New Human Resources Leader Excited to Be Part of University Community

The lifeblood of the University of New Haven are the faculty and staff members who dedicate their lives to helping our students reach their goals. Periodically, we’ll introduce you to a member of the staff so you can learn more about them – beyond their day-to-day work.

Next up is Kai Hamilton, director of organizational development and talent strategy, who recently earned her master’s degree and took part in a unique and immersive sculpture activity.

Renee Chmiel: What are your favorite movies?
Kai Hamilton: My favorite movies are Coach Carter and National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation. Two very different movies that I enjoy for different reasons.

Based on a true story, Coach Carter, was about an undefeated basketball team that excelled athletically but struggled academically. As a leader, Coach Carter was forced to make difficult decisions as we often do as leaders, and he received major resistance from parents, students, and school administrators about his approach. Despite the naysayers, the players eventually saw the value of academics and believed in themselves and the team. This is one of my favorite movies because it shows the rewards of tough decisions, hard work, and determination. During my career, I have applied this to the workplace and yielded similar favorable results. As leaders, we are often faced with making decisions that we feel are beneficial to the team. Although some stakeholders may not be onboard, we still steer the course and celebrate the wins along the way.

I also cannot get through the holiday season without watching National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation. The movie shows that although you may plan on having a “fun, old-fashioned family Christmas,” uncontrollable events may occur that spin the holidays into frenzied excitement. I enjoy this movie because it is relatable and provides the comedy relief needed during the holiday season.

RC: What is a professional achievement you’re especially proud of?
KH: A professional and personal achievement I am especially proud of is completing my master’s degree in human capital management from Columbia University. It stands out because it was during the pandemic and a pivotal point of my career. I selected the program because of the cutting-edge scholar-practitioner model that was applicable in the workplace. The camaraderie, teamwork, and support from my peers and faculty was immeasurable. It was also a self-awareness journey for me as I also came to understand my very own leadership style and critical competencies, and I yielded a lifelong network.

RC: What is your favorite restaurant in the New Haven/West Haven area?
KH: I am from New York, so I am still getting to know the New Haven/West Haven area restaurants. I am open to all recommendations. As I continue the journey to become vegan (I am a pescatarian now), my favorite vegan restaurant in NYC is Dirt Candy. I am a self-proclaimed food connoisseur. I love to experience new flavors that awaken my palate. This is the reason I enjoy eating at Dirt Candy. There is always something new to try. As the seasons change, so does the menu, and a new culinary experience will be offered each visit. The trendy atmosphere is a bonus for an enjoyable dining experience.

RC: What is your favorite sport?
KH: My favorite sport is basketball. My favorite team is the Brooklyn Nets because they work well together, have familiar players, and continue to deliver results, although they are not recognized as New York’s marquee NBA franchise. However, as a New Yorker, I will always root for the NY Knicks.

RC: If you won the lottery, what’s the first thing you’d buy?
KH: If I were to win the lottery, the first thing I would buy is a vacation home in Fiji. The county is committed to protecting their beaches and they are known for having the most radiant coral reefs in the world. Their desire to preserve nature is something I support and admire greatly. Who wouldn’t want to wake up to pristine waters daily or while on vacation?

RC: What’s your favorite activity or hobby?
KH: I recently participated in a “sculpture without sight” class with my sister. We sculpted a face while blindfolded. I liked it because it was the ultimate immersive experience. I found it therapeutic, and it forced me to not focus on the finished product but to enjoy the process. Now I am an artist in my head. I highly recommend it as a team-building exercise.

RC: What do you enjoy the most about working at the University of New Haven, so far?
KH: Having been here just over a month, everyone at the University has been extremely welcoming, supportive, and authentic. There were many reasons I joined the University, but the culture was one of my top reasons. I enjoy working with talented faculty and staff who put the students first and bring them into the discussions to create an inclusive environment.