Get to know our Animal Science faculty, staff and graduate students in our Spotlight feature.
MEET Shelley Johnson, Admin Specialist II for Dr. Schrick
(Click any picture to see a larger view)
What is the most exciting part of your job?
Assisting, supporting and getting to know our awesome graduate students, watching them excel, mature and grow as young adults is very rewarding and makes my heart swell with joy. It’s also really nice sharing work time with sweet, kind, positive folks I call my work family. One more thing, honestly, I am always amazed when I listen to Dr. Schrick mentor students and visit with perspective students… his personal interaction and wealth of knowledge is like none other. He has a big heart (shhhh, don’t tell him I said that) and wants every single student to succeed and fulfil their dreams!
Who inspires you?
My big brother Tim inspires me every single day! Growing up with a disability (cerebral palsy) all his life has been challenging. His genuine faith and trust is simply amazing. He lives life to the fullest, has an outgoing personality, amazing group of friends and incredible outlook on life. He is precious and amazes me with his abilities and always has a word of advice and encouragement for his little sis.
What is something you find challenging about your work?
Finding balance and prioritizing to get everything done yesterday
When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
A nurse
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
Possibly having a bigger family with a couple of grandchildren AND 6-years away from retirement!!!
Do you have any hidden talents or hobbies?
Tremendously enjoy taking pictures and shooting sports photography
What’s your favorite thing to do on the weekends?
Spending time with my husband, Steven, our two children, Ewan (18) and Abby (14), and our sweet little cat, Willow. Driving to the Foothills Parkway and watching the sunset is one of my most favorite things!
Which historical figure would you most like to meet?
Marilyn Monroe
Who do you look up to within Herbert College of Agriculture?
I must say, Dr. Beyl is unique. It’s amazing how she makes it look so easy managing work life balance being Dean of Herbert College of Agriculture. Every time I see and visit with her she’s smiling and spreading good cheer. Always finds time to genuinely ask about my family and work life balance (and how I manage the task of keeping up with Dr. Schrick’s nonsense hahaha, she’s a hoot!).
What’s a skill you’d like to improve on?
Time management and would like to improve my cooking/baking skills
Are you an introvert or an extrovert?
Definitely an extrovert, but do enjoy my personal quiet time
What’s your least favorite chore around the house?
Cleaning ceiling fans and baseboards, uggg
How would your friends describe you?
A good mom, kind, loving, helpful and cheerful
What piece of advice would you give your 18 year old self?
Don’t take yourself so seriously; it’s truly ok if everything doesn’t happen as planned and stay positive!