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 Dr. Christa Platt, director of the Multicultural Center.
What are your responsibilities in this role?
Giving vision and oversight to the development of the Multicultural Center
How long have you been an employee at ISU?
I’ve been on campus since 2007 but started working full time in 2012.
What do you love most about working at ISU?
The life-giving friendships that I’ve developed over the years.
What is one fact about yourself that might surprise people?
Although I had aspirations to be a singer and a lawyer as child, a recently discovered vintage fourth grade school project revealed two pretty accurate predictions that I would be working with “college kids” and would be “a spokesperson for peace.”
When you’re not working, what are you most likely doing?
Spending time with my family/friends.
What is your favorite spot on campus?
Even though we’re right in the middle of construction, the Multicultural Center. I recently had the chance to visit the Center, and while it looked like the typical construction site and won’t be open until fall, I dream about that place daily.
What quote most inspires you? Why?
“Where there’s a will, there is a way.”
For as long as I can remember, I’ve heard my mother say this in the face of obstacles, regardless of size. Her very next sentence was always, “that’s what Mama always says.” My grandmother had a supernatural strength that caused her to be fearless in the face of what others would consider insurmountable. I’m forever grateful for the shoulders I stand on and strive to embody their strength and fearlessness.
