Unsung Hero: Patrice Carlson

There are many familiar faces at BSM, but many students might not recognize Ms. Patrice Carlson nor realize how essential and important she is in the BSM community. Carlson works as a registrar in the main office.

Carlson plays a significant role in managing and running BSM. “I do the master student-teacher schedules, database, grades and transcripts, as well as student data, and Red Knight Roundup,” Carlson said.

Her work at BSM may be demanding, but she still loves every minute of her job. “My favorite part of the job is working with the kids. Every year it’s different…. You never know what is going to happen. You have to be on your toes. Every single day I’m surprised. It’s never the same thing twice,” Carlson said.

As well as working here, Carlson attended high school at BSM. She was in school during the merge of Benilde High School and St. Margaret’s Academy. During her high school years, she never thought that she would end up coming back here for work. But a few years after her graduation, Carlson received a call from a fellow alumnus who asked her to come work at BSM.  However, when Carlson started working in 1991, things were a bit unsettled. “There was no president of the school for the whole year. The school was run by multiple directors on the school board,” Carlson said.

Carlson may work in the background, but she is one of the people who keeps BSM running. And for her, it’s not just her job that keeps her going everyday, but rather the knowledge that what she does is doing significantly helps people out all over the school. Thus, she believes she will stay at her current job position for the rest of her career.

Beyond the work, Carlson enjoys the moments when she gets to kick back and enjoy the moment. “I love getting someone to laugh at my jokes. They aren’t always hilarious, but getting someone to laugh makes my day,” Carlson said.