During her sophomore year at Azusa Pacific University, Aubree Roney ’09 began working in Information Technology (IT) as a student employee. While her experience exercising leadership and software skills helped her grow professionally, Roney didn’t expect to return to IT shortly after graduation, and again after God called her to the department in January 2024. Since returning, Roney has served as Enterprise Applications Administrator, where she manages software systems across campus and mentors students.
Originally from Corona, Calif., Roney majored in music education with the intention of becoming a teacher. Roney thrived as a leader at APU, both through IT and her participation in the university choir and orchestra. “Singing in choir was a wonderful experience, as we got to tour Southern California every spring to do ministry through our performances,” Roney said. She managed a team of members who loaded state of the art orchestra and sound equipment throughout the tour, an experience that confirmed how much Roney loves to be a leader. Collaborating with others to reach a common goal is something that has always driven Roney to pursue leadership in various capacities.
After graduating, Roney planned to earn a teaching credential, but was unable to work a full time job along with the credential’s required student teaching assignment. “I entered my first staff role in IT thinking it would be for a short period of time, but ended up finding fulfillment in helping people through problem solving,” Roney said. Over the next few years, Roney found herself pouring into students, managing teams, and building her passion for IT automation.
In 2017, Roney and her husband decided to travel the country, converting their van
into a camper as they explored different states for six months. Roney then worked
at several different software companies, leading her to discover what she missed most
about APU: mentoring students to help them see their potential. “In college I wanted
to be a teacher, and I realized later that I can teach people even if it’s not in
a traditional sense,” Roney said.
Roney’s current role entails many responsibilities. From managing campus software, such as ticketing services, formstack, and Asana for internal operations, to leading a team of student workers, Roney is enthusiastic to take part in IT’s efforts to streamline efficient software experiences for the APU community. As IT continues to improve digital processes, Roney finds joy in discovering ways to enhance systems. “I get into a workflow when I’m building processes and time flies. I also enjoy getting to see different teams thrive and explore creative solutions,” she said.
When she’s not working, Roney spends time with her husband, Chris, and twin toddlers, Mackenzie and Finnegan. The Roneys enjoy singing and hosting get-togethers for their fellow musician friends.
Reflecting on her journey, Roney is grateful for the ways God led her where she needed to be in order to implement her skills to have a wide impact in the lives of others. As a leader herself, Roney’s mentorship toward students creates an outward effect, cultivating difference makers to be lights wherever they go.