Getting to know Marli Williams

Title: Academic support coordinator in Student Outreach Services and coordinator of the Western Outdoor Orientation Trip (WOOT!) Program.

What do you love most about your department? “I love getting to work with amazing students here at Western and getting to support, inspire and encourage them to find their passion, discover their purpose and realize their potential. The staffs in SOS are truly committed to the personal and academic success of each student we work with, which makes it an amazing place to work!” 

Years at Western: "Three and a half years, including my time here as a grad student in the Student Affairs Administration program."

Originally from: Born in New Mexico and raised outside Chicago.

Hobbies: When she is not at Student Outreach Services working with students, she is having the time of her life with her dog, Summit, playing ultimate Frisbee and going on adventures with friends.

Favorite Quote: “Don’t ask what the world needs, ask what makes you come alive and do that, because what the world needs is people who are truly alive.” – John Eldredge

Favorite Bellingham location: Sailing on Bellingham Bay

Most memorable vacation: “Going to Cabo San Lucas with my family every year – we only go there once a year for a week, but it feels like going home since we know so many great people there! Fun in the sun and relaxing with my family on the beach – that is what vacation is all about!”

Favorite WWU memory: “Leading the first-ever Western Outdoor Orientation Trip Program backpacking trip in the Chuckanuts with incoming freshmen and getting to show them this incredible place that we get to call home.”

Currently reading/watching: Lots of TED Talks and “Daring Greatly” by Brene Brown

Projects currently working on: “Working on planning the first ever TEDx event at Western, which is going to take place on June 1, 2013. I am also continuing to enhance and develop the Western Outdoor Orientation Trip Program to make it an even stronger program here at Western.”

Awards/recognitions: “Last year, I received the ‘Best Boss of the School’ award from the peer mentors who work in Student Outreach Services. Definitely the best award I have ever received!”