Every month the Administrative/Professional (A/P) Council highlights an A/P staff member through a series of questions as another way for the Illinois State community to connect. This month readers can get to know Pam Cooper, director of Illinois State’s Career Center.
As director of the Career Center, what do you do?
I’m responsible for the strategic and operational leadership of a comprehensive model of career and professional development for Illinois State University students. I ensure appropriate use of resources that adhere to the values of the Career Center, Division of Student Affairs, and University goals. I also provide leadership to the Career Center team in areas related to the management and administration of functional areas including student relations, employer relations, programming and events, and marketing and communications.
How long have you been an employee at Illinois State?
30 plus years (18 and a half in the Career Center … it sure doesn’t seem like it though!)
What do you love most about working at Illinois State?
Everyone shares the same vision and is dedicated to the mission. There is a genuine spirit of cooperation, support, and shared goals all revolving around assisting students (and colleagues) to succeed.
What is one fact about yourself that might surprise people?
The “I” in my Myers-Briggs Type Indicator score! It is true.
When you’re not working, what are you most likely doing?
Reading autobiographies.
What is your favorite spot on campus?
Hovey Hall. It’s like going back home whenever I am in Hovey. Being in Hovey always remind me of good things and people/colleagues in my life, past and present.
What is your favorite quote?
Well, actually there are two.
“God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change; courage to change the things I can; and wisdom to know the difference”.
“Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.”
