Loyola University Chicago

University Staff Council

October 2015

Alyssa (Travis) Dyrcz

Title/s:  Systems Support Coordinator

Email: atravis3@luc.edu

About

Department/School/Division: Office of Registration & Records
Campus: Water Tower Campus
Years at Loyola: 7

What is your favorite thing about working at Loyola?
My favorite thing about working at Loyola is that no two days are ever the same. Loyola is always evolving, physically and academically, which forces you to look beyond the here and now. Staff, faculty, and students get to be a part of that evolution, which is a really wonderful feeling. 

What is your most memorable achievement as a Loyola employee?
My most memorable achievement as an employee is earning my bachelor’s degree in the undergraduate program, while working full time. My current department completely supported my efforts to achieve my academic goals. When I work with students or advisors, my knowledge of the academic process from the student’s perspective has been invaluable. I am the first person in my family to earn my bachelor’s degree, and I have Loyola to thank for that. 

What does Loyola's mission mean to you?
In 2009, during my Loyola 101 new employee orientation, I remember seeing “Preparing People to Lead Extraordinary Lives” on all of the handouts. On the surface, those words are seemingly only directed at students but it stretches much further. The staff, faculty, community, and those abroad all have something to learn from Loyola and things to teach each other. We are all responsible for leading others and being guided to be the best versions of ourselves. To me Loyola’s mission means striving for greatest and promoting others to do the same. 

What motivates you to succeed each and every day?
Two people motivate me the most; my mother Barbara and my husband Andy. They have both supported me mentally and emotionally every step of this journey. Whenever it has felt difficult or I wanted to give up, they have reminded me of why I started on this path to begin with­--to help others. 

Tell us how you show your Rambler pride.
I love Loyola and I try to go to many of the amazing Alumni events, Founder’s Dinner, and every block party at the Water Tower Campus. I love participating in sporting events and volunteer opportunities that Loyola offers because they have given me so much. It feels awesome to give back! Go Ramblers!

Tell us something most people at Loyola would be surprised to know about you.
I recently got married at the end of September, and I am a world class Monopoly player.