Q: Sonja, how did you come to OCU, where you are one of the most loved cafeteria employees?
A: Well, honey, I was born and raised in California, but my parents were from OKC. My mom went to OCU, actually! When they got married, my dad was a bus driver in San Francisco. Eventually, he retired, so they moved back here, to the Indian allotment land.
Q: What is your heritage?
A: I am from the Creek Indians. My parents built a home here, but my dad got sick, so my son and I moved back. My dad passed away, but I’ll never go back to California. I’ll stay here until life or health doesn’t let me.
Q: Tell me more about your son. What does he do?
A: Well, my son and his family now live in my parents’ old home. His name is Sean, and he works with a glass company in Henryetta, Oklahoma. My daughter-in-law, Laurel, is a manager at Murphy’s, which is owned by Walmart. I have one grandson, Sean Jr. who actually just had his first football game! He’s 12. He score the first touchdown! I also have a gorgeous, five-year-old granddaughter. She just started kindergarten! Oh, and here name is Saige too – but with an i, not like yours.
Q: What are you passionate about, besides your job and family?
A: Every year, I participate in Relay for Life and the Susan G. Komen for the Cure, which raises money for the organization that educates and supports research for breast cancer, as well as offers financial assistance to people with breast cancer. I’m starting Susan G. Komen next week, so join Team Sonja! Even if you don’t join the team, I’ll have bake sales, so I hope everybody comes by. My goal this year is $10,000. I have sponsors this year, so I think I can make it. I’m very lucky that Sodexo, my company, allows me to participate in this and a Relay for Life. I’ll be decked out in my pink hair and sparkles. I lost my mom to breast cancer (she lost the fight after 14 years), and I’m twice a survivor, so it’s something very dear to my heart. It’s a family thing. And a friend thing. You know Brady Bieber? His mom was very close to me. I know she’s friends with my mom in heaven.
Q: What is your favorite part about your job?
A: I’m here for the students. I love them. I come to work every day, and whether it’s a good or bad day, I’m happy to be here with them!
Q: What is something that nobody knows about you?
A: I was in ballet all through high school. I was a skater, and I wanted to be more graceful. Also, I do my own nails. I’m a nail freak.
Q: Is there anything else you want students to know about you?
A: Just that I love all of the students. I’ll do anything for them. Don’t be afraid to tell me anything. New or old, I’ll help students in any way. Just let me know.
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