We’re proud to announce the winner of our April Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Pineapple* GOAT Award, presented on a monthly basis to a Galvanize employee who exemplifies our company-wide commitment to DEI.
The purpose of this award is to celebrate the efforts and accomplishments of our team members working to advance our DEI goals, which include creating and improving our systems and processes for a sustainable, successful present and future for both our team and our students.
This month’s winner is Enrollment Advisor Itzel Cortes Tena, who works with our software engineering immersive students day in and day out to support each one through their admissions journey. Below, read a brief Q&A with her and the coworker who nominated her for the award.
Q&A with Itzel Cortes Tena
What is your response to receiving the DEI Pineapple GOAT award?
I am honored to be the recipient of the DEI Pineapple GOAT Award. DEI is very important to me personally and I am glad to work at a company that values this as well.
Why is DEI important to you?
DEI is important to me because I believe that this is essential to building a healthy community in which everyone feels welcomed, can grow, and learn from each other.
Why do you like working at Galvanize?
I like working at Galvanize because I believe in the work the company does to help students of all backgrounds start careers in tech. As an Enrollment Advisor, I get the opportunity to work first-hand with our students and support them throughout their admissions journey. I am also surrounded by an amazing team that supports and helps each other grow. Lastly, working at a company that values DEI and takes steps to foster this makes me glad to work at Galvanize.
Q&A with Nominator: Trisha Mortel
Why do you believe this person should be nominated as a Galvanize GOAT?
Itzel goes above and beyond for the community at Galvanize. Prior to COVID, she participated in student events at the San Francisco campus and has continued to participate and help facilitate remote events. For example, the Dia de los Muertos event. She also leads our Question of the Day during our team meetings, which helps build morale!
How does this person make Galvanize a better place?
Itzel is kind, caring, and a great role model! I look up to her when it comes to the basics, like making a student experience phone call. She helps me become a better enrollment advisor!
How do they embody our company values?
Itzel always puts her students first and ensures they have a great experience from the moment they apply to Hack Reactor. She is a great team worker and has been very helpful in covering when someone on our team needs to take time off.
What do you personally appreciate about this person the most?
I appreciate that we share some similarities outside of the work environment and are friends! 🙂
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*Why is the word pineapple in the award name, you might ask? Fair question! The pineapple has long been a symbol of hospitality, warmth, and welcoming. Here at Galvanize, we’ve adopted the symbol, incorporating its meaning into our values. We often refer to our team members as “pineapples” as we strive to embody the ideals of working together, openness, and kindness toward all staff and students.
Read about last month’s winner Poli Gonzalez here, and be sure to check back next month to read about our May awardee.
