Meet the Staff
ABOUT ERIN
SHE, HER, HERS
Erin is the Director of Orientation and Transition for the University of Utah. An alumna of the “U” where she earned a Bachelor of Science in International Studies and a Bachelor of Arts in Photography, Erin considers it a privilege to assist the next generation of new students of the University. Erin earned a Master’s in the Education Leadership & Policy program at the University of Utah and completed a Master’s of Art from Savannah College of Art and Design, which aids in her current duties overseeing this great office. Erin was born in Salt Lake City where she’s been a Utah fan all her life.
ABOUT CASSIDY
SHE, HER, HERS
Cassidy is an Assistant Director of Orientation & Transition. She has worked in higher education full-time since 2018 and specializes in training initiatives, educating others, and management and leadership. She is passionate about higher education and utilizes her positive attitude and tireless energy to motivate others to work hard and succeed. Cassidy holds a master's degree in Business Management and Leadership, alongside multiple certificates and trainings in leadership and other professional growth topics. With a lifelong dedication to learning, Cassidy embodies a spirit of continuous growth and development. In addition, Cassidy enjoys the arts; spending time with family; and discovering new things outside of work.
Program Oversight
- Virtual Programs: Pre-Orientation, New Student Orientation, Parent, Family & Supporter Orientaiton, UOnline
- Marketing & Content Creation including Social Media
- Student Leader Training
- Website Development
- Program Assessment
ABOUT DESH
HE, HIM, HIS
Desh is currently serving as an Assistant Director for the Office of Orientation and Transition. Originally from Lancaster, Virginia Desh attended Louisiana State University (LSU) in Baton Rouge, LA to obtain a Bachelor’s in Sport Administration and a Master’s in Public Administration before joining the orientation team at the U. Working across the Division of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management student success and retention efforts have become a passion area for Desh. Developing social and academic programs for students has sparked a love for advising students and student groups by developing their leadership skills. When not serving the students of the U Desh enjoys giving back to his community and staying up to date on the latest entertainment news. Desh is excited to create a warm and welcoming environment for new students and families at the University of Utah!
Program Oversight
- In-Person Programs: First-Year and Transfer New Student Orientation
- Managing Student Leaders
- College Coordinator Liason
ABOUT EMMA
SHE, HER, HERS
Emma Cate serves as an Assistant Director for the Office of Orientation and Transition. Originally from Nashville, Tennessee, Emma Cate obtained her Bachelor’s degree in Teaching English as A Second Language at Union University in the west side of the state. During her time as a student, Emma Cate held leadership roles for various New Student Programs which led her to pursue a career in Higher Education. She is passionate about serving incoming students, families, and supporters during the transition to the university setting and is eager to help college students get plugged in on campus and find their community. Emma Cate is excited to be living and working in Utah and can’t wait to use her time outside of the office to continue exploring more of the state’s natural beauty.
Program Oversight
- Parent, Family, & Supporter Orientation
- Summer Send Offs
- Weeks of Welcome Events
ABOUT STEVE
HE, HIM, HIS
Steve is currently serving as the Senior Accountant in the Office of Orientation and Transition and the Enrollment Management Department. He came from the University’s Chemistry Department, and before that worked in the Payroll, Human Resources, & Biomedical Engineering Departments. He loves to be involved in his community, and that has led him to serve on School Community Councils for Midvale Elementary, Midvale Middle School, and Hillcrest High School, and he also served as a City Councilmember for Midvale City. He loves to see individuals come together as a group and achieve so much more than they could on their own.
ABOUT BRITTNY
SHE, HER, HERS
Brittny is the Program Coordinator of Orientation and Transition for the University of Utah. An alumna of the U, she earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Bachelor of Science in Sociology complemented by a minor in Human Development & Family Studies and certificates through the U of U’s College of Social & Behavioral Science. Throughout her time as a student, Brittny worked extensively with the University of Utah community, initially assuming the role of mentor within the Crimson Mentorship Program under the purview of the Office of Orientation and Transition. She found this experience very rewarding and wanted to continue dedicating time to aiding students, hoping to contribute to their success. As her academic journey culminated, Brittny assumed leadership roles, serving as President of the Crimson Transfer Honor Society and Secretary of PCUU, where she fostered collaborations with various campus partners and local organizations. Driven by a passion for higher education and student support, she is committed to helping students thrive, promoting a sense of belonging, and facilitating the development of meaningful relationships. Brittny is absolutely thrilled to have a role within the Orientation and Transition team and is excited to serve the students at the University of Utah.
Program Oversight
- Office Management
- Office Assistants
- New Student Orientation Operations and Communications
Student Leaders
ABOUT TONY
HE, HIM, HIS
I am currently a Junior majoring in Operations and Supply Chain Management at the Spencer Fox Eccles School of Business. I've lived in Utah my whole life, and I enjoy reading, art, and playing piano. My goal is to become a top 10 YouTuber within 10 years, and I'm working hard every day to achieve this goal. I'm looking forward to being the Content Creator for the University of Utah's Office of Orientation and Transition!
ABOUT YAZMIN
SHE, HER, HERS
Hello! My name is Yazmin and I am currently a Junior at the University of Utah, majoring in Film and Media Arts. I was born in California, though I have lived in Utah most of my life. I love fall because of the weather and Halloween! I also love listening to music, watching movies and spending time with my family and friends!
ABOUT BRAXEN
HE, HIM, HIS
My name is Braxen Wright, I am currently a sophomore at the University of Utah. I am a disciplined and ambitious finance student with a dedication in pursuing future success. I have a strong passion for my physical and emotional health. Being both physically and emotionally healthy contributes heavily to one's success and happiness.
ABOUT ADRIAN
HE, HIM, HIS
I currently am a Freshman Majoring In Mechanical Engineering with a Minor in Physics. I was born and raised in Salt Lake City, Utah, and I knew I would attend the University Of Utah when we defeated Stanford in the 2022 football season. I enjoy watching and attending the U's football games, being active, and obviously being a NURD.
ABOUT CHRISTINA
SHE, HER, HERS
Christina Lopez is currently a Junior majoring in Architecture. She was born and raised in Utah. She is part of the Color Guard team for the University of Utah. She loves watching movies, reading books, dancing, listening to music, and spending time with family and friends. Go Utes!
ABOUT HOLLY
SHE, HER, HERS
My name is Holly and I am a determined freshman at the U pursuing my passion for Entrepreneurship. I am from Portland, Oregon and Hailey, Idaho. My heart lies in helping others, and I am beyond thrilled to be an active member of the orientation team, guiding students into their exciting university journey.
ABOUT SIMONE
SHE, HER, HERS
Hi! My name is Simone and I am currently a Sophomore at the University of Utah. I am majoring in Communication with an emphasis in Journalism and Ethnic Studies. I love writing poetry. I am an aspiring journalist and community organizer. Building and sustaining community is one of the biggest things I plan to continue working on at the University of Utah in all of my roles.