Past UCI Student Affairs Employees of the Month
September 2022
Kabria Allen-Ziaee
Student Housing
Auxiliary Services
Kabria has been a continual source of inspiration and positivity at UCI's Mesa Court. Serving as a Residential Living Coordinator, Kabria has shown great passion for serving students and student staff. For every occasion where a student staff challenges Housing and Professional Staff, Kabria is equally quick to deescalate the situation. Kabria has an ability to break up stressful situations and get others to constructively talk about challenges at UCI. Kabria values all forms of feedback and utilizes a growth mindset to learn from conversations with Housing stakeholders. Feedback, according to Kabria, is seen as "a gift" that illuminates potential solutions for future endeavors. Kabria empathizes with our student staff while also critically listening to the needs of everyone. Kabria's ability to work with student staff is truly an art form that is steeped in care, empathy, patience, and holistic support. Kabria's personal Student Affairs philosophy and the way that she makes others feel seen helps exemplify how UCI strives for excellence in service. We are lucky and grateful for the opportunity to observe, learn from, and work with Kabria as she continually inspires me to bring my best self into work and when serving the Mesa Court residents. A special thank you to Kabria!
Auxiliary Services
Kabria has been a continual source of inspiration and positivity at UCI's Mesa Court. Serving as a Residential Living Coordinator, Kabria has shown great passion for serving students and student staff. For every occasion where a student staff challenges Housing and Professional Staff, Kabria is equally quick to deescalate the situation. Kabria has an ability to break up stressful situations and get others to constructively talk about challenges at UCI. Kabria values all forms of feedback and utilizes a growth mindset to learn from conversations with Housing stakeholders. Feedback, according to Kabria, is seen as "a gift" that illuminates potential solutions for future endeavors. Kabria empathizes with our student staff while also critically listening to the needs of everyone. Kabria's ability to work with student staff is truly an art form that is steeped in care, empathy, patience, and holistic support. Kabria's personal Student Affairs philosophy and the way that she makes others feel seen helps exemplify how UCI strives for excellence in service. We are lucky and grateful for the opportunity to observe, learn from, and work with Kabria as she continually inspires me to bring my best self into work and when serving the Mesa Court residents. A special thank you to Kabria!
Michael Mencer
Office of Academic Integrity & Student Conduct
Student Life & Leadership
Michael has been with our office for several years and has always served with integrity and professionalism. Michael has recently taken on a role as an Interim Academic Integrity & Student Conduct Officer. In his role, Michael adjudicates various cases including those on the Academic Integrity & Student Conduct sides of the house. Michael has transitioned into the role wonderfully by processing and maintaining a high case load. In the last few months, OAISC has experienced some turn over which has required the team to take on more cases than normal and perhaps even cases they’ve never adjudicated. This month Michael has volunteered to take on his first Interim Suspension case, his first Title IX case, and the supervision of our Peer Advisor. For Michael’s first Interim Suspension case, Michael needed to interview the student involved and UCI Police. He has also needed to collect evidence and draft a decision appropriate to the determinations made. Michael has also volunteered to adjudicate his first Title IX case. In this case, Michael met with the parties involved and worked very closely with the Associate Director of Student Conduct to draft a decision that was consistent with the Title IX policy and university precedent. With the recent turnover of staff there was a gap as to who would supervise our Student Peer Advisor. With about a week notice, Michael volunteered for the role, created a week-long training plan, and met with the student for their first training session. Michael has taken to these tasks with fervor and enthusiasm. He continues to exceed expectations, support his team, and support the students of UCI.
Student Life & Leadership
Michael has been with our office for several years and has always served with integrity and professionalism. Michael has recently taken on a role as an Interim Academic Integrity & Student Conduct Officer. In his role, Michael adjudicates various cases including those on the Academic Integrity & Student Conduct sides of the house. Michael has transitioned into the role wonderfully by processing and maintaining a high case load. In the last few months, OAISC has experienced some turn over which has required the team to take on more cases than normal and perhaps even cases they’ve never adjudicated. This month Michael has volunteered to take on his first Interim Suspension case, his first Title IX case, and the supervision of our Peer Advisor. For Michael’s first Interim Suspension case, Michael needed to interview the student involved and UCI Police. He has also needed to collect evidence and draft a decision appropriate to the determinations made. Michael has also volunteered to adjudicate his first Title IX case. In this case, Michael met with the parties involved and worked very closely with the Associate Director of Student Conduct to draft a decision that was consistent with the Title IX policy and university precedent. With the recent turnover of staff there was a gap as to who would supervise our Student Peer Advisor. With about a week notice, Michael volunteered for the role, created a week-long training plan, and met with the student for their first training session. Michael has taken to these tasks with fervor and enthusiasm. He continues to exceed expectations, support his team, and support the students of UCI.
Fatima Nuñez
Cross-Cultural Center
Student Life & Leadership
Fatima had been a staff member (although temporarily) since late October in 2021. She has now officially joined as a full-time staff member last week for September 2022. She could not be nominated before because she was temporary staff, but now we are able to recognize her efforts throughout the past year. The Cross was severely understaffed for most of the year academic year, and she kept this space open, moving, and guided the student staff here although that is not necessarily within her "duties" as the Admin Specialist (the position she had and came back to permanently). As is true for all the folks within Higher Ed, at the core of our work and duties is helping students, supporting them, and advocating for them. She helped bring back many of the umbrella organizations here at the Cross. She contributed to the hiring of the new director here. She helped organize and facilitate a retreat for the leadership of the umbrella orgs. She saw the need for leadership, guidance and fought to keep this office open for any organization that needed it throughout the year. She worked/ helped do programming on Deconstruction Zone. Fatima's commitment to the Cross during a very difficult year for both the center and the entire campus is awe inspiring. She deserves credit where it is due and seldom acknowledges the great improvements and changes, she's made in this space.
Student Life & Leadership
Fatima had been a staff member (although temporarily) since late October in 2021. She has now officially joined as a full-time staff member last week for September 2022. She could not be nominated before because she was temporary staff, but now we are able to recognize her efforts throughout the past year. The Cross was severely understaffed for most of the year academic year, and she kept this space open, moving, and guided the student staff here although that is not necessarily within her "duties" as the Admin Specialist (the position she had and came back to permanently). As is true for all the folks within Higher Ed, at the core of our work and duties is helping students, supporting them, and advocating for them. She helped bring back many of the umbrella organizations here at the Cross. She contributed to the hiring of the new director here. She helped organize and facilitate a retreat for the leadership of the umbrella orgs. She saw the need for leadership, guidance and fought to keep this office open for any organization that needed it throughout the year. She worked/ helped do programming on Deconstruction Zone. Fatima's commitment to the Cross during a very difficult year for both the center and the entire campus is awe inspiring. She deserves credit where it is due and seldom acknowledges the great improvements and changes, she's made in this space.
Shannon Walter
Disability Services Center
Wellness, Health, & Counseling Services
Shannon goes above and beyond to assist UCI students who are registered with the Disability Services Center. Shannon provides students with accommodations and help provide students with on campus referrals/resources so that they can have a well-rounded college experience. Shannon is always steps up to help the office by taking on additional caseloads when the office has been short staffed.
Wellness, Health, & Counseling Services
Shannon goes above and beyond to assist UCI students who are registered with the Disability Services Center. Shannon provides students with accommodations and help provide students with on campus referrals/resources so that they can have a well-rounded college experience. Shannon is always steps up to help the office by taking on additional caseloads when the office has been short staffed.
August 2022
Rachel Harvey
Student Housing
Auxiliary Services
Rachel is a one-person operation within Student Housing Sustainability, but makes it look like a team of fifty are working. This past summer, Rachel has put in physical work to ensure that institutional waste diversion goals are operationalized into the new Verano 8 housing. She has also ensured student leadership is at the forefront of these initiatives. Rachel can do this work so well, because she collaborates with all. From the front-end staff that are implementing zero waste infrastructure, to the student staff that feel empowered to have conversations with others about this work, to other colleagues within Housing and across the campus that know they can always ask Rachel anything. Without Rachel, UCI would be sorely behind on meeting sustainability and student leadership goals.
Auxiliary Services
Rachel is a one-person operation within Student Housing Sustainability, but makes it look like a team of fifty are working. This past summer, Rachel has put in physical work to ensure that institutional waste diversion goals are operationalized into the new Verano 8 housing. She has also ensured student leadership is at the forefront of these initiatives. Rachel can do this work so well, because she collaborates with all. From the front-end staff that are implementing zero waste infrastructure, to the student staff that feel empowered to have conversations with others about this work, to other colleagues within Housing and across the campus that know they can always ask Rachel anything. Without Rachel, UCI would be sorely behind on meeting sustainability and student leadership goals.
Archana Sheth
International Center
Student Life & Leadership
In preparation for the start of fall quarter, Archana has worked to ensure that the services to the international student population is of the highest caliber. This summer she worked to put together a comprehensive communication plan for newly admitted international students. The communication ensures that new students are receiving information throughout the summer to assist with their visa applications and transition to the U.S. and UCI. In addition, to this, Archana worked to re-organize the information on the IC website to make it easier for student to find what they need. All this while maintaining a heavy case load to meet with international students, as serve as mentor and leader to the Advising Team; and ensures that she reaches out to campus colleagues to provide the best service to the international population.
Student Life & Leadership
In preparation for the start of fall quarter, Archana has worked to ensure that the services to the international student population is of the highest caliber. This summer she worked to put together a comprehensive communication plan for newly admitted international students. The communication ensures that new students are receiving information throughout the summer to assist with their visa applications and transition to the U.S. and UCI. In addition, to this, Archana worked to re-organize the information on the IC website to make it easier for student to find what they need. All this while maintaining a heavy case load to meet with international students, as serve as mentor and leader to the Advising Team; and ensures that she reaches out to campus colleagues to provide the best service to the international population.
Christy Molino
Office of Social Work
Wellness, Health & Counseling Services
Christy has been doing amazing work with FRESH, specifically in her role assisting housing insecure and/or homeless students through our Basic Needs Sponsored Housing (BNSH) service. She has been a great advocate for her students and does fantastic work communicating them and partners on campus to make sure that they are housed and continue to be students at UCI. She has encountered complex cases of students experiencing homelessness and she has quickly and efficiently collaborated with multiple campus partners from Housing to Legal Council to Academic Affairs to advocate for students' needs and find a quick resolution to their challenges. Even with the increased new caseload during the pandemic, she has gone above and beyond to navigate and support each and every one of them. We are so grateful to have Christy's leadership and expertise to support such a crucial effort at the intersection of the work of the campus social work and basic needs.
Wellness, Health & Counseling Services
Christy has been doing amazing work with FRESH, specifically in her role assisting housing insecure and/or homeless students through our Basic Needs Sponsored Housing (BNSH) service. She has been a great advocate for her students and does fantastic work communicating them and partners on campus to make sure that they are housed and continue to be students at UCI. She has encountered complex cases of students experiencing homelessness and she has quickly and efficiently collaborated with multiple campus partners from Housing to Legal Council to Academic Affairs to advocate for students' needs and find a quick resolution to their challenges. Even with the increased new caseload during the pandemic, she has gone above and beyond to navigate and support each and every one of them. We are so grateful to have Christy's leadership and expertise to support such a crucial effort at the intersection of the work of the campus social work and basic needs.
July 2022
Laura Dorfman
Student Housing
Auxiliary Services
Laura consistently goes above and beyond to support staff and serve students. While the Graduate and Family Housing Residential Living and Learning team was short staffed, she filled in covering duty, training student staff, chairing committees to hire new staff, and mediating roommate conflicts. She was often the first one in the office and one of the last people out. No matter how busy she was she would regularly ask colleagues what they needed and how she could help. Laura always is available to connect with students. This was a challenging month with the opening of Verano 8, after hours duty staff being limited due to COVID, and a few critical resident emergencies. Laura went above and beyond during this time and handled everything that came her way with grace and professionalism.
Auxiliary Services
Laura consistently goes above and beyond to support staff and serve students. While the Graduate and Family Housing Residential Living and Learning team was short staffed, she filled in covering duty, training student staff, chairing committees to hire new staff, and mediating roommate conflicts. She was often the first one in the office and one of the last people out. No matter how busy she was she would regularly ask colleagues what they needed and how she could help. Laura always is available to connect with students. This was a challenging month with the opening of Verano 8, after hours duty staff being limited due to COVID, and a few critical resident emergencies. Laura went above and beyond during this time and handled everything that came her way with grace and professionalism.
Ronald Ly
UCI Esports
Office of the Vice Chancellor, Student Affairs
Ronald has kept the spirit and energy alive in the esports program throughout the pandemic. Despite being entirely remote, he has been an incredible mentor to our students and a constant positive force. Our students and staff adore him and he's an irreplaceable member of the team.
Office of the Vice Chancellor, Student Affairs
Ronald has kept the spirit and energy alive in the esports program throughout the pandemic. Despite being entirely remote, he has been an incredible mentor to our students and a constant positive force. Our students and staff adore him and he's an irreplaceable member of the team.
Cynthia Gonzalez
Student Health Center
Wellness, Health & Counseling Services
Cynthia is a great employee! Her consistent positive attitude makes a huge difference in our team. She is a kind, hard-working team player, and her professionalism is always there. She even helps by cross training since we’ve been short staffed. As well, she always speaks up in team meetings and provides unique perspectives.
Wellness, Health & Counseling Services
Cynthia is a great employee! Her consistent positive attitude makes a huge difference in our team. She is a kind, hard-working team player, and her professionalism is always there. She even helps by cross training since we’ve been short staffed. As well, she always speaks up in team meetings and provides unique perspectives.
June 2022
Bruce Aquino
Student Housing
Auxiliary Services
Bruce is the Director of Residential Services in Undergraduate Student Housing. In his role he oversees the Move In/Move Out processes, Assignments, Summer Conferences and all public facilities in the 3 undergraduate communities. Bruce is also the instructor for our Sierra Live Learn Hall. Bruce is new in his role (which is a new position too) and our department is in the first year of a total re-organization. In June Bruce was responsible for creating a new process for our end of the year move out of 7,000 residents which needed to be standardized across all 3 communities. He collaborated with our Housing Administrative Services to create a transitional program for students who could not move out due on time due to circumstances. At the same time, he needed to create a training program for the Summer Conference Assistants. Lastly, he compiled and submitted grades to Social Ecology for all participating students in the Sierra class. Through it all, he excelled bringing insight into his work and streamlining the process. Through his leadership, we created new ways of doing things, fostered a sense of collaboration within our department's new units and provided excellent service to our students and to our campus partners.
Auxiliary Services
Bruce is the Director of Residential Services in Undergraduate Student Housing. In his role he oversees the Move In/Move Out processes, Assignments, Summer Conferences and all public facilities in the 3 undergraduate communities. Bruce is also the instructor for our Sierra Live Learn Hall. Bruce is new in his role (which is a new position too) and our department is in the first year of a total re-organization. In June Bruce was responsible for creating a new process for our end of the year move out of 7,000 residents which needed to be standardized across all 3 communities. He collaborated with our Housing Administrative Services to create a transitional program for students who could not move out due on time due to circumstances. At the same time, he needed to create a training program for the Summer Conference Assistants. Lastly, he compiled and submitted grades to Social Ecology for all participating students in the Sierra class. Through it all, he excelled bringing insight into his work and streamlining the process. Through his leadership, we created new ways of doing things, fostered a sense of collaboration within our department's new units and provided excellent service to our students and to our campus partners.
UCI Commencement Team & Benjamin Sumali
Commencement Ceremonies & Special Events
Student Affairs IT
Office of the Vice Chancellor, Student Affairs
The Commencement team went ABOVE and BEYOND this year to create a memorable experience for UCI grads and guests at numerous celebratory events, culminating in the massive Commencement ceremony at Angel Stadium. The team constantly got thrown hurdle after unexpected hurdle and rose to the challenge with amazing alacrity. Having volunteered at the events, I would have had no idea of the challenges and changes this team faced without having seen/heard about them from working in the same office, and I can say with confidence that countless volunteers and guests remarked their pleasure, joy and in some cases, wonder at the amount of detail that went into each event. That's not even touching on the innovation with custom built apps and ways of doing things on the back end to make a smoother process for grads and guests. Congratulations on creating a series of successful, joyful events!
Student Affairs IT
Office of the Vice Chancellor, Student Affairs
The Commencement team went ABOVE and BEYOND this year to create a memorable experience for UCI grads and guests at numerous celebratory events, culminating in the massive Commencement ceremony at Angel Stadium. The team constantly got thrown hurdle after unexpected hurdle and rose to the challenge with amazing alacrity. Having volunteered at the events, I would have had no idea of the challenges and changes this team faced without having seen/heard about them from working in the same office, and I can say with confidence that countless volunteers and guests remarked their pleasure, joy and in some cases, wonder at the amount of detail that went into each event. That's not even touching on the innovation with custom built apps and ways of doing things on the back end to make a smoother process for grads and guests. Congratulations on creating a series of successful, joyful events!
Julie Song
Dean of Students Office
Student Life & Leadership
Julie never ceases to amaze with her cheerful and helpful demeanor, and then you get a glimpse of the sheer amount of work she does for the success of the campus, division and SLL and it would make anyone’s jaw hit the ground. In addition to providing a diverse range of support services to various end of year events, Julie is also on the board for our NASPA region - where she coordinates the team, schedules, meetings, information, databases, submissions and more. Beyond that, Julie was an instrumental part of the Commencement Team. She assisted Commencement by volunteering at nearly all the events including Angel Stadium and taking it upon herself to provide assistance in ways that go far beyond her role as a volunteer. She is truly the most caring, generous, and yet also cheerful and friendly staff member you will ever meet! She is appreciated soooo much!
Student Life & Leadership
Julie never ceases to amaze with her cheerful and helpful demeanor, and then you get a glimpse of the sheer amount of work she does for the success of the campus, division and SLL and it would make anyone’s jaw hit the ground. In addition to providing a diverse range of support services to various end of year events, Julie is also on the board for our NASPA region - where she coordinates the team, schedules, meetings, information, databases, submissions and more. Beyond that, Julie was an instrumental part of the Commencement Team. She assisted Commencement by volunteering at nearly all the events including Angel Stadium and taking it upon herself to provide assistance in ways that go far beyond her role as a volunteer. She is truly the most caring, generous, and yet also cheerful and friendly staff member you will ever meet! She is appreciated soooo much!
Yujuan Choy, M.D.
Student Health Center
Wellness, Health & Counseling Services
Dr. Choy has transitioned from a role at the Counseling Center for many years and was "given back" to SHC due to psychiatric demand. In this role at SHC, the caseload volume compared to the caseload volume at UCI CC is exponentially increased. She has delivered service at this volume for 2 years (so far) in transition to UCI SHC. Further, we should give her recognition of her productivity and commitment.
Wellness, Health & Counseling Services
Dr. Choy has transitioned from a role at the Counseling Center for many years and was "given back" to SHC due to psychiatric demand. In this role at SHC, the caseload volume compared to the caseload volume at UCI CC is exponentially increased. She has delivered service at this volume for 2 years (so far) in transition to UCI SHC. Further, we should give her recognition of her productivity and commitment.
May 2022
Claudette Brunelli
Student Housing
Auxiliary Services
Claudette has coordinated our quarantine and isolation housing operation since the start of the pandemic. Though not in her job description, she volunteered to take on this responsibility to support students and her colleagues who were up to their ears with other early-pandemic response efforts. She's put in countless overtime hours, often working many weekends in a row. She's now transitioning the Q / I operation to the Residential Life team so she can return more of her focus to her "real job." We can't thank Claudette enough for her service to the department and university!
Auxiliary Services
Claudette has coordinated our quarantine and isolation housing operation since the start of the pandemic. Though not in her job description, she volunteered to take on this responsibility to support students and her colleagues who were up to their ears with other early-pandemic response efforts. She's put in countless overtime hours, often working many weekends in a row. She's now transitioning the Q / I operation to the Residential Life team so she can return more of her focus to her "real job." We can't thank Claudette enough for her service to the department and university!
Jess Leggett
Creative & Marketing Communications
Office of the Vice Chancellor, Student Affairs
Jess has been an unsung hero this month (and actually half a year also)! She always has the best advice when it comes to how we can get the best engagement when sending out information to staff or students. With the need for grads to download tickets to two events plus the overload of information we send, sometimes directions get lost or students don't read all the info. In comes Jess saving the day with the best "How To" guide for the students to follow to help them. With our Commencement office planning 10 events + the big Angel stadium ceremony, Jess has saved us HOURS not having to email repeated steps to confused grads and we did very little troubleshooting because of her detailed guide that helped our students get their tickets. This is an example of the many things she does every month to help the Commencement office and all while she's doing the job of 3 people with sending out information for the whole Student Affairs division and helping with everyone's creative needs. Thank you for everything you do!
Office of the Vice Chancellor, Student Affairs
Jess has been an unsung hero this month (and actually half a year also)! She always has the best advice when it comes to how we can get the best engagement when sending out information to staff or students. With the need for grads to download tickets to two events plus the overload of information we send, sometimes directions get lost or students don't read all the info. In comes Jess saving the day with the best "How To" guide for the students to follow to help them. With our Commencement office planning 10 events + the big Angel stadium ceremony, Jess has saved us HOURS not having to email repeated steps to confused grads and we did very little troubleshooting because of her detailed guide that helped our students get their tickets. This is an example of the many things she does every month to help the Commencement office and all while she's doing the job of 3 people with sending out information for the whole Student Affairs division and helping with everyone's creative needs. Thank you for everything you do!
Michelle Moran
Office of Academic Integrity & Student Conduct
Student Life & Leadership
Michelle Moran has been an outstanding contributor to not just OAISC but to the campus at large. Michelle is one of our more senior investigators who maintains a very large case load consisting of Academic Integrity cases, Student Conduct cases, and Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment cases. This month, Michelle has adjudicated at least three high-level cases including a case involving eight parties and an attempt to harm another student with a weapon. Michelle has also adjudicated two Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment cases resulting in proposed sanctions of dismissal from the university. One of which included a curve ball of sorts that required immediate and timely follow up with the Office of Equal Opportunity and Diversity. Each of these cases required hours of follow up with campus partners including Student Housing, the Office of Campus Social Work, UCI Police, and Office of Equal Opportunity and Diversity. In addition to the follow up to investigate, Michelle is required to write concise and thorough decisions that can withstand the scrutiny of appeal.
Student Life & Leadership
Michelle Moran has been an outstanding contributor to not just OAISC but to the campus at large. Michelle is one of our more senior investigators who maintains a very large case load consisting of Academic Integrity cases, Student Conduct cases, and Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment cases. This month, Michelle has adjudicated at least three high-level cases including a case involving eight parties and an attempt to harm another student with a weapon. Michelle has also adjudicated two Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment cases resulting in proposed sanctions of dismissal from the university. One of which included a curve ball of sorts that required immediate and timely follow up with the Office of Equal Opportunity and Diversity. Each of these cases required hours of follow up with campus partners including Student Housing, the Office of Campus Social Work, UCI Police, and Office of Equal Opportunity and Diversity. In addition to the follow up to investigate, Michelle is required to write concise and thorough decisions that can withstand the scrutiny of appeal.
Rebecca Rootleib
Student Health Center
Wellness, Health & Counseling Services
Although she has just recently returned from a 9 month leave, Dr. Rebecca Rootlieb has resumed to her position as the Senior Lead Physician at the Student Health Center with both energy and enthusiasm, and takes the lead in involving others and in promoting a spirit of mutual support. She excels in creative thinking and developing new perspectives and works to challenge conventional ways, value practices, and lead changes that enhance effectiveness through her participation in multiple committees. She champions changes and innovations to maximize engagement and work results, and does her best to empower and enable our providers to explore and implement valued opportunities. She anticipates information needed, and stimulates sharing of information and current trends, which has been critical for our providers in treating COVID. She demonstrates superior interpersonal skills, is collaborative and respected by others, and is sought after to participate in or lead across organizational work groups. She creates and models a culture of civility, respect, and inclusivity. In the short time of Dr. Rootlieb's return, she has already picked up where she left off, and we are incredibly proud of her resilience and continued commitment to the success of our Student Health Center, and to the health of our patients.
Wellness, Health & Counseling Services
Although she has just recently returned from a 9 month leave, Dr. Rebecca Rootlieb has resumed to her position as the Senior Lead Physician at the Student Health Center with both energy and enthusiasm, and takes the lead in involving others and in promoting a spirit of mutual support. She excels in creative thinking and developing new perspectives and works to challenge conventional ways, value practices, and lead changes that enhance effectiveness through her participation in multiple committees. She champions changes and innovations to maximize engagement and work results, and does her best to empower and enable our providers to explore and implement valued opportunities. She anticipates information needed, and stimulates sharing of information and current trends, which has been critical for our providers in treating COVID. She demonstrates superior interpersonal skills, is collaborative and respected by others, and is sought after to participate in or lead across organizational work groups. She creates and models a culture of civility, respect, and inclusivity. In the short time of Dr. Rootlieb's return, she has already picked up where she left off, and we are incredibly proud of her resilience and continued commitment to the success of our Student Health Center, and to the health of our patients.
April 2022
Miranda McCormick
Student Housing
Auxiliary Services
Miranda is an unsung hero who has quickly and effectively stepped into their Assistant Coordinator position and has absolutely flourished since. She has been the main support guide for our Arroyo Vista Sorority and Fraternity Life Houses and Academic and Identity Based Theme Houses. As the COVID policies shift, Miranda has been a guide for students through these processes with grace, kindness and patience. While the work and advising for the tasks is one aspect, the level of support and care that she has shown has gone beyond the direct staff that she works with, but all student staff in Middle Earth across positions. She is truly amazing.
Auxiliary Services
Miranda is an unsung hero who has quickly and effectively stepped into their Assistant Coordinator position and has absolutely flourished since. She has been the main support guide for our Arroyo Vista Sorority and Fraternity Life Houses and Academic and Identity Based Theme Houses. As the COVID policies shift, Miranda has been a guide for students through these processes with grace, kindness and patience. While the work and advising for the tasks is one aspect, the level of support and care that she has shown has gone beyond the direct staff that she works with, but all student staff in Middle Earth across positions. She is truly amazing.
Chantal Behnan
Student Health Center
Wellness, Health & Counseling Services
Chantal has contributed positively to improving services providing to our students at Student Health Center (SHC) Pharmacy. Since joining the SHC Pharmacy, Chantal has utilized her experience to save our students and her team thousands of dollars. She has even gone above and beyond her job description to help support the clinic in providing COVID-19 vaccinations for our students on campus. Student Health Center is very fortunate to have her in the team as she not only performs excellent and distinguished service but takes the extra mile to assist our students with their medication prescriptions.
Wellness, Health & Counseling Services
Chantal has contributed positively to improving services providing to our students at Student Health Center (SHC) Pharmacy. Since joining the SHC Pharmacy, Chantal has utilized her experience to save our students and her team thousands of dollars. She has even gone above and beyond her job description to help support the clinic in providing COVID-19 vaccinations for our students on campus. Student Health Center is very fortunate to have her in the team as she not only performs excellent and distinguished service but takes the extra mile to assist our students with their medication prescriptions.
March 2022
Patrick Porter
Student Housing
Auxiliary Services
Patrick has been an unsung hero at Housing. Rarely says no to upcoming projects even during Housing reorganization period which hasn’t been easy awhile assisting his team through it all. He has been playing a very important role to assist all of us to relocate, to clean up the offices, repaint and ready for the others to use and more. He still keeps his normal routing work going. He's not just a good leader but a great team player.
Auxiliary Services
Patrick has been an unsung hero at Housing. Rarely says no to upcoming projects even during Housing reorganization period which hasn’t been easy awhile assisting his team through it all. He has been playing a very important role to assist all of us to relocate, to clean up the offices, repaint and ready for the others to use and more. He still keeps his normal routing work going. He's not just a good leader but a great team player.
Erika Cortez
Womxn's Center for Success
Student Life & Leadership
Erika Cortez has shown great dedication to creating safe, inclusive and interactive environments during her first year in person at UCI. She held the first Womxn's Entrepreneurship Day as a hybrid experience with great attendance and collaborators from across Student Affairs. Erika planned and executed the EmpowerHER Summit as an in-person experience with just under 100 attendees. She made sure to accommodate students with disabilities and received positive feedback about the care and attention they experienced during the event.
Student Life & Leadership
Erika Cortez has shown great dedication to creating safe, inclusive and interactive environments during her first year in person at UCI. She held the first Womxn's Entrepreneurship Day as a hybrid experience with great attendance and collaborators from across Student Affairs. Erika planned and executed the EmpowerHER Summit as an in-person experience with just under 100 attendees. She made sure to accommodate students with disabilities and received positive feedback about the care and attention they experienced during the event.
Charles Adams
Student Health Center
Wellness, Health & Counseling Services
Chuck (Charles) Adams has been a tireless support in keeping our center cohesive in providing services amid all the challenges that COVID has posed for healthcare! Chuck coordinated COVID-19 vaccine access at the SHC as well as with outside pharmacy vendors to assist students in meeting their vaccine deadlines. He is at the forefront of planning and although his plate is very full, he is ready and available to all staff. He truly shows heart for what we do here!
Wellness, Health & Counseling Services
Chuck (Charles) Adams has been a tireless support in keeping our center cohesive in providing services amid all the challenges that COVID has posed for healthcare! Chuck coordinated COVID-19 vaccine access at the SHC as well as with outside pharmacy vendors to assist students in meeting their vaccine deadlines. He is at the forefront of planning and although his plate is very full, he is ready and available to all staff. He truly shows heart for what we do here!
February 2022
Laryea Odamtten
Student Housing
Auxiliary Services
Throughout the Grad & Family Housing reorg, Laryea has been a quiet unsung hero. He shows up early, stays late, and works weekends to get the areas right while trying to maintain minimal impact on those working in the areas. He is gracious with the requests, even those that move things back from the way he just moved them. He brings a smile, calm demeanor, and a guarantee that things will be right. We are grateful for his wisdom and hard work.
Auxiliary Services
Throughout the Grad & Family Housing reorg, Laryea has been a quiet unsung hero. He shows up early, stays late, and works weekends to get the areas right while trying to maintain minimal impact on those working in the areas. He is gracious with the requests, even those that move things back from the way he just moved them. He brings a smile, calm demeanor, and a guarantee that things will be right. We are grateful for his wisdom and hard work.
Raymond Samora
Budget & Resource Planning
Office of the Vice Chancellor, Student Affairs
Ray has taken on additional responsibilities during the process of changes in our office that are not necessarily the most glamorous, but essential in keeping the underlying operations of the office going. This includes coordinating work orders, from electrical work to furniture moves, researching and solving phone issues, coming in early and/or staying late to meet with FM, and putting out the small fires that come with any renovation project. He deserves all the kudos and recognition for his positive attitude and many contributions to the office.
Office of the Vice Chancellor, Student Affairs
Ray has taken on additional responsibilities during the process of changes in our office that are not necessarily the most glamorous, but essential in keeping the underlying operations of the office going. This includes coordinating work orders, from electrical work to furniture moves, researching and solving phone issues, coming in early and/or staying late to meet with FM, and putting out the small fires that come with any renovation project. He deserves all the kudos and recognition for his positive attitude and many contributions to the office.
Sandy Wang
International Center
Student Life & Leadership
Sandy has been integral in supporting International Center programs and workshops for our international students and scholars. She's been an essential part in growing our Scholar Programs team, including the creation and development of our Volunteer Scholar Program coordinator roles. We've been able to recruit and work with UCI scholars and students, getting them involved in planning and hosting events for our UCI scholars and their families. It's such a pleasure working with Sandy, and I'm so grateful to have her on the IC team!
Student Life & Leadership
Sandy has been integral in supporting International Center programs and workshops for our international students and scholars. She's been an essential part in growing our Scholar Programs team, including the creation and development of our Volunteer Scholar Program coordinator roles. We've been able to recruit and work with UCI scholars and students, getting them involved in planning and hosting events for our UCI scholars and their families. It's such a pleasure working with Sandy, and I'm so grateful to have her on the IC team!
Peter Thach
Office of Campus Social Work
Wellness, Health & Counseling Services
When I consider the culmination of student lives changed by Peter's work, I envision a ripple effect with immeasurable positive impacts. His direct service with students is not limited to only direct case management services with students, but also taken his experiences with our most vulnerable populations on campus and pushed for policy changes. Beyond the important work he does with our students, he’s a team player, a wealth of UCI institutional knowledge, and a great human!
Wellness, Health & Counseling Services
When I consider the culmination of student lives changed by Peter's work, I envision a ripple effect with immeasurable positive impacts. His direct service with students is not limited to only direct case management services with students, but also taken his experiences with our most vulnerable populations on campus and pushed for policy changes. Beyond the important work he does with our students, he’s a team player, a wealth of UCI institutional knowledge, and a great human!
January 2022
Maria Orellano
Student Housing
Auxiliary Services
Maria always helps staff with our computer classes. She is always willing to assist her coworkers on new projects when it’s not asked of her and she also always tries to give service to those who need more knowledge on how to use the computer and she is a pleasure to work with. Maria tries to find new ways to teach us efficiently.
Auxiliary Services
Maria always helps staff with our computer classes. She is always willing to assist her coworkers on new projects when it’s not asked of her and she also always tries to give service to those who need more knowledge on how to use the computer and she is a pleasure to work with. Maria tries to find new ways to teach us efficiently.
Haylesh Patel
UCI Esports
Office of the Vice Chancellor, Student Affairs
Haylesh has worked tirelessly to support the health and wellness of our esports athletes during COVID. Since coming back, he has hit the ground running with fitness testing and looking for innovative ways to engage our students. Additionally, he's leaving UCI at the end of June and will be heading back home to New Zealand. We will miss him!
Office of the Vice Chancellor, Student Affairs
Haylesh has worked tirelessly to support the health and wellness of our esports athletes during COVID. Since coming back, he has hit the ground running with fitness testing and looking for innovative ways to engage our students. Additionally, he's leaving UCI at the end of June and will be heading back home to New Zealand. We will miss him!
Miguel Hernandez
Dean of Students office
Student Life & Leadership
For over a decade the Veterans Service Center has overseen the certification of military-connected benefits, which is an administrative function that deals heavily with financial aid, academic records and debt management. Miguel has been collaborating with various campus partners, at the leadership level, to tirelessly address this issue. Miguel aligns himself intentionally with the goals of the Student Affairs division and the mission of the institution, which is an example to lead as we work to promote the success of all our students.
Student Life & Leadership
For over a decade the Veterans Service Center has overseen the certification of military-connected benefits, which is an administrative function that deals heavily with financial aid, academic records and debt management. Miguel has been collaborating with various campus partners, at the leadership level, to tirelessly address this issue. Miguel aligns himself intentionally with the goals of the Student Affairs division and the mission of the institution, which is an example to lead as we work to promote the success of all our students.
Callene Smith
Student Health Center,
Wellness, Health & Counseling Services
Callene provides support to the Nurse Clinic by ensuring vaccines are on hand for the hundreds of vaccinations administered weekly. She works hard on our daily counts of vaccines to ensure each vaccine used each is accounted for. If there is a discrepancy, she is quick to find the reason for the discrepancy and makes the necessary correction. Callene has been an instrumental part of the immunization team and recognition of her hard work is long overdue.
Wellness, Health & Counseling Services
Callene provides support to the Nurse Clinic by ensuring vaccines are on hand for the hundreds of vaccinations administered weekly. She works hard on our daily counts of vaccines to ensure each vaccine used each is accounted for. If there is a discrepancy, she is quick to find the reason for the discrepancy and makes the necessary correction. Callene has been an instrumental part of the immunization team and recognition of her hard work is long overdue.
December 2021
Chanakan Mallory
Student Housing
Auxiliary Services
Channy's quick-thinking and attention to detail helped a student and may have saved a life. While walking through the Arroyo Vista community, she noticed someone sitting down on the top floor on the edge of the East Parking Structure, looking down and appearing to be in distress. Channy and I quickly went over to the structure, calling UCIPD on the way. UCIPD officers responded within seconds and let us know that officers were with the person and talking with them and that the person was no longer on the edge but instead sitting down on the floor with the officers. I just want to highlight how important Channy's action and awareness was to call attention to this situation immediately. Fortunately, the dangerous incident was avoided and help was provided to the person in distress.
Auxiliary Services
Channy's quick-thinking and attention to detail helped a student and may have saved a life. While walking through the Arroyo Vista community, she noticed someone sitting down on the top floor on the edge of the East Parking Structure, looking down and appearing to be in distress. Channy and I quickly went over to the structure, calling UCIPD on the way. UCIPD officers responded within seconds and let us know that officers were with the person and talking with them and that the person was no longer on the edge but instead sitting down on the floor with the officers. I just want to highlight how important Channy's action and awareness was to call attention to this situation immediately. Fortunately, the dangerous incident was avoided and help was provided to the person in distress.
Kelly Carland
Commencement Ceremonies & Special Events
Office of the Vice Chancellor, Student Affairs
Though the month of December was short, Kelly & Alex were no less busy than any other time of year and they hustled to create events that positively impacted all members of the UCI community - from grads, their family and friends as well as campus leadership and guests at the inaugural December Commencement; current students with positive and fun reminders to complete the Daily Symptom Check and participate in healthy habits during the ZotPass popup; SA staff during the division-wide end of year celebration; and more. Kelly and Alex spend so much prep time and checking the spaces to be sure everything is going to plan during the events and then staying to clean everything up and pack it back away when the event is done. It truly is astonishing what this little team of two is able to accomplish and I appreciate their dedication.
Office of the Vice Chancellor, Student Affairs
Though the month of December was short, Kelly & Alex were no less busy than any other time of year and they hustled to create events that positively impacted all members of the UCI community - from grads, their family and friends as well as campus leadership and guests at the inaugural December Commencement; current students with positive and fun reminders to complete the Daily Symptom Check and participate in healthy habits during the ZotPass popup; SA staff during the division-wide end of year celebration; and more. Kelly and Alex spend so much prep time and checking the spaces to be sure everything is going to plan during the events and then staying to clean everything up and pack it back away when the event is done. It truly is astonishing what this little team of two is able to accomplish and I appreciate their dedication.
Alexandra Murillo
Commencement Ceremonies & Special Events
Office of the Vice Chancellor, Student Affairs
Though the month of December was short, Kelly & Alex were no less busy than any other time of year and they hustled to create events that positively impacted all members of the UCI community - from grads, their family and friends as well as campus leadership and guests at the inaugural December Commencement; current students with positive and fun reminders to complete the Daily Symptom Check and participate in healthy habits during the ZotPass popup; SA staff during the division-wide end of year celebration; and more. Kelly and Alex spend so much prep time and checking the spaces to be sure everything is going to plan during the events and then staying to clean everything up and pack it back away when the event is done. It truly is astonishing what this little team of two is able to accomplish and I appreciate their dedication.
Office of the Vice Chancellor, Student Affairs
Though the month of December was short, Kelly & Alex were no less busy than any other time of year and they hustled to create events that positively impacted all members of the UCI community - from grads, their family and friends as well as campus leadership and guests at the inaugural December Commencement; current students with positive and fun reminders to complete the Daily Symptom Check and participate in healthy habits during the ZotPass popup; SA staff during the division-wide end of year celebration; and more. Kelly and Alex spend so much prep time and checking the spaces to be sure everything is going to plan during the events and then staying to clean everything up and pack it back away when the event is done. It truly is astonishing what this little team of two is able to accomplish and I appreciate their dedication.
Àdisà Àjàmú
Center for Black Cultures, Resources & Research
Student Life & Leadership
Dr. Àdisà Àjàmú's influence and presence on this campus has been instrumental in the development, both intellectually and emotionally, of young Black minds on campus as the founding director of the Center for Black Cultures, Resources & Research. His commitment to excellence is a testament of his passion for all things surrounding the African Diaspora. Àdisà exemplifies his strong passion and dedication for the success of black students on campus by advocating for all black students, regardless of background; this includes African Americans, African students, Caribbean students and undocumented black students. Through his African American Leadership Course, students have learned more about their background and African roots prior to enrolling in the course. His vision for the Center for Black Cultures is ambitious, one of a kind, and one that I hope to see flourish for years to come.
Student Life & Leadership
Dr. Àdisà Àjàmú's influence and presence on this campus has been instrumental in the development, both intellectually and emotionally, of young Black minds on campus as the founding director of the Center for Black Cultures, Resources & Research. His commitment to excellence is a testament of his passion for all things surrounding the African Diaspora. Àdisà exemplifies his strong passion and dedication for the success of black students on campus by advocating for all black students, regardless of background; this includes African Americans, African students, Caribbean students and undocumented black students. Through his African American Leadership Course, students have learned more about their background and African roots prior to enrolling in the course. His vision for the Center for Black Cultures is ambitious, one of a kind, and one that I hope to see flourish for years to come.
Kara Feldman
Office of Campus Social Work
Wellness, Health & Counseling Services
Kara Feldman has been involved in several unprecedented cases this year where her advocacy work with campus departments have resulted in finding grants and compensation for several students to be able to move forward with their dreams to graduate with a degree from UCI. A couple examples include: spearheading efforts for a student and their undocumented family, who lost their home and all personal belongings due to a fire, connect to both campus and community resources to reestablish themselves so the student could continue with their education. She also works closely with disgruntled family members of students making sure that they feel heard and validated while providing the students with wrap around services and support. Not only is Kara an exemplary employee but she is an outstanding co-worker and teammate.
Wellness, Health & Counseling Services
Kara Feldman has been involved in several unprecedented cases this year where her advocacy work with campus departments have resulted in finding grants and compensation for several students to be able to move forward with their dreams to graduate with a degree from UCI. A couple examples include: spearheading efforts for a student and their undocumented family, who lost their home and all personal belongings due to a fire, connect to both campus and community resources to reestablish themselves so the student could continue with their education. She also works closely with disgruntled family members of students making sure that they feel heard and validated while providing the students with wrap around services and support. Not only is Kara an exemplary employee but she is an outstanding co-worker and teammate.
November 2021
Kabria Allen-Ziaee
Student Housing
Auxiliary Services
Kabria is supportive of the programming goals for the International population at UCI. She is always willing to collaborate and learn more ways to connect with international students, especially in the housing areas. We've partnered with them to host courses in their areas and she has also led a course section for international students. We appreciate her support and willingness to collaborate!
Auxiliary Services
Kabria is supportive of the programming goals for the International population at UCI. She is always willing to collaborate and learn more ways to connect with international students, especially in the housing areas. We've partnered with them to host courses in their areas and she has also led a course section for international students. We appreciate her support and willingness to collaborate!
Jess Leggett
Creative & Marketing Communications
Office of the Vice Chancellor, Student Affairs
Jessica is a highly organized professional who helped execute this complicated campaign that educates veterans on getting informed, getting real (dispelling false narratives), getting vaccinated, and getting educated on what herd immunity is and how to get there. Also, Jessica has worked on several Orange County Veterans and Military Families Collaborative (OCVMFC) promotional marketing items in addition to all the work her office does for Student Affairs at UCI. Jessica has done a great service for those who have served our country and ensured our way of life.
Office of the Vice Chancellor, Student Affairs
Jessica is a highly organized professional who helped execute this complicated campaign that educates veterans on getting informed, getting real (dispelling false narratives), getting vaccinated, and getting educated on what herd immunity is and how to get there. Also, Jessica has worked on several Orange County Veterans and Military Families Collaborative (OCVMFC) promotional marketing items in addition to all the work her office does for Student Affairs at UCI. Jessica has done a great service for those who have served our country and ensured our way of life.
Niobe Duke
Center for Black Cultures, Resources & Research
Student Life & Leadership
During the Meet the Greeks event, Niobe played a dynamic role in assisting groups that fall to our office and are involved with her own in helping get this program off the ground. From coordinating with students for individual presentations and how to table in the office, Niobe was a phenomenal partner by sending reminders and coordination of the marketing materials. This event definitely set a standard for what NPHC is and can be in the future and would not have been possible with her diligence and persistence.
Student Life & Leadership
During the Meet the Greeks event, Niobe played a dynamic role in assisting groups that fall to our office and are involved with her own in helping get this program off the ground. From coordinating with students for individual presentations and how to table in the office, Niobe was a phenomenal partner by sending reminders and coordination of the marketing materials. This event definitely set a standard for what NPHC is and can be in the future and would not have been possible with her diligence and persistence.
Beth England-Mackie
Center for Student Wellness & Health Promotion
Wellness, Health & Counseling Services
Beth is always willing to provide outreach and resources to educate and support our International population at UCI! She observes the trends within the population, reaches out, and cooperates with us to make sure that the needs of the population is addressed. She genuinely cares about students' wellness and it is apparent in her work. She approaches every day with a positive and lively energy, which makes it enjoyable to work with her and say hi while bumping into her on campus.
Wellness, Health & Counseling Services
Beth is always willing to provide outreach and resources to educate and support our International population at UCI! She observes the trends within the population, reaches out, and cooperates with us to make sure that the needs of the population is addressed. She genuinely cares about students' wellness and it is apparent in her work. She approaches every day with a positive and lively energy, which makes it enjoyable to work with her and say hi while bumping into her on campus.
October 2021
Hector Limon
Student Housing
Auxiliary Services
Hector has stepped in many ways this past month to support residents and staff. He truly has been an unsung Hero. In addition to his after hours support, Hector has stepped in to provide support to Verano Place resident support staff while the community is without an Associate Director and Student Housing goes through our re-organization. Additionally, Hector has worked with HAS to ensure waitlist offers got out quickly. This allowed Campus Village to serve students who started the academic year without stable housing.
Auxiliary Services
Hector has stepped in many ways this past month to support residents and staff. He truly has been an unsung Hero. In addition to his after hours support, Hector has stepped in to provide support to Verano Place resident support staff while the community is without an Associate Director and Student Housing goes through our re-organization. Additionally, Hector has worked with HAS to ensure waitlist offers got out quickly. This allowed Campus Village to serve students who started the academic year without stable housing.
Joshua Lien
Student Affairs IT
Office of the Vice Chancellor, Student Affairs
Josh continues to be an example of someone who will go out of his way to help with any project thrown at him. Over the past year and a half, Josh has been working diligently behind the scenes on many campus projects supporting everything related to COVID policy, vaccination, and testing. He is never someone who questions why. He is always someone who questions how he can help. His easy and calm demeanor helps to reduce angst and anxiety.
Office of the Vice Chancellor, Student Affairs
Josh continues to be an example of someone who will go out of his way to help with any project thrown at him. Over the past year and a half, Josh has been working diligently behind the scenes on many campus projects supporting everything related to COVID policy, vaccination, and testing. He is never someone who questions why. He is always someone who questions how he can help. His easy and calm demeanor helps to reduce angst and anxiety.
Andrea Reyes
Center for Student Leadership
Student Life & Leadership
Andrea is gifted with the ability to make all committee meetings engaging and collaborative. Especially during our transition back to campus, it's been refreshing to take the time to check in with one another, and still get through all of our agenda items. Andrea has created a wonderful space for the committee to feel heard, validated, and recognized as a valuable member of the planning process. We don't always celebrate the behind the scene work and would love to see Andrea acknowledged for being an amazing individual and colleague.
Student Life & Leadership
Andrea is gifted with the ability to make all committee meetings engaging and collaborative. Especially during our transition back to campus, it's been refreshing to take the time to check in with one another, and still get through all of our agenda items. Andrea has created a wonderful space for the committee to feel heard, validated, and recognized as a valuable member of the planning process. We don't always celebrate the behind the scene work and would love to see Andrea acknowledged for being an amazing individual and colleague.
Nader Bigdeli
Student Health Center
Wellness, Health & Counseling Services
The UCI Student Health Laboratory has been at the forefront of the most critical work and changes we have done on campus to test our symptomatic students for potential COVID infection. Nader has assigned himself to analyzing all the COVID lab collection and testing processes to ensure that we are practicing the highest quality service. In addition, he has been the technical lead in the surveillance testing of over 1,500 students daily. Nader Bigdeli is a true asset and value to us all.
Wellness, Health & Counseling Services
The UCI Student Health Laboratory has been at the forefront of the most critical work and changes we have done on campus to test our symptomatic students for potential COVID infection. Nader has assigned himself to analyzing all the COVID lab collection and testing processes to ensure that we are practicing the highest quality service. In addition, he has been the technical lead in the surveillance testing of over 1,500 students daily. Nader Bigdeli is a true asset and value to us all.
September 2021
Jose Sanchez
Student Housing
Auxiliary Services
Jose Sanchez, Director for Arroyo Vista (AV) Housing, has been leading/chairing the 2021 undergraduate move-in committee. He has done a great job at leading the group and managing the constantly changing processes. As his work as the move-in committee chair had directly impacted thousands of students and their parents/guardians. At the end of it all, Jose provided appreciation and recognition for all of us involved. Move-in took place over roughly four days but was being planned for over four months. Jose did a spectacular job!
Auxiliary Services
Jose Sanchez, Director for Arroyo Vista (AV) Housing, has been leading/chairing the 2021 undergraduate move-in committee. He has done a great job at leading the group and managing the constantly changing processes. As his work as the move-in committee chair had directly impacted thousands of students and their parents/guardians. At the end of it all, Jose provided appreciation and recognition for all of us involved. Move-in took place over roughly four days but was being planned for over four months. Jose did a spectacular job!
Paulina Raygoza
Student Outreach and Retention (SOAR)
Student Life & Leadership
Paulina Raygoza has advocated for her staff needs, and always speaks up to vocalize any concerns with the student experience. She's always mindful of how to support students from marginalized backgrounds, and does her best to role model mentorship within her community. Her multiple roles on-campus has left a lasting impact for those around her and she's always been a great listener in offering ways to continue to grow in this role, and continue to be supported.
Student Life & Leadership
Paulina Raygoza has advocated for her staff needs, and always speaks up to vocalize any concerns with the student experience. She's always mindful of how to support students from marginalized backgrounds, and does her best to role model mentorship within her community. Her multiple roles on-campus has left a lasting impact for those around her and she's always been a great listener in offering ways to continue to grow in this role, and continue to be supported.
Victoria Tibbets
Counseling Center
Wellness, Health & Counseling Services
Victoria single-handedly, and always with a smile, steers the "ship" of our front office unit. She is leading, training and orienting a new administrative team of brand new staff members as we transition back to in person services. In her short time at the Counseling Center she has become the administrative staff we can always count on to navigate multiple layers of the Counseling Center front desk operations. She has recently stepped in to cross-train multiple new temps in our office. We literally could not function without her at the front desk right now. She is the glue that holds our administrative support together.
Wellness, Health & Counseling Services
Victoria single-handedly, and always with a smile, steers the "ship" of our front office unit. She is leading, training and orienting a new administrative team of brand new staff members as we transition back to in person services. In her short time at the Counseling Center she has become the administrative staff we can always count on to navigate multiple layers of the Counseling Center front desk operations. She has recently stepped in to cross-train multiple new temps in our office. We literally could not function without her at the front desk right now. She is the glue that holds our administrative support together.
August 2021
Diana Garcia
Dining Services
Auxiliary Services
Diana has put in 1000% of her time to collaborating and partnering with other Student Affairs and DFA units (Housing, Child Care, Facilities Management) to reassign our dining staff all over campus to ensure they continue to work while we had to shut down for the past 18 months. While it is beyond her job requirements, she has always been willing to help and continue to be flexible with last minute changes with schedules or reassignments for our dining staff.
Auxiliary Services
Diana has put in 1000% of her time to collaborating and partnering with other Student Affairs and DFA units (Housing, Child Care, Facilities Management) to reassign our dining staff all over campus to ensure they continue to work while we had to shut down for the past 18 months. While it is beyond her job requirements, she has always been willing to help and continue to be flexible with last minute changes with schedules or reassignments for our dining staff.
Kelly Carland
Commencement Ceremonies & Special Events
Office of the Vice Chancellor, Student Affairs
Kelly has been a rock star this month, scheduling various large and small events, running a number of meetings to plan for said events, providing support to the organization and development of all the little details that make the events happen, as well as having some really great ideas for making things more exciting and efficient. Personally, Kelly has been a major source of encouragement and a positive teammate this month, as well, and I so appreciate her.
Office of the Vice Chancellor, Student Affairs
Kelly has been a rock star this month, scheduling various large and small events, running a number of meetings to plan for said events, providing support to the organization and development of all the little details that make the events happen, as well as having some really great ideas for making things more exciting and efficient. Personally, Kelly has been a major source of encouragement and a positive teammate this month, as well, and I so appreciate her.
Dani Molina, Ph.D.
Veteran Services
Student Life & Leadership
In collaboration with OIT, Dr. Molina took a decade-old paper-based system and transitioned it into a highly secure digital platform. Dr. Molina's role has many components that go unnoticed but are nonetheless challenging. Being able to give bad news to a student in a graceful manner that is full of resources is an art form that comes naturally to him. Without Dr. Molina's contributions at UCI, the past two years would have been stifling for many students. His advocacy and dedication are in keeping with UCI's highest standards and overall mission.
Student Life & Leadership
In collaboration with OIT, Dr. Molina took a decade-old paper-based system and transitioned it into a highly secure digital platform. Dr. Molina's role has many components that go unnoticed but are nonetheless challenging. Being able to give bad news to a student in a graceful manner that is full of resources is an art form that comes naturally to him. Without Dr. Molina's contributions at UCI, the past two years would have been stifling for many students. His advocacy and dedication are in keeping with UCI's highest standards and overall mission.
Winnie Tse
Campus Assault Resources & Education (UCI CARE)
Wellness, Health & Counseling Services
Winnie Tse has been with the UCI CARE office for 10 years and over those years has supported a constantly growing and evolving team while providing compassionate, immediate, and responsive support to members of our community who have experienced extreme violence and abuse. Winnie's role has evolved over time and the way that she facilitates communications, anticipates department needs, and acts independently to communicate/train the team on new tools and workflows. She truly goes above and beyond, is reliable and hard-working and often doesn't get the recognition that she deserves.
Wellness, Health & Counseling Services
Winnie Tse has been with the UCI CARE office for 10 years and over those years has supported a constantly growing and evolving team while providing compassionate, immediate, and responsive support to members of our community who have experienced extreme violence and abuse. Winnie's role has evolved over time and the way that she facilitates communications, anticipates department needs, and acts independently to communicate/train the team on new tools and workflows. She truly goes above and beyond, is reliable and hard-working and often doesn't get the recognition that she deserves.
July 2021
Robin Michaels
Student Housing
Auxiliary Services
From the time the pandemic started, she has worked in the office everyday to ensure we had someone to provide lock out keys, move in keys to residents, and help vendors. This role could have been rotated among staff. Robin thought it would be better for one consistent person to reduce cross exposure so she volunteered to be the administrative person in the office. Robin goes above and beyond to make life for our students better.
Auxiliary Services
From the time the pandemic started, she has worked in the office everyday to ensure we had someone to provide lock out keys, move in keys to residents, and help vendors. This role could have been rotated among staff. Robin thought it would be better for one consistent person to reduce cross exposure so she volunteered to be the administrative person in the office. Robin goes above and beyond to make life for our students better.
Jess Leggett
Creative & Marketing Communications
Office of the Vice Chancellor, Student Affairs
Jess has been the best help this past month while she has been given extra responsibilities. She is the best example of what OVCSA does and keeping our team on top of what needs to be done. I feel like we are ahead with our events for the remainder of the year because Jess has taken initiative and let us know what she needs from us. She is always bringing new ideas and finding ways to innovate Student Affairs.
Office of the Vice Chancellor, Student Affairs
Jess has been the best help this past month while she has been given extra responsibilities. She is the best example of what OVCSA does and keeping our team on top of what needs to be done. I feel like we are ahead with our events for the remainder of the year because Jess has taken initiative and let us know what she needs from us. She is always bringing new ideas and finding ways to innovate Student Affairs.
Nicole Inouye
Campus Organizations & Volunteer Programs
Student Life & Leadership
The registration process for campus organizations has drastically changed via the CampusGroups platform. Last year was the first year implementing the process, and summer served as the first transition from one academic term to another. With a lot of unknowns regarding the process, Nicole Inouye has served as a guiding light in making sure that our team was prepared in the best way possible. She has been our champion to ensure that we are thorough. Nicole focused on how she could best support the students and staff.
Student Life & Leadership
The registration process for campus organizations has drastically changed via the CampusGroups platform. Last year was the first year implementing the process, and summer served as the first transition from one academic term to another. With a lot of unknowns regarding the process, Nicole Inouye has served as a guiding light in making sure that our team was prepared in the best way possible. She has been our champion to ensure that we are thorough. Nicole focused on how she could best support the students and staff.
Herbert Chan
Student Health Center
Wellness, Health & Counseling Services
As a contributing member of our OIT Management Committee, and overseeing some of the most critical systems in our department, Herbert is dedicated to working long hours and weekends to ensure that all processes have been approved and patient care is without compromise. Herbert has developed the talent of figuring out the processes necessary to get things done, works hard to organize people and activities, and has come to an understanding of how to best separate and combine tasks into a more efficient work flow. We are truly fortunate to have him on our team!
Wellness, Health & Counseling Services
As a contributing member of our OIT Management Committee, and overseeing some of the most critical systems in our department, Herbert is dedicated to working long hours and weekends to ensure that all processes have been approved and patient care is without compromise. Herbert has developed the talent of figuring out the processes necessary to get things done, works hard to organize people and activities, and has come to an understanding of how to best separate and combine tasks into a more efficient work flow. We are truly fortunate to have him on our team!
June 2021
Melissa Falkenstein
Student Housing
Auxiliary Services
Melissa has taken Student Housing’s task force on as an additional assignment/responsibility to an already large workload. I have seen the care, compassion, and diligences that Melissa has taken to support the LGBTQ+ community. As a co-chair, Melissa has utilized her strengths and position to advocate for changes that would help our residents while also pushing Student Housing's value of "inclusion" to the next level. I would like to extend a major "thank you" to Melissa and the entire Student Housing's LGBT task force!
Auxiliary Services
Melissa has taken Student Housing’s task force on as an additional assignment/responsibility to an already large workload. I have seen the care, compassion, and diligences that Melissa has taken to support the LGBTQ+ community. As a co-chair, Melissa has utilized her strengths and position to advocate for changes that would help our residents while also pushing Student Housing's value of "inclusion" to the next level. I would like to extend a major "thank you" to Melissa and the entire Student Housing's LGBT task force!
Ben Sumali
Student Affairs IT
Office of the Vice Chancellor, Student Affairs
Ben worked tirelessly these last few months to create a Commencement registration system and check-in process that would assist us with our virtual Commencement registration AND our graduate stage moment registration. We heard many compliments from the volunteers on how easy the system was to work with and that many of the graduates' family members thoroughly loved seeing the first year photos attached to each graduates account. This registration system and check-in system was the back bone that helped us have successful Commencement events this year.
Office of the Vice Chancellor, Student Affairs
Ben worked tirelessly these last few months to create a Commencement registration system and check-in process that would assist us with our virtual Commencement registration AND our graduate stage moment registration. We heard many compliments from the volunteers on how easy the system was to work with and that many of the graduates' family members thoroughly loved seeing the first year photos attached to each graduates account. This registration system and check-in system was the back bone that helped us have successful Commencement events this year.
Ekpeju Ed E-Nunu
Sorority & Fraternity Life
Student Life & Leadership
Ed is the Director of Sorority & Fraternity Life - yet he took on a project OUTSIDE of his center to help Center for Student Leadership out! It has been an absolute pleasure working with Ed - he is dependable, timely, takes initiative, and is just an all-around joy to be with. It is truly thanks to his dedication and intentional work that we were able to produce such a meaningful resource last month for our incoming anteaters. Thank you, Ed!
Student Life & Leadership
Ed is the Director of Sorority & Fraternity Life - yet he took on a project OUTSIDE of his center to help Center for Student Leadership out! It has been an absolute pleasure working with Ed - he is dependable, timely, takes initiative, and is just an all-around joy to be with. It is truly thanks to his dedication and intentional work that we were able to produce such a meaningful resource last month for our incoming anteaters. Thank you, Ed!
Thien Vu
Student Health Center
Wellness, Health & Counseling Services
Thien initiated the Medication Delivery System starting April 2020 and has served more than 5,000 students. This enabled our UCI students to complete online requests for prescriptions that were delivered to their residence by mail. His strong skills in collaboration also became evident when he helped the nursing team manage the back-office medications. His team performed two mock surveys and guided us in making corrective measures. Because of this, the AAAHC accreditation survey on the specific standards were deemed fully compliant.
Wellness, Health & Counseling Services
Thien initiated the Medication Delivery System starting April 2020 and has served more than 5,000 students. This enabled our UCI students to complete online requests for prescriptions that were delivered to their residence by mail. His strong skills in collaboration also became evident when he helped the nursing team manage the back-office medications. His team performed two mock surveys and guided us in making corrective measures. Because of this, the AAAHC accreditation survey on the specific standards were deemed fully compliant.
May 2021
Bruce Aquino
Student Housing
Auxiliary Services
This year Bruce created a virtual SIMSOC to allow the residents the opportunity to experience a treasured Sierra tradition. This was a major undertaking that began with Bruce creating a proposal that transformed the overnight program into a 1-day virtual retreat. Bruce has demonstrated his dedication to provide an amazing opportunity for students to experience a treasured Sierra tradition by creating virtual SIMSOC. He has also demonstrated our Housing Cultural Beliefs of "Value People" and Courageous Dialogue, through his work with Student Affairs Assessment on the WASE accreditation creating and facilitating the Sierra Program Assessment.
Auxiliary Services
This year Bruce created a virtual SIMSOC to allow the residents the opportunity to experience a treasured Sierra tradition. This was a major undertaking that began with Bruce creating a proposal that transformed the overnight program into a 1-day virtual retreat. Bruce has demonstrated his dedication to provide an amazing opportunity for students to experience a treasured Sierra tradition by creating virtual SIMSOC. He has also demonstrated our Housing Cultural Beliefs of "Value People" and Courageous Dialogue, through his work with Student Affairs Assessment on the WASE accreditation creating and facilitating the Sierra Program Assessment.
Alexandra Murillo
Special Events & Commencement
Office of the Vice Chancellor, Student Affairs
Alex is like an unsung hero within the office - she consistently takes on her duties with a quiet persistence while maintaining a positive, team player persona. This month in particular has been a challenge due to the hubbub around Commencement and Graduate Stage Moments. Alex has been managing the email correspondence, which has seen a major increase, as well as her daily duties assisting with Commencement and other events. In addition, Alex flawlessly executes the Employee of the Month program, making sure the program continues to flourish each month.
Office of the Vice Chancellor, Student Affairs
Alex is like an unsung hero within the office - she consistently takes on her duties with a quiet persistence while maintaining a positive, team player persona. This month in particular has been a challenge due to the hubbub around Commencement and Graduate Stage Moments. Alex has been managing the email correspondence, which has seen a major increase, as well as her daily duties assisting with Commencement and other events. In addition, Alex flawlessly executes the Employee of the Month program, making sure the program continues to flourish each month.
Joey Leon
Student Outreach and Retention (SOAR)
Student Life & Leadership
SOAR is truly lucky to have Joey as their Assistant Director supporting and advocating for student growth and development. He started his position at UCI virtually, but he quickly acclimated and made an intentional effort to make himself known across campus and various departments. He has gone above and beyond in his position to ensure that our students, especially those from diverse underrepresented backgrounds are supported when challenges arise. He is genuine, innovative, and an overall great human being. For those reasons, I highly recommend Joey as employee of the month.
Student Life & Leadership
SOAR is truly lucky to have Joey as their Assistant Director supporting and advocating for student growth and development. He started his position at UCI virtually, but he quickly acclimated and made an intentional effort to make himself known across campus and various departments. He has gone above and beyond in his position to ensure that our students, especially those from diverse underrepresented backgrounds are supported when challenges arise. He is genuine, innovative, and an overall great human being. For those reasons, I highly recommend Joey as employee of the month.
Trac Lam
Campus Recreation
Wellness, Health & Counseling Services
Trac is truly the guiding force for the safety culture of the ARC and Campus Recreation. As a CPR and first aid instructor he has trained thousands of students, faculty, and staff. Trac has also been a mentor to hundreds of ARC student members. his’s student staff and class participants universally sing his praises as a master instructor and trusted, respected, and unparalleled mentor. Recently, he led the ARC student operations team in responding to a medical emergency in the ARC. Their immediate response and flawless execution of safety skills were critical to supporting the patrons’ wellbeing.
Wellness, Health & Counseling Services
Trac is truly the guiding force for the safety culture of the ARC and Campus Recreation. As a CPR and first aid instructor he has trained thousands of students, faculty, and staff. Trac has also been a mentor to hundreds of ARC student members. his’s student staff and class participants universally sing his praises as a master instructor and trusted, respected, and unparalleled mentor. Recently, he led the ARC student operations team in responding to a medical emergency in the ARC. Their immediate response and flawless execution of safety skills were critical to supporting the patrons’ wellbeing.
April 2021
Mariana Ortega
Student Housing
Auxiliary Services
Mariana is one of those gems that shines behind the scenes. Once you get to know Mariana, you will see their brilliance and light. One of Mariana's strengths and talents is their knowledge and passion around diversity, equity, and inclusion. During meetings, Mariana frequently brings up the student perspective and voice. Mariana strives to make decisions that are student-centered. As a co-worker who works intimately with them, Mariana is a ROCK-STAR!!! I cannot express how grateful, honored, and privileged I am to work alongside Mariana.
Auxiliary Services
Mariana is one of those gems that shines behind the scenes. Once you get to know Mariana, you will see their brilliance and light. One of Mariana's strengths and talents is their knowledge and passion around diversity, equity, and inclusion. During meetings, Mariana frequently brings up the student perspective and voice. Mariana strives to make decisions that are student-centered. As a co-worker who works intimately with them, Mariana is a ROCK-STAR!!! I cannot express how grateful, honored, and privileged I am to work alongside Mariana.
Hillary Phan
UCI Esports
Office of the Vice Chancellor, Student Affairs
Hillary is one of the driving forces behind the great team culture that we have cultivated within Esports. She continually collaborates with other departments and external organizations to bring in expert speakers to educate our staff and students, providing them with pertinent information and best practices. She helps them navigate student life, and mentors them in all aspects of personal and professional development. Her work has enabled our scholarship student athletes to become the best that they can be both, in game and out of game.
Office of the Vice Chancellor, Student Affairs
Hillary is one of the driving forces behind the great team culture that we have cultivated within Esports. She continually collaborates with other departments and external organizations to bring in expert speakers to educate our staff and students, providing them with pertinent information and best practices. She helps them navigate student life, and mentors them in all aspects of personal and professional development. Her work has enabled our scholarship student athletes to become the best that they can be both, in game and out of game.
Miguel Hernandez
Dean of Students Office
Student Life & Leadership
Miguel facilitated LEAD@UCI class, a leadership course hosted by CSL, during Winter 2020. His warm and welcoming energy is contagious to staff and students alike. I met with a few students taking the course for individual coaching sessions, and all of them had nothing but positive words for Miguel! From his caring and curious questions to helping each of his students feel seen and heard, I honestly wish I got to take this course myself with Miguel as the instructor.
Student Life & Leadership
Miguel facilitated LEAD@UCI class, a leadership course hosted by CSL, during Winter 2020. His warm and welcoming energy is contagious to staff and students alike. I met with a few students taking the course for individual coaching sessions, and all of them had nothing but positive words for Miguel! From his caring and curious questions to helping each of his students feel seen and heard, I honestly wish I got to take this course myself with Miguel as the instructor.
Courtney Burkes
Campus Recreation
Wellness, Health & Counseling Services
Courtney has been instrumental in the continued success of the Campus Recreation Department. Due to COVID-19, our transition to virtual online services and outdoor activities could not have been possible without her organizational and management experience. She has also created health and wellness initiatives that have allowed faculty/staff and students to continue working toward and achieving their physical activity goals remotely, during the pandemic. Courtney’s office door (virtual) is always open for whoever comes through, whether that be students or staff, ready to listen, provide feedback and expertise.
Wellness, Health & Counseling Services
Courtney has been instrumental in the continued success of the Campus Recreation Department. Due to COVID-19, our transition to virtual online services and outdoor activities could not have been possible without her organizational and management experience. She has also created health and wellness initiatives that have allowed faculty/staff and students to continue working toward and achieving their physical activity goals remotely, during the pandemic. Courtney’s office door (virtual) is always open for whoever comes through, whether that be students or staff, ready to listen, provide feedback and expertise.
March 2021
Amaris Tang
Student Housing
Auxiliary Services
Amaris is leading a team of 5 professional staff members in developing the RA selection process for Student Housing. Amaris is organized, ensures everyone’s voice is heard, has been innovative and supportive of new ideas and approaches to the selection process and is always inclusive in her decision making. Amaris did a great job at role-modeling flexibility by responding to the necessary changes required by COVID-19. I strongly believe she deserves recognition for the commitment she has invested into leading this selection process which ultimately impacts all the undergraduate students living in Arroyo Vista, Mesa Court and Middle Earth.
Auxiliary Services
Amaris is leading a team of 5 professional staff members in developing the RA selection process for Student Housing. Amaris is organized, ensures everyone’s voice is heard, has been innovative and supportive of new ideas and approaches to the selection process and is always inclusive in her decision making. Amaris did a great job at role-modeling flexibility by responding to the necessary changes required by COVID-19. I strongly believe she deserves recognition for the commitment she has invested into leading this selection process which ultimately impacts all the undergraduate students living in Arroyo Vista, Mesa Court and Middle Earth.
Cynthia Love
Creative & Marketing Communications
Office of the Vice Chancellor, Student Affairs
Cindy Love has been invaluable to the Orange County Veterans & Military Families Collaborative (OCVMFC) with her hours and work in support of the Collaborative's county-wide "Ask the Questions" campaign. The campaign brings awareness to OC service providers to change their intake forms to ask clients if they have served in the military and if they have children. Cindy and her team put together multiple highly professional awareness/creative pieces that is changing the way OC connects services to our veterans and our underserved children of veterans.
Office of the Vice Chancellor, Student Affairs
Cindy Love has been invaluable to the Orange County Veterans & Military Families Collaborative (OCVMFC) with her hours and work in support of the Collaborative's county-wide "Ask the Questions" campaign. The campaign brings awareness to OC service providers to change their intake forms to ask clients if they have served in the military and if they have children. Cindy and her team put together multiple highly professional awareness/creative pieces that is changing the way OC connects services to our veterans and our underserved children of veterans.
Simón Londoño
Veteran Services
Student Life & Leadership
Over the past year, Simón has worked closely with UCI Accounting & Fiscal Services to help reconcile over $711,350 in past due receivables and overpayments to UCI dating back from 2009 to present. Simón has spearheaded efforts to develop a secure and efficient technology platform for all student certification records to be filed while further protecting privacy and ensuring departmental practices align with campus security measures. Simón has had a direct and positive impact on how we certify and serve UCI military-connected students.
Student Life & Leadership
Over the past year, Simón has worked closely with UCI Accounting & Fiscal Services to help reconcile over $711,350 in past due receivables and overpayments to UCI dating back from 2009 to present. Simón has spearheaded efforts to develop a secure and efficient technology platform for all student certification records to be filed while further protecting privacy and ensuring departmental practices align with campus security measures. Simón has had a direct and positive impact on how we certify and serve UCI military-connected students.
Chao Hsu
Student Health Center
Wellness, Health & Counseling Services
Chao Hsu is a great role model, very helpful, considerate and very caring nurse supervisor. Chao is a model employee who embodies collaboration and commitment to service. As a nurse who receives numerous phone calls from students on a day-to-day service, she ensures that their needs are answered regularly. The pandemic has not been easy for international students who stayed, or the general population on campus. Several times, she would come to me as the manager to look further on how we can help students who are in distress or needed resources or referrals. Chao's efforts and positive attitude are much appreciated!
Wellness, Health & Counseling Services
Chao Hsu is a great role model, very helpful, considerate and very caring nurse supervisor. Chao is a model employee who embodies collaboration and commitment to service. As a nurse who receives numerous phone calls from students on a day-to-day service, she ensures that their needs are answered regularly. The pandemic has not been easy for international students who stayed, or the general population on campus. Several times, she would come to me as the manager to look further on how we can help students who are in distress or needed resources or referrals. Chao's efforts and positive attitude are much appreciated!
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 & Counseling Services
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 & Counseling Services
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 & Counseling Services
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 & Counseling Services
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 & Counseling Services
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 & Counseling Services
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 & Counseling Services
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 & Counseling Services
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
