Published: Aug. 20, 2019
Gabriel Kassadi on a rope bridge

Kassadi Gabriel is the event coordinator for the Smead Aerospace Engineering Sciences Department. She works to coordinate events from start to finish while everyday coming up with new ideas to streamline processes within the department to enable faculty and staff to host events with ease. The new building has brought on a new set of opportunities and she has been working to create policies to help ensure that the department is ready to welcome a multitude of visitors. Kassadi is now gearing up for the building’s grand opening that will be taking place on Monday, August 26th. Kassadi graduated from Oklahoma State University with a degree in Hospitality & Tourism and worked as a wedding coordinator for two years before moving to Boulder, Colorado.

What do you most like to do to unwind?

I love to cook and read fiction books. I try to read on my lunch break and before going to bed every day. I’m currently reading the Outlander series. I’m on book #3 and I absolutely love it! Cooking is something that makes my day feel complete. Coming home and making dinner is something I look forward to and I love to spend free time looking through cookbooks.

One thing you’re willing to spend way too much on . . .

PLANTS! My husband and I have put as many plants into our small condo as possible. It is the best thing to come home to and has turned into a really enjoyable hobby.

Your coworkers can always count on you to . . .

Smile and look on the bright side. Life is better that way!

What is the best advice you have ever been given?

My dad would always tell me and my siblings, “All you can do is all you can do.” This instilled in me the value of hard work, but it is also a reminder to not be so hard on yourself and to know your limits. An especially important thing for a recovering people-pleaser. 

Who would you most like to meet and why?

John Mayer is someone I have always wanted to meet. I have been a fan of his music for years and got to see him in concert in 2013. Not only is he and extraordinarily talented artist and musician, but I also love his dry sense of humor.