Dante Cordova can often be found cracking a lighthearted joke with students and colleagues. As the product manager in Information Technology (IT), Cordova makes the most of each day, finding ways to celebrate his team’s progress and make everyone he encounters feel uplifted.
Originally from West Covina, Calif., Cordova started college at Mt. San Antonio College before landing a full time job for a small startup shortly after in 2000. Two years later, in search of a job with more stability, Cordova’s fiancee (now wife) encouraged him to apply to Azusa Pacific University because she was a student. Cordova was pleasantly surprised when he was hired as a database technician in 2002, and he has contributed to technology departments at APU ever since.
Since 2022, Cordova has served as the product manager for the University Systems team. He is in charge of numerous pieces of software that students, staff, and faculty use, from student information system (PeopleSoft) to the trolley tracker. Cordova manages a team of developers who maintain the systems and programs that allow for smooth connectivity between departments, resources, and students on campus. He is committed to continuously improving the software to keep providing the most efficient technological resources. Cordova also engages with student workers in IT, and enjoys getting to listen to and implement their ideas.
While his job entails a multitude of technical factors and organizational aspects, what Cordova loves most and strives to continue pursuing is delighting users through unexpected features. “During holidays especially, it’s fun to add decorations to the Trolley Tracker. The little things, like turning trolley icons into easter eggs or adding falling snow across the map make a difference in the app experience,” he said. “I love serving students, and delighting them with features that they might not necessarily need, but will bring a smile to their faces.”
The IT team often celebrates each other and their accomplishments with birthday lunches, graduation parties, and days to play games together. One of Cordova’s favorite traditions is “the davies,” the team’s spin on the award ceremony from the sitcom, The Office. “In general, we strive to honor our team and cultivate a culture of fun and camaraderie,” he said. Cordova is especially grateful that he gets to work with people who have become his friends.
The environment at APU is very unique,” Cordova said, “and a large part of why I’m here is because of how rare this community is.
When asked what he loves most about APU students, Cordova highlighted their perspectives. “Students at APU bring fresh, innovative ideas to the table. They keep me feeling young by sharing their energy and enthusiasm.”
In his free time, Cordova enjoys playing pickleball. He also rides his bike often to explore the nature and scenery he otherwise wouldn’t notice in the car.
Working at APU for more than two decades has allowed Cordova to fulfill his calling by expanding relationships with colleagues, learning new skills everyday, and developing a strong connection with the people who make this community as life-giving as it is. “I feel like I can actually make a difference at APU. As I continue to witness the fruits of my labor, I look forward to what the future holds.”