Note: The Brock Employee Feature is a Q&A-style series that aims to highlight those who contribute to the University’s positive working environment and make a difference in the campus community. The full series is available on The Brock News. Employees interested in being featured are asked to fill out an online form.

In her Buyer and Customer Success role at the Campus Store, Amber Alexander is part of a team providing essential support and products such as course materials and spirit wear to the Brock community.

Share your Brock career story.

I have been working at Brock for almost 21 years in a full-time position. My first work experience at the University was helping students with their OSAP. It was only for one week and during that time, I visited the Campus Store and loved the idea of continuing to work in a student-facing department. I was invited to join the team on a part-time basis that day. In 2003, I was hired as the Campus Store Service Assistant and in 2006 I moved to my current role, Buyer and Customer Success, and work primarily in the Course Materials department.

My role involves sourcing course materials in various formats to provide affordable options that accommodate diverse student learning styles. This requires forming strong partnerships with our faculty, staff, vendors and students. I work on negotiating lower prices, troubleshooting issues with both our publishers and students, and managing our inventory. I collaborate with the Brock Library to include open educational resources and course readings on our booklist, enhancing students’ course information.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

The work in the course materials department is very detailed and there is a lot of analysis and co-ordination that goes on behind the scenes to ensure that we are supporting the Brock community in the best way possible. The most fulfilling aspect of my job is successfully setting up course materials and witnessing all our efforts during Welcome Week. Helping students navigate their academic journeys and receiving positive feedback on our service is really rewarding.

What do you like about working at Brock?

I really enjoy being part of the Campus Store team. I am fortunate to work with a great group of people who all bring unique skill sets and knowledge to the table. I am very grateful for Campus Store leadership who strive to maintain a positive, healthy working environment and are always acknowledging our hard work. We also have a wonderful group of student staff that we train and mentor. We make time to celebrate our success as a team and genuinely have fun together.

Do you volunteer with any community organizations?

My husband and I put together an annual memorial golf tournament to raise funds for Hospice Niagara in honour of a family member. We also host other annual events where we raise funds for a local charity. We love being involved with the community and getting together with friends and family to help support who we can, with what we have.

What was your first job ever?

My first job was telemarketing at the age of 16. It wasn’t my favourite job, but it helped me to gain skills in communication and time management. I still value that experience because it got me to where I am today.

What are your interests and hobbies?

I enjoy snowboarding, lawn bowling, golfing, hiking and going to the beach.

Where is your favourite place to visit or spend time in Niagara?

The Niagara Gorge. I love going on hikes and spending lots of time outdoors.

How do you maintain positive mental health? 

I try to walk as much as possible. It is great exercise and a good way to reduce stress and do something for myself each day.

What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?

Change is inevitable and you need to learn to be adaptable.

What is a fact most people would be surprised to learn about you?

I have won a Trillium Award for my garden.