Dean Martell has led a fascinating life, she lived in New Jersey, her home state, for 10 years before moving to Washington D.C. for 10 years. She then moved to the St. Louis area for 11 years and finally, Washington State. You have probably seen her around Shaw Smyser, hanging out with her dog in her office or advising the Women in Business club. You may not have recognized her though, because her bubbly personality and warm smile we were excited to be able to catch up with her and get to know more about the Dean of CWU’s College of Business.
What is your favorite comfort food?
Pasta and pizza!
What are some of your hobbies?
Reading, cooking, and traveling.
What is the coolest place you have been to?
Well my favorite place to go to is Paris. However, the coolest place I’ve ever been to is probably Barcelona. It was historic but also modern and the food was amazing. I also loved taking my girls to Australia, it was a lot of fun.
Are you a cat or a dog person?
Well I have always had cats (Skylar and Sammy) but I do love my dog (Belle).
Are you involved in any clubs on campus?
Yes, I am the advisor for the Women in Business club.
Why is the Women in Business club important to you?
It’s a great group of girls I get to work with and get to know that I don’t think I’d get to if I wasn’t a part of the group. Also, as a woman who knows the struggles of trying to make it in the business world, I think its important to expose young girls to what its like.
Where did you go to college?
I went to community college in New Jersey first and then I went to the University of Chicago.
What kind of attributes do successful students have?
Resilience. Its important to be able to be able to pick yourself up and try again. Over and over again.
What are some useful tools you’ve learned to use in the business world?
How to motivate people. Everybody is different, so its important to pay attention to what makes them feel appreciated and then do it. Also, listening. Really listening. I’ve had to discipline myself in that.
Do you have any advice for readers who are dealing with anxiety, depression, and/or insecurities during their college journey?
Use the resources at your disposal. Your parents, your friends, your professors even. There’s also the student success center and the wellness center are great places for students.