Welcome to the Dragon Community: Isack De Moraes Pontes

Isack De Moraes Pontes is the new area director of Dahl and John Neumeier Hall in the Office of Housing & Residence Life. Isack oversees the daily operations of residence halls, supports and supervises student staff, and works to create a safe, inclusive, and engaging living environment for students. 

Q: What drew you to MSUM? 
A: After earning my master's degree at MSUM, I decided to pursue my professional career here as well. 

Q: What unique experiences or skills from your past job do you bring to MSUM? 
A: I bring strong relationship-building skills, a positive mindset, and experience supporting students and collaborating with colleagues to foster a successful and inclusive community. 

Q: How do you prefer to start your workday? 
A: I prefer to start my day by reading my Bible, enjoying a strong cup of coffee, and reviewing my to-do list so I can begin the day focused and organized. 

Q: What’s your go-to productivity trick? Or what energizes you at work? 
A: I try to stay as organized as possible while leaving room for unexpected tasks and challenges. What energizes me most is working under pressure. I am driven by opportunities to solve problems, grow, and make a positive impact, and those challenges motivate and energize me. 

Q: What’s one thing you’re learning now, and why is it important? Or, what’s the most interesting thing you’re working on right now? 
A: I am currently focused on ensuring that the team I supervise is both enjoying their experience and developing skills they can use throughout their lives. I also want them to know that I am here to support them, help them grow, and be a resource whenever they need guidance. 

Q; If you could visit anywhere in the world, where would you go and why? 
A: I would go home, give my parents a hug and tell them thank you. 

Q: What would we most likely find you doing on the weekend? 
A: Watching soccer, lifting, running, and watching movies. 

Q: Are you a dog person or a cat person (or neither) 
A: Dog person 

Q: If you could choose a superpower, what would it be? 
A: I would choose the power of healing so I could help people recover from injuries or illnesses.