious. He has a genuine passion for the communications field and it shows through his work. He joined the UMCF Awards Committee this year and will be a great contributor to the Forum.

Connect with Matt online:
http://www.linkedin.com/in/matttveter

What brought you to your current job?
I spent about 7 years working for a public school district in the Northwest metro and a few years before that teaching abroad, so I've always worked in education. I enjoy working for Academic Support Resources because I like knowing that we help keep the entire University running.


What is your favorite aspect of your job?


Working with our team, half of which is on the Communicators Forum board.



What excites you about working at the University and for Academic Support Resources?


I think that spreading knowledge and discovering new things are the most exciting things a person can do, so I'm proud to work for an organization that is devoted to those pursuits.



What is your best U-related memory?


I received both my Undergraduate and Graduate degrees from the U, and my dad went here when I was younger, so I often get déjà vu when walking around campus. My favorite memories are of the times I spent on campus with my wife, long before we were married.



What do you do for fun?


Read, write, go to concerts, museums, go camping, take kids to zoo.



What is your dream job (besides the one you have!)?


Baseball manager.



Motto or personal mantra:


Never give up.


The Top 3 highlights of my life:


My two kids being born, getting married. Non cheesy highlight: living and traveling in Europe and Asia.



People may be surprised to know:


I am certified as both a reverend and as a Thai masseuse.



Pet peeves:


When someone tells me that one of my habits is one of their pet peeves.