Have you met Krista Aune, Assistant Director of Leadership Annual Giving
in the Office of Advancement? Spend a few minutes getting to know her a little better.
What is the most important piece of your home office set up?
Natural light, a mouse, background music, a cup of tea, lip chap and glass of water!
What’s something you’ve done to help make the shift to working remotely easier?
Looking at the positives of working remotely, including enjoying tea from my David’s Tea collection — I never indulge in this at work for some strange reason! A close second would be the valuable time with our Bichon Frise/Pomeranian Audrey and taking her for walks in the sunlight.
What’s your favourite lunch or snack to eat while working from home?
I just ordered Duchess home delivery, so I am pretty excited to enjoy their fresh baking! This morning I made a coconut milk/banana stove top oatmeal that was so tasty. Otherwise cheese, crackers, fresh sandwiches, dilled carrots, and fresh fruit have been delicious.
What is your first U of A memory?
As a young girl I would get all dressed up and go to the Myer Horowitz Theatre for dance recitals. As a child I also attended WISEST programs on campus. I remember meeting the late Dr. Margaret-Ann Armour and being really inspired by her, she was such a remarkable leader.
What is your favourite distraction?
Reality TV, mindfulness walks, and getting out in nature.
What is a weird pet peeve that you have?
When people arrive early for things. My husband likes to arrive early for things, I like to be right on time.
What is something you’d tell your 18-year-old self?
Trust your gut. Don’t be afraid. Just have fun.
What is the most boring thing about you?
My favourite lunch is a sandwich, it’s quick to make and easy to eat. Utility over substance.
If you were to enroll in a course or program right now, what would it be?
Nursing, or something health-related. I love giving back, and I think that would be the ultimate profession to be in to make a difference. Or a teacher, for similar reasons.
If you could see any live performance tomorrow, who would you like to see?
Brené Brown or Princess Diana. It would be a very uplifting experience.
If a friend were visiting Edmonton for the first time, where would you take them?
A neighbourhood dog park. You really get to know people in a dog park. It’s easy for people to connect, you’re dogs are already connecting. It’s a great way to get to know the people in Edmonton.
What is something your coworkers don’t know about you?
I’m very jumpy and can get scared easily. I also can randomly talk like Yoda at times, it’s strange!
About Krista
Krista Aune is passionate about connecting people to the U of A in meaningful ways. She works as an Assistant Director with the Office of Advancement, Leadership Annual Giving team. In this role, she supports the U of A’s mission and values by engaging its community of alumni, friends, and donors in the life of the university. Her career has taken her to Yellowknife, Harvard University, Amsterdam and various municipalities throughout Alberta. In her spare time, you can find her watching curling, baking, and going for walks with her puppy, Audrey, and husband!
This interview has been edited for length and clarity.