UCI Student Affairs Employees of the Month – Past
February 2021
Amanda Lopez
Student Housing
Auxiliary Services
Throughout this past year, and even more so this past month Amanda has led the team of student staff and volunteers with her continuous involvement, support and leadership. Integrity and inclusion are always at the forefront of Amanda’s leadership. She’s an excellent role model to the students of what inclusive leadership is by the decisions made and actions she takes. Amanda was available after-hours to meet with the student, came in most weekends in February to help prepare spirit packages that were mailed out to over 25 schools in the region participating in the RBC conference.
Auxiliary Services
Throughout this past year, and even more so this past month Amanda has led the team of student staff and volunteers with her continuous involvement, support and leadership. Integrity and inclusion are always at the forefront of Amanda’s leadership. She’s an excellent role model to the students of what inclusive leadership is by the decisions made and actions she takes. Amanda was available after-hours to meet with the student, came in most weekends in February to help prepare spirit packages that were mailed out to over 25 schools in the region participating in the RBC conference.
Selina Bustillos
Campus Organizations & Volunteer Programs
Student Life & Leadership
Selina coordinated a new program for RCOs, in collaboration with CARE, that focused on providing education, resources, and advocacy around the theme of power-based violence and intervention. In addition to the program's success, we wanted to acknowledge Selina's creativity, organization, collaborative spirit, and innovative thinking.
Together, she and Melissa Bader-Huesgen addressed three concerns:
1. staff capacity to reach 15 unique RCOs in one quarter
2. incidents that occur within RCOs regarding power-based violence
3. how to be creative in a zoom environment
Selina's resourcefulness is always appreciated. This program was an excellent example of her exemplary leadership.
Student Life & Leadership
Selina coordinated a new program for RCOs, in collaboration with CARE, that focused on providing education, resources, and advocacy around the theme of power-based violence and intervention. In addition to the program's success, we wanted to acknowledge Selina's creativity, organization, collaborative spirit, and innovative thinking.
Together, she and Melissa Bader-Huesgen addressed three concerns:
1. staff capacity to reach 15 unique RCOs in one quarter
2. incidents that occur within RCOs regarding power-based violence
3. how to be creative in a zoom environment
Selina's resourcefulness is always appreciated. This program was an excellent example of her exemplary leadership.
Melissa Bader-Huesgen
Campus Assault Resources and Education (CARE)
Wellness, Health, and Counseling
Melissa coordinated a new program for RCOs, in collaboration with COVP, that focused on providing education, resources, and advocacy around the theme of power-based violence and intervention. Melissa helped lead this innovative program in collaboration with Selina Bustillos. In addition to the program's success, we wanted to acknowledge Melissa's ability to deliver this content in a manner that was digestible for students and for creating a welcoming environment during each session. It's a challenge to get students to participate via zoom, however, in each workshop, Melissa's presentation style and approachability opened the door for increased student engagement.
Wellness, Health, and Counseling
Melissa coordinated a new program for RCOs, in collaboration with COVP, that focused on providing education, resources, and advocacy around the theme of power-based violence and intervention. Melissa helped lead this innovative program in collaboration with Selina Bustillos. In addition to the program's success, we wanted to acknowledge Melissa's ability to deliver this content in a manner that was digestible for students and for creating a welcoming environment during each session. It's a challenge to get students to participate via zoom, however, in each workshop, Melissa's presentation style and approachability opened the door for increased student engagement.
January 2021
Lora Romo
Student Housing
Auxiliary Services
Lora is a perfect example of an unsung hero! Her dedication to our students goes way past her 8-5 hours as a Housing Assignments Lead. Lora consistently goes above and beyond for our community, for instance, responding to a student's email after hours or even on the weekends and doing additional research on options for students. Lora also regularly offers suggestions to clarify and streamline processes. Verano's ability to maintain such a high occupancy rate is testimony to Lora's hard work and dedication to the University.
Auxiliary Services
Lora is a perfect example of an unsung hero! Her dedication to our students goes way past her 8-5 hours as a Housing Assignments Lead. Lora consistently goes above and beyond for our community, for instance, responding to a student's email after hours or even on the weekends and doing additional research on options for students. Lora also regularly offers suggestions to clarify and streamline processes. Verano's ability to maintain such a high occupancy rate is testimony to Lora's hard work and dedication to the University.
Daniel K. Park
Cross-Cultural Center
Student Life & Leadership
Daniel's ability to integrate two passions: advancing social justice and supporting our students' personal development are greatly admired by his peers, as well as his ability to have an honest conversation about how we, as individuals or as a community, have to do better in advancing social justice. Daniel continues to be a champion for engaging the UCI community in these critically important conversations and creating a more equitable, socially just campus, and this is only highlighted by the thoughtfulness and attention to detail he poured into MLK Jr. Symposium.
Student Life & Leadership
Daniel's ability to integrate two passions: advancing social justice and supporting our students' personal development are greatly admired by his peers, as well as his ability to have an honest conversation about how we, as individuals or as a community, have to do better in advancing social justice. Daniel continues to be a champion for engaging the UCI community in these critically important conversations and creating a more equitable, socially just campus, and this is only highlighted by the thoughtfulness and attention to detail he poured into MLK Jr. Symposium.
Nicole Leon
Campus Assault Resources and Education (CARE)
Wellness, Health, and Counseling
For over three months, Nicole served as the sole advocate for the entire campus community of over 50,000 students, staff and faculty, including the UCI Medical Center. She dedicated herself to serving her clients, demonstrating excellence in character - a dedication to the UCI survivor community and a thoughtful and ethical approach to her work. Nicole's colleagues are appreciative of her calm demeanor, supportive words and willingness to contribute to group efforts. She has provided resources and information specific to domestic violence that has transformed her clients’ lives.
Wellness, Health, and Counseling
For over three months, Nicole served as the sole advocate for the entire campus community of over 50,000 students, staff and faculty, including the UCI Medical Center. She dedicated herself to serving her clients, demonstrating excellence in character - a dedication to the UCI survivor community and a thoughtful and ethical approach to her work. Nicole's colleagues are appreciative of her calm demeanor, supportive words and willingness to contribute to group efforts. She has provided resources and information specific to domestic violence that has transformed her clients’ lives.
December 2020
Yoo Mi Choi
Student Housing
Auxiliary Services
Yoo Mi is an unsung hero on this campus. She is hardworking, committed, and dedicate about caring for our UCI residents and community. On a daily bases, even during weekends and holidays, Yoo Mi checks in and connect with any residents in Q/I. Not only is it about talking to the residents but also helping pick up supplies they need for school, delivering packages, advocating for other needs, etc. There are so many things that Yoo Mi does to express care and support to our residents!
Auxiliary Services
Yoo Mi is an unsung hero on this campus. She is hardworking, committed, and dedicate about caring for our UCI residents and community. On a daily bases, even during weekends and holidays, Yoo Mi checks in and connect with any residents in Q/I. Not only is it about talking to the residents but also helping pick up supplies they need for school, delivering packages, advocating for other needs, etc. There are so many things that Yoo Mi does to express care and support to our residents!
Erik Bleitz
UCI Esports
Office of the Vice Chancellor, Student Affairs
Erik has been an invaluable contributor to our program as we've moved operations online. He leads our efforts around marketing, thought leadership, and was an important leader with the virtual UCI Esports Conference that happened last October.
Office of the Vice Chancellor, Student Affairs
Erik has been an invaluable contributor to our program as we've moved operations online. He leads our efforts around marketing, thought leadership, and was an important leader with the virtual UCI Esports Conference that happened last October.
Simonas Jarusauskas
International Center
Student Life & Leadership
Simonas often goes above and beyond the requirement of his job. He is dedicated to ensuring that UCI is compliant with immigration regulations in the hiring of international faculty and researchers. He is cooperative and has a positive attitude towards everyone, including his supervisor, co-workers and colleagues across the campus. Simonas often has to work with short turnaround times to prepare and file immigration applications that will ensure that UCI can hire an international employee. Many times this requires him to shift priorities and work beyond expectations to assist the hiring department.
Student Life & Leadership
Simonas often goes above and beyond the requirement of his job. He is dedicated to ensuring that UCI is compliant with immigration regulations in the hiring of international faculty and researchers. He is cooperative and has a positive attitude towards everyone, including his supervisor, co-workers and colleagues across the campus. Simonas often has to work with short turnaround times to prepare and file immigration applications that will ensure that UCI can hire an international employee. Many times this requires him to shift priorities and work beyond expectations to assist the hiring department.
Jeanie Deakyne
Student Health Center
Wellness, Health, and Counseling
When UCI decided to implement Asymptomatic Testing for students and staff, there is someone behind the scene who needed to help build the templates so that appointments are bookable online. That person is Jeanie. When leadership makes decisions about locations and schedules for COVID-19 testing, she translates it to bookable appointments, even if it takes hours of work to implement. Jeanie demonstrates a rare level of work ethics that makes her devote time and effort over and above the regular work hours including holidays.
Wellness, Health, and Counseling
When UCI decided to implement Asymptomatic Testing for students and staff, there is someone behind the scene who needed to help build the templates so that appointments are bookable online. That person is Jeanie. When leadership makes decisions about locations and schedules for COVID-19 testing, she translates it to bookable appointments, even if it takes hours of work to implement. Jeanie demonstrates a rare level of work ethics that makes her devote time and effort over and above the regular work hours including holidays.
November 2020
Antonio Gonzalez
Student Center & Event Services
Auxiliary Services
Tony Gonzales has worked at UCI for twenty years. Tony is the glue that binds the student center. Without his knowledge and experience the heart of the campus would be out of step. In the four years I've worked here, I have not seen a situation he has not resolved and believe me we always have issues arising. We are a very large facility. We cater to hundreds if not thousands of people in a normal year. Tony's tact and understanding are truly a cut above.
Auxiliary Services
Tony Gonzales has worked at UCI for twenty years. Tony is the glue that binds the student center. Without his knowledge and experience the heart of the campus would be out of step. In the four years I've worked here, I have not seen a situation he has not resolved and believe me we always have issues arising. We are a very large facility. We cater to hundreds if not thousands of people in a normal year. Tony's tact and understanding are truly a cut above.
Jean Lee-Niroumand
Office of the Vice Chancellor, Student Affairs
Working closely with Jean you will quickly notice her commitment, efficiency, productiveness and diligence for her work. Jean's support of the entire OVCSA operations can only describe her as the ROCK of the office. On campus and off campus Jean provides a calming effect to students' lives whether she is teaching them yoga and the power of meditation in person, or just providing advice to them over zoom. In summary, if there were staff who uphold the vision of UCI it is Jean.
Working closely with Jean you will quickly notice her commitment, efficiency, productiveness and diligence for her work. Jean's support of the entire OVCSA operations can only describe her as the ROCK of the office. On campus and off campus Jean provides a calming effect to students' lives whether she is teaching them yoga and the power of meditation in person, or just providing advice to them over zoom. In summary, if there were staff who uphold the vision of UCI it is Jean.
Steven K. Tajiri
Office of Information Technology
Student Life & Leadership
Steve is most deserving of this award. If he is involved in a project, I know it will be a success. He has been the technological backbone of SLL for many years, which on its own is significant, but he has also been the heart. Despite a heavy workload, Steve is attentive, present in the moment, and actively listens to understand. With every interaction, you walk away having learned something new that will ultimately help improve our work. Technology helps us advance, think creatively, and provides accessibility. Steve does all of that on a daily basis for students and staff.
Student Life & Leadership
Steve is most deserving of this award. If he is involved in a project, I know it will be a success. He has been the technological backbone of SLL for many years, which on its own is significant, but he has also been the heart. Despite a heavy workload, Steve is attentive, present in the moment, and actively listens to understand. With every interaction, you walk away having learned something new that will ultimately help improve our work. Technology helps us advance, think creatively, and provides accessibility. Steve does all of that on a daily basis for students and staff.
Megan Petersen
International Center
Student Life & Leadership
Megan has taken the initiative to collaborate with campus offices by reviewing, testing, and providing mindful feedback for both the impact to staff, and international students in navigating existing processes in a new way. She worked diligently on updating portions of our website, forms, and information for staff so that information provided to students would be consistent with communication with our campus partners. Megan continues to grow as she gains more and more experience in working with international students and has really made the extra efforts required during this unique and challenging time we are all working through.
Student Life & Leadership
Megan has taken the initiative to collaborate with campus offices by reviewing, testing, and providing mindful feedback for both the impact to staff, and international students in navigating existing processes in a new way. She worked diligently on updating portions of our website, forms, and information for staff so that information provided to students would be consistent with communication with our campus partners. Megan continues to grow as she gains more and more experience in working with international students and has really made the extra efforts required during this unique and challenging time we are all working through.
Joy Etcheberry
Student Health Center
Wellness, Health, and Counseling
Joy is one of the nurses that serves the nurse clinic, providing services to hundreds of students needing immunization daily, assist with different roles such as triage nurse, as well as assisting the nursing department in streamlining the process for COVID testing which is essential for a more efficient process.
Wellness, Health, and Counseling
Joy is one of the nurses that serves the nurse clinic, providing services to hundreds of students needing immunization daily, assist with different roles such as triage nurse, as well as assisting the nursing department in streamlining the process for COVID testing which is essential for a more efficient process.
October 2020
Lin Tang
Dining Services
Auxiliary Services
Lin has made extraordinary efforts to oversee the delivery of meals to students in isolation and quarantine throughout this quarter. In fact, Lin has been extremely efficient in organizing meal delivery to dozens of students across the campus for the past several months. When students have forgotten to submit their meal order form and later complain of no delivery, she has scrambled to get a meal delivered promptly to the student. Bottom line: Lin has been available morning, noon and night (and on weekends) to make sure the students get what they need.
Auxiliary Services
Lin has made extraordinary efforts to oversee the delivery of meals to students in isolation and quarantine throughout this quarter. In fact, Lin has been extremely efficient in organizing meal delivery to dozens of students across the campus for the past several months. When students have forgotten to submit their meal order form and later complain of no delivery, she has scrambled to get a meal delivered promptly to the student. Bottom line: Lin has been available morning, noon and night (and on weekends) to make sure the students get what they need.
Angela Han
Student Affairs IT
Office of the Vice Chancellor, Student Affairs
Angela has been incredibly flexible and helpful assisting the Student Center with getting a new device integrated with EMS. She has made herself available to assist with configuration changes as needed.
Office of the Vice Chancellor, Student Affairs
Angela has been incredibly flexible and helpful assisting the Student Center with getting a new device integrated with EMS. She has made herself available to assist with configuration changes as needed.
Sydney Torres
Womxn’s Hub
Student Life & Leadership
Sydney has done an exceptional job with respect to virtual events during Fall quarter, collaborations with campus departments, and her thoughtful letters on the Womxn's Hub newsletter. We are impressed by her drive and commitment to students during these challenging times. She has been a joy to work with and a phenomenal colleague in every aspect.
Student Life & Leadership
Sydney has done an exceptional job with respect to virtual events during Fall quarter, collaborations with campus departments, and her thoughtful letters on the Womxn's Hub newsletter. We are impressed by her drive and commitment to students during these challenging times. She has been a joy to work with and a phenomenal colleague in every aspect.
Jean Deakyne
Student Health Center
Wellness, Health & Counseling Services
Jeanie is a reliable presence at the Student Health Center. Clinical and non-clinical staff turn to her for answers to ensure operations at the center run smoothly. She has gone over and above the expectation of her position to accommodate the requirements of the university. Jeanie's organizational skills, professionalism and kindness create an office environment that is enjoyable to work in.
Wellness, Health & Counseling Services
Jeanie is a reliable presence at the Student Health Center. Clinical and non-clinical staff turn to her for answers to ensure operations at the center run smoothly. She has gone over and above the expectation of her position to accommodate the requirements of the university. Jeanie's organizational skills, professionalism and kindness create an office environment that is enjoyable to work in.
September 2020
Connie Malone
Student Housing
Auxiliary Services
Connie Malone has done a tremendous amount of heavy lifting in preparation for housing move-in. She authored numerous COVID-related protocols and messages to students and vetted them with multiple campus partners. Given that the interests of campus partners are many and varied, this consultation process was tricky, but Connie was undaunted in moving these pieces forward as quickly as possible. It's an understatement to say that we would not have had as successful of a start to the academic year without her support and efforts.
Auxiliary Services
Connie Malone has done a tremendous amount of heavy lifting in preparation for housing move-in. She authored numerous COVID-related protocols and messages to students and vetted them with multiple campus partners. Given that the interests of campus partners are many and varied, this consultation process was tricky, but Connie was undaunted in moving these pieces forward as quickly as possible. It's an understatement to say that we would not have had as successful of a start to the academic year without her support and efforts.
Kathy Chiang
UCI Esports
Office of the Vice Chancellor, Student Affairs
Kathy Chiang is the backbone of the UCI Esports department. As the Assistant Director of the Esports program she has many responsibilities from esports arena operations, staffing, maintaining communication channels/software for our entire program, through to event organization and management. She is always at the forefront of projects, going above and beyond, making sure that they are a success. All the staff and students in our program greatly appreciate her leadership and expertise. Without Kathy, the UCI Esports department would not be what it is today.
Office of the Vice Chancellor, Student Affairs
Kathy Chiang is the backbone of the UCI Esports department. As the Assistant Director of the Esports program she has many responsibilities from esports arena operations, staffing, maintaining communication channels/software for our entire program, through to event organization and management. She is always at the forefront of projects, going above and beyond, making sure that they are a success. All the staff and students in our program greatly appreciate her leadership and expertise. Without Kathy, the UCI Esports department would not be what it is today.
Selina Bustillos
Campus Organization & Volunteer Programs
Student Life & Leadership
The past six months have required everyone to be nimble and flexible, adjusting to ever-changing factors and logistics. Throughout this time, Selina Bustillos has exhibited a positive outlook, taking each modification in stride and finding a solution. She is tech savvy, quick-thinking, communicative, and is always thinking about the experience of the students. Without her, the transition this summer for two of the most impactful components of the department would have been significantly different.
Student Life & Leadership
The past six months have required everyone to be nimble and flexible, adjusting to ever-changing factors and logistics. Throughout this time, Selina Bustillos has exhibited a positive outlook, taking each modification in stride and finding a solution. She is tech savvy, quick-thinking, communicative, and is always thinking about the experience of the students. Without her, the transition this summer for two of the most impactful components of the department would have been significantly different.
Heather Schmidt
Counseling Center
Wellness, Health & Counseling Services
Heather is our spine at the Counseling Center. She along with our Social Work team hold us up, carry us with incredible support, and she has brought compassion and warmth to her leadership role. As psychologists, it is essential to have social workers like Heather who is so in touch with community resources. She brings spirit and care to her interactions with all of us. In addition to her role as social worker, you will find her active in leading activities and lunches that inspire connection and building morale.
Wellness, Health & Counseling Services
Heather is our spine at the Counseling Center. She along with our Social Work team hold us up, carry us with incredible support, and she has brought compassion and warmth to her leadership role. As psychologists, it is essential to have social workers like Heather who is so in touch with community resources. She brings spirit and care to her interactions with all of us. In addition to her role as social worker, you will find her active in leading activities and lunches that inspire connection and building morale.
August 2020
Ananda Van Boeyen
Student Housing
Auxiliary Services
Ananda consistently provides excellent emotional support to our students. Her knowledge of resources beyond even the campus is a gift to our residents. Covid-19 has amplified the stress and worry of our residents. With our population working from home, the number of complaints and calls of concern has tripled. Ananda has continued to provide calm, practical solutions for our students and their families. She is a breath of fresh air during this uncertain time.
Auxiliary Services
Ananda consistently provides excellent emotional support to our students. Her knowledge of resources beyond even the campus is a gift to our residents. Covid-19 has amplified the stress and worry of our residents. With our population working from home, the number of complaints and calls of concern has tripled. Ananda has continued to provide calm, practical solutions for our students and their families. She is a breath of fresh air during this uncertain time.
Wayne Fields
Student Affairs IT
Office of the Vice Chancellor, Student Affairs
Wayne has been crucial and responsive in transitioning our team to work remotely so that we can assist students from afar! Especially in this remote environment, he has been key in solving daily problems that arise. Wayne always has a positive attitude towards requests and a keen understanding that our staff have different levels of technology comfort and sophistication and meets them where they are in their need. Very appreciative of all his help!
Office of the Vice Chancellor, Student Affairs
Wayne has been crucial and responsive in transitioning our team to work remotely so that we can assist students from afar! Especially in this remote environment, he has been key in solving daily problems that arise. Wayne always has a positive attitude towards requests and a keen understanding that our staff have different levels of technology comfort and sophistication and meets them where they are in their need. Very appreciative of all his help!
Janine Algabre
FRESH Basic Needs Hub
Student Life & Leadership
Janine has the most positive attitude out of anyone I know. During the pandemic, she has continued to serve students in person to ensure that their basic needs are met. Her coordination and organizational skills ensure smooth and safe outdoor distributions which allow us to serve over 250 students every week. She always make sure that students feel valued in their job and makes sure that students feel appreciated. Janine makes UC Irvine a better place!
Student Life & Leadership
Janine has the most positive attitude out of anyone I know. During the pandemic, she has continued to serve students in person to ensure that their basic needs are met. Her coordination and organizational skills ensure smooth and safe outdoor distributions which allow us to serve over 250 students every week. She always make sure that students feel valued in their job and makes sure that students feel appreciated. Janine makes UC Irvine a better place!
Jamie Jones
Counseling Center
Wellness, Health & Counseling Services
Jamie has been at the counseling center for more than a decade. While she has been an integral part of our operations as an administrative assistant, in her current role as assistant in the training program, she provides invaluable assistance to the training director, supervisors, and trainees at the center. She is involved in making sure the training program complies with board of psychology requirements, scheduling various intern activities and keeping track of important APA requirements.
Wellness, Health & Counseling Services
Jamie has been at the counseling center for more than a decade. While she has been an integral part of our operations as an administrative assistant, in her current role as assistant in the training program, she provides invaluable assistance to the training director, supervisors, and trainees at the center. She is involved in making sure the training program complies with board of psychology requirements, scheduling various intern activities and keeping track of important APA requirements.
July 2020
Sarah Casseus
Student Housing
Auxiliary Services
Sarah tirelessly helped get funding for the student housing department by collaboratively working with DFA. Last minute, she was told to provide additional and detailed information that takes time to collect. Due to the fast approaching deadline, Sarah accomplished the time-consuming task and met the federal government deadline. It's not too often that we recognize the staff that support us and I hope that we would consider the “behind the scenes” work that Sarah does for us as instrumental.
Auxiliary Services
Sarah tirelessly helped get funding for the student housing department by collaboratively working with DFA. Last minute, she was told to provide additional and detailed information that takes time to collect. Due to the fast approaching deadline, Sarah accomplished the time-consuming task and met the federal government deadline. It's not too often that we recognize the staff that support us and I hope that we would consider the “behind the scenes” work that Sarah does for us as instrumental.
Cynthia Love
Creative & Marketing Communications
Office of the Vice Chancellor, Student Affairs
Cindy is the type of colleague who would rather shine the spotlight on someone else than herself but the work she does for Student Affairs division should be highlighted. Cindy is always willing to help out with a project when you need it the most. We can always count on her to pitch in and do her best to make our division shine and succeed. Cindy is a savvy problem solver, sees things differently, and her point of view is always appreciated. She introduces new and great ideas which strengthens our divisional mission and goals.
Office of the Vice Chancellor, Student Affairs
Cindy is the type of colleague who would rather shine the spotlight on someone else than herself but the work she does for Student Affairs division should be highlighted. Cindy is always willing to help out with a project when you need it the most. We can always count on her to pitch in and do her best to make our division shine and succeed. Cindy is a savvy problem solver, sees things differently, and her point of view is always appreciated. She introduces new and great ideas which strengthens our divisional mission and goals.
Anh Pham
Office of Academic Integrity & Student Conduct
Student Life & Leadership
When faced with the upcoming implementation deadline, Anh worked incredibly hard to ensure two cases could move forward under the current policy. In addition, when one of the parties could not participate from home and needed a location closer to their home to go to during the actual hearing, Anh worked with colleagues at UCSD to arrange a location and support for the student to ensure their fair participation in the process. This is just the latest example of one of the many times Anh’s work has been exemplary and student-focused in difficult circumstances.
Student Life & Leadership
When faced with the upcoming implementation deadline, Anh worked incredibly hard to ensure two cases could move forward under the current policy. In addition, when one of the parties could not participate from home and needed a location closer to their home to go to during the actual hearing, Anh worked with colleagues at UCSD to arrange a location and support for the student to ensure their fair participation in the process. This is just the latest example of one of the many times Anh’s work has been exemplary and student-focused in difficult circumstances.
Melissa Ramirez
Counseling Center
Wellness, Health & Counseling Services
Melissa is an invaluable part of the Counseling Center team, who embodies warmth and positivity. She always has a “can-do” attitude and is willing to go above and beyond to ensure the Administrative and Clinical teams are supported. She brings light, love and spirit to her role. I admire her tenacity and passion put into her role and provides consistent encouragement and warmth to us all. Melissa is a powerfully positive source of sunshine at the Counseling Center!
Wellness, Health & Counseling Services
Melissa is an invaluable part of the Counseling Center team, who embodies warmth and positivity. She always has a “can-do” attitude and is willing to go above and beyond to ensure the Administrative and Clinical teams are supported. She brings light, love and spirit to her role. I admire her tenacity and passion put into her role and provides consistent encouragement and warmth to us all. Melissa is a powerfully positive source of sunshine at the Counseling Center!
June 2020
John Whittle
Student Housing
Auxiliary Services
John and Quamin worked every weekend from mid-March to the end of June, to ensure all high touch areas in Palo Verde received disinfection on Saturday and Sunday. They would rotate who worked Saturday and who worked Sunday to perform these responsibilities. Additionally, on weekends when Arroyo Vista had trouble finding staff to disinfect, they came in both days to assist in Arroyo Vista and Palo Verde. They performed the duty without complaint to help stop the spread.
Auxiliary Services
John and Quamin worked every weekend from mid-March to the end of June, to ensure all high touch areas in Palo Verde received disinfection on Saturday and Sunday. They would rotate who worked Saturday and who worked Sunday to perform these responsibilities. Additionally, on weekends when Arroyo Vista had trouble finding staff to disinfect, they came in both days to assist in Arroyo Vista and Palo Verde. They performed the duty without complaint to help stop the spread.
Quamin Garcia
Student Housing
Auxiliary Services
John and Quamin worked every weekend from mid-March to the end of June, to ensure all high touch areas in Palo Verde received disinfection on Saturday and Sunday. They would rotate who worked Saturday and who worked Sunday to perform these responsibilities. Additionally, on weekends when Arroyo Vista had trouble finding staff to disinfect, they came in both days to assist in Arroyo Vista and Palo Verde. They performed the duty without complaint to help stop the spread.
Auxiliary Services
John and Quamin worked every weekend from mid-March to the end of June, to ensure all high touch areas in Palo Verde received disinfection on Saturday and Sunday. They would rotate who worked Saturday and who worked Sunday to perform these responsibilities. Additionally, on weekends when Arroyo Vista had trouble finding staff to disinfect, they came in both days to assist in Arroyo Vista and Palo Verde. They performed the duty without complaint to help stop the spread.
Joshua Lien
Student Affairs IT
Office of the Vice Chancellor, Student Affairs
Josh always goes the extra mile for Student Affairs to ensure student success at UCI, and his work on this year’s Virtual Commencement Ceremonies is no exception. Over the past few months leading up to the Ceremonies on June 13, Josh worked quickly and tirelessly along with the Commencement team to create a robust Commencement Registration system with validation from the Registrar to ensure the registration of 7,400 eligible graduates for this year’s online ceremony.
Office of the Vice Chancellor, Student Affairs
Josh always goes the extra mile for Student Affairs to ensure student success at UCI, and his work on this year’s Virtual Commencement Ceremonies is no exception. Over the past few months leading up to the Ceremonies on June 13, Josh worked quickly and tirelessly along with the Commencement team to create a robust Commencement Registration system with validation from the Registrar to ensure the registration of 7,400 eligible graduates for this year’s online ceremony.
Andrea M. Reyes
Center for Student Leadership
Student Life & Leadership
Andrea has become a true cornerstone of the Center for Student Leadership. In the few short years since she has worked in our Center, our Leadership Programs and intern teams have taken on a new life and transformed to meet their true potential. While Andrea managed the day to day student engagement in the center, she was also planning a virtual resource fair for SPOP and spearheading our efforts to develop a virtual Spanish language orientation for new anteater parents and guardians.
Student Life & Leadership
Andrea has become a true cornerstone of the Center for Student Leadership. In the few short years since she has worked in our Center, our Leadership Programs and intern teams have taken on a new life and transformed to meet their true potential. While Andrea managed the day to day student engagement in the center, she was also planning a virtual resource fair for SPOP and spearheading our efforts to develop a virtual Spanish language orientation for new anteater parents and guardians.
Jonathan Flojo, Ph.D.
Counseling Center
Wellness, Health & Counseling Services
Jonathan has an amazing, encouraging, warm and inspiring spirit he shares with the CC team and the students he encounters. He has taken on a leadership role to help the campus personalize the Everfi program for incoming first-years to ensure access to MH resources and increase awareness about MH struggles that are common for incoming students. He is the voice in our Counseling Center and campus that speaks with integrity, advocacy, intentionality and REALNESS. When I think of this Employee of the Month recognition, Jonathan is this person always.
Wellness, Health & Counseling Services
Jonathan has an amazing, encouraging, warm and inspiring spirit he shares with the CC team and the students he encounters. He has taken on a leadership role to help the campus personalize the Everfi program for incoming first-years to ensure access to MH resources and increase awareness about MH struggles that are common for incoming students. He is the voice in our Counseling Center and campus that speaks with integrity, advocacy, intentionality and REALNESS. When I think of this Employee of the Month recognition, Jonathan is this person always.
May 2020
Eduardo Magana
Student Housing
Auxiliary Services
Eduardo holds Verano Place together. With so many people working offsite and the fact that he is missing almost half his staff, he still accomplishes miracles. Everyone, and I mean everyone, from the Director to his direct reports, realize that he can and will do it all. I have never been more humbled by a colleague in his quest for accountability and responsibility. He is one in a million and UCI is blessed to have him on staff. Eduardo is above and beyond what most of us aspire to be.
Auxiliary Services
Eduardo holds Verano Place together. With so many people working offsite and the fact that he is missing almost half his staff, he still accomplishes miracles. Everyone, and I mean everyone, from the Director to his direct reports, realize that he can and will do it all. I have never been more humbled by a colleague in his quest for accountability and responsibility. He is one in a million and UCI is blessed to have him on staff. Eduardo is above and beyond what most of us aspire to be.
Nahid Youssefi
Student Affairs IT
Office of the Vice Chancellor, Student Affairs
Nahid goes above and beyond to ensure that the International Center is able to meet the immigration needs. In the past few months she has worked extra hard to provide tools that the International Center needs in order to be able to work remotely. Her main contribution during this time is to develop an online tool that allows international students, scholars and academic units to submit immigration-related request in a digital format that is safe and secure. Without her it would be almost impossible for us to do our job.
Office of the Vice Chancellor, Student Affairs
Nahid goes above and beyond to ensure that the International Center is able to meet the immigration needs. In the past few months she has worked extra hard to provide tools that the International Center needs in order to be able to work remotely. Her main contribution during this time is to develop an online tool that allows international students, scholars and academic units to submit immigration-related request in a digital format that is safe and secure. Without her it would be almost impossible for us to do our job.
Andrea Gutierrez
FRESH Basic Needs Hub
Student Life & Leadership
Andrea Gutierrez is a dedicated and passionate student affairs professional that works to support our most vulnerable populations. Not only is she the Director of the Basic Needs Hub she is a mentor, collaborator, and beacon of hope for students facing challenges surrounding food, housing, and financial insecurity. Especially during COVID she quickly re-evaluated and assessed the needs of students and put services into action to ensure students did not feel a barrier to addressing their food needs during uncertain times. Andrea is a student affairs warrior working on the front lines.
Student Life & Leadership
Andrea Gutierrez is a dedicated and passionate student affairs professional that works to support our most vulnerable populations. Not only is she the Director of the Basic Needs Hub she is a mentor, collaborator, and beacon of hope for students facing challenges surrounding food, housing, and financial insecurity. Especially during COVID she quickly re-evaluated and assessed the needs of students and put services into action to ensure students did not feel a barrier to addressing their food needs during uncertain times. Andrea is a student affairs warrior working on the front lines.
Patrick Haines
Student Health Center
Wellness, Health & Counseling Services
With Patrick’s participation in many crucial ZOOM meetings during these COVID pandemic times, he has maintained a calm demeanor and has continued to move forward keeping the needs and concerns of the SHC staff in mind. He provided catered lunch for the essential employees on May 1, 2020 and again to recognize the SHC Nurses, medical and essential staff on May 12, 2020 during the National Nurses Week. He truly has a big heart, cares about his employees and makes an effort to remain engaged with his direct reports.
Wellness, Health & Counseling Services
With Patrick’s participation in many crucial ZOOM meetings during these COVID pandemic times, he has maintained a calm demeanor and has continued to move forward keeping the needs and concerns of the SHC staff in mind. He provided catered lunch for the essential employees on May 1, 2020 and again to recognize the SHC Nurses, medical and essential staff on May 12, 2020 during the National Nurses Week. He truly has a big heart, cares about his employees and makes an effort to remain engaged with his direct reports.
April 2020
Megan Morrison
Student Housing
Auxiliary Services
Motivated to help students Megan spearheaded a working group comprised of housing colleagues who presented an alternative employment option and surveyed the students to determine who wish to maintain their employment. The working group under Megan’s direction identified new positions and coordinated placement of the students throughout Student Housing. Megan’s hard work and dedication in leading the group demonstrates her commitment to serving students and helping them to thrive as they pursued leadership opportunities in Student Housing.
Auxiliary Services
Motivated to help students Megan spearheaded a working group comprised of housing colleagues who presented an alternative employment option and surveyed the students to determine who wish to maintain their employment. The working group under Megan’s direction identified new positions and coordinated placement of the students throughout Student Housing. Megan’s hard work and dedication in leading the group demonstrates her commitment to serving students and helping them to thrive as they pursued leadership opportunities in Student Housing.
Michael Millis
Student Affairs IT
Office of the Vice Chancellor, Student Affairs
Michael has always been very responsive to the needs of the DSC, but he has really gone above and beyond during the pandemic and over the transition to a remote work environment. Michael's responsiveness, creative problem solving, and willingness to help has been critical for our operations during these uniquely challenging times. On top of all that, I have never seen Michael in a bad mood! His positive attitude and outlook make it a real pleasure to work with him.
Office of the Vice Chancellor, Student Affairs
Michael has always been very responsive to the needs of the DSC, but he has really gone above and beyond during the pandemic and over the transition to a remote work environment. Michael's responsiveness, creative problem solving, and willingness to help has been critical for our operations during these uniquely challenging times. On top of all that, I have never seen Michael in a bad mood! His positive attitude and outlook make it a real pleasure to work with him.
Chelsea Faustino
Center for Student Leadership
Student Life & Leadership
Chelsea has been an exemplary employee every month she has been with us. She has a talent for naturally seeing what can be improved, and then can both easily and efficiently make it better. She goes above and beyond, making herself available for counseling, coaching and mentorship for our students and the students in other departments. To sum it up, Chelsea is hard working, brilliant, and the backbone of much of what we do in the Center for Student Leadership.
Student Life & Leadership
Chelsea has been an exemplary employee every month she has been with us. She has a talent for naturally seeing what can be improved, and then can both easily and efficiently make it better. She goes above and beyond, making herself available for counseling, coaching and mentorship for our students and the students in other departments. To sum it up, Chelsea is hard working, brilliant, and the backbone of much of what we do in the Center for Student Leadership.
Brigette Lao
Student Health Center
Wellness, Health & Counseling Services
Brigette has done extraordinary work by leading us through all of the adjustments needed to successfully take care of our patients and staff and is always on top of all CDC recommendations when dealing with the COVID19 virus. She is very knowledgeable regarding public health and a problem solver for other departments in SHC. Brigette was even available by phone when she was out sick with pneumonia. She is an inspiration and puts us at ease when we are worried.
Wellness, Health & Counseling Services
Brigette has done extraordinary work by leading us through all of the adjustments needed to successfully take care of our patients and staff and is always on top of all CDC recommendations when dealing with the COVID19 virus. She is very knowledgeable regarding public health and a problem solver for other departments in SHC. Brigette was even available by phone when she was out sick with pneumonia. She is an inspiration and puts us at ease when we are worried.
March 2020
Mario Lao
Student Housing
Auxiliary Services
Mario has been instrumental in his efforts to make sure our housing facilities are being well maintained and sanitized during the COVID-19 crisis. He has taken it upon himself to help lead a group of several custodians during the weekdays and even volunteered on the weekends to support cleaning while residents move from one housing location to another. Mario has been a non-stop force in maintaining his strong work ethic and attention to detail in the most difficult of times, while running and coordinating teams for consecutive weeks.
Auxiliary Services
Mario has been instrumental in his efforts to make sure our housing facilities are being well maintained and sanitized during the COVID-19 crisis. He has taken it upon himself to help lead a group of several custodians during the weekdays and even volunteered on the weekends to support cleaning while residents move from one housing location to another. Mario has been a non-stop force in maintaining his strong work ethic and attention to detail in the most difficult of times, while running and coordinating teams for consecutive weeks.
Patrick Tsuchihashi
Student Affairs IT
Office of the Vice Chancellor, Student Affairs
He has always and continues to go above and beyond to help with all our IT issues with a smile, with innovation, and ability. Especially now as we are all working remotely, it has become so clear on how much we depend on Patrick to keep us up and running. I can always reach him for a solution. Thank you Patrick!
Office of the Vice Chancellor, Student Affairs
He has always and continues to go above and beyond to help with all our IT issues with a smile, with innovation, and ability. Especially now as we are all working remotely, it has become so clear on how much we depend on Patrick to keep us up and running. I can always reach him for a solution. Thank you Patrick!
Marina Mantos
Sorority & Fraternity Life
Student Life & Leadership
Marina has been a pillar for the community through turmoil, crisis, and more. She has poured herself into campus affairs from involvement with professional development opportunities internally like Staff Assembly to those external like the MultiRacial Knowledge Community (MRKC) of National Association of Student Personnel Administrators. I believe that Marina should be recognized for positively representing the brand that is UCI, positively representing the division of Student Affairs, and collectively the department and office of Sorority & Fraternity Life within Student Life & Leadership. Very proud to have her in the office and have her contributions to the community.
Student Life & Leadership
Marina has been a pillar for the community through turmoil, crisis, and more. She has poured herself into campus affairs from involvement with professional development opportunities internally like Staff Assembly to those external like the MultiRacial Knowledge Community (MRKC) of National Association of Student Personnel Administrators. I believe that Marina should be recognized for positively representing the brand that is UCI, positively representing the division of Student Affairs, and collectively the department and office of Sorority & Fraternity Life within Student Life & Leadership. Very proud to have her in the office and have her contributions to the community.
Dr. Albert Chang
Student Health Center
Wellness, Health & Counseling Services
With the COVID-19 crisis Dr. Chang has been working diligently to inform our campus community of the many ways we can flatten the curve and he makes himself available when people may have a question. Even when we had not faced this crisis and with road blocks, he maintains a steady calm and keeps pursuing the needed policies or implementations at the Student Health Center to better serve our student population as well as for the faculty and staff on campus. I respect and admire his perseverance and genuine concern.
Wellness, Health & Counseling Services
With the COVID-19 crisis Dr. Chang has been working diligently to inform our campus community of the many ways we can flatten the curve and he makes himself available when people may have a question. Even when we had not faced this crisis and with road blocks, he maintains a steady calm and keeps pursuing the needed policies or implementations at the Student Health Center to better serve our student population as well as for the faculty and staff on campus. I respect and admire his perseverance and genuine concern.
February 2020
January 2020
Sharon Stead
Student Housing
Auxiliary Services
Sharon’s tireless work and her willingness to dive deep into supporting not only the administrative functions of the unit, but the support of her team members is something that we depend on for stability and appreciate whole-heartedly.
Auxiliary Services
Sharon’s tireless work and her willingness to dive deep into supporting not only the administrative functions of the unit, but the support of her team members is something that we depend on for stability and appreciate whole-heartedly.
Jess Leggett
Creative & Marketing Communications
Office of the Vice Chancellor, Student Affairs
Jess has always been the most helpful and what I believe to be a great example of what it means to work in Student Affairs. Her skills, knowledge, willingness to help others and dedication to Student Affairs and to UCI is why she deserves employee of the month.
Office of the Vice Chancellor, Student Affairs
Jess has always been the most helpful and what I believe to be a great example of what it means to work in Student Affairs. Her skills, knowledge, willingness to help others and dedication to Student Affairs and to UCI is why she deserves employee of the month.
Angelica Keam
2019-20 Student Affairs Employee of the Year
Campus Organizations & Volunteer Programs
Student Life & Leadership
Although Angie has only been with the COVP team for almost two years, she has played such a valuable role in helping to streamline processes and enhance our programs and services for students. This month Angie created multiple opportunities for students to engage on campus and in the community.
Campus Organizations & Volunteer Programs
Student Life & Leadership
Although Angie has only been with the COVP team for almost two years, she has played such a valuable role in helping to streamline processes and enhance our programs and services for students. This month Angie created multiple opportunities for students to engage on campus and in the community.
Deirdre O’Reilly
Disability Services Center
Wellness, Health & Counseling Services
Deirdre’s valuable contributions and input help not only the students that we serve, but also make our workflows and processes more efficient. Besides working extremely effectively with other DSC Team members, Deirdre also makes connections with the larger campus community.
Wellness, Health & Counseling Services
Deirdre’s valuable contributions and input help not only the students that we serve, but also make our workflows and processes more efficient. Besides working extremely effectively with other DSC Team members, Deirdre also makes connections with the larger campus community.
December 2019
Jerome Chuang
Student Center & Event Services
Auxiliary Services
Regardless of workload and hours, Jerome always maintains a positive attitude and a commitment to quality service. …very recently a new employee joined the AV team and Jerome has taken on the role of coach & mentor to ensure the new team member knows everyone in the building and provides the same quality and client service that people expect from SC&ES.
Auxiliary Services
Regardless of workload and hours, Jerome always maintains a positive attitude and a commitment to quality service. …very recently a new employee joined the AV team and Jerome has taken on the role of coach & mentor to ensure the new team member knows everyone in the building and provides the same quality and client service that people expect from SC&ES.
Samantha Anton
Esports
Office of the Vice Chancellor, Student Affairs
Sam raises the standards of our program and holds us all accountable to our mission, vision and values. She mentors everyone who comes across her way seeking help.
Office of the Vice Chancellor, Student Affairs
Sam raises the standards of our program and holds us all accountable to our mission, vision and values. She mentors everyone who comes across her way seeking help.
Amira Amaar
International Center
Student Life & Leadership
Amira is responsible for managing the detailed records of about 8,500 international students and communicating important information to the students. She values the impact and importance that her work will have on the immigration status of a student and their ability to remain in the U.S. She also knows that data integrity and best practices are critical to the successful function of the International Center. Most importantly, she is admired for her positive outlook, her can-do attitude and her ability to do her work with a smile.
Student Life & Leadership
Amira is responsible for managing the detailed records of about 8,500 international students and communicating important information to the students. She values the impact and importance that her work will have on the immigration status of a student and their ability to remain in the U.S. She also knows that data integrity and best practices are critical to the successful function of the International Center. Most importantly, she is admired for her positive outlook, her can-do attitude and her ability to do her work with a smile.
Brenda Lapinid
Campus Social Worker
Wellness, Health & Counseling Services
As our campus social worker, Brenda deals with many challenging student issues. Much of this work goes unnoticed, but Brenda has been there for our students and families when they are experiencing the most difficult and heart-wrenching challenges. In working with these families and students, I have witnessed Brenda to be warm, compassionate, and understanding.
Wellness, Health & Counseling Services
As our campus social worker, Brenda deals with many challenging student issues. Much of this work goes unnoticed, but Brenda has been there for our students and families when they are experiencing the most difficult and heart-wrenching challenges. In working with these families and students, I have witnessed Brenda to be warm, compassionate, and understanding.
November 2019
Kabria Allen-Ziaee
Housing
Auxiliary Services
Kabria dealt with numerous overnight Student Housing emergencies and also came back to work each day and did her normal job and maintained a positive attitude. UCI is fortunate to have dedicated residence life professionals who provide this kind of service to our students when the rest of us get to go home and sleep.
Auxiliary Services
Kabria dealt with numerous overnight Student Housing emergencies and also came back to work each day and did her normal job and maintained a positive attitude. UCI is fortunate to have dedicated residence life professionals who provide this kind of service to our students when the rest of us get to go home and sleep.
Kelly Carland
Commencement Office
Office of the Vice Chancellor, Student Affairs
Kelly has successfully managed UCI's Commencement program from year to year and day to day while also attending to other events as needed. She should be recognized for all that she does on an on-going basis to help our students and parents have a wonderful graduation experience and make Student Affairs the first and last positive touchpoint of the academic year.
Office of the Vice Chancellor, Student Affairs
Kelly has successfully managed UCI's Commencement program from year to year and day to day while also attending to other events as needed. She should be recognized for all that she does on an on-going basis to help our students and parents have a wonderful graduation experience and make Student Affairs the first and last positive touchpoint of the academic year.
Cristian Palomo
Cross-Cultural Center
Student Life & Leadership
Cristian goes above and beyond in his role as Office & Events Manager to support our team of professional and student staff. He is selfless, creative and willing to help others at a moment's notice.
Student Life & Leadership
Cristian goes above and beyond in his role as Office & Events Manager to support our team of professional and student staff. He is selfless, creative and willing to help others at a moment's notice.
Scott Serrantino
Disability Services Center
Wellness, Health & Counseling Services
Last academic year, Scott coordinated the administration of over 11,500 exams and over 7,300 rides for students with disabilities. He handles an extremely high volume of work each day--constantly communicating with students, staff, and professors--and he does so with confidence and success.
Wellness, Health & Counseling Services
Last academic year, Scott coordinated the administration of over 11,500 exams and over 7,300 rides for students with disabilities. He handles an extremely high volume of work each day--constantly communicating with students, staff, and professors--and he does so with confidence and success.
