CB’s Rey(es) of Sunshine

When she is not behind a camera, Ms. Natalie Reyes (’09), Assistant Director of Communications, can be found in her office off the main hallway, hiding behind two massive computer screens. But who is this “camera lady”?

After graduating Christian Brothers in 2009, Ms. Reyes received her undergraduate degree from UC Davis. Before coming back to CB as a staff member in August 2015, Ms. Reyes worked in the Bay Area as an executive account assistant, commuting every day from the Sacramento area to get to work.

“It was very time consuming and tiring, but I did enjoy my job.”

She knew she needed a job in Sacramento before going back to school at Davis to earn her MBA part-time.

Director of Admissions and Communications Mrs. Kristen McCarthy knew Ms. Reyes since she graduated with her son Matt and told Ms. Reyes about the job opening at CB.

“I was excited for the opportunity to return to CB and stay in Sacramento,” Ms. Reyes said.

Though she does take thousands of pictures each year, Ms. Reyes does more than post them on Facebook for the CB community to enjoy. Along with managing CB’s social media, Ms. Reyes is the one to call concerning press releases, the Connection Magazine, the CB website, and a plethora of other small jobs.

She enjoys working at CB, but admits it is weird being coworkers with her old teachers.

“I still call Mr. English, ‘Mr. English’. I know he is technically my colleague now, but in my mind, he is still that same monotone, lovable teacher.”

Back when she was a student at CB, Ms. Reyes was a member of the Talon staff, under the supervision of one of her favorite teachers, Mr. Elberson, “the original Anderson.” Ms. Reyes was a part of the Talon before it went digital, producing print papers monthly. Recently, Mr. Boriskin found an article Ms. Reyes wrote  about him in 2009 and brought it to her office to show her.

Ms. Reyes refers to her job as the perfect fit for her current lifestyle.

“I love working at CB since it was such an important part of my development as a person,” she said. “My job is great and very accommodating for my evening classes and school schedule.”

There are some perks besides a flexible schedule.

“My friends are incredibly jealous that I get to now go on Kairos as an adult leader.”

Ms. Reyes is a member of the coveted Triple Crown Club, attending and leading Kairos as a CB student, and returning as an adult.

When she is not sorting through piles of photographs, Ms. Reyes spends time with her two cats and younger sister, who attends Kennedy High School. Her favorite team is naturally CB football, with her favorite color, CB blue, to match. Her favorite food is sushi, and she loves to travel.

“She’s amazing, efficient, organized, smart, and most importantly fun.” Mrs. Kelly Harrington, Admissions Assistant, tells the Talon. Her coworkers aren’t her only fans. Many students on campus, especially her Kairos group smile the moment you mention CB’s favorite photographer.

Her advice to CB students?

“Get involved as much as possible during your time at CB.”

Upon her return to CB, Mrs. Reyes realized just how much she had missed out on. As she puts it, “you only go through high school once.”

Look out for Ms. Reyes on campus, and better yet, do her a favor and smile!