Staff Profile: Chelsey Morrison

Assistant Director of Advancement Services Chelsey Morrison has been at Harvey Mudd for three years. Her everyday work includes helping to manage the College’s donor and constituent database and ensuring data integrity and cleanliness. She develops procedures and policies for the Advancement Services team, oversees project management and manages data requests across campus, delivering clean, usable data while upholding constituent privacy. Learn more about Chelsey, including the best advice she’s received, what she does for fun and what podcast she’s listening to in this Q-and-A.

What is your favorite part about your job and why?

I love that every day is different—there’s always a new challenge to tackle, keeping my work dynamic and engaging.

What is something people don’t understand about your job that you wish they did?

People often think their data requests are quick and simple, like “Just pull a list of alumni emails,” but there are countless data points to consider—accuracy, privacy, preferences and more. Every request requires careful thought to ensure the right data is used in the right way.

If you could swap jobs with any other HMC employee for a day, who would it be and why?

I’d switch jobs with someone in the makerspace or machine shop—I think it’d be fun to work with my hands, create things and see students bring their ideas to life.

What’s your favorite food/dish in the Hoch-Shanahan Dining Hall?

Definitely the desserts, especially the chocolate tres leches. I’ve been trying to track down that recipe for months—it’s that good.

What is your favorite hobby, activity or creative outlet?

I have many, but off-roading is my favorite hobby (I drive a 2000 Jeep Cherokee). It’s a way for me to connect with nature and my community, and it takes me to places most people will never see. It’s also a physical and mental challenge that many don’t consider, and it gives me the perfect opportunity to go rock hounding in beautiful spots.

What is the best piece of advice someone has given you, either in life or at work?

The best piece of advice I’ve ever received is to always stay curious and to keep an open mind.

What book or podcast are you enjoying right now?

I’m currently re-listening to the “Stuff the British Stole” podcast. I highly recommend it if you’re into history and curiosities.

What is the last concert you attended?

Hozier!