What is your name and where did you grow up?

Elisa Colson—Imperial Beach, California

What is your role at Blackhawk Technical College?

Student Engagement Specialist

How long have you worked here?

17 years

What was your journey to this role?

My previous positions as Welcome Center Administrator and Student Career Coach prepared me for the next position challenge in Student Engagement.

Where did you go to school?

Southwestern College (San Diego) and San Diego State. I’m also a 2011 graduate of the Human Resource program here at Blackhawk.

What did you study?

Journalism and Public Education Administrator.

Is there something that drew you to this career?

My positive impacts from previous high school and college advisors. Those experiences gave me insight that I hoped to be in a position allowing me to be part of a student’s educational journey, with meaningful and awe-inspiring results.

What do you like most about working at Blackhawk?

The interactions with students and the tremendous support system from colleagues

What is something Blackhawk offers its students that you feel other colleges do not?

The flexible learning environment and small classroom sizes allow quality time for the student and instructor. Students are also provided a holistic support network.

What is your life like outside of work? Family? Adorable pets? Community involvement?

I enjoy taking long walks and reading, and I hope to someday finish my great American novel. I have two kids and two granddaughters and we are patiently waiting for the arrival of the third granddaughter. I travel to Texas, Maryland and California to visit my mom, brother and sisters. I’m currently a board member of the Parker High School Athletics Booster Club, which I plan to retire from in May after 16 years.

Tell us something about yourself you think people would be surprised to know.

My favorite exercise routine is kickboxing, and my favorite movie is “Delta Force.”

Who is your biggest influence?

My kids

If you could have dinner with anybody, alive or dead, who would you choose?

My father, who died too young.

If you could only eat one food for the rest of your life, which food would you pick?

Avocados—delicious and nutritious

What’s one thing on your bucket list?

Visit the top of the Empire State Building in New York City. I will need to overcome my fear of heights and claustrophobia.