Mrs. Gudde and her family on a ski trip in Colorado.
Q: How long have you been working at UA, and what first brought you here?
A: I started here in June 2010. I was previously a high school principal in a small school district that required me to attend every home and away sporting event. My youngest daughter was 1, and all the travelling at night was really hard for my family. I finished my Education Specialist degree in 2010 and was ready for a new beginning.
Q: What is your favorite thing about working at University Academy?
A: I love working at UA because everyone here is family. Our staff celebrates longevity, and so many of us have truly found our home here. There is a space in the cafeteria that shows staff members’ milestone years … check it out!
Q: If you could change one thing about UA, what would it be?
A: I would love to have more space! Our building is amazing, and the last few years we have had fewer younger applicants and more in the middle to upper grades. If we had more space, we could offer the incredible UA education to more students.
Q: If you could work in any position besides your own, what would it be?
A: I LOVE my job! I was a middle school English teacher for eight years before becoming a principal and then moving to the central office. I don’t necessarily want to go back full-time, but a day or two in the classroom is always fun.
Q: What is your favorite memory from UA?
A: In 2021, the high school dual credit English teacher left in the middle of second semester. I ended up teaching the seniors and finished the year with them. That was when we were still somewhat hybrid following COVID-19. I had about 10 in person students and about eight online students. It was quite fun, memorable and rewarding.
Q: What is your favorite thing to do outside of work?
A: I enjoy spending time with my family and in the summer, spending time outside at our lake house.
Q: If you could move anywhere in the world, where would it be?
A: I’ve only traveled to Mexico besides the U.S. I’m not sure where I would want to live without first visiting. We love Colorado, but also the beach. Not sure!
Q: If you could meet any celebrity, who would it be?
A: I have several I would like to meet, but if I had to pick just one, I think it would be Taylor Swift. I don’t consider myself a Swiftie, but she is so incredibly talented and seems to be a really genuine and kind person. I’d love to just talk to her for a little while.
Q: What is your favorite kind of music?
A: I listen to K-LOVE (Christian radio) in the car. I also love country music and most anything from the 80s.
Q: If you had to work in a different field, what would it be?
A: I think I would want to work in the healthcare field. I have a serving nature and want to help people.