INSIDE GGC

On this Valentine’s Day, Inside GGC features one of the many couples who work together at Georgia Gwinnett College (GGC).

A chance meeting in Vietnam brought together Anna Henry-Mendoza, a part-time English Language Institute instructor, and Dr. Travis Henry-Mendoza, a lecturer of psychology.

Both were English teachers in Ho Chi Minh City in 2010 when they met at an organized singles mixer that doubled as a fundraiser for a local children’s charity.

Reminiscing about their encounter, Anna said, “He was seated with his back to me when I tapped his shoulder, thinking he was my best friend’s unfaithful partner.”

She admits the two men had a similar body structure and the same long, brown-haired ponytail. Swallowing her pride, Anna struck up a conversation with Travis, and their relationship began from that moment.

Fast forward 13 years, and the married couple now teach at GGC. Travis’ brother, Tyler Henry, an education major and member of GGC’s first graduating class, spoke highly of the institution, which inspired the couple to join.

Travis started out as a writing tutor at the Academic Enhancement Center in 2022 and later transitioned to a part-time psychology lecturer before securing a full-time position in fall 2024. Anna joined him on campus in January 2023.

“We appreciate that we get to spend time together at work,” Travis said. “It's always a treat when our schedules align, and we can sit down and have a meal together at the Dining Hall.”

The couple has a four-year-old daughter who loves to visit campus from time to time.

“One day, the three of us were eating in the Dining Hall, and someone referred to our daughter as the youngest Grizzly when they saw her,” Anna said.