Susan Villalobos-Boehm

Who keeps our university in top shape? It's the People Behind the Scenes! Meet Susan Villalobos-Boehm, executive administrative assistant to the vice chancellor of Student Affairs.

What is one thing you would like people to know about the work you do?

The greatest satisfaction I get from my work is when the networking of resources comes together and we can help a student successfully navigate through the institution—especially first-generation and students from under-represented groups, who often have not had someone at home to coach them. Also, being on campus for 18 years both as a student and staff person has allowed me the time and opportunities to meet and work with many folks from a variety of interesting backgrounds. I especially love the opportunity to hire students to work in our office so I that can learn from them.

What do you like best about being a part of the CU community?

I like that I came to the CU-Boulder community in 1990 as a first-generation student at the age of 38, got my BA and MA here in anthropology and am able to continue to be involved in student life with my current position. Through a mentorship program, I was given guidance as a non-traditional, first-generation student, as well as research grants to travel to Central and South America and throughout the southwestern United States to work with various indigenous groups in ancient settlements. My role in the community now enables me to offer guidance in ways similar to what I received as a student. The most enjoyable experience I had as a member of this community was meeting my husband!

What is your favorite activity/interest outside of work?

My matrilineal heritage is from Old Mexico and New Mexico, so I am interested in learning about and carrying on traditions of my grandmothers. I have apprenticed with two spiritual leaders during the past 16 years and offer limpias* and chakra balancing to anyone in the community. I am also certified as a yoga instructor through the Shambhava School of Yoga here in Boulder and enjoy volunteering for Boulder’s Elementary School Reading to End Racism program. I especially love spending time with my husband, son, daughter-in-law and grandson, talking with my mom on the phone and going for walks out in nature.

*Limpia is Spanish for "cleansing." Curanderos (healers) use this to "clean" a person from negative energy.