Does a staff member have an amazing impact on your team, project, or daily interactions? Is there a staff who goes above and beyond to make sure students and/or colleagues are successful?

Staff are a crucial part of CSUF’s daily mission, vision, and goal achievement. The Staff Development Center Advisory Board has been hard at work to create a process to recognize the many contributions of staff members on campus. 

We are excited to announce the new CSUF Staff Recognition Form !

CSUF students, faculty, managers, and staff can recognize staff using this form. Nominations will be shared with the nominated staff member, as well as the option to publish in the SDC’s monthly newsletter.

Nominate a staff by submitting the CSUF Staff Recognition Form today!  

 

The SDC Advisory Board is very excited to share a new way to promote staff excellence on campus. CSUF community members can add a digital button that links to the Staff Recognition Form to their email signature. This button was originally designed by Gavin Kane, HR Business Partner in the Division of Student Affairs. Easily add this button to your email signature by copying the hyperlinked button below and pasting it in. More details on how to edit your email signature in Outlook are included here.

 

Recognized Staff Members

 

Abigail Segura

Study Abroad Advisor, International Education & Engagement

I would like to recognize Abby for her endless support for our team and for the students. She is more than a team player- she is a quiet leader, whose efforts in meeting her own responsibilities support our goals and elevates the work we do in support of student success and development.

 

Aimee Choi

Assistant Director, Business Advising Center

Aimee goes above and beyond in her new role as Assistant Director of the Business Advising Center by training new staff and making accommodations for students and staff when needed. She also makes the effort to verbally recognize the dedication and hard work of her fellow colleagues. Her presence impacts the work environment. She truly is a shining star in our office.

 

Alejandra Morante

Senior Gift & Data Analyst, Advancement Services, University Advacement

Alé consistently goes above and beyond her primary role to ensure everything runs smoothly for our office. This year, she stepped up once again, transitioning to a different position to address staffing challenges in another team. She willingly took on this responsibility because she recognized its importance to the success of our entire division. These transitions have been a recurring theme during her eight years as a staff member, and each time, Alé has adapted quickly and with a positive attitude, always prioritizing the needs of the team. She truly deserves recognition for everything she does to support our university.

Alé embodies what it means to be a model coworker. She is always ready to adapt to the division's needs, no matter where it leads her. Along the way, she has left a lasting impression on everyone she’s worked with, thanks to her positivity, depth of knowledge, and remarkable work ethic.

 

Ali Kalibassi

AV Equipment Specialist, Information Technology

Ali provides fast and amazing support.

 

Ana Lucia Segura

Federal Pell Grant Counselor, Financial Aid, Student Affairs

Ana's attention to detail from the smallest things are commendable. She brings unique qualities to this campus that shines brightly day in and out. Working at CSUF, we understand that not all days are rainbows and butterflies, but on these days, Ana never fails to have a smile on her face. Her true optimism and spirit fills every atmosphere and I am blessed to get to work with an amazing woman!

 

Andrea De Alba

Programs and Services Coordinator, Transfer, Adult Re-entry, Parenting & Pregnant Student Center (TAPP) 

Andrea is the compassionate student affairs professional this field needs. She fosters an environment of safety and care through her student-centered nature, altruism, and kindness. She is so embracing of everyone and their needs, which is critical in creating a culture of care for non-traditional students. A space has been established for them, and Andrea plays a critical role in ensuring that students feel welcomed, valued, and cared for.

The way Andrea interacts with students is exemplary of a compassionate student affairs professional. Sometimes, all a student may need is someone to listen to what they have to say. Andrea is evidence of the transformative power of empathetic listening. She is uniquely compassionate and has the innate ability to make you feel heard and understood.

 

Angela Mello

Student Advisor, Department of Counseling, Academic Affairs

Angie has been an amazing colleague and Advisor who brings so much knowledge, warmth and energy to our department and is a complete joy to work with.

I've seen how hard Angie has worked with our prospective students.  She is so kind even under very difficult situations and taxing student interactions.  I'm always amazed by her and she works above and beyond what is asked of her being a PT Staff Member. She keeps so organized to stay on top of the heavy work load involved in getting back to all interested parties.  Our department relies intensely on her professionalism and representing the best of CSUF with every interaction and connection to future graduate students.  Angie is incredible!

 

Annalyn Mai

IT Consultant, Information Technology

I want to recognize my supervisor, Annalyn Mai, for her great leadership and being such a role model when I worked as a student assistant at the Student Genius Center (SGC). Annalyn has made a big difference in our team and how we work together.

One thing I appreciate is how Annalyn leads by example. She doesn't just tell us what to do – she gets involved in the work herself, inspiring the whole team to do their best. Her hands-on approach makes us feel like we're all in it together. Annalyn is also really good at communicating and giving guidance. Even when things get tough, she keeps us informed, making sure we all know what's going on. This openness helps create a supportive environment where we can share our thoughts and concerns. I also like how she understands each team member's strengths and areas/rooms to improve. Her feedback is helpful and encouraging, motivating us to do better. This way of leading not only helps each of us but also makes the whole team more successful.

Besides being good at her job, Annalyn is friendly, funny, and easy to talk to. She makes sure everyone feels included, and this has helped create a team that values different ideas and loves trying new things.

I'm thankful for all the guidance and support Annalyn gave me at SGC. Her leadership has had a positive impact on my growth and the success of our team. She truly deserves this recognition, and I'm excited to celebrate her ongoing contributions to our team's success." "Annalyn is the go-to person when it comes to being a rockstar leader. She's got the mix of being hands-on, keeping it real, and making you feel like a valued part of the team. It's the kind of leadership you want to follow because it just makes everything better.

I really admire how she effortlessly juggles her work life and personal time. It's like she's got this superpower of excelling at her job and still finding moments to kick back and relax. What's even more impressive is the thoughtful way she manages her time, making sure each workday is productive, but also making room for those essential moments of unwinding.

In essence, Annalyn is not just a leader; she's a master of maintaining a harmonious work-life balance, and witnessing her finesse in this area is truly inspiring. Her exemplary leadership and her ability to strike a balance between professional commitments and personal well-being make her someone worth looking up to."

 

Aundrea Hyde

Administrative Analyst, Accounts Payable & Travel Operations, Administration & Finance

Aundrea goes beyond the general definition of "customer service" when it comes to assisting other campus partners. She gets you to the place you need to contact/review, and is so kind with sharing important campus policies that you may not ever know about. She's an incredible educator and colleague to lean on when I have questions - even for things beyond her department!

 

Camille Johnson

Documentation, Training, and Support Specialist, Information Technology

Lori and Camille did a fabulous job on the CHRS guides - they have saved me many a time and I just want to thank them for doing such a wonderful job with these!! Thank you for helping us so much with our transition to CHRS - these guides have been a real lifesaver!

 

Carolina Rosells

CRM Analyst, Information Technology

Carolina is one of EIP's skilled IT staff. She helps the Program teams to build application forms and processes, communication plans for various applicant and student populations, trains us on how to use a new customer relationship management tool, answers our many questions, helps us find effective solutions, leads data collecting and reporting efforts... and does all of this with kindness, humor and so much grace.

 

Carolina Rosells

IT Consultant - CRM Specialist

Carolina is one of EIP's skilled IT staff. She helps the Program teams to build application forms and processes, communication plans for various applicant and student populations, trains us on how to use a new customer relationship management tool, answers our many questions, helps us find effective solutions, leads data collecting and reporting efforts... and does all of this with kindness, humor and so much grace. I'm so grateful for her work in Extension and International Programs.

 

Cynthia Stroud

ASC II, Department of Finance, Academic Affairs

Helps staff in the college of business even when she is busy. She is also kind to others and treats others well. She listens to others' needs and is a helping hand when others need it.

She is a great person overall!

 

Deborah Tsai

Position Management Analyst, Payroll & Data Services

Deborah is always quick to respond and does so in a way that is clear, concise, and kind. Deborah is always able to clarify needs, clearly state instructions, inform staff of helpful information, provide context, and do so in a kind and respectful way. She demonstrates the ideal form of customer service.

 

Denise Del Cid

Project and Production Specialist

Denise provides customer service and displays professionalism along with Titan pride to each campus partner she interacts with. Denise helps manage nearly 50 projects at any given time to support our campus partners, division of university advancement and department of strategic communications and brand management.

Denise exemplifies what it means to be a team player, collaboration with internal and external partners in a professional capacity and bringing a smile and sense of Titan pride day in and day out.

 

Desaiha Quillope

Undergraduate Business Advisor, Business Advising Center, Academic Affairs

Desaiha has consistently demonstrated an approachable, positive, and welcoming demeanor that fosters a supportive and inclusive environment for students. Her genuine care for students' success makes her a trusted advisor and a valuable resource for those she supports.

 

Erick Perez

Asset Management/Admin Analyst Specialist, University Services, Administration & Finance

Erick Perez is a team player and works hard.

 

Eunseok Song

Associate Director for Classroom/ AV Tech Support, IT-Classroom Technology, Academic Affairs

His dedication, work ethic and knowledge makes him an astounding team player that makes things happen.

 

Gavin Kane

HR Business Partner, Division of Student Affairs

Gavin is extremely helpful when it comes to processes and keeping things on track and organized. He is thoughtful and kind, and always willing to listen and offer input. He is friendly, professional, and someone that many of us look up to.

His friendly, yet professional demeanor. He helps to create a fun and upbeat environment while also staying committed to his work and making sure all his responsibilities are taken care of. He is proactive and on top of his work, and we are so thankful to have him!

 

Ivan Sierra

Benefits & Retirement Analyst, Total Wellness, Human Resources and Inclusive Excellence

Ivan helped me out during Open Enrollment, shout out to that guy! I had questions and he was great. I also remember the rest of the benefits team during my orientation, they were awesome too.

He made me feel comfortable and feel like my questions were legit. The benefits people had a great vibe, they were all really nice and did a great orientation. I thought they were a great team.

 

Jaime Hamilton

Assistant Director, Guardian Scholars Program, Student Affairs

Jamie represents a true titan and leader. She always goes and beyond her duties and assures that students are attended to.

She goes above and beyond her duties for students and staff. She consistently demonstrates a genuine interest in the well-being and success of the students. She takes the time to build meaningful relationships, offering encouragement, guidance, and mentorship every step of the way.

 

James “JC” Cavitt

Interim Executive Director, Project Rebound

JC is always invested in the care of our students.  He goes above and beyond to meet the needs of those that are going through hurdles with an open door policy.  His heart and commitment to Project Rebound is inspiring. 

How does JC serve as an example? His heart and desire to serve.

 

Jinny Kim

Academic Advisor, Business Advising Center

Her student-centered approach has earned her exceptional feedback, from students that she cares about their success. Jinny successfully completed an intensive 8-week training program, becoming a confident and effective advisor. She managed thousands of personal emails and student appointments. She provided detailed guidance to keep students on track for graduation.

 

Joseph Vu

Concur Lead Analyst, Accounts Payable and Travel Operations, Administration & Finance

Joe started less than 2 years ago and has been proactive in identifying department needs. Joe has all the characteristics that exemplifies what it means to be a team player. He is hard working and can be counted on. He has a strong work ethic, not only does he assist our department but he helps campus community, students and other close departments at every opportunity. We appreciate you Joe, keep up the good work.

 

Judith Skidmore

Payroll Front Desk Coordinator, Payroll Services

We want to recognize Judi for being the ultimate frontwoman of the Payroll Front Desk. Judi always goes the extra mile and really cares about welcoming employees and getting them off to a good start. She takes onboarding documents and payroll forms, stuff that can be a little intimidating or confusing, and really helps guide you through it to be sure you get have everything in order when you start work. She's warm and friendly and capable. All-around, she's the kind of person you would want helping you out.

 

Karina Callejas

Academic Advisor, College of Businness and Economics, Academic Affairs

A student-centered advisor, she has consistently received exceptional feedback, with students sharing that she listens to their concerns. She has participated in initiatives such as Freshman Orientation and presentations. Karina’s ability to think on her feet, her holistic advising approach, and her mastery of registration policies and advising tools reflect her continuous growth and unwavering dedication to student success.

 

Laney Englesberg

Assistant Director, Business Advising Center

She is extremely knowledgeable and personable, which makes coming into the job as a new employee such a positive experience. She is an overall team player, which contributes to the work environment.

Laney creates a warm and positive work environment.

 

Leilani Thomas

Administrative Support Assistant, Human Services and Department of Counseling, Academic Affairs

Leilani Thomas is an amazing ambassador for Cal State Fullerton.  She is always willing to bend over backwards for students, faculty, and other staff members.  She is warm, welcoming, and takes the time to help others even if the work is beyond her scope or unrelated to our department.  She is generous with her time and her positive energy is contagious.  We are truly blessed to have her!

Leilani doesn’t think “territorially.”  She will help students, faculty, and staff from other departments and divisions without hesitation.  She often takes calls not intended for her, but happily assists folks in answering their questions.  She makes us look good every single day!

 

Lori Arthur

Lead IT Documentation, Training, & Support Specialist, IT-Training, Information Technology

Lori and Camille did a fabulous job on the CHRS guides - they have saved me many a time and I just want to thank them for doing such a wonderful job with these!! Thank you for helping us so much with our transition to CHRS - these guides have been a real lifesaver!

 

Maggie Roman

Programs Assistant, Center for Educational Partnerships, Student Affairs

Maggie goes above and beyond to be available for support. She has a wealth of knowledge gained from her many years with Educational Partnerships and she is generous with her earned expertise.
Maggie invests in cultivating a welcoming environment. She is adamant about making sure everyone feels involved and important to the team.

 

Mandy Loo

Senior Project Lead, Marketing and Communications, Academic Affairs

Level-headedness, positive, effective, kind and creative. She freely shares her experience and seeks with diligence effective solutions. Best PM in our area

Steadiness, effectiveness, and planning excellence

 

Maria Organista

Assistant Director of Academic Advising, College of Engineering & Computer Science Student Success Center, Academic Affairs

Maria has transformed the ECS Student Success Center to be far more streamlined and inclusive. Maria is always empathetic towards students.

 

Mariana Rodriguez

Front Desk Coordinator, Student Affairs

Mariana is extremely detail-oriented, driven, and an innovative thinker who takes initiative on new projects and tasks and executes in an impressively timely manner.

Mariana's willingness to learn and be open to new ideas and processes, as well as pitch her own ideas, get feedback, and implement changes that work well for everyone in the office.

 

Marina Zarate

Director of Academic Advising, Training and Development and Undeclared & Academic Advising Center

She’s a great leader who provides great guidance towards our staff’s professional development. Overall, a great person to learn from and a trusting person to confide in.

She empowers our ideas and encourages creativity. She values are backgrounds and our past learning experiences.

 

Martha Flores

Children's Center Master Teacher

Martha is on top of it for helping staff, giving breaks, and helping kids.

Martha has great organization skills.

 

Masako Ura

Academic Advisor

Dedicated, focused and always so helpful and knowledgeable. Masako has been open to helping others and students with support and understanding

Organized, confident

 

Meghann Mercado

Graduation Specialist, Business Advising Center, Academic Affairs

Meghann has consistently exceeded expectations, demonstrating exceptional efficiency, professional judgment, and collaborative spirit. Her contributions have had a significant impact, including conducting 920 graduation checks, completing audits for over 1,141 students as part of the GI2025 initiative, and handling 3,035 student records.

 

Melanie Bates

Communications and Project Specialist, Parking and Transportation Services, Administration & Finance

Melanie is an incredible communicator who has done wonders to ensure information is shared. Melanie has an incredibly positive outlook, and has been integral to department successes.

Melanie is kind, inclusive, and works diligently to produce outstanding results.

 

Michaela Murphy

Academic Advisor, College of Business and Economics, Academic Affairs

Michaela’s proactive attitude is evident in the 79-page training document she compiled on FTFY GE Advising, Academic Advising, and General Education, showcasing her commitment to mastering the subject matter. She has managed a caseload of students and her student support efforts are impressive, by her supporting student through thousands of appointments, walk-ins, and emails.

 

Mir Aminy

Academic Counselor

Builds great rapport with students. They all LOVE him!

He is culturally diverse and embraces everyone. He is always finding a way to connect!

 

Naomi Tapia

Fieldwork/Internship Coordinator, Human Services

Naomi has been such a shining star in our Fieldwork Office. Our staff and student's love her warmth, intelligence, hard work and dedication. We feel so much gratitude to work with such an amazing colleague!

 

Nayeli Sernas Hernandez

Engagement Support Coordinator, Fraternity & Sorority Life, Student Affairs

Nayeli serves as an example for others by tirelessly personifying what it means to be a Titan. She always lends a helping hand, approaches difficult situations with care and compassion, and always puts the students and their experience first. Her creativity, eye for graphic design, and helpful demeanor are valued immensely by our office and staff. She is an absolute star!

Nayeli goes above and beyond to support the students she works with, our office, and our staff. Her friendly upbeat demeanor never fails to make a positive impact on our office. In just her first year as a full-time professional, she has created remarkable change in the Fraternity and Sorority Life community. She is always one step ahead of us all, and her organization skills are relied on heavily. Her position can often go thankless or taken advantage of by students, and I feel she deserves all the thanks in the world! Without Nayeli, many students would go without support and guidance.

 

Nicholas Gomez

Information Technology Consultant - Foundation, IT Rollout

Nick has gone over and above to help the Titan Hub get on its feet, troubleshooting laptops, finding solutions to problems, ordering parts, returning parts that didn't work, ordering new parts. He comes over to our space, in person to help work out the never ending sometimes working laptops for student Peer Advisors to use during their workday at the Titan Hub. He's always willing to help with a smile on his face!

 

Nina Garcia

Human Resources Services, Human Resources and Inclusive Excellence

Nina coordinates so many things for our department! She helps the train keep going down the tracks! Thanks for powering us along, Nina! Nina helps make sure everything runs smoothly for us and is always helping out. She is the invisible firmament that keeps it all going, like the tracks under a train. Sometimes we don't even know she's there, but she's doing a lot to support and guide us on our way. She helps keep us on track in subtle ways, it's a great attribute and is very beneficial to our dept.

 

Oscar Garcia Ortiz

Senior Coordinator, Parent and Family Relations, University Advacement

Oscar empowers others to see CSUF as a transformational workplace; one that serves all students in hopes of a better life and an educated perspective. His experience as a student, community member, and advocate. Oscar knows the value of our campus and shares his experience in the work with parents and families.

 

Paula Mei Fernandez

Master Teacher at the Children's Center

Hard work, and kindness shown to parents

Paula Mei is so organized and on top of helping staff.

 

Peggy Luna

Administrative Coordinator II, School of Nursing, Academic Affairs

Peggy shows dedication, hard work and continuous outstanding service to her nursing students, faculty & Staff. Peggy tries her best in everything she does, works really hard to do her job well and has a wonderful attitude towards her college and department of Nursing

 

Rosa Amaro

Coordinator, College of Business Advising Center, Academic Affairs

She successfully coordinated interviews for the SSP II position, managing a pool of 40+ candidates, and played a crucial role in staffing decisions that contributed to the office’s continued success. Rose is the backbone of the advising center, efficiently managing the schedules of 20 staff members and consistently providing support to ensure the team’s success.

 

Sandra Boulanger

ECS International Student Advisor, College of Engineering and Computer Science, Academic Affairs

She advises students and helps faculty with advising. Her work is always completed in a timey manner, vital work always done on time, and she’s very approachable.

 

Santiago Aguiar

Senior Advisor, College of Business Advising Center, Academic Affairs

Santiago Aguiar sets an excellent example for others to follow through his strong work ethic, collaborative nature, and commitment to student success.

 

Seng Rojas

Position Management Analyst, Human Resource Services

Seng is so reliable and ALWAYS helpful and willing to answer my questions. She is a great person to work with and really goes out of her way to help me. Appreciate you, Seng!   Seng is reliable and calm in the maelstrom.

 

Shelley Mulock

Practicum and Fieldwork Coordinator, Department of Counseling, Academic Affairs

Shelley has been stellar since day 1. She is so warm, ready to assist, and the most incredible problem solver. Her heart shines in all she does and her welcoming presence is greatly appreciated and immensely needed in our Department.

 

Stephanie Colquett

Risk Management and Compliance Coordinator, Risk Management

I would like to recognize the hard work and dedication of Stephanie Colquett, who has gone above and beyond in her service to University Advancement and CSUF since day one. Stephanie manages budgets, coordinates multiple events, and ensures timelines are met—all while maintaining an incredibly positive attitude that inspires those around her.

What truly sets Stephanie apart is her ability to approach every task with enthusiasm, professionalism, and a smile. Her positive outlook, paired with her strong organizational skills and unwavering commitment, sets an outstanding example for others to follow. She demonstrates that even the most challenging responsibilities can be tackled with grace and optimism, motivating the entire team to strive for excellence.

 

Stephanie Wilson

Staff

Always helpful and ready to take on what’s next in the Dept of ECE

She’s always ready to help others learn new ways to help other who may not know how to do something

 

Tami Lau

Business Analyst, IT-ERP Analytic Services, Academic Affairs

Tami Lau is amazing! I want to recognize her for all the behind-the-scenes work she does. When I have a problem or question, she is always so knowledgeable and helpful, never hesitating to answer or provide me with assistance or direct me to the right person or resource. Shout out to Tami for being so helpful and for doing 1001 things behind the IT curtain.

Tami always goes above and beyond and really goes out of her way to make herself available to help others. She is willing to share her valuable time and invest when people need her expertise. Not everyone is so willing to do that, and it means a lot. We should all try to invest in each other more, as Tami does.

 

Tiana Nieto

Academic Advisor, College of Business Advising Center, Academic Affairs

Tiana Nieto serves as an exemplary model for others to follow through her dedication to both her professional growth and the success of the students she advises.

 

Torin Truong

IT Consultant

Excellent work ethic.

Torin goes above and beyond in everything he does.

 

Tito Martinez

Infrastructure / Operating System Analyst, Systems, Storage and Infrastructure 

Tito is the anonymous hero which makes our virtual environment possible. without him, there is no movement on campus functions.

 

Verajaviela "VJ" Kuan-Roberts

Pollak Library Facilities Coordinator/Analyst

She helps everyone out at the library without asking for anything back, in just one year she has made so much happen and has changed the library for the better.

She is selfless and caring and empathetic.

 

Wendy Valdez

HR Coordinator, Associated Students, Inc.

Wendy is such a hard worker, she takes on so much with open arms. She goes above and beyond as ASI's HR Coordinator and shows that she really cares for the whole ASI org. She is very attentive and responsive, she even sends out weekly "Manager Monday" emails to help motivate the team.

Wendy treats full-time staff and student employees equally. She does not give special treatment to one or the other and makes everyone feel welcomed. 

 

Zarita Moore

Travel Operations Lead , Travel and Concur Services

She provides information related to travel and concur, quarterly trainings, etc.