GCCC Alumni Spotlight: Alexis Saenz
[Garden City, KS] November 6, 2023 -- Garden City native Alexis Saenz began her journey with Garden City Community College in 2011. Choosing to stay closer to home was the right fit for her, "I chose to attend Garden City Community College for the affordability and quality of education. Additionally, staying closer to home allowed me to continue working part-time to save money and avoid student loans at a young age," Alexis shared.
While a student at GCCC, Alexis learned the importance of speaking up, "The most important thing I learned while at Garden City Community College is to not be afraid to ask for help. There are endless resources for student success, and it all starts with you." She continued, "My GCCC education set the foundation for my career and desire to continue my education. GCCC courses offer smaller classroom sizes, which allowed me to overcome my shy and quiet persona and become a more confident professional to speak in front of hundreds of employees/students."
Three years after graduating with her Associate in Business Administration from GCCC, Alexis had the opportunity to return as a staff member. "I started working for GCCC in 2016 as the Human Resources Assistant. I came in with no experience in HR and only an associate degree. However, with the support of my colleagues and the mission of GCCC to produce positive contributors to the economic and social well-being of society, I was able to continue my education online while also growing in my position within the HR department." Alexis received her Bachelor of Business Administration in Human Resources from Fort Hays State University and then her Master of Business Administration from the University of Kansas.
In 2021, Alexis was granted the opportunity to serve as an HR Generalist, and then in June 2022, she became the Payroll Coordinator. In September 2023, she moved into her current Director of Human Resources/Payroll role at Garden City Community College. In this position, Alexis' duties include the administration of human resource programs including, but not limited to, compensation, benefits, and leave; disciplinary matters; disputes and investigations; performance and talent management; productivity, recognition, and morale; occupational health and safety; and training and development. Additionally, she oversees and supervises GCCC's payroll functions, ensuring pay is processed on time, accurately, and in compliance with government regulations and GCCC's mission and values.
When asked what advice she'd give current or prospective GCCC students, Alexis said, "Consider the affordability and quality of education of an institution before deciding which school to attend. Lastly, get out and support your peers, whether it is an athletic event or a theatre production. Showing support for others is a great way to get involved with your community, meet new people, and be a great stress reliever when you feel overwhelmed." Alexis shared one final comment, "GCCC gave me more than an education. GCCC has given me confidence, lifelong friendships, but most importantly an opportunity."
Garden City Community College is proud to have played a role in Alexis' success. Make a difference for future Busters by starting your own Endowed Scholarship through the GCCC President's Scholarship Initiative!
From HERE, you can go ANYWHERE.
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Garden City Community College exists to produce positive contributors to the economic and social well-being of society.