This month’s staff member in the spotlight is Stacey Abshire, the Associate Director for Assessment, Technology, and Media for the Career Development Center. We asked her a few questions and here’s what she had to say:
What is your name and what do you do; how long have you worked here in OVPUE?
My name is Stacey Abshire, and I am the Associate Director for Assessment, Technology, and Media for the Career Development Center (CDC). I am a career coach, and I also work on data and marketing projects. I have been with the CDC in various roles for almost 5 years.
What three traits define you?
I would say I am compassionate, genuine, and energetic.
What would you do (for a career) if you weren’t doing this?
Hmmm…I always had many dream careers (a reason I love career coaching!) If I weren’t here, I would like to be a meteorologist for the National Weather Service.
If you could learn to do anything, what would it be?
I would like to learn to play every musical instrument out there. I’ve already learned to play the trumpet, bass guitar, and most percussion instruments.
What challenging thing has happened (to) for you, and what did you gain from it?
I have struggled with my mental health and have decided to be more open about these experiences to reduce the stigma and help others know that they are not alone. Going through this has helped me see my unique strengths and has further developed my empathy and understanding of the human experience.
How do you define success?
My definition of success is always evolving, but I would say success involves getting closer to being your authentic self.
What do you do in your spare time?
I really enjoy cooking, gardening, hiking, music, and reading. I enjoy spending time with friends and hanging out with my cat, Puma.
What is a favorite book, movie, and/or tv show that had an impact on you?
A TV show that has had an impact on me has been Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives, because it has inspired me to visit every restaurant in Bloomington this year. I love cooking and going out to eat, and I dream about opening my own restaurant someday.
Where would you like to go on a dream vacation?
When I think of vacation, I think relaxation and restoration, so I would go to a beach somewhere!
What is your favorite thing about working at OVPUE?
I love the connections I get to make with colleagues in different offices. There’s a lot of collaboration here, which makes a large campus like IU feel more like home.
Awesome Stacey! Thanks for sharing more about yourself!