By Maya Olson PZ ’25

During our short years at Pitzer, we often neglect to build true relationships with the members of the community who keep it running— the staff. It is a disappointment to our community that we often act as though our institution solely serves a purpose for students, when in reality, so many of our basic needs are fulfilled by the dedicated humans who prioritize our well-being each and every day, from before we wake up to after we go to bed. So, we thought it would be nice to connect our community just a little bit better, and ask some staff members five questions about themselves.

Brenda Galvez

How long have you been at Pitzer and what’s your
position?
21 years! First, she worked at the salad bar, then in catering. In October 2019 she switched to cashier because of an injury.

What’s your favorite gas station snack?
A snickers with almonds and a Pepsi.

How do you feel about pineapple on pizza?
I order that all the time

Do you have any pets? If not, what pet would you get?
Yes! Brenda has a four year old shitsu named Sophie. “She’s my whole heart.”

What drink do you get at McConnell?
A sprite.

What show are you watching right now?
She watches “so many,” but right now, General Hospital.

Anything else?
“Even when somebody needs a hug, we’re there. We just have to get to know each other better.”

Kathy Kile

How long have you been at Pitzer and what’s your position?
Kathy has worked here for over 35 years! She is also an alum of the class of 1997, where she double majored in English and Sociology. Now, she’s the Supervisor of Mail Services, “but [she doesn’t] believe in all that” regarding her title.

What’s your favorite gas station snack?
The 7/11 hot dogs.

How do you feel about pineapple on pizza?
“Oh yes. My favorite, Canadian bacon and pineapple.”

Do you have any pets? If not, what pet would you get?
“I just lost my pet, her name was TJIT (thank god it’s Thursday) because we found her on a Thursday. She was found in the East Mesa parking lot as a stray puppy, and by the end of the day she was mine. She just passed away after 15 years.”

What drink do you get at McConnell?
Tea. Never anything carbonated. Ice tea.

What show are you watching right now?
Detective shows, or murder mysteries.

Jaime Mendoza

How long have you been at Pitzer and what’s your position?
About a year or so, and Jaime is a painter.

What’s your favorite gas station snack?
ampm is the best gas station for snacks!

How do you feel about pineapple on pizza?
“I like it!” Especially Hawaiian style.

Do you have any pets? If not, what pet would you get?
Yes! Jaime has a dog.

What drink do you get at McConnell?
Jaime’s into classic OJ.

What show are you watching right now?
Mostly live sports.

Anything else?
“Happy Christmas! Just in case I don’t see you beforehand.”