Housing & Residential Education Staff

As a Colorado native, I am proud to say that I have worked in this department, in various capacities, for more than 19 years of my 26 years in Higher Education.  As a UNC alum, I collected both my bachelors and masters degrees in Business Administration and Communications from this great institution.  
I have had the pleasure of starting as a student here, becoming a front desk receptionist, RA, Assistant Hall Director, Hall Director, Assistant Director, Associate Director and now serve as Director of the department.  I have had a hand in many new developments and initiatives over the years from designing our departmental structure, to developing our mission & vision and constructing or renovating more than $100M in upgrades to our facilities in the past decade.  We have hosted local, regional and national conferences and have had an expanding role in serving the Greeley community.

This is a great place to work due to the outstanding students that we recruit and house on our campus in addition to the terrific personnel that work on our campus and support every aspect of a student’s success and development.  The people are the reason that I have stayed at UNC for all these years and I am confident that they will impress you too!  As a department, we strive for facility excellence and desire to see students experience personal growth and development. I would welcome your calls or e-mail if there is any way that we can assist in providing the excellence to which we aspire. 

Personally, I am also the proud parent of two young men who keep me running from academic events, athletic practices, games and church activities.  As a family, we enjoy camping, fishing and any sport ever played.  Clearly, family is important to me and it is our desire to serve you as part of the UNC family.   Once a Bear, always a Bear!

My name is Montez Butts and I currently serve as the Associate Director for Housing & Residential Education. Although, I have most recently returned to UNC I'm not new to the campus as I have graduated with both my B.A. in Sociology with an Emphasis in Criminal Justice and my M.A. in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies with an emphasis in Higher Education from this excellent institution. 

We have a dedicated team of professional and student staff throughout our Housing & Residential Education Department and I'm confident your experience will be a positive one. Please do not hesitate to let us know those things we are doing well and how we can improve. 

Welcome to the land of the bears!

My name is Darren Wibberding and I serve as the Assistant Director for Conduct & Student Development.  As a native Midwesterner, I have had the pleasure of living and serving at a number of institutions in the region, but I enjoy working and living at UNC the most and am proud to call Greeley my home!  My educational background is in Economics (B.S.-MWSU ’05) and Higher Education Administration (M.S.-KU ’07).

In my role, I am responsible for the coordination of front desk operations and management, oversight of the student conduct process, emergency policies and procedures, summer conference operations, and student staff selection and training. I am delighted and privileged to be able to work some very amazing and talented UNC students.

I appreciate any questions or issues you’d like to bring to my attention as my primary goal is to ensure student success at UNC.

Currently vacant.

I’m originally from Wyoming and first came to UNC as an undergraduate student.  I studied History and Political Science while also getting involved as an Orientation Leader, Tutor, and Resident Assistant.  I went to graduate school in Higher Education Administration at Washington State University (go Cougs!) and came back to UNC because I missed working with the wonderful population of students who are served at UNC. 

I’m currently the Assistant Director for Academic Programs and work with the faculty in residence, residential learning communities, diversity mentor program, and supervise several halls on West Campus. 

UNC is a great place to work, learn, and live!  Go Bears!

I’m originally from the Pacific Northwest and a beautiful small town called Joseph, Oregon. I got involved in undergraduate at Whitman College in Walla Walla, Washington as a Resident Advisor and member of the campus program council. That involvement led me to my career path and Bowling Green State University in Ohio where I studied College Student Personnel. I missed the mountains of the West and when I graduated with my Master’s degree I moved to amazing Colorado!

Currently, I am lucky enough to work with wonderful UNC leaders. I serve as the advisor to the Residence Hall Association, the student government for residence hall students. If you are looking to get involved, check out RHA or your own hall council. I also get to work with a special group of leaders called the Diversity Mentors, who support and educate their peers on concepts of inclusion, social justice, and diversity.

UNC Bears get involved! What will your paw print say about you?

My name is Val Nielsen, I am the Assignments Coordinator. I have worked at UNC over 30 years and I am also a Greeley native. In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my friends and family.

I love Colorado Avalanche Hockey!

Hi:  I'm the Business Manager for the Housing and Residential Education Department.  I am new to the department and very excited to be part of the department and the University Community.  Prior to joining the Housing and Residential Education Department, I worked for local government for 27 years.  I look forward to working with the students and their families. 
 
I'm a native Coloradoan and grew up in the northeast part of the state.  After high school, I moved to Greeley to attend college and enjoyed the community so I decided to stay and call this area my home.  I'm married and have two children as well as two dogs and two cats.  In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my family, walking my dogs and reading.

Currently vacant.

Currently vacant.

I am a Greeley native and attended UNC as a student. I graduated from UNC with a Bachelor of Science degree in General Business Administration.

For the past 5 years have been working in the Housing & Residential Education department. Previously, I worked in the Student Rights and Responsibilites office and am now back in the main office working with the Housing & Residential Education staff.

I enjoy being on campus assisting students and parents with questions about housing and UNC.

Go Bears!

Education:
M.A. – Higher Education & Student Affairs, Indiana University 
B.S. – Business Management and Business Marketing, West Chester University of Pennsylvania

How long you’ve been at UNC/ What you love about UNC:
I just recently joined the Housing and Residential Education team at UNC as a Hall Director for Harrison Hall. I am looking forward to everyone getting here and having a great year! I've felt extremely welcomed and have really found myself enjoying many aspects of the campus.

Favorite thing about Greeley:
So far I have certainly enjoyed the ample biking trails and paths available in the area. I expect to be spending a lot of time on the Poudre Trail, as well as creating my own. 

When I’m not at work, you will probably find me:
You'll find me doing a lot of things in my spare time. As noted above, I am an avid cyclist who is always looking for an adventure. I love to cook, so odds are the smell of fresh cookies or marinara sauce will be coming from my apartment at many points during the year. In addition to being a die-hard Phillies, Flyers, Eagles, and Sixers fan, I am actually a big Avalanche fan. This is just a snapshot, feel free to drop by Harrison to chat more!

Hey there! I am very excited to be returning to UNC and to Lawrenson Hall for my second year as a Hall Director. I moved to Greeley from Reno, Nevada where I completed my bachelor's degree in Spanish in 2009 and my Master's degree in Educational Leadership in 2011 from the University of Nevada. Go Wolf Pack! Prior to that I lived in Las Vegas, Nevada and grew up in sunny Pasadena, California (home of the Rose Parade!).

My favorite thing about UNC is all of the amazing events throughout the year; Northern at Night (put on by the Residence Hall Association) and Homecoming Week are fantastic! Make sure to take the time to get to know your hall staff, they are always happy to share tips on things to do on campus and Greeley!

When I’m not at work, you will probably find me in downtown Greeley, enjoying brunch at Cafe Panache, seeing a movie at the Kress (or the mall) or playing in an impromptu Mario Kart tournament in the Lawrenson TV Lounge.

My name is Elias Quiñonez and I am the newest Hall Director for North Hall.  I was born in west Texas but have lived in Colorado for over 20 years and love it!  I am a first generation student and received my Bachelor’s in Communication from UNC in 2009, and recently received my Master’s in Educational Leadership in May 2012 also from UNC.  Joining me is my beautiful wife Laura who is in her fourth year in the Early Childhood Education Program and handsome son Christian Elias who will turn 9 years old on Sept 2nd.  

Prior to my position as Hall Director I worked in the Office of Admission for 3 years where I recruited both in Colorado and Hawaii.  Previous to that I worked as a Correctional Officer and in IT for 6 years.  Some of the things I enjoy doing outside of spending time with my wife and son is riding my motorcycle, reading, and watching MMA. 

Representing the University is a privilege for me and having the opportunity to give back is the least I can do. I look forward to get to know each one of you and for you to get to know my family and me.  Bringing Education to Life is more than motto!

Picture coming soon!

After graduating with  BA in Theatre Arts with an emphasis in Secondary Education from the University of Northern Colorado, I began my Masters here in the Higher Education Student Affairs Leadership program which I will complete this upcoming May.

I have been a member of the Res Ed family for six years now, having been a Lead On participant, Resident Assistant, President of the Residence Hall Association and most recently the Graduate Assistant for Training & Development. I am so excited to be working in President’s Row again this year as the Hall Director. 

When I’m not working, or in class I enjoy fiddling around with technology, being outdoors, playing music, drinking coffee and seeking out the yummiest chips and salsa in town! 

Hi, My name is Jay and I am currently a doctoral student in Higher Education and Student Leadership Affairs. I have a Bachelor Degree in Business Administration/General Business and Masters Degree in Physical Education/Sport Administration from Wichita State University.

I was born in upper Michigan and have 2 brothers and 5 sisters. I also have 6 nieces, 6 nephews, 2 great-nephews and 2 great-nieces. In my free time I love watching college sports and of course the DALLAS COWBOYS!

Currently vacant.

Hola! My name is Larissa Romero-Perry and I am the Graduate Assistant for Social Justice in the Department of Housing and Residential Education. I am currently working on my Master’s Degree in Educational Psychology at UNC.

I was born in Queretaro, Mexico, but have moved around from country to country and city to city throughout my life; I have now been living in Greeley since 2007. I am proud to be part of a fully bilingual and multicultural family, where language and culture are always celebrated! I have also studied in England and Mexico. I hold a Bachelor’s Degree in Art and Design, with a minor in Psychology from UNC (2009) and a Master’s Degree in Educational Technology, also from UNC in 2011.

I love studying and working at UNC, and I especially enjoy interacting with other students! I currently work with the Diversity Mentors. I am passionate about social justice and diversity and I hope to help students find the appropriate tools and resources in order to help them succeed and fulfill their goals and dreams.

If you have any questions, or just want to talk, send me an email!

My family and I uprooted and headed West in search of opportunity and adventure… and completely found it! We are recently transplanted from northern Illinois, and Colorado has been an incredible experience (not to mention striking contrast) already.  I am thrilled about the work I do for UNC, as it utilizes many of the skills I’ve been accumulating and fine tuning for my entire adult life.  Higher education has always been a comfortable and welcoming environment to me, and I relish the idea of having a place on campus.  I love the Housing & Residential Education team, and I am proud to be a part of it.

I am happily married for 11 years, with two very ambitious and energetic young children.  We are looking forward to our journey toward making a home in Colorado, as well as at UNC.  I am already inspired to complete my own higher education, and since my husband is already a student we will forge this path through the mountains together!

Hi, I'm Jed Cummins and I am the Hall Director for Central Coalition. I graduated from the University of Northern Colorado with a Bachelor of Science degree in Physics and Computer Science. I also have a Master's degree in Higher Education Administration from Texas Tech University. I am happy to be back at UNC and back in the Housing and Residential Education family after a few years in Texas! I have the pleasure of working in Central Coalition, one of my favorite groups of buildings on campus. I also advise the UNC chapter of the National Residence Hall Honorary.

Outside of work I enjoy spending time with family and friends in Greeley. I love to do things outdoors, going running (I’m currently training for a half marathon), riding my bike, and hiking! I like tinkering with technology, using social media, and trying out new things. As an alum of UNC I love homecoming week, and various traditional events on campus!

Go Bears!

Hello! My name is Tiffany Pendleton! In May of 2011 I graduated from UNC with a masters degree in Higher Education and Student Affairs in May 2011! My undergraduate degree is from Metro State College of Denver in Behavioral Science with a minor in Human Services. I have worked with the department of Housing and Residential education for 4 years and am starting my 3 year as a Hall Director.

I am a 4th generation Colorado Native, and have no plans on leaving Colorado. I enjoy spending time outdoors when the sun is shining and the weather is warm! In my free time I enjoy spending time with my family and friends and being crafty! In the future I hope to work with Veterans who are returning back to school and be the driver and owner of a sprint car!

Hey there! Thanks for visiting our staff page! 

I've been a member of the UNC community for 4 years. Currently, I'm finishing up my Ph.D in School Psychology with an emphasis in crisis prevention and intervention. Within HRE, I work with students of concern, serve on the Response (C.A.R.E.) Team, and manage AOD assessment referrals to the Counseling Center from our Office of Student Rights and Responsibilities.

I’m originally from Kansas and attended college in Pennsylvania at Slippery Rock University for my B.S. in Psychology.  I earned my M.A. from the University of West Georgia in Humanistic Psychology.  My professional background consists of working with at-risk youth in the areas of behavioral and recreation therapy, crisis counseling, assessment, and treatment planning. 

I’ve lived in Colorado for 6 years and thoroughly appreciate the climate, scenery, and lifestyle.  I enjoy live music, modern art, local festivals, philosophy, and anything else creative.

Hi, my name is Taja Werner and I am currently working on my Masters in Higher Education and Student Leadership. I have worked for Housing and Residential Education the past four years and am excited to continue serving this department as the Graduate Assistant for Leadership. I am passionate about working with students and promoting social justice. I believe every student has the ability to reach their goals with a little guidance and support.

Though I call Colorado Springs home, I am a proud Air Force brat. In my free time I love to sing, shop, read, travel, and try new foods. I look forward to working with you in the coming year!

Hey everyone,

My name is Alexis Eliades but everyone just calls me Lexi! I just started as the University Apartments as Manager in June, and I am looking forward to having a great year.

I graduated with my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology this past May, and I will be attending graduate school next fall for marriage and family therapy. I love sports (mostly volleyball) and anything outdoors.

I look forward to working with everyone!

My name is Sarah Vazquez and I am the Assistant Manager for University Apartments and Houses. I am currently majoring in Spanish with an emphasis in secondary education and an ESL endorsement. This will be my fourth and final year of my undergraduate career. In the past, I have worked with the Housing and Residential Education as Resident Assistant in Turner Hall for 1.5 years. This is my first year working with UA/UH and I look forward to bringing past experience to this job as well as the new things I will learn from this position.  

My passions in life include: softball, racquetball, bowling, making dream catchers, reading, owls, family, and friends. I am looking forward to having a great year with you all!

My name is Pam Erbacher, and I am the Facility Coordinator for Housing and Residential Education.  I've been at the University since 1979 and in this department since 1986, which speaks for itself. 

I am a native of Greeley and attended college at Western State College in Gunnison, Colorado.  I married Chris in 1979, and have three great daughters; Jill, Jennifer and Jessie.  I have two lucky son-in-laws: Steve and Gabe; and four awesome granddaughters: Noelle, Nina, Katelyn and Anna. 

I like UNC and love my family and we like to go camping, spend time in the mountains and ride 4-wheelers (it's cheaper than family counseling).  My motto is HAVE A GREAT DAY, I KNOW I WILL...........!!!

I currently serve as the Operations Coordinator for Housing & Residential Education.  I have been at UNC going on my 10th year and have worked for the Housing & Residential Education Department since August of 2000.  I served in the U.S. Navy from 1990-1994 and was Honorably Discharged.  

I am married to my wife Colleen, and we have three daughters, Vanessa, Jessica and Samantha.

I am a Greeley native and have worked in Housing & Residential Education for 20 years.  I love my job and working with the students.  I love animals and have 2 Bichon Frise dogs.

In my spare time I enjoy going to the mountains, hiking, camping, and fishing. 

 Hello I am Julian Rodriquez

I have been with U.N.C. for 22 years and Housing & Residential Education for 20 years . I am a father of 3 kids , 1 son and 2 daughters, (9 grandkids!) When I first started with UNC I started on the grave yard shift at Frasier Hall.

After 1 year I moved to the evening shift at Candelaria Hall. After  a year I was transferred to Housing Services. I slowly worked my way to a Custodial Lead and then to the present position that I hold now.

I enjoy working with the students during the academic year and look forward to the challenges we receive during our Summer Conferences. In short, I love what I do and where I do it at!

Biography not available yet.

Hey there, my name is Greg Johnson and I started here at the University in February 2010. It has been great getting to know my co-workers and the atmosphere is one that is welcoming and is very much centered on students.

I am married to my wonderful wife Susie and have a daughter in kindergarten. My wife graduated from UNC in 2008. As for my daughter I hope she becomes a UNC Bear someday.

My hobbies include but are not limited to Cowboy mounted shooting which I am a beginner at and I enjoy fishing and hunting. I am trying my hand at woodworking and still have all my fingers with a couple of projects completed.

My name is Ron Bishop and I was born and raised in Greeley. I have worked at Kodak in Windsor for 34 years before starting here in Feb. 2011.  I am happily married to my wife Debbie. We have two daughters, two great sons-in-law, and two beautiful granddaughters, with a third granddaughter due in July of 2011. I enjoy camping, fishing and hunting with my family, and I am a diehard Bronco Fan.

I look forward to helping students, faculty, and guests be as comfortable and content as possible in their accommodations here at UNC.