You might see her everyday as you ride, drive or walk to HSU. Romi likes to walk to work. "I'd spend more time finding a parking space than I do walking everyday."

What you might not know is that Romi travels all over Humboldt and Del Norte Counties, from South Fork to Happy Camp, helping students make decisions about going to college.

"I'm making personal connections with the students and helping them to see that education will open doors to the world for them. I love it. I really love it. I help people understand what is special and unique about this university. I help them understand that HSU is possible and help them set a path for their goals."

Romi would know as well as any what a special place Humboldt can be.

It was a culture shock when her father moved their family to Weitchpec from LA County. "We had a population of 50, no electricity, no running water."

But she grew to love the area.

After graduating Arcata High School, Romi came to HSU (Communications '88). During her first week, she met her future husband Glenn (Chemistry '88) while playing ultimate frisbee.

She was also excited about HSU's graduation pledge. "We were the first university to make a graduate pledge - we're going to change the world for the better."

And that's a lesson that Romi has held on to. "I'm living the pledge."

Although she and her husband moved from Arcata to Oregon after graduation, they both returned to Arcata to work for HSU. Glenn is a part-time Chemistry instructor, and Romi has had a variety of positions.

"For my first job at HSU I had to cook 27 turkeys for a Center Activities ski trip. It was the first and last time I ever cooked a turkey." She also taught for the Communications Department, coordinated new student programs and coordinated the commencement ceremonies. But her current position is by far her favorite.

"This role is best suited for my heart because I've always wanted to help people and to share with people why Humboldt is fantastic."

Even in her time off, Romi is dedicated to helping others. "It's the biggest part of my life besides my family."

The best part is that Romi doesn't have to choose between family or service. From her active participation at her daughters' schools to the year her family spent in Colima, Mexico building communities, volunteering service is a family affair. And she's able to learn as much from her daughters as they learn from her.

"Being a mom of two teenaged daughters reminds me everyday that I need to celebrate what's special about every potential student. It's about finding each person's unique abilities."