Many moments that bring FranU together begin behind the scenes with Rebecca Fontenot. As Director of University Events, she is committed to creating memories and connections that touch nearly every corner of campus life.
No two days look the same for Fontenot. Some days are filled with meetings to understand what departments are planning while other days focus on major milestones like graduation or the upcoming inauguration of FranU’s new president, Dr. David Bellar.
“I never have a chance to be bored,” she says. “FranU thrives on community, so there are always events happening across campus.
Her faith shapes the way she approaches every gathering. For Fontenot, planning an event is not just handling logistics. It is creating a welcoming experience for everyone who walks through FranU’s doors.
“My faith is a steady reminder that the work I do is bigger than logistics and planning - it's about our students, our campus and the experience everyone receives when they walk through our doors. It encourages me to serve with a smile, stay calm in stressful moments and always uphold the values of our University.”
She sees that most clearly during moments of joy on campus. Watching students relax during a study break or standing in the middle of the excitement at graduation reminds her why her work matters and why the mission of FranU stays at the center.
Outside of her role on campus, Fontenot is a mom to three energetic boys. Her time is full of practices, ball games, date nights with her husband, church parish ministries, Mahjong and a book club. These parts of her life shape her approach to her work, especially the importance of staying calm and flexible.
“Over the years, I've just learned to not sweat the small stuff. I still do, don't get me wrong, but you probably won't see it happen. My mindset is it's not about what goes wrong; it's how you respond to it.”
Although campus events often look seamless to those attending, the behind-the-scenes work is rarely simple. Fontenot says the fun is real, but so are the early mornings, late nights and moments of pressure that come with caring deeply about the University and its community.
One project she holds close is the Centennial year. While working in the Advancement Office, she helped plan the opening of St. Francis Hall and a year-long celebration of 100 years of Franciscan education. Coming from a fundraising background, she embraced the challenge and helped create a meaningful milestone for the University.
What Fontenot hopes most is that anyone who attends a FranU event leaves feeling proud to be part of the community. The spirit of campus, she says, should be felt the moment someone walks in.
Through her faith, care and steady presence, Fontenot helps shape the moments that define FranU. Without her, these celebrations would not be the same. Her guidance will continue to carry into the moments yet to come.
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