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The lifeblood of the University of New Haven are the faculty and staff members who dedicate their lives to helping our students reach their goals. Periodically, we’ll introduce you to a member of the staff so you can learn more about them – beyond their day-to-day work.

Next up is Tara Butler ’02, a University of New Haven alum whose mother was a staff member for more than two decades and whose niece is a recent graduate.

Renee Chmiel: Do you have any pets?
Tara Butler: I have a Chorkie. She is a Chihuahua/Yorkie mix. Her name is Roxie. We rescued her when she was 2, and she is now 4. When she gets excited, she doesn’t just wag her tail, she wags her whole body, and it’s the funniest thing! She is my shadow and never leaves my side, except when my husband throws her a French fry or pizza crust!

RC: What do you consider to be your greatest achievement?
TB: My greatest achievement was becoming a mother. I always wanted to have a child, and my son is a miracle child. His name is Kevin. He is almost 16, and he drives me bonkers! But he is very smart, funny, and kind, and I am so thankful to be his mom.

RC: Tell us about a favorite teacher you had. What makes them so special?
TB: A favorite teacher I had was Miss Gloria. She was my dance instructor for 18 years. She taught me how to be the best dancer I could be. Without her, my team wouldn’t have been world champions. Not only did she teach me how to dance, but she also taught us that to achieve your goals, you must work hard, be dedicated and determined, and always be the best version of yourself.

RC: If you didn’t work in higher education, what would you be doing?
TB: I have been working in higher education for more than 20 years now, so I honestly don’t know what else I would be doing. Growing up, though, I always wanted to be a Rockette. Being that I was a dancer and I loved to tap, I thought being a Rockette would be my dream job and make me famous. I don’t know if I would be doing it at this stage of my life, though. I am a little too old!

RC: What is your favorite book?
TB: I enjoy all genres of books, especially fiction and psychological thriller/suspense novels. I just finished a book about a creepy motel, called “The Sun Down Motel,” and it was really good. It had me on my toes most of the book! I just started reading “Fool Me Once.” I saw the Netflix series first, so I am looking forward to comparing the two.

RC: What were you like when you were in college?
TB: I actually graduated from the University of New Haven: Class of 2002! I was very social and had many friends. I wasn’t in any clubs or organizations, but I did attend sports games and other events on campus. My mother worked at the University for 25 years, so I knew many of her coworkers. I visited her often. Now that I work here, I still see some of the ladies from her office.

RC: What do you enjoy the most about your role at the University of New Haven?
TB: I really enjoy working with the students. Talking to the international students is really exciting because I get to learn about their countries and their traditions/customs. My bucket list of countries I want to visit has doubled since I started working here!