As part of Denison’s recognition of retiring employees, we share a Q&A with them about their time here. Enjoy this conversation with Administrative Assistant Christie Kasson, who is retiring August 19, 2022.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
I have had the privilege to work with and for the best colleagues and students. I have learned a lot and have grown both personally and professionally during my thirty-five years at Denison. I have had the privilege to work for all four divisions of the college, in five departments, under four presidents, and one interim president. I have experienced the true meaning of the phrase, “It takes a village.”
Each of us plays an integral part in making Denison the place that it is, and each of us have a responsibility to make Denison the community that we want it to be. I want to thank everyone who has helped me along the way. While I cannot name everyone, you know who you are (folks in facilities, IT, office services, the mail room, purchasing, accounting, cashier’s office, residential communities, registrar’s office, catering, safety, bookstore, as well as numerous faculty, administrators, and fellow academic and administrative assistants).
What would you consider to be your greatest accomplishment while working at Denison?
My greatest accomplishment while working at Denison is certainly not mine alone. It was working side-by-side with other members of the SOS over the years to improve staff benefits. This is an accomplishment that has special meaning for me and for which I am very proud. This work has resulted in increased pay for clerical staff, increased time off, benefits for part-time staff, SOS representation on committees, and title changes. While much of this work took place in the 80s and 90s, the work is ongoing.
I am proud to have been a part of this process. It takes time and effort to help your employer provide a good work environment. SOS need to continue to run for committees, voice their opinions, offer suggestions, and be a part of the process.
What is your most memorable moment with a student or a favorite memory you have while at Denison?
My favorite memories at Denison are of supporting students and hosting events for students at my home. When I worked in the financial aid office, student employees would come over for dinner and to play euchre. When working for the physics and astronomy department, I had the privilege of hosting graduation parties for our senior majors and their families. And when working for the First-Year Program, the June-O closing picnics were held at my home. Nothing has been more rewarding in my Denison career than supporting our students.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve received throughout your career or what piece of advice would you like to share with others?
Early in my Denison career, a former administrator said to me, “I work to live, not live to work.” While I have always given Denison 100% (and during June-O and Aug-O a little more ;), it has always been important to me that my work life complements my family life. I was intentional with every career move that I made.
The second piece of career advice was shared with me during my interview for the position I currently occupy. The person who hired me talked about how important it is in your career to be on the “right bus” and in the “right seat.” I have found this to be true. And, if you are on the right bus and in the right seat, the adage, “If you love your job, you’ll never work a day in your life,” rings true.
