Who we are: Charlese Bedford
Welcome to “Who We Are,” a series on the University Marketing blog. This series showcases the diverse and talented individuals behind our marketing team. Each installment features a Q&A that delves into the unique stories, roles, and perspectives of our team members, illustrating how each person’s unique contributions shape the identity and success of University Marketing. Join us as we explore the faces and stories that make our team truly exceptional.
Who is University Marketing?
Charlese Bedford is University Marketing.
Job title and brief description
Marketing Accessibility Analyst, which means I am responsible for creating accessible documents in various formats, remediating client digital documents to meet compliance, and providing accessibility training for designers and non-designers.
Where are you located?
I live and work remotely in sunny Flagstaff.
Can you tell us about a hobby or pastime outside of work, and what draws you to it?
When I’m not doing something kid-friendly with my two boys, which is a rare occurrence, I enjoy classic films. I’m a fan of old movies and the history that goes along with them. Turner Classic Movies is my jam!
What’s one book you’ve read or movie you’ve watched recently that had a significant impact on you, and why did it resonate with you?
A recent movie that resonated with me was “Killers of the Flower Moon.” The significance of the historic truth it was based on made me think about how it parallels with the tragedy of Black Wall Street, which happened around the same time and in the same state. This awareness allows me to teach my children to do their research and appreciate their ancestry.
Share a fun or unusual fact about yourself that most colleagues might not know.
I played the trumpet all throughout junior high and high school in the concert and marching bands, as well as jazz band in summer.
If you could travel to any destination in the world, where would you go and why?
England! Highclere Castle in Hampshire to be specific. You know from Downton Abbey? I loved the show, especially Maggie Smith’s character, Violet Crawley. My mother went to England a few times and I would love to walk where she walked.
What’s your go-to way to unwind and de-stress after a busy day at work?
Order a pizza and watch a movie with my boys.
Can you share a memorable personal achievement or milestone you’re proud of, unrelated to your job?
Walking across the stage during my undergraduate commencement here at NAU in 2016 and knowing my mom was up in the audience shouting proudly. One of my best memories.
What do you love about NAU?
In my 11 years working here, I will have to say what I love most are the connections I’ve made and the impactful experiences I’ve had. I’ve truly made a career here, and I know what I do matters.