The Alumni Spotlight features weekly Q&A with past students to give YOU an inside perspective on life after Dean College!

Brad Pitassi graduated in 2001. Read on to learn more about Brad!

Where are you currently employed? What industry is it in?

I work for the City of Maricopa Fire/Medical Department in Maricopa, Arizona.

What is your job title?

Firefighter/Paramedic/Public Information Officer

Tell us about your job. What are some of the duties and activities you are responsible for?

I am a firefighter/paramedic responsible for responding to all-hazard emergencies throughout my city. I am also a Type 1 Public Information Officer, the highest credential available in the country, and I work on one of the 16 national Type 1 Incident Management Teams. We respond to the nation’s largest and most complex disasters ranging from natural disasters like wildfires, floods, and hurricanes to manmade acts such as oil spills.

What is the best part of your job?

Serving others is the best part of the job. It was instilled in me at Dean by working as a Resident Assistant then Graduate Resident Director of Memorial Hall. Today I am grateful to be able to serve others during their times of great uncertainty and crisis.

How did Dean College prepare you for your career?

I am forever grateful for Dean for laying the foundation of my academic success (I now have a Masters of Public Policy and Administration from Northwestern University in Chicago) and in my personal life.

The faculty at Dean entrusted me with responsibility and leadership positions within the community which gave me the confidence to enter the workforce and succeed. Dean gave me the tools to earn what I have received and helped instill in me to never settle.

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your job, your journey or your experience at Dean College?

Dean was a great experience for me at a pivotal time in my life. It provided me an opportunity to lay my foundation to continue to grow after graduation. I enjoyed my time at Dean and I'm still in touch with my friends from freshman year. I have my lacrosse championship plaque hanging in my office. Dean is a unique place in many ways. Those who dedicate time to the education provided there, both in and out of the classroom, will benefit from their time on campus for the rest of their life.

As a Dean College graduate, you'll always be an important member of the Dean community. Whether you graduated five years ago or 50, you have lifelong access to networking events, sporting events, job opportunities and much more. Visit the Dean College Alumni section of our website for more information!