Monthly Recognition Program
The Staff Advisory Board is proud to announce the Staff Recognition Program.
The goal of the program is for staff members to recognize and celebrate fellow staff members. The staff recognition program is strictly "peer-to-peer" and is open to all staff employees to nominate fellow colleagues.
There is no monetary or performance award associated with this recognition program. This is also not an "employee of the month" program.
The staff recognition review committee is looking for very thoughtful and compelling nominations.
A new staff member will be featured each month.
All UCSC staff members are eligible and encouraged to make nominations!
If you know someone who deserves some recognition, please nominate theem by filling out the
STAFF RECOGNITION FORM.
May 2018 Featured Staff Member
Name: Nico Feria
Unit: Copy, Mail and Receiving Services
Years of Service: 7
Official Title: Operations Assistant
How would you describe your work?
I coordinate the operations for my departments. This includes providing customer service for the UCSC Copy Center, Professor Publishing Services, Campus Mail and LiveScan Services, and Receiving, Moving and Surplus Services. I also build and maintain the databases used in my departments and process our departments recharge activity.
What about working at UCSC motivates you?
We're a small enough campus that it really doesn't take long to get to know faculty and staff from all around the campus. Instead of calling or emailing 'some department', you get to call individuals within those departments that you know and have built working relationships with. I like how personal this campus can be.
What advice do you have for UCSC staff?
Get out of your office more! There are so many neat things hidden all over the campus. Try the taqueria. Find the merry-go-round, and the giant stone mural. Go take a walk through the Great Meadow. No two parts of this campus are alike, and you owe it to yourself to see the full range of beauty your workplace has to offer you.
What are your outside interests?
I enjoy reading comics and playing games with friends. These days, I spend most of my time with my new baby, Matteo!
April 2018 Featured Staff Member
Name: Glendarrel Raymilton O'Neil (Commonly known as "Glen")
Unit: Financial Affairs/FAST Accounts Payable
Years of Service: 17
Official Title: Financial Assistant III
How would you describe your work?
Process travel transactions, reimbursements and direct payments. Advise on correct processes for travel and direct payments paid through Banner. Instructor and Co-Instructor for campus travel training.
What about working at UCSC motivates you?
I'm alumni so I have a lot of love for the campus and have had countless positive experiences here as a student and as staff. Working with wonderful people and helping student programs function successfully is very motivating.
What advice do you have for UCSC staff?
UCSC staff are already wonderful, so I'd say keep smiling and keep doing your best.
What are your outside interests?
I graduated UCSC with a degree in Art. I continue to create art and graphic designs with physical medium and computers.
March 2018 Featured Staff Member
Name: Abraham Mekuria
Unit: Bay Tree Bookstore
Years of Service: 15
Official Title: Shipping/Receiving Supervisor
How would you describe your work?
My work is receiving textbook, packaging and shipping on line orders, returning text books by the end of quarter, and hiring and training student employees.
What about working at UCSC motivates you?
I have been working for 15 years and volunteering for KZSC 88.1, the UCSC camps radio station, doing my own radio show for over 25 years. Overall a good place to work, beautiful, love the redwood trees, and working with students.
What advice do you have for UCSC staff?
Build your relationship with your co-workers. When colleagues work well together, everyone benefits. Positive attitude, report problems quickly, have the ability to convey information, and enjoy your work.
What are your outside interests?
Exercising, music, outdoors, and enjoying the journey of life.
February 2018 Featured Staff Member
Name: Deana Slater
Unit: College Nine and College Ten
Years of Service: 21
Official Title: College Administrative Officer
How would you describe your work?
I oversee the student affairs side of Colleges Nine and Ten, this includes oversight of student activities, residence life, the co-curricular programs unit as well as budget and administrative duties. A lot of my job involves supervising staff who are often working on the front line with students. They are the ones who are often doing the very transformative and challenging day to day work. I work closely with our Provost to coordinate and create programs and curriculum that support our themes.
What about working at UCSC motivates you?
The themes of our colleges, College Nine: International and Global Perspectives, and College Ten: Social Justice and Community, are the foundational elements of our work here and keep me inspired and motivated! My committed staff and colleagues and the gorgeous physical environment and spirit of UCSC are also key to my happiness!
What advice do you have for UCSC staff?
I’ve been fortunate to align my vision and my passion with a job that allows me to flourish. Particularly for new staff members, I encourage people to pursue that connection between their values, talents and skills and their line of work. Not everyone can find a job that allows them to have that connection but if possible try to maintain that integrity between who you are and what you do.
What are your outside interests?
I love to be physically active. I enjoy biking up to campus and I particularly enjoy the downhill coast home! I take advantage of Yoga classes on campus led from my longtime colleague and friend, Abbey Asher. I enjoy singing with the Santa Cruz Chorale, wine tasting… reading… budget travel...cooking and raising my kids: Maddie who just returned from study abroad in Vietnam and Tobin who is a professional cyclist! We’re headed to Belgium in early February to watch him race Worlds. Tickets on WOW airline were only $379 but we have no seat assignment or luggage allocation yet!
January 2018 Featured Staff Member
Name: Alicia Haley
Unit: International Student & Scholar Services, Global Engagement
Years of Service: 3
Official Title: International Student & Scholar Advisor
How would you describe your work?
Diverse, technical and ever-evolving.
What about working at UCSC motivates you?
Helping international students and scholars navigate their way in the U.S. and at UCSC. I enjoy hearing about what they'd like to study or research and how they plan to apply it once they leave UCSC. I especially like learning about all the different cultures our students and scholars represent.
What advice do you have for UCSC staff?
Make the most of opportunities to network across departments or divisions and make connections. You never know when those connections could come in handy.
What are your outside interests?
Movies, road trips, trying new restaurants, being with friends & family and spoiling my cat Luna.
December 2017 Featured Staff Member
Name: Marianne McIvor
Unit: Staff Human Resources/Benefits Office
Years of Service: 15
Official Title: Health Care Facilitator
How would you describe your work?
I support faculty, staff and retirees with their understanding of the UC health and welfare benefit program.
What about working at UCSC motivates you?
I really enjoy the people that I work with and the people across UCSC that I get to meet and help.
What advice do you have for UCSC staff?
There is something new to learn every day.
What are your outside interests?
Spending time with my family, good music, great food and taking advantage of our beautiful surroundings every day.
November 2017 Featured Staff Member
Name: Jude Pipes
Unit: Art Department
Years of Service: 23.5
Official Title: Student Academic Advisor 2
How would you describe your work?
I am the primary contact for students who want to pursue the Art major. I advise students on all aspects of the Art major, helping them maneuver through their requirements so they can reach their educational goals. I manage articulation on ASSIST.ORG for the Department and organize the junior transfer portfolio review each spring. I do the course scheduling for the Department and work with the Curriculum Committee to assist them in their course and program development.
What about working at UCSC motivates you?
I love seeing the entering Frosh come in at orientation and mature over the course of their career at UCSC. I see brilliant and dedicated artists emerge from shy and unsure students. The act of making art (working with bronze, rolling a litho stone through a printing press, painting on a 4x4& canvas) gives these students confidence in areas the spill over in other areas of their lives and inspire them to take on projects and issues they would have never thought of before. Seeing what these students bring to their artistic practice also motivates my artistic practice. I also work with an amazing group of people, both staff and faculty, in the Art Department. Their leadership and friendship inspire me to do my best work and makes each day a pleasure to come to UCSC.
What advice do you have for UCSC staff?
Like many have said before: savor this campus. It is a beautiful environment to spend your work days. Walk. Laugh. Smile. Don't forget to reach out to others on campus in your department, vicinity, Wellness Center, meetings, and cafes. Some of my closest friends I have met here.
What are your outside interests?
I love spending time in cafes with good coffee and best friends, drawing with micro pens and Promarkers (at said cafes), running, hiking, walking on West Cliff, and visiting the Scotts Valley Dog Park to see all my 4 legged friends (and 2 legged), since I don't have a dog of my own.
October 2017 Featured Staff Member
Name: Maria Choy
Unit: Institute of Marine Science (Long Marine Laboratory)
Years of Service: 37
Official Title: Administrative Officer
How would you describe your work?
Interesting, challenging, fun, exciting, rewarding.
What about working at UCSC motivates you?
I love working in an educational environment surrounded by intelligent, highly motivated and dedicated people who are working towards a goal to make a difference in the world of marine science. As the administrative manager at Long Marine Lab, my passion and motivation is fueled by the fact that I can lend my support and knowledge to help people reach their goal whether it be an undergrad or graduate student, researcher, faculty, staff, volunteer or the board members of the Friends of the Seymour Marine Discovery Center. I want to make a difference and helping people and giving them my full support is how I can accomplish this.
What advice do you have for UCSC staff?
Do what you love, love what you do, smile often and give it your all. Everyone can make a difference!
What are your outside interests?
I am passionate about life, plain and simple. I love travelling, meeting new people & learning about their culture. Great food, fabulous wine, music and dance all bring me so much joy. I am wildly crazy about animals...domestic, marine & exotic animals, too.
September 2017 Featured Staff Member
Name: Kalin McGraw
Unit: Kresge College
Years of Service: 15
Official Title: Lead Academic Preceptor
How would you describe your work?
As a college adviser, I support our students from the moment they arrive at Orientation through their walk across the commencement stage. Sometimes this takes the form of simple guidance about classes or majors, sometimes it means challenging students to succeed (and being a cheerleader when they do), sometimes it's providing stability, support and advocacy when they need it most. Advising gives me the opportunity to collaborate with students and staff to find answers to sometimes complex problems -- it's *always* an interesting puzzle, and I'm constantly inspired the stories, the dreams, and the resilience of our students.
What about working at UCSC motivates you?
I'm honestly moved, daily, by this campus--so intellectually rich, so alive with youthful curiosity, so stunningly beautiful. Most of the faculty and staff members here are clearly committed to higher education and to this campus; it's so rewarding to be a part of this energy. And my daily conversations with students confirm that this work matters: our collective actions, however small, can really have tremendous impact on the lives of these young people.
What advice do you have for UCSC staff?
Build your social capital. Whenever possible, get out of your office and meet the people you call and email: see their space, see how they work, and hear their stories. Collaborate whenever you get the chance, and help others when you can; the knowledge and support will come back to you in spades. Explore upper campus and the meadows--this place is beautiful! And attend some of the evening offerings if you can: performances, lectures, even quirky student events. This place is a powerhouse, and there are pockets of fun just about everywhere.
What are your outside interests?
Get me outside! I love to take long trail runs and hikes in our local parks, swim, camp and even bike to work when I can. Outside of exercise: cooking (to the point of chaotic, happy messes in the kitchen), reading, writing, drawing, and binge-listening to podcasts.
August 2017 Featured Staff Member
Name: Melody Locke Eldridge
Unit: Staff Human Resources
Years of Service: 3
Official Title: Lead Service Operations Specialist
How would you describe your work?
My work has so many constantly moving parts it is almost like conducting an orchestra. The most important part of my job is working with the people in each of my units who count on me to make sure they are paid correctly and to treat them with respect at all times. With very complex units, we work together to ensure the accuracy of everything from funding, extensions, time reported and pay to mention just a few. It is very rewarding to form working relationships with many people who I have yet to see face to face, yet I feel like I know.
What about working at UCSC motivates you?
I am most motivated by the incredible people I am Timekeeper for as they are really a wonderful group of lovely people. I am beyond thrilled when I am able to help them through a difficult situation or to answer a question for them. I am also very fortunate to work with and for some of the best people here in Staff HR. Working in a happy environment enhances every day.
What advice do you have for UCSC staff?
Come to see us in our new home in Scotts Valley! Our new offices have fountains, waterfalls, green, lush grounds and walking paths that help work off the amazing food that is served from our Cafeteria/Café.
What are your outside interests?
I am a newlywed (September 2016) to my husband Clark, of course! My son and daughter have gifted me with five grandchildren ranging from age 15 to age 1. My daughter married a Kiwi and moved to New Zealand in 2009 and I have gone five times…so far, so I am fascinated with all things New Zealand. We hope to spend a Christmas there and experience Christmas in the summer and fireworks on New Year’s Eve!
July 2017 Featured Staff Member
Name: Theresa Milam Thomas
Unit: Arboretum
Years of Service: 2
Official Title: Office Manager
How would you describe your work?
Busy! The Arboretum is not only a wildly beautiful place with exotic and native plant species, it's a vibrant space for students and children to learn and explore & for visitors, staff and volunteers to mingle, relax and be inspired.
What about working at UCSC motivates you?
The people. The people here are warm and dedicated - we laugh and smile together every day. What we do is increasingly important, we provide opportunities for education and research and are at the forefront for conservation and protection of native plants and species from around the world.
What advice do you have for UCSC staff?
Enjoy our gorgeous campus! Whether it's walking in the redwoods, or picnic-ing at the Arboretum amongst spectacular flowers and hummingbirds, it's one of the best work perks we can enjoy together.
What are your outside interests?
Get me outdoors! Hiking, camping and exploring are the best parts of life.
June 2017 Featured Staff Member
Name: Tamara King
Unit: FAST/AP
Years of Service: 16
Official Title: Blank Assistant 3
How would you describe your work?
I have had the opportunity to provide customer service and support to students, staff, faculty, and vendors over the years. The FAST/AP office processes payments and reimbursements for Travel, Entertainment, Direct Pays, Moving and Invoices from vendors. This requires knowledge of complex University, Federal, or State agencies policies and procedures. Communication, Problem Solving Skills, Accuracy, and Efficiency are the key to the FAST life.
What about working at UCSC motivates you?
Everyday is a learning experience. I have never had two days that were the same and this inspires me to see what is next to come. I work with a great group of people and they all have unique qualities that I strive to embrace and learn from. These relationships are special and important to me.
What advice do you have for UCSC staff?
Change is inevitable. Don't sweat the small stuff and embrace the people around you.
What are your outside interests?
Spending time with family and friends. Enjoy walking, gardening, and being outside as much as possible.
May 2017 Featured Staff Member
Name: Barbara Jolley
Unit: Baskin School of Engineering, Business Office
Years of Service: 10
Official Title: Research Administration Manager
How would you describe your work?
My work is varied and challenging at times. As a manager, I provide support to the people I supervise and opportunities for them to grow. As a research administrator, I provide support to the faculty within the Baskin School of Engineering by helping them manage their award budgets and by researching questions regarding policy, agency guidelines, and contract terms and conditions. Each project is different and has it's own story, and it is very rewarding to be a part of making it a success. I also provide information and support to management on various aspects of research administration.
What about working at UCSC motivates you?
The people. I enjoy collaborating with my colleagues to resolve problems, getting input from others, and discussing various solutions. I enjoy the faculty that I work with and learning about their research. I also enjoy working with the central campus units--working together to get things done. There are many, many dedicated people on this campus.
What advice do you have for UCSC staff?
Hmmm... I don't know if I'm qualified to give advice. How about some wisdom from Robert Louis Stevenson "The world is so full of a number of things, I'm sure we should all be as happy as kings."
What are your outside interests?
Reading, cooking, gardening, walking, biking. Other than that, spending time with family and friends.
April 2017 Featured Staff Member
Name: DeShonne Keller
Unit: Kresge College
Years of Service: 5
Official Title: Kresge College Assistant & Mailroom Manager
How would you describe your work?
Exciting, challenging and rewarding. It’s never a dull moment and I’m in constant learning mode each day, I love it! I enjoy being in a place where I learn something new. It’s important to form relationships and make students aware I’m here to help! It’s all about giving back to my community and UCSC has allowed me to achieve my goal.
What about working at UCSC motivates you?
We work in the forest! I couldn’t ask for a better view. My co-workers and supervisors make it easy to come to work. The students encourage me and keep me young. It’s the best feeling getting to know someone as a freshman, watch their academic journey and see them walk across the stage four years later. It’s a feeling I can’t describe. Just knowing I’ve played a very, very small part in journey is rewarding!
What advice do you have for UCSC staff?
A smile goes a long way. First impressions are extremely important. Be courteous and helpful. Treat others as you wish to be treated.
What are your outside interests?
Spending time with my family as well as taking time for myself is most important. I LOVE Football, GO SAINTS!! I enjoy traveling, dancing, concerts, comedy shows and going to the movies with my husband.
February 2017 Featured Staff Member
Name: Liz Evanovich
Unit: University Relations
Years of Service: 15
Official Title: Senior Coordinator, Alumni Engagement & Advancement Services
How would you describe your work?
I support two units in University Relations – Alumni Engagement and Advancement Services. My support is in the area of budget review/reconciliation of monthly financial transactions, foapal counsel, staff reimbursements, purchase requisitions, invoice payments, procard purchases, etc. I’m also a resource for staff for any problems or questions that come up in the workday. I particularly enjoy welcoming new staff to the team and making sure they have everything they need to begin their new position with us. I believe that the “first day” impression of University Relations and UC Santa Cruz sets the tone for long-term job satisfaction.
What about working at UCSC motivates you?
I am very lucky to work with so many intelligent, hard working, and oftentimes hysterically funny, people in University Relations. The camaraderie and collaborative culture is a big part of why I enjoy walking through the doors in the morning. I’m continually amazed at the level of innovative and creative thinkers we have in our division. My colleagues are truly committed to making UC Santa Cruz a first class university for the world to see - and support.
What advice do you have for UCSC staff?
For some reason when I read this question a few lyrics from a song by Tim McGraw came to me. I’m somewhat embarrassed that it might seem corny – but here you go anyway!
“When those dreams you’re dreamin’ come to you
When the work you put in is realized
Let yourself feel the pride but
Always stay humble and kind”
What are your outside interests?
Activities that include family - the newest joy in my life is my first grandchild, Gaby, who just turned two years old on Christmas Day. I’m a Santa Cruz native and also a UCSC alum (Cowell College). I enjoy walking as my daily exercise (West Cliff Drive is one of my favorite spots), mountain biking at Wilder/Gray Whale Ranch, and on occasion will join my husband when he takes his boat out to go salmon and rock fishing in the Monterey Bay. When at home you will most likely find me working in the garden. One of my guilty pleasures at the end of the day is sitting on the patio or in the hot tub with a glass of wine. My husband and I enjoy quick getaways – nearby favorites are Cambria, Napa/Sonoma and Lake Tahoe.
November 2016 Featured Staff Member
Name: Mary J. Sierra
Unit: Porter/Kresge College
Years of Service: 20
Official Title: Budget Analyst
How would you describe your work?
In short, absolutely fulfilling! I have the pleasure of working closely with incredible students & staff and various units/departments within the University. As a Budget Analyst for both Kresge and Porter College, I work closely to ensure expenditures of funds exceeding 9 million dollars combined are administered for their intended purpose. While no day is ever the same, my responsibilities include: training staff on policies and procedures, providing unit managers with current materials (budgets and financial reports), manage review processes, establish appropriate internal controls, and ensure deliverables are processed in a timely manner.
What about working at UCSC motivates you?
This beautiful campus for starters! We have the privilege of being nestled in one of the most exceptional locations in California! We're so lucky! However, I believe it goes without saying that a great deal of my motivation comes from the community of staff/students I have the pleasure of working with day-after-day. I work with incredible minds that challenge me and help keep me fresh. I like to think that a combination of the vibrant energy staff/students motivates me to constantly improve and make things better!
What advice do you have for UCSC staff?
Always be mindful, honest and never forget your roots. Everyday life can get tiresome and sometimes we get bogged down by the mayhem. Take time for yourself to regain perspective and know that our staff/students rely on you. We are part of an institution that can only thrive just as long as we do too. May we never forget the power of a warm hello and kind smile.
What are your outside interests?
I love bopping around town, trying new restaurants, enjoying the beach, traveling and spending time with family and friends. I'm fortunate enough to have most of my family here in Santa Cruz, well, with the exception of my two oldest daughters who live in San Francisco. However, I really enjoy having lunch with my youngest daughter who is currently a student at UCSC.
October 2016 Featured Staff Member
Name: Lisa Morgan
Unit: Economics Department, Social Sciences Division
Years of Service: 29
Official Title: Undergraduate Programs and Peer Advisor Coordinator
How would you describe your work?
I advise students on all majors within economics, their academic goals, and making sure they take all the required major courses in order to graduate on time. I also hire, supervise and motivate our amazing peer advisors throughout the year so that they can give their best and be an excellent resource for students. I work very closely with the department manager, and undergraduate program directors for administration of the department’s undergraduate major programs as well as work directly with the accounting faculty in ensuring they have highly qualified teaching practicum students each quarter. I plan and coordinate quarterly faculty and undergraduate events as well as and share responsibility for managing the M.S. and undergraduate graduation reception. There is so much more and I don’t want to bore you, but basically I am involved with the coordination of anything to do with our undergraduates!
What about working at UCSC motivates you?
I love what I do and love working with people. We have such a diverse group of people here at UC Santa Cruz and it’s never boring! And, it is always changing with new faculty hires, new undergraduates, in addition to our graduate students, and then add to that the amazing department I get to work with. We get to step outside and breathe in this incredible scenery, the Redwood Trees, the rolling hills! Where else can you say, “the crazy male turkey chased my truck again today and pecked my tires!” Then you turn the corner and momma deer is watching her twin Bambie babies jump through the grass — so adorable and amazing.
What advice do you have for UCSC staff?
Treat each other nicely and with respect. I’ve been fortunate to have kept my relationships with faculty and staff here from day one because I truly value those relationships. Have fun or BRING fun to your position — laughing is the best medicine and is good for the soul. Say thank you more often and sincerely, people appreciate it.
What are your outside interests?
Spending time with family and friends, being outside in nature, playing beach volleyball, camping, boating, fishing, charades on the beach and laughing as much as possible.
June 2016 Featured Staff Member
Name: Philip Johnston
Unit: Learning Technologies, ITS
Years of Service: 17
Official Title: Instructional Technologist
How would you describe your work?
In the broadest sense, my job is to assist students, faculty and staff with using audio, visual and computing technology to support their learning, teaching, research and special events. Fulfilling this role takes many and varied forms and puts me in contact with all facets of the campus community in locations both on and off campus. At any given moment throughout the day, students, faculty and staff using our classroom-installed and field equipment may rely on me to operate, troubleshoot, analyze and recommend solutions for their instructional and event technology. As the person who oversees the operation of the campus test scoring service, I routinely engage with faculty and TA’s regarding the accurate and timely administration and processing of their exams. To assist with our front office operations, test scoring, classroom and special event support, I hire, train and supervise anywhere from six to ten student employees.
What about working at UCSC motivates you?
As a UCSC alumnus (College 5 / Porter), my experience as a UCSC student was truly life defining and transformative. As a staff member, it is uniquely rewarding to work directly with students, faculty and staff to create a similarly transformative environment. Working at a world-class research institution like UC Santa Cruz offers amazing access to new ideas and information, often directly from the researchers themselves. Ultimately, it’s inspiring to contribute to the research and teaching mission of the campus, and we all do it in our own unique ways. Playing a role in and being a part of something so important is its own reward.
What advice do you have for UCSC staff?
Cultivate and build relationships across campus, both within and outside your department and division. Over time, these connections create a stronger sense of community and become a springboard for opportunity and friendship. Never take for granted that you work in a phenomenally beautiful place. Get outside and walk around campus, and take time to explore a roundabout detour along the way. There are surprising gems tucked all over that can inspire and renew.
What are your outside interests?
Pursuing outdoor adventure, playing music, holistic health, cooking, working for environmental, social and economic justice.
May 2016 Featured Staff Member
Name: Josephine Stovall
Unit: University Library
Years of Service: 29
Official Title: Circulation Coordinator
How would you describe your work?
I’m in charge of the main service desks for both McHenry and the S&E Library. I make sure the libraries are open and functioning every day. I hire and train the staff at the desks to make sure the main desks are staffed, open and ready for business whenever the library is open. Since we’re the main service point, so we’re there to help. We check out books, answer questions, deal with people issues, we make sure the library runs smoothly. We handle a lot of different issues in the building, either by taking care of them or by calling others to come fix the problem.
What about working at UCSC motivates you?
As much as I complain about it, I enjoy working with people, I enjoy working with the public. And I enjoy working and interacting with the students. They have new ideas and they still have a bright idea of what the future can be. The fact of the matter is they are our future, and it’s nice, after being around for so long, to find people who still have high hopes for what this planet can be. I like that. It kind of gets me excited too, to think what we could do to the planet to make it better.
What advice do you have for UCSC staff?
Take advantage of what the campus has to offer. Walk around campus and enjoy the beauty area we have the pleasure to work in. This is one of the most beautiful campuses I’ve ever seen. Every day when I leave and see the bay I get this awe moment. The culture here, the art, staff training & development classes, all here to enrich our lives so please get out there and enjoy it.
What are your outside interests?
I like to go hiking, museums, theater and wine tasting.
April 2016 Featured Staff Member
Name: Bruce Horn
Unit: Learning Technologies, ITS
Years of Service: 20
Official Title: Classroom Operations Manager
How would you describe your work?
I manage the day-to-day operations of 86 general assignment classrooms at UCSC. Making sure that the media equipment in all of those rooms works properly and meets the needs of our faculty, teaching faculty how to use media equipment and presentation software and researching new technology to determine what will best support teaching and learning is always a fascinating and challenging task. I am also in charge of the test scoring service and the Distance Education facilities on campus and work with other Learning Technologies staff to provide media support and videography for campus events.
What about working at UCSC motivates you?
It is all about the people! I really enjoy working with all of the faculty, staff and students at UCSC, especially the wonderful folks in my department who make working here as smooth and pleasant an experience as possible. It takes many different people to provide the quality learning, research and public service support needed to make this University as great as it is and I am proud of the part that I play in that.
I get great satisfaction from the knowledge that we are helping faculty to provide our students with a wonderful learning experience.
As a UCSC/Kresge College alum, I also feel a strong commitment to keeping both the physical and educational environment here as unique, healthy and innovative as it is.
What advice do you have for UCSC staff?
My advice is for all UCSC, but particularly for managers and supervisors. Try as much as possible to treat your employees and colleagues with as much kindness as possible and create a pleasant work environment for them. Although there will always be challenges such as the budget that are beyond our control, the most important factor in determining whether we enjoy our jobs is how the people around us treat us.
What are your outside interests?
Travel and landscape photography, reading, movies, cooking, gardening genealogy and travel.
March 2016 Featured Staff Member
Name: Melody Litt-Louris
Unit: Retention Services
Years of Service: 11
Official Title: Senior Budget Analyst
How would you describe your work?
I work collaboratively with Retention Services units (EOP, LSS, DRC, Career Center, SOMeCA, STARS, and the Resource Centers) directors and business staff to manage budgets and administrative workflow in a strategic manner. I regularly work on financial and business analyses that allow for optimal use of resources while advancing Retention Services’ ability to provide high-quality support to students.
What about working at UCSC motivates you?
Retention Services units are on the forefront of program creation and outreach that engages underrepresented populations and attempt to bridge gaps in privilege that hold some students back. It is inspiring to be surrounded by and help so many people that are so important in the success of our students.
What advice do you have for UCSC staff?
Change is always around the corner here at UCSC; don’t be afraid to embrace it. Try and get out of the office a few days a week to walk some of the great trails and come to the ARCenter patio for the best view on campus.
What are your outside interests?
Enjoying time with my husband and kids, traveling to tropical places, music, good food and hanging out at the beach with family and friends.
February 2016 Featured Staff Member
Name: Ken Smith
Unit: Infrastructure and Operations, ITS
Years of Service: 8
Official Title: DBA Team Lead
How would you describe your work?
I manage the Database Administration (DBA) team. The DBA team supports many of the Oracle, SQL Server, and MySQL databases in the Campus Data Center. Some examples of services our databases support are: Academic, Finance, Student Housing Office, and Pharmacy. In a nutshell, the role of the DBA team is to ensure the health, security, and stability of the databases we support.
What about working at UCSC motivates you?
There is a tremendous amount of pride surrounding UCSC from our students to employees to the community. In many ways, the University is the epicenter of Santa Cruz. What we do in our department in part contributes to the success of the University. It is also tremendously impactful working with other universities as a collective brain trust to share ideas and to collaborate on what is working and what is not. It all goes back to what is best for the University and our students.
Additionally, I work with one of the most professional and skilled teams I have ever been associated with. They are all incredibly dedicated individuals who encompass what it means to be a team. I am very fortunate to work with them.
What advice do you have for UCSC staff?
Much of our adult, waking hours are spent at work, and many people seem to wish away their week to get to the weekend. Try to enjoy and embrace those hours at work and view them as a way to enhance your and others' lives. Otherwise, we are wishing away 5/7ths of our working lives if we try to get to the weekend too quickly.
What are your outside interests?
I ride my bike 3-4 times a week to work, so biking plays an important role in my life. I appreciate what Santa Cruz has to offer, and I enjoy all aspects, from the beaches and mountains, to the downtown. My greatest passion, though, is watching the success of my children and helping them develop as young adults, students, and athletes. It's a fun and priceless journey watching them grow.
January 2016 Featured Staff Member
Name: Andrea Cohen
Unit: Office of the Campus Provost and Executive Vice Chancellor
Years of Service: 16
Official Title: Special Projects Coordinator
How would you describe your work?
Always interesting, dynamic, and challenging, I work closely with leadership, faculty, staff, students, and alumni across the campus and within the community to staff, organize, develop, and manage: executive recruitments and searches, executive leadership development programs, confidential five-year review committees, fundraising initiatives and priorities related to the Transformative Student Experience (TSE) within the Campaign for UC Santa Cruz and in particular the Quarry Amphitheater Restoration Project, as well as other special projects as needed. In each project, I perform research, collect and analyze information, draft proposals and budgets, consult widely, and craft and implement project plans, timelines, communications, and events. I make every effort to ensure the leader/committee’s work is as streamlined and efficient as possible. Collaborating across divisions/departments and focusing every day on launching, implementing, and successfully completing projects is fun … for me!
What about working at UCSC motivates you?
Working with smart, genuinely passionate (and fun and funny) people who have diverse talents, perspectives and interests; collaborating with others individually or in small/large groups; providing access to a high-quality college education; working on challenging issues; simplifying where possible; streamlining processes and/or solving problems; and, opportunities to be part of the solution(s). Oh, and The Place – I have seen a lot of universities and colleges in my day, and this really is … The Most Beautiful Campus.
What advice do you have for UCSC staff?
This month, I’m the individual person honored and delighted to receive this recognition. Any accomplishments or successes attributed to me are, frankly, due to the input and contributions of many amazing, intelligent, skilled, thoughtful, and supportive people – like you. Thank you!
And, for actual advice, I bet you've heard this before. Stay focused, but remain flexible and open to new information and ideas. Ask questions. Have your latest, greatest 15-30 second “self-brag” at-the-ready, just in case you have a moment with someone who is interested. And, don’t sweat the small stuff.
What are your outside interests?
Exploring and taking long walks in the hills or along the beach, yoga, dancing, mountain bike riding, rollerblading, hiking, backpacking, climbing, skiing, traveling, photography, spending time with my family, learning new things, volunteering in our community, playing with our cat, playing piano (more like stumbling along), gardening, socializing, organizing, hosting parties and events, and cooking.
December 2015 Featured Staff Member
Name: Tara Gooden
Unit: User Services & Resource Sharing, University Libraries
Years of Service: 7
Official Title: Head of Interlibrary Loan
How would you describe your work?
In interlibrary loan (ILL), we help faculty, staff, and students obtain research materials not available locally. We facilitate the borrowing of books, journals, articles, media items, and other research materials from other libraries in the UC system, in the country, and even worldwide. We also lend items to other libraries and their patrons. In addition, in User Services & Resource Sharing (US&RS), we are the public face of the library. We circulate and maintain books, course reserves, media, and other materials, and operate the public services desk. We introduce and connect users to library services.
What about working at UCSC motivates you?
I am motivated and inspired by my colleagues in ILL and the library. It’s also very rewarding to help researchers locate materials they wouldn’t be able to access otherwise. Obtaining a rare book that is vital to someone’s research is a very rewarding process. It’s nice to be a part of so many peoples’ UCSC experience. Working closely with students is also very motivating. I learn something new every day.
What advice do you have for UCSC staff?
Take advantage of what UCSC has to offer as an employer and embrace what makes this campus unique. There are a lot of opportunities for professional development and growth and there’s a culture here that you won’t find at many other places. And, challenge yourself. Your job and work day is what you make of it.
What are your outside interests?
Reading, writing, film, learning life lessons from my one year old daughter, and sharks.
November 2015 Featured Staff Member
Name: Mary Palmer
Unit: Enterprise Financial Systems
Years of Service: 14
Official Title: Web Support Analyst
How would you describe your work?
Financial Affairs web maintenance support, budgetary support, database maintenance.
What about working at UCSC motivates you?
I enjoy the working environment and the people I work with.
What advice do you have for UCSC staff?
Enjoy the good times, get through the not so good times.
What are your outside interests?
Family, pets, walking on the beach, going to museums, eating, and occasionally spending days being a couch potato!
October 2015 Featured Staff Member
Name: "Yamindira" (Kanagasundaram)
Unit: Financial Affairs Purchasing
Years of Service: 25
Official Title: Purchasing Specialist/Buyer
How would you describe your work?
I work collaboratively with the campus units to solve their purchasing questions and at the same time save money and the environment with green purchasing.
What about working at UCSC motivates you?
To support students in expanding their knowledge to learn and never stop learning.
What advice do you have for UCSC staff?
No ego, no drama, no problem.
What are your outside interests?
Blending spices to create new recipes with Spicy Secrets.
September 2015 Featured Staff Member
Name: Jeff Rockwell
Unit: Special Events Office, University Relations
Years of Service: 25
Official Title: Director of Special Events
How would you describe your work?
I throw parties for a living! My team coordinates 60-75 events per year for the campus. Our focus is on events that are related to fund raising, or of high visibility and importance to the Chancellor and the campus. We coordinate lectures, receptions, building dedications, VIP visits, etc.
What about working at UCSC motivates you?
I love the place, and I take satisfaction in thinking that the events we run help to raise funds for the campus and highlight the amazing things happening at UC Santa Cruz. I'm lucky to have a job that is always exposing me to interesting people and new experiences. After 25 years, I still find myself learning as I go. This month for example, I'm coordinating the rigging of an 18' pole that will be used by acrobats at the upcoming Founders Celebration Dinner, and I'm working with our University Catering Team and staff of Alice Waters /Chez Panisse to design a menu featuring produce from the UCSC farm that will be served at that same Founders Celebration.
What advice do you have for UCSC staff?
Find joy in your work. You only get one ride around this merry-go-round called life; don't waste that opportunity. The University has a huge array of positions, so if you don't feel happy in your current position, look around; it's likely you can find one that better suits your interests and skill set.
What are your outside interests?
Fishing, hiking, photography, cooking, world travel.
