As an account executive at R + W Advertising, Carissa Marquez's clients included the Clark County Regional Flood Control District and Summerlin/The Howard Hughes Corp. Now as Executive MBA program coordinator in the Lee Business School, she uses her marketing and customer service skills to create a positive learning environment for her new clients -- EMBA students. The San Diego native handles everything from tuition payments to textbooks, so students can focus on learning in the 18-month program designed for working professionals.

Why UNLV?

UNLV provides opportunities for learning and growth -- not just for students but for faculty and staff as well. I'm excited to be a part of that type of supportive and encouraging environment.

What is the most interesting thing about your field?

Getting to know the students. Since the students in the EMBA program remain with us for 18 months, we have the opportunity to become acquainted with them. We see how they handle the most stressful times and are there for their happy moments as well. All the while, we are observing and looking for ways to help ensure their success and happiness with the program.

What inspired you to get into your field?

As the program coordinator, I am able to implement my experience in marketing, event planning, customer service, and graphic arts. This position allows me the opportunity to research new ways to address the needs of the EMBA program. From discovering alternative advertising methods to providing variety in the meals I order for the students, there is always room for improvement.

What is your proudest moment?

Watching my oldest son graduate from high school. Witnessing him walk across the stage at the Thomas & Mack, and knowing he was moving on to a new and exciting chapter in his life had me beaming with pride and joy. I'm looking forward to watching my daughter graduate this coming June.

Can't work without?

I can't work without the Internet. I use it for everything from research to shopping for the EMBA program. It provides the world at your fingertips.

Favorite hobbies outside of work?

I love cooking. I am continually trying to perfect the family recipes handed down from my grandmothers. With a Mexican and Guamanian heritage, I have a wide variety of ethnic dishes I'm trying to master.

What would people be surprised to know about you?

I am a big baseball fan. I love watching my youngest son play ball, and I love watching the pros play too. It's a goal of mine to visit each of the major league ballparks in my lifetime. I've been to eight of the 30 so far.

What's your favorite social media platform and why?

Facebook. It provides access to status updates, pictures, videos, messages, and chat all in one place. I love being able to see what people are up to and being able to instantly comment and connect with them.

If you could fix one thing in the world what would it be?

I would fix the lack of parenting. Parents need to be more involved in their children's lives. With more parental involvement, children will flourish and grow into responsible and productive adults.

One tip to succeed?

Attitude is everything. Having a positive outlook helps get you through life's challenging times and keeps you motivated to carry on.

Favorite spot on campus?

My favorite spot is the Xeric Garden and the grassy areas and trees surrounding Wright Hall. Every time I walk around that area, I feel as if I'm in the middle of a fairy tale. Birds are singing, critters are crawling, and the tree branches are swaying in the wind. It gives me a feeling of peace and tranquility.

Who is your hero?

My husband is my hero. He served our country as a Navy submariner and now serves our local community as a Metro police officer. He faces many challenges and unpleasant situations every day. It's rare that people are happy to see the police. Yet with all of the negativity he experiences, he always comes home and is a sweet, loving and happy man. People are always telling me what a nice guy he is, and they are right!

--compiled by Karyn Hollingsworth, communications director for the Lee School of Business