What drew you to Oregon State?
When I first visited Oregon, I was struck by the beautiful scenery and friendly vibe. It just felt like home to me.
How did you get involved in records management?
I started with basic filing systems, which sparked my interest in records management. This led me to learn more and find opportunities to help others stay organized.
What makes you passionate about higher education?
I love the energy on campus. There’s always something new happening, and it’s exciting to see all the ideas being explored. Higher education is constantly evolving!
Why are records management programs essential?
These programs help universities comply with laws and keep necessary records. They also protect institutions during legal audits and ensure important historical materials are preserved. For instance, a recent survey found that 70% of universities emphasize the importance of compliance in their records management systems.
What advice would you give your younger self starting college?
I’d tell my younger self to relax more. College can be stressful, but it’s also a great time to have fun and enjoy the experience.
What challenges do digital records present for preservation?
With many records existing on multiple platforms, it can be tricky to manage them. Knowing who’s responsible for what and ensuring proper destruction of unneeded records takes careful planning.
What was your favorite course in college?
Honestly, I can’t pick just one! I really enjoyed literature classes that connected pop culture with music and films. It was always fascinating to see the links between them.
How do staff know which items to keep or discard?
I’m here to help with that! Our website provides guidance on how long different records should be kept, which can vary widely. I’m always happy to answer questions and find solutions.
What’s a big challenge for records managers at large institutions?
For me, the biggest challenge is the variety of ways records are created and stored. With so many applications, it can feel overwhelming. My job is to help departments streamline their processes to manage records effectively.
What do you enjoy outside of academics?
I have a few hobbies! I love knitting and diving into horror novels. I also enjoy watching movies that are so bad they become entertaining.
In the world of records management, it’s worth noting that trends often shift. Recent data shows that 80% of organizations plan to adopt more comprehensive digital records systems in the next five years. This shift could redefine how we think about preserving knowledge.

