Spotlight on CASL staff member Christine Betts

May 30th, 2024

Enjoy the following Q&A with Christine Betts, Business and Financial Operations Administrator for CASL in the dean's office. 

Name: Christine Betts
Position: Business and Financial Operations Administrator for CASL
Time at UM-Dearborn: 5 months

What does a typical workday look like for you? 

When you work in an administrative role there is no such thing as a “typical day”, however I spend much of my time working with all the departments in CASL. This can be anything from HR responsibilities, approving concur reports, and answering emails.  I do also spend a good portion of time responding to emails as well. 

What do you enjoy most about your job?

I love the variety of my job as well as my colleagues on my team in CASL. The leadership team in the Dean’s office of CASL is very strong with a lot of knowledge and they have helped acclimate me to CASL and UM-Dearborn.

What was your first job?

My first job I was a student assistant at the National Ski Hall of Fame, located in Ishpeming, Michigan, when I was 15. They were moving locations, so I helped pack up all the memorabilia and helped set it up in the new location.  It was a great experience.

What do you do to relax?

To relax I am usually reading.  You can always find me lost in a good book.  I do also enjoy spending time with my family but especially my 4-year-old grandson Conor. 

If you could have any one skill or talent that you don’t already have, what would it be?

I think that I would like to be great at subjects like calculus and physics.  I am always in awe of people that understand them.     

What’s the proudest moment of your life? 

I finally was able to obtain my bachelors’ degree in 2018.  It was hard work going to school, working full time, and raising a family but I was finally able to complete it. 

If we were to create a UM-Dearborn playlist, what song would you want to include?

This is going to be cheesy, but I think that we should add “We are Family” because UM-Dearborn is truly a family that works together to meet the same goal, educating our community.  I have been so happy since starting in January of this year for this reason. 

Where is your favorite place on campus?

I haven’t been around campus too much, but I do love the architecture of the CASL building.  There are some great views on each of the floors and the art and things that are displayed are great. 

What’s one thing people would be surprised to know about you?

I have lived in 9 states and Japan because my father was in the military.  We moved around quite a bit, so I think that helps me adapt to new things quickly.  I have had to do that while growing up, moving sometimes after only a year or two in one place.  My brother was also born in Japan. 

What quote or slogan do you live by?

Everything happens for a reason!

What’s one thing you wish you had known when you were a teenager?

Life gets better, so hang in there!  It will be worth it in the long run.