Call for Nominations for the 2026-2027 Staff Association Board

I currently serve as the Director of the Student Resource Center at Utah Tech University. I hold a bachelor’s degree in Public Administration/Sociology, an MBA, and am currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Instructional Technology and Adult Learning at the University of the Cumberlands. With a diverse professional background, I consider supporting students to be the most rewarding part of my career. I’m grateful for the opportunity to work alongside dedicated colleagues at UT. I hope to represent UT staff by exploring innovative ways to foster a positive campus culture, enhance the university’s stature, and, most importantly, continue supporting staff through efforts to promote a healthier work-life balance, building on the great work of those who came before me.

Hello, I’m Laralee Davenport,

First, I want to express my gratitude for the nomination for Staff Association President-Elect—it’s an honor!

With over 20 years of experience in higher education, I’ve had the privilege of working at several institutions, and I’ve been with Utah Tech since 2006. My journey has taken me from Logan to St. George, with a diverse range of roles across colleges and universities of all sizes. These roles have included Admissions, Advising, Orientation, Recruitment, and Adult & Online Programs, and through it all, I’ve developed a deep passion for supporting students in their educational journeys.

What I love most about working in higher education is the dynamic and ever-evolving environment—it keeps me on my toes and excited about what’s next. The staff at Utah Tech are truly second to none, and I’m excited about the opportunity to collaborate with you all to continue fostering a supportive and thriving campus community.

My name is Jennifer Churchwell and I am the Stacks and Processing Manager in the library.  I’ve been here at Utah Tech for about a year and a half. I have enjoyed my time here and love the feeling of community we have on campus.

I am committed to supporting the University’s mission and goals by encouraging professional development and training opportunities for staff. By helping staff members grow in their careers, we contribute not only to their personal success but to the continued excellence of Utah Tech University as a whole.

I would love to be a part of the Staff Association to help continue to work to achieve the University’s objectives and uphold its values, fostering a culture of service, collaboration, and shared success.

I am honored to have been nominated as a candidate for a board member with Staff Association. I love music, games, and good food. I may have only recently become a full-time Utah Tech employee within the last year, but I have a rich history as both a student and part-time employee of the University that has instilled in me a love for the University and the people that work here. I am a Utah Tech Alumni who graduated with a bachelor’s degree and high honors in psychology with a double minor in criminology, and applied sociology. I have a passion for learning about and working with people. As a student, I also worked with the Utah Tech IT Department as a helpdesk agent and lab assistant for nearly 4 years. 2 of which, I served as the team lead, organizing, training, and supporting other student IT Helpdesk employees. My current capacity is as the Support Specialist for the Booth Wellness Center. I work closely with our Wellness and medical directors to ensure proper office management and procedures at the Wellness Center. I also supervise the front desk and student workers at the Wellness center. I am friendly and always have the interest of elevating the work experience and morale of those with whom I work and serve. These are experiences and traits that I have that I believe could benefit the Staff Association as a board member.

My name is Reagan Bottoms, and I’m a proud native of St. George, Utah. I earned my bachelor’s degree in Community Health from Utah Tech in 2023. I began working at Utah Tech in 2022 as a part-time employee, and after graduating, I transitioned to a full-time position. I am passionate about contributing to my community and believe in the values of honesty, hard work, and kindness. It’s an honor to be nominated for a board member position, and I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to the success and growth of the University.

Jerhett Jerman was born and raised in Southern Utah and has dedicated his career to higher education. He currently serves as the Concurrent Enrollment Systems Manager at Utah Tech University, where he manages enrollment processes and system integrations to support high school students in their transition to college courses. Previously, he held the role of Director of Admissions Operations, overseeing application and registration systems, compliance, and process improvements. With over a decade of experience in higher education, Jerhett is passionate about enhancing student access and success through streamlined operations. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with his husband and their dog, Indy, exploring the natural beauty of Southern Utah.

Callie is a Registered Nurse with over 15 years of experience, including more than eight years at the Booth Wellness Center at Utah Tech University. She provides care, education, and support to students with a range of health concerns, focusing on quality clinical care and a supportive environment. Outside of work, Callie enjoys traveling and hiking, exploring new places, and staying active.

Shayne has been working at Utah Tech since September 2019.  She is an alumna of Utah Tech having received BS in Integrated Studies and she is currently in the Masters of Sports Management program. She is the HPC Assistant Manager/Aquatics Operations here on campus.  She started her career as a lifeguard at 16 and never looked back from the world of athletics and aquatics.  She was previously employed at Washington City Community Center and enjoys networking with the community and throughout the state.  Shayne loves making an impact on future students through the events she holds on campus.  She is devoted to the students and student employees she works with.  She enjoys seeing her staff succeed through school and ultimately graduate doing what they love.

Hello! I’m Victoria Holman, and I’m honored to be considered for Secretary of the Staff Association. I work as the Support Coordinator for UT Online and recently had the opportunity to serve simultaneously for six months as Interim Executive Assistant to the Provost.

Over the past three years, I’ve been an active member of the Staff Association Events Committee, helping organize and deliver meaningful, engaging campus events. I love living in St. George and enjoy spending time outdoors—especially hiking and kayaking. I’m friendly, dependable, and a self-starter, with a knack for staying organized—even while raising eight kids, five of whom have attended UT! With such strong personal ties to the university, I’m truly invested in its success and the well-being of our campus community. Now that my youngest is a sophomore at Success Academy, I have more time and energy to devote to serving our staff.

Thank you for your consideration—I’d be grateful for your vote!

Sharon Alldredge is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree with a major in Accounting and a minor in Information Systems. With a solid background in finance, Sharon previously worked as the Accounts Payable Travel Specialist for Utah Tech University for approximately two years. She now serves as the Post-Award Grant Coordinator, where she manages and supports post-award grant activities. Outside of her professional life, Sharon enjoys a variety of hobbies, including reading, writing, and crocheting. Her passion for learning and personal development drives her both in her career and in her everyday activities.

In my 17-year time at Utah Tech, I’ve been an adjunct and part time instructor in Communication, worked with ETS, and am currently the Administrative Assistant for the Marriage and Family Therapy Graduate Program and Breadmaking Class Instructor. I grew up in Southern Utah, went to Utah Tech (as Dixie College), was President of Phi Rho Pi and Lambda Delta Sigma while earning my Associate of Arts. I have a BA from BYU and an MA from SUU. My service philosophy is our leaders should be the hardest working among us–and accessible. Questions are welcome. Katrice.schimbeck@utahtech.edu

Hello! I’m Kristie Davis, I began my career at Utah Tech University in July 2018. I initially began my journey in the Physical Sciences Department and currently am an Academic Advisor. I’m passionate about supporting students through their first two years of college. After spending 26 years in the healthcare industry, shifting to higher education was a significant change, but it’s been an incredibly rewarding experience.

I enjoy my work at Utah Tech, especially the opportunity to meet new people and collaborate with students. I also appreciate my involvement with the Staff Development Day and Staff Association Events Committees, where I can contribute my skills in organization and event planning. For two years, I served as the Treasurer and Scholarship Co-Chair of the Staff Association, which was a great experience.

Outside of work, I spend time with my daughters, granddaughters, and my husband, Jared, who I’ve been married to for 31 years. I enjoy reading, shopping, spending time with family, and relaxing at the beach. Although I’m originally from Idaho, I’ve lived in St. George for 38 years and consider the red sands my true home.

I have worked at Utah Tech University (UT) for almost eight years. I graduated from Desert Hills High School and UT with my Associate’s Degree in 2010. Four years later at UT, I graduated with my Bachelor’s Degree in Biology. Currently I am the Support Specialist for the Digital Forensics Crime Lab (DFCL) and the Applied Sociology & Criminal Justice Department. For DFCL, I deal with the intake/outtake of evidence as it comes from Law Enforcement Agencies across the nation. During my first two years at UT I served on the Awards and Recognition Committee. I would be honored to server as Staff Association Secretary, to be more involved on campus and serve my fellow staff members. When I am not working I can be found spending time with my family, reading, sewing, or crocheting but these days I’m mostly chasing my toddler around. I also love being outdoors and basking in the sun like a lizard.

Amy Echeverria is the Production Manager for UT Event Services, where she has successfully grown the production department by 200% since taking on the role. With over 15 years of experience in both higher education and professional theatre, she is deeply committed to blending academic learning with hands-on professional experience. Amy is passionate about providing students with opportunities to gain real-world work experience while pursuing their education. Through her leadership, she has cultivated an environment that promotes growth, collaboration, and skill development. Amy is excited to continue driving innovation and empowering the next generation of professionals with practical, immersive learning opportunities.

I am McKinley Hatch, a proud alumna of Utah Tech University, where I earned my bachelor’s degree in media studies with a public relations emphasis. My passion for communication led me to pursue a master’s degree in professional communication from SUU. After several years working at SUU, I was thrilled to return to my alma mater, UT, to contribute to the community that I deeply love.

I am passionate about higher education and love working with the incredible people at Utah Tech. This campus feels like home to me, and I’m dedicated to supporting our staff and enhancing communication across our university. In addition to my professional work, I am a huge foodie! I run a food blog, thegirlwhowashungry.com, where I share my culinary adventures and invite others to join my love of food.

I look forward to the potential opportunity to serve as Communications Officer.