My title is Manager of Dining Services and Student Dining.

Where did you grow up? Where do you live now?

I have lived in Hadley my entire life. I currently live in North Hadley with my husband, Atty. Philip Mokrzecki, also a Hadley native.

Did you hold any positions before coming to Amherst?

I previously worked for the Pyramid Company, and also at Clarke School for the Deaf in Northampton, before coming to Amherst in February 1979. My 30th anniversary is next week!

What is your family like? Any pets?

I have one brother, Greg, and several nieces and nephews. My goddaughter and niece, Kelly Omasta, is currently in National Guard Training, soon to graduate from boot camp. I am most proud of her — she is 18! My nephew, CJ, is a senior at Hopkins in Hadley. He has joined the National Guard and will also be attending college next year. My dad is 88, and I spend a lot of time with him. I have a very close-knit family and lots of extended family and friends.

What is something that people would be surprised to hear about you? What do you like to do at home? Do you have any hidden talents?

I enjoy gardening and shopping — for anything! And I love compiling photo albums and scrapbooking. I think I am a very good cook, and I love cooking for my family and friends. I am not such a good baker … I do not have much luck with baked items (most do not know this about me)! I enjoy sending cards and flowers to friends. I also enjoy nature and wildlife and feeding birds.

Who is your favorite musician?

My favorite musician is probably George Strait, and also I love Josh Groban. As well as Bon Jovi…

What is your favorite meal at Val?

My favorite Val meal is Kung Pao Chicken ... but I also love our turkey burgers!

What is your favorite vacation spot?

My summer vacation spot has been Ogunquit, Maine for over 20 years. I love the ocean. I have traveled with my husband a lot, and we love the Cayman Islands. We have taken many trips to many places! Portugal, Hawaii, Mexico, the Caribbean and so on...

Who is one person you would love to meet?

I would have loved to meet the late President John F. Kennedy.

If you could have any job other than the one you are doing, what would it be?

I love my current job and am very happy with that.

What is your favorite thing about Amherst?

I truly love Amherst College and the wonderful relationships and friendships I have made over the many years. I still am connected to many graduates who have kept in touch over the course of the years … I really enjoy and look forward to Alumni weekends. My favorite thing about Amherst is the students, I find they keep me youthful and at times challenged! I have “adopted” several students over the years. My “adopted daughter,” Laurel LaMontagne, will graduate this May from Amherst. That will be a very sad day for my husband and I! We hope she will stay in the area!