Elections
| Carlos Perez | Michelle Söhnlein | Selene Faire |
Questions or concerns about this process should be directed to ucscsab@ucsc.edu.
Position: West Facilities Asset Coordinator
Years of Service: 4.5
I currently serve as the Facilities Asset Coordinator for both the West Zone and ARCH Colleges at CHES Facilities. My journey at the University began with two failed attempts and one successful attempt to secure the entry level Facilities Maintenance Worker position. Over the past four and a half years, I've had the privilege of being promoted twice and was honored with the STAR award for my outstanding leadership and organizational skills.
During this time, I've dedicated myself to continuous learning and development. I've delved into literature on leadership, customer service, and project management, while also taking courses through the Learning Center, LinkedIn, and various online platforms. Additionally, I've actively contributed to the DSAS Strategic Plan Planning Team, graduated the Leadership Academy, and currently serve on the DSAS Student Employee Engagement Committee.
I strongly believe in never giving up and always striving for personal and professional growth. This belief has been instrumental in my success at the University.
Outside of work, I'm deeply rooted in the Santa Cruz community, having been born and raised in the Davenport/Bonny Doon area for four generations. I enjoy spending quality time with family and friends, indulging in anime and video games, tinkering with cars/trucks, and expressing my creativity through woodworking and sign making. I also have a passion for music and own three guitars, which I aspire to master.
I'm excited to collaborate with the dedicated SAB Staff to advocate for our community, aiming to make a positive impact on our campus.
Michelle Söhnlein (she/her/ella)
Position: Workers' Compensation & Occupational Disability Manager
Years of Service: 2
As a Workers' Compensation & Occupational Disability Manager at UCSC, I've been immersed in a dynamic environment where I've honed my skills in navigating complex systems to ensure the well-being of employees. Through this experience, I've developed a deep understanding of the challenges faced by employees and the importance of providing them with support and guidance during difficult times. Collaborating with various departments, I've implemented proactive measures to prevent injuries and streamline processes, contributing to a safer and more efficient work environment. My dedication to serving others and my ability to effectively communicate and problem-solve have been instrumental in my role.
I am deeply passionate about fostering a supportive and inclusive environment within the UCSC community. Serving on the staff advisory board provides a unique opportunity to actively contribute to this mission by representing the voices, concerns, and needs of staff members. I am committed to advocating for policies and initiatives that promote staff well-being, professional development, and equitable treatment. Moreover, I believe that my diverse background and experiences equip me with valuable perspectives to address various challenges faced by the staff community. Through collaborative efforts and constructive dialogue, I am eager to work towards enhancing communication channels, fostering a sense of belonging, and implementing positive changes that benefit both staff and the University as a whole. Joining the staff advisory board aligns perfectly with my values of service, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
Outside work I enjoy embroidery, going to garage sales & baking!
Position: Business & Operations Analyst
Years of Service: 3
As a business & operations analyst, I thrive on tackling complex challenges with data-driven solutions. That's why I'm excited about the opportunity to join the Staff Advisory Board (SAB) at UCSC. Their collaborative spirit and commitment to informed decision-making truly resonate with me. I'd be honored to contribute my analytical skills and passion to the SAB.
Beyond data and analysis, I'm also passionate about fostering a strong and inclusive UCSC community. I believe it's crucial for the board to effectively represent the diverse staff at UCSC, including a strong voice for remote employees. My experience as a non-local remote employee allows me to understand the unique challenges and opportunities faced by this growing segment of the UCSC workforce. I’m eager to leverage this experience by organizing events or workshops that connect remote staff and build a sense of belonging.
I'm confident that by joining the Staff Advisory Board, I can contribute my skills and passion to UCSC's ongoing efforts to foster a more inclusive and effective workplace for all staff.
