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Staff profile: Dolene LaPointe, Secretary/Receptionist, School of Public Administration

If you鈥檝e spent any time in the School of Public Administration, you know Dolene. From new student admissions to alumni relations, she welcomes people at all stages of their MPA career, and she never forgets a face. You can find Dolene at the front desk of the SPA office or reading in the lounge on her lunch break.

What was your first job at Dal?

I started in November of 2000, and I鈥檝e been with Public Administration from day one. We were in the old building [on Coburg Road, where the Mona Campbell is now], in the newer part on the 6^th floor, which was the coolest place (temperature-wise at least!). It was the same job I have now, but it鈥檚 really evolved over the years.

What is your typical day like?

Coffee and email first thing! Then it depends on the time of year.

I deal with all the admission files, mid-term exams, final evaluations. I also support the internship program. I liaise with employers, help students apply for positions and keep track of who goes where鈥擨'm the one steady link for everyone involved.

In the summer when there鈥檚 more time, I try to update our alumni list, track down where they鈥檙e all working. It鈥檚 not easy; people change their name and the farther back you go the harder it is to find anyone.

What is your favourite thing about working here?

The students! I was really introverted when I started. Over the years I've gotten out of my shell and that's because of the students.

Least favourite thing?

I鈥檓 not a morning person.聽

What do you like to do outside of work?

Read. I read a lot of paranormal romance. It鈥檚 a popular genre and it's grown a lot over the last 10-15 years. I read for an hour on the way home from work every day; I read while I eat at lunch and supper. I can read three books in a week easily.

I also like doing things with my family. I became a grandmother for the first time last year. I love to travel鈥擨 went to Cuba by myself in 2016.

What's something about you that your coworkers would be surprised to hear?

I don鈥檛 know, we talk about everything. I like a lot of music. I don't like jazz or Beethoven and stuff like that: no elevator music.

Do you have a favourite memory that stands out?

I remember one student, years ago. We were printing nametags, and he said, deadpan: 鈥測ou forget the l in public.鈥� He was joking, but it鈥檚 definitely not something you forget!