In this Employee Spotlight, we learn about Executive Director of Alumni Engagement Megan Hornbeek Allen's spotlight dreams in the performing arts:
Years at OCU: 5
Where did you go to college, and what type of degree did you earn?: OCU, BA in Religion 1999-2003; Boston University, Master in Theological Studies 2003-2005 & Master in Higher Education Administration 2009-2011
In what city did you grow up?: We moved around a bit: OKC --> Honolulu --> Edmond
Why is helping students important to you?: I think students today are putting more pressure on themselves than ever before. When I work with students I hope that I'm helping them realize that it is okay not to be "certain." It is okay not to know "for sure" what you want to do for the rest of your life. Being in college, and even in those first years out of college, is the ideal time to explore, learn what you like, discover what you're passionate about, and take chances. I find it important to reinforce that "mistakes" aren't a "bad thing." So much of learning and growing into our best selves comes from the messy journey of living!
What’s one piece of advice you’d give to an incoming OCU student?: Persevere and graduate so that you can participate in the Sign the Gold Star tradition!!
What are some of your favorite things to do in your free time?: Paint (watercolor primarily), draw, design, garden, spend time with my family (Jeremy, Cora - 6 and Aidan - 17).
You’re going to be stranded on a deserted island and you can only take one movie and one TV show/series to watch. What would you take?: "Mary Poppins" and "The West Wing"
Favorite flavor of ice cream?: Cookies and cream or cookie dough
What’s something you like about working at OCU?: The community of people - on campus and around the globe!
Do you have any recent professional achievements you’d like to share?: I'm going to be the OCU Staff Council president next year, and I currently serve on the communications committee for CAMMP (Council of Alumni Marketing and Membership Professionals).
What’s one country you’d love to visit, and why?: Austria! I want the "Sound of Music" experience! :)
What’s your top-rated metro-area pizza place?: Empire Slice House - and it's OCU alumni-owned
Early riser or night owl?: Night owl...if I get to take a nap in the afternoon.
You’re going to attend an OCU event – do you pick music, dance, theatre or athletics, and why?: Musical theatre, so that I can sing, dance and act - I'm a secret wannabe performer...okay, so maybe it's not so secret.
What’s your best one-sentence sales pitch for why a student should attend OCU?: OCU Stars truly shine brighter! Come see for yourself.
