The MPA Program Office is pleased to announce that Dawn Shaw has joined the Career Services Team as a Career Consultant.

Prior to McCombs, Dawn worked as Career Coach with the University of Texas at Austin in the College of Natural Sciences, a Learning Designer in industry, and coached private clients in her own business. She has worked at the C.T. Bauer College of Business at the University of Houston coaching and advising business students, integrating student-oriented technologies and helped to develop leadership initiatives in the college. Dawn holds a Master of Science degree in Human Resource Development and a Bachelors of Arts in Psychology. She is certified in Strengths Performance Leader through the Gallup Organization.

We asked Dawn a few questions to help us get to know her. Let’s see what we have in common…

How would you describe your career path that led you to McCombs?

  • Following interests and abilities. My first on campus job was in advising. In those days (which really wasn’t that long ago, I promise!) there was a sign on the door that said “peer advising positions available”. I walked in, talked to the hiring manager and started helping students navigate student life. It was very rewarding. From there, I tried my best, pursued my interests and continued to look for opportunity to develop skills. Curiosity can be a powerful tool.

What excites you most about working in the MPA Program Office?

  • I am really looking forward to working with the students. I believe that McCombs attracts the very best and I can’t wait to know them more and help develop skills that will lead to a great opportunity.

What hobbies/interests do you have?

  • Well, let’s see. I like to keep up with current events, watch Ted Talks videos, and read. I love going to the pool with my 3 little girls!

Do you have any pets (names, ages, etc.)?

  • It’s very sad really. Our rescue kitty, Mila, was the most loyal cat in the world. Which is weird because cats usually are…hmmm…moody. She would greet the family and take walks with us. And then one day she didn’t return home. We believe she is frolicking with her other kitty friends somewhere very fun.

If you weren’t at work right now, what would you be doing?

  • Playing with my kids and, if I found some time, taking a nap.

Name one of your heroes:

  • Rosa Parks is one of them. I like her because she demonstrates how change can happen through quiet personal power.

If you won the lottery, what would you buy first?

  • Mosquito nets for Africa. And then, shoes!

Posted by Alesi Gerthe