Meet the Staff

                                        Phone: 801-422-3065
                                        Fax:     801-422-0641
                                        Email:  mss@byu.edu
                                        Address: 1320 WSC Provo, UT 84604

Fulltime Staff	Student Employees
Lisa Parkinson, Director Sam Brown, Assistant Director & O-Q Jim Slaughter A-B, I Lucky Fonoimoana  C-E,J Lynette Simmons  F-H Anthony Bates  L-N LaVay Talk S-T,K Melba Latu  U-Z, R John Kwarm  Program Coordinator Diane Hill  Office Manager	Marissa Avila Paulina Bongay Samantha Cope Stephanie Gerber Liahona Hamblin Breeahna Harvey Helen Hitimana Reginald Hyppolite Heidi Lambert Kaelie Pellegrini Mario Pereyra Lionel Perrett Sarita Red Thunder Justin Ritter Catalina Sanchez Maria Sanchez Pauline Tuitavuki Mark Walus Kaui Whitford

 Send an email to Lisa Parkinson, Director
 
Lisa Parkinson was born in Provo, Utah, and raised in the distant and almost exotic Orem, Utah. Her mother is from Kobe, Japan and her father was raised in California and Hawaii. They are both converts to the LDS Church and full-blooded Japanese.

Being raised in Orem as the second tallest, full-Japanese girl at 5'10" (her younger sister is the tallest at 6'0") she was blessed to have a different perspective than many of her shorter ancestors.

Lisa attended BYU as a new freshman and during her junior year postponed her education to serve a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Since all Japanese-Americans serve missions in Japan, Lisa KNEW that was where she was going to serve. She ended up being the only Asian-American in the Spanish-speaking mission of California, San Diego. While serving a mission, she was fortunate to speak with visitors at the Mormon Battalion Visitor's Center as well the San Diego Temple. She loved working with and serving the beautiful Latino people and learning more about a new culture.

Once she returned from her mission, she graduated with a bachelor's degree and started working with multicultural student recruitment for the BYU Office of High School and College Relations. While working full-time, she completed a master's degree in Educational Leadership and Foundations at BYU.

She is fascinated with learning and wants to continue to pursue additional degrees and seek after more learning and understanding. Lisa agrees with the statement by President Gordon B. Hinckley, "You face great challenges that lie ahead. You are moving into a world of fierce competition. You must get all of the education you can. The Lord has instructed us concerning the importance of education. It will qualify you for greater opportunities. It will equip you to do something worthwhile in the great world of opportunity that lies ahead." Converts and Young Men, Ensign, May 1997, 47. This is the reason why Lisa loves working with education and especially at BYU.

It is a blessing to be in the business of learning and eternal progression. As we all continue to educate ourselves both formally and informally, we will be better prepared to serve our families, church units, local communities, co-workers, and ultimately, the world as new opportunities are presented to us. Education unlocks the door of opportunity. We must train our hearts, minds, and hands to better serve and continue to learn.

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Send an email to Sam Brown, (O-Q) & Assistant Director

I was born and raised mostly in Magna , Utah . I come from a family of six, and am the second oldest of four brothers and no sisters (I know - my poor mother). I am an avid outdoor and sports enthusiast, and have broken more bones than most hockey teams. My background is a mix of mostly Norwegian and English, a heritage which I am very proud of and constantly learning more about.

Education has always been important to me. One interesting fact about me is that I attended four different high schools due to a family move and boundary changes. After high school I attended one semester at the former Rick's College, and then came to BYU to finish my undergraduate and graduate degrees in English and Public Administration, respectively. Between Rick's and BYU, I took an academic respite and served a mission to Buenos Aires , Argentina ; this country and its people will always hold a special place in my heart.

As a student I worked for the Office of High School Relations as a tour guide to prospective students. There I learned a great love for BYU, as I was able to share so many wonderful things about campus with visitors. After graduation I began working full-time in the BYU Office of Public Affairs, and shortly after applied with the Multicultural Office. I am very grateful to be working with such wonderful students and staff who have broadened my perspective and enriched my life. I am especially grateful for my beautiful wife, Marenda, and my children Addie and Kasen, and for a chance to work within the confines of the gospel of Jesus Christ. It is a rare blessing to be in such a spiritual place, where the secular and divine can be intertwined in pursuit of personal progression.

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Send an email to Lucky Fonoimoana(C-E, J) & Fiesta
 

I was born and raised in Lai e, Hawaii, and worked at the Polynesian Cultural Center (PCC) to support my education at Brigham Young University-Hawaii (BYU-Hawaii). As a youth, I worked at the PCC for summer work, and later as an administrator at BYU-Hawaii, and at Zion's Securities Corporation-Hawaii division.

Civically, I served as the President of the Laie Community Association for 3 terms. In this position, we worked with city, state and Federal government to develop a master plan for Laie and began to address complex cultural, housing, social, utility, land-reform, educational issues, etc. Growing up in Laie, (a town of diverse race, culture and rich Mormon heritage), I gained a respect for all cultures, race, religion, and an appreciation of my Mormon heritage.

In 1997, my family and I had a unique and maturing opportunity to pursue an MBA at the University of Utah (U of U). After graduating from the U of U, followed by the September 11, 2001 New York Twin Tower suicide plane attack, my sense of family value was strengthened. With a stronger commitment to family, my wife and I opted for employment where I could help others reach their potential and have the time to be with our family. Among other business and educational opportunities, Brigham Young University Provo seemed like a good fit, and we feel blessed to be here.

 

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Send an email to Lynette Simmons  (F-H) & Eagle’s Eye

I grew up in Yakima, Washington and came to Brigham Young University (BYU) as a student. I was later employed full time in the Dean of Student Life's office, completing my bachelors and masters degrees while working full time. It has now been over twenty-four years that I've enjoyed working at BYU.

In November 1997, I joined the Multicultural Student Services (MSS) team as an Academic Advisor and Publications Coordinator. My advisement assignment is with students whose last names begin with F-H. I also have responsibility for the Eagle's Eye magazine.

My hobbies include gardening, reading, the arts, and spending time with family

 








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Send an email to Anthony Bates (L-N) & Black History Month

I was born and raised in Pocatello, ID. I am the first and only child, but I am also the last child as well; allow me to explain. I am my mother's only child, but when I was very young, she was a single mother and worked long hours to support the two of us. Someone once said that "coincidence is God's way of remaining anonymous." "Coincidentally" my mother found a woman who happened to be a member of the LDS Church to take care of me during the long hours my mother worked. She and her husband had 7 children. I was "adopted" into the family, and became the youngest brother; more importantly however, it was through the love and example of this family that I came to know the Gospel and was baptized shortly before my 11th birthday.

I am half African-American and grew up in a predominantly Caucasian community. I often joke that I learned most about what it meant to be black from Fresh Prince of Bel Air and the Cosby Show. In 2006, at the age of 27, I had the unique opportunity to connect with my father for the first time. He lives in Columbia, Maryland. I now have a stronger sense of who I am and I am more grateful for those who have come before me.

During my adolescent years, I was active in Boy Scouts of America, lifting weights, playing pick-up basketball games, mountain biking, and Seminary Council. I graduated from Pocatello High School in June of 1997, and was called on a mission 7 months later to Uruguay Montevideo West. It was there that I learned that it is the "small and simple" acts of daily worship and discipleship that determine what kind of servants we will be in the Lord's kingdom.

Upon returning from the mission, I began dating one of my best friends, Amy Ellis. She and I have been friends since junior high and we were married June 30, 2000. At the same time Amy graduated from BYU, I received my Associate's degree from Utah Valley State College in 2002 and then transferred to BYU. While I was here at BYU in 2003 I had the opportunity to work in Multicultural Student Services as a student employee.

I graduated in 2004 with a degree in secondary education with an emphasis in the social sciences. I then began teaching at Florence High School in Florence, Arizona, in July of 2004. I taught world history and coached the freshmen boys' basketball team for one year. Halfway through my first year of teaching, one day out the blue my wife asked, "Have you ever thought of returning to MSS?" I was not opposed, but I initially discounted the likelihood that it could happen. She ended the conversation with, "I feel very strongly about this, and I do not feel that this idea came from me." Her inspiration became my goal, and I began to work in BYU MSS office almost a year later to the day.

Amy and I are the parents of four children; Isaiah, Sage, Ada, and Trueman. We are grateful for each distinct personality, the lessons they teach us, and the irreplaceable contributions that they make to our home.

I am currently pursuing a Master's degree in Public Administration at BYU and plan to graduate in 2011.

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Send a email to LaVay S. Talk (S-T, K) & Pow Wow
 

Ya'a'teh. My name is LaVay Sandman Talk and I'm from the Under His Cover and Red House clans of the Navajo Nation. My grandmother hails from Sheep Springs, New Mexico; my grandfather is from Sanders, Arizona; and my maternal grandfather is from the Apache Tribe. My husband, four children, and I currently call Provo, Utah, our home.

I began my career in the multicultural setting at BYU in 1984 and have enjoyed my time here immensely. My most fulfilling moments in this position are reached when I see our students graduate from BYU. Not a day goes by that I am not learning something new from the multicultural populations our office serves. As I work with the Native American Club, better known as TMF, I become acquainted with many college students from across the United States and Canada who are working to build a better future for themselves and their Indian nations. As Native American Indians we continue to share our culture with others in the campus community and strive to enhance our leadership skills.

I enjoy playing and watching sports, everything from football to soccer. I figure that I must, due to the fact that my husband is a high school coach! My favorite college team is of course BYU and I am a New Mexico Lobo fan only when they do not play BYU. I follow the Utah Jazz avidly and look forward to their NBA championship this next year. Other hobbies include traveling, the out-of-doors, and reading when I can find the Family time.

Although I work full time, I also make my mark as a full-time mother. I spend quality time watching my children excel in school and in their extracurricular activities. My children and husband are a vital part of my life. The Native American culture thrives on having a balanced life, and I can always depend on family and friends to keep my life on track.

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Send a email to Melba Latu (R, U-Z) & Freshman Foothold  

I was born and raised in Orem, UT. I attended Orem High School and graduated from BYU with a BA in English and minor in Violin. I received a JD and served an LDS Spanish-speaking mission in Long Beach, CA, where I grew to love and appreciate the Latin people, Latin culture, and Latin food. I am proud of my Tongan heritage and am dedicated to the higher education of multicultural students. As an advisor, I feel blessed to be part of BYU's Enriched Environment initiative.













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Marissa Avila Freshman Foothold Student Coordinator

I grew up in a loving family in a wonderful little neighborhood in Highland, Utah. The oldest of 7 kids, I loved playing outside with my siblings. All day, every day, in the pastures and horse barn, exploring the foothills behind our home, and swimming in the creek, we loved it all. Growing up, my father taught us all to play soccer, a sport I have played my whole life and can never get enough of. I also love running and would like to run a marathon someday.

I have always been fascinated by other cultures and love to travel. I have had the opportunity to visit many areas in Mexico, where my father is originally from, as well as the countries of Japan and China. What interesting and unique cultures I found there and what wonderful experiences I had! If I had a million dollars I would travel to every country in the world and learn about the customs and culture of each.

I am so happy to be at BYU! I’m grateful for the education I am receiving and the opportunity to work in the MSS office. I love my classes, learning new things, meeting new people and being independent. I am currently studying Human Development and anticipate graduation in 2012.

Paulina Bongay Receptionist

I was born and raised in Dallas Texas, but my parents are from Sierra Leone, in West Africa. I have two older brothers that live here in the states and two older sisters that still reside in Africa. I had the opportunity to work as a SOAR counselor and it was one of the best experiences of my life. I love learning about different cultures and people and I strongly believe that there is value in diversity. I’m currently a junior at Brigham Young University where I am studying sociology. I hope to be able to use my degree to go on to graduate school and do research and try to make a difference in our society today. I enjoy reading, spending time with my friends, and anything that generally involves laughing. I love the gospel and I’m very grateful for the opportunity I have to be here at BYU and to be working in the Multicultural Student Services office.

Kaelie Pellegrini Receptionist

I am a Sophomore at BYU who is majoring in Theater Education. I have a deep love for the performing/dramatic arts but also a deep love for people. I have always been fascinated by the world around me!

Were I not so involved with theater I would be spending my time studying the histories of civilizations and cultures. My family currently lives in New Zealand without me, which I am sad about but I am also very grateful that they are able to have such a neat experience. I love the Gospel with all of my soul, and feel very blessed to be able to attend this wonderful university. I live to serve and I am always here for you should you ever be in need of anything at all!

Sarita Red Thunder Receptionist

I was born and raised in Great Falls, Montana. I am the youngest of three children all raised by my wonderful mother. I am half African American and half Native American. I am from the Chippewa Cree tribe and have loved learning as much as I can about both cultures.

Music is one of my life’s passions. I am in my fourth year at BYU and my major is Violin Performance. I have played the violin for about eleven years. Studying music at BYU has been a wonderful opportunity to focus my education into lifelong goals.  I feel like I have been spiritually uplifted through the inspiration the music brings. I am truly grateful to have wonderful mentors who are helping me to become a better musician while keeping my values and beliefs strong. I play in the BYU Philharmonic and Chamber Orchestras. I plan to go to graduate school to further my studies. My goal is to serve others through the beauty and spirit that wonderful music can bring.

This past May I got married in the beautiful San Diego Temple. I love to cook, shop, travel, and spend time with my family.