2024-25 Staff Association Executive Board

Roberta Camarena

Chair

Contact: rcamarena@ucsd.edu

Home department: Office of the Chancellor

Years with the University: 14.5

I joined the SAEB because: I love our campus community and desire to enhance each staff member's experience.

My favorite thing about work is: Engaging folks from UC San Diego, San Deigo County, and beyond.

The best advice I've heard: Harness the power of your mind to unlock your full potential, while also listening to your inner wisdom.

Outside of work, I enjoy: Spending time with my familia: hubby of 30 years, 3 adult children, 2 grandchildren, parents, siblings, and extended familia.

My favorite food is: Desserts in all shapes, colors, temperatures, and textures.

Desiree Hennon

Immediate Past Chair
Transportation Advisory Committee

Contact: dhennon@ucsd.edu

Home department: Campus Human Resources

Years with the University: 11

I joined the SAEB because: Joining the Staff Association was a way for me to connect with our campus on a bigger scale. I knew the work we do was going to enhance my career with meaning and purpose and allow for me to advocate for the colleagues I admire and appreciate.

My favorite thing about work is: When I help a staff member and they come back to me later and tell them how that impacted their work life, home life, or both. I assisted a staff member with her student loan forgiveness paperwork several years back and she thanked me at an event and said when she got the notice in the mail that her loan was complete, she cried in relief. She had tears in her eyes just telling me that story. It's the people at UC San Diego and the connections we make that are so important to me.

The best advice I've heard: There is great power in the space between reacting and responding. Allow that space to happen and it will change all your interactions in life.

Outside of work, I enjoy: Time with family and friends, reading, movies, podcasts, crocheting and jigsaw puzzles. I also try to go to at least one new place and try one new activity every year

My favorite food is: The Nicola pizza with a beet salad at Buona Forchetta. Add a glass of wine and great company, it's the perfect meal.

Bryce Besser

Secretary

Contact:  bbesser@ucsd.edu

Home department: Risk Management

Years with the University: 10

I joined the SAEB because: I wanted to leverage the experience and knowledge I possessed to help improve the employee experience at UC San Diego and increase my knowledge of UC San Diego’s mission and operations. I’m excited for the opportunity to partner with individuals who are passionate about their work, about the University, and about ensuring that UC San Diego remains a wonderful place to work.

My favorite thing about work is: I love being a part of a vibrant campus and helping faculty and staff navigate risks so that they can focus on the amazing research, community outreach, and activities that positively impact our campus and beyond.

The best advice I've heard: Take no risks with your reputation.

Outside of work, I enjoy: I coach little league, love 80's movies and music, and have been known to pick up the karaoke mic from time to time.

My favorite food is: BBQ, pizza, and Chinese

Luz Nuñez

Treasurer

Contact: lununez@ucsd.edu

Home department: Campus Human Resources

Years with the University: 1

I joined the SAEB because: As an HR Professional I have always enjoyed the part of my job that recognizes, rewards, and celebrates the diversity of our staff. Being a part of these initiatives brings me joy. 🙂

My favorite thing about work is: My role in Human Resources allows me to be a support to employees and leaders of all levels experiencing challenging situations at work. My favorite thing is being able to help leaders identify positive solutions to complex situations, often through empathy, listening, and navigating resources in a way that allows employees to feel heard and acknowledged.

The best advice I've heard: Step #1: Love and believe in yourself.

Outside of work, I enjoy: Listening to music of all types and going to live music events!

My favorite food is: I love all types of Ice Cream!

Courtney Nuñez

Ambassador Chair

Contact:  cnunez@ucsd.edu

Home department: Anthropology

Years with the University: 5

I joined the SAEB because: I joined Staff Association for the opportunity to meet more of our incredible staff and to improve their time on campus!

My favorite thing about work is: In my role I get to work everyday to improve the experience of students in our department. I love being able to provide opportunities for them to have the best possible college experience.

The best advice I've heard: "The worst they can say is 'No'." - Has led to me going for many opportunities I did not initially think I would be successful in achieving due to fear or anxiety, including my incredible current role!

Outside of work, I enjoy: Outside of work you can find me attached to my Kindle, running a new trail, or sailing the bay with my partner!

My favorite food is: Mexican food, especially anything my grandma makes!

Sophia Limon

Assessment Chair

Contact:  slimon@health.ucsd.edu

Home department: Moores Cancer Center

Years with the University: 2

I joined the SAEB: To ensure that all UC San Diego staff are equally recognized for their positive contributions to community and culture irrespective of statue by enhancing the ability of managment and leadership to make connections between values and between people.

My favorite thing about work is: Having a chance to participate in a regulatory function related to clinical trials.

The best advice I've heard: Be patient, present, and prudent.

Outside of work, I enjoy: Dancing, swimming, surfing, running, going on new adventures, traveling and site-seeing. I also love to sing, though, I have to admit, I don't believe anyone has witnessed this yet.

My favorite food is: Anything made with love.

Julie Daugherty

Basic Needs Chair

Contact:  jadaugherty@ucsd.edu

Home department: Financial Aid & Scholarships

Years with the University: 5

Why I joined the Staff Association: I wanted to get involved in more activities with the University. I look forward to providing people with some very useful information.

What a typical day of work looks like: It’s all over the place: Answering student questions and concerns in person, via email, SNOW tickets, and phones. I’m part of the team that reviews Satisfactory Academic Progress, manually packaging the EAP/Study abroad program, and the remote social committee. I also manage the GPS/IRPS grad program which includes manually packaging each of those students. I’m currently supervising our 8 federal work study students. So my day can go any which way, depending on lots of factors – BUT THAT’S WHY I LOVE WHAT I DO! 😊

Hobbies/Passions: Shopping, fashion, make up, super fun manicures, off roading in our UTV, camping, the beach, providing inspiration to all around me, and spending time with my family.

Favorite music: I love all kinds of music!!!

Melanie Bentley

Campus Community Relations Chair

Contact:  mbentley@ucsd.edu

Home department: Office of the Executive Vice Chancellor, Academic Affairs

Years with the University: 19.5

I joined the SAEB because: I would like to help the University I love in my final year before I retire.

My favorite thing about work is: Interacting with and helping people.

The best advice I've heard: Give yourself one year to adjust to a new job

Outside of work, I enjoy: Gourmet cooking and learning languages.

My favorite food is: Heart healthy/Mediterranean.

Sophie Staschus

Inclusion Chair
EDI Advisory Council Representative

Contact:  s2staschus@ucsd.edu

Home department: Health Sciences Office of Faculty Affairs

Years with the University: 12

I joined the SAEB because: It's such an exciting opportunity to meet staff in this huge university and strengthen relations between general campus and Health Sciences, while doing important collaborative work towards ensuring staff well-being, development, safety, inclusion, and equity. I found that there were many resources available as an undergraduate and graduate student and I'm excited to work with others in continuing to offer similar support for UC San Diego staff.

My favorite thing about work is: My coworkers!

The best advice I've heard: Not so much advice but I found that reading the book "Everything You Already know about Your Own Racism and How to Do Better" by Regina Jackson and Saira Rao has been an important reminder to continuously speak up and resist my instinct to remain silent.

Outside of work, I enjoy: I love horses and adopted a senior horse with cancer, Mercury, in 2017. While I unfortunately lost her back in 2021, I still love helping rehabilitate injured horses. My husband and I are going to start volunteering at an animal shelter, which I'm incredibly excited to do together!

My favorite food is: Too many options to choose from, it really depends on my mood! But I don't like chocolate, which has honestly become a personality trait.

Maddie Martinez

Marketing and Communication (MarCom) Chair

Contact: mmmartinez@ucsd.edu

Home department: Institute of Arts and Humanities

Years with the University: 2.5

Why I joined the Staff Association: I joined SA to make connections and network across campus. I also wanted to gain more skills and knowledge in Marketing.

Hobbies/Passions: My hobbies and passions include going to pilates and the gym, reading, baking, watching sunsets or going on beach walks and collecting sand dollars and hosting my friends over for dinner, movie night, or a pool day. I love spending time with my parents and their puppy dog either in Denver or San Diego! I am also a huge sports girl and a huge foodie girl!

Proudest achievement: Being able to live on my own and support myself. I just moved into my dream apartment I have always wanted so I guess I am really proud of that!

Favorite music: Hip Hop/Rap, Pop, Country, 80s and 90s!

Ren (Ronnielen) Cabales Bejar

Outreach and Engagement Chair

Contact: rcabales@ucsd.edu

Home department: Health Sciences Office of Faculty Affairs

Years with the University: 3

I joined the SAEB: To be involved in the UC San Diego community and network with like-minded leaders. I love volunteering at community events and learning more about opportunities to engage with campus festivities.

My favorite thing about work is: Being able to help people. At UC San Diego, my previous role allowed me to help alumni and students thrive, and also allowed me to create volunteer opportunities to help the greater community. Now, I am able to help junior faculty with opportunities for mentorship, grant writing, professional development, and networking.

The best advice I've heard: Don't worry. Be happy. :)

Outside of work, I enjoy: Spending time with my two senior doggos and my husband, singing karaoke, line dancing, reading, going on outdoor adventures, and long walks at the beach, park, zoo, or in the neighborhood.

My favorite food is: Tacos and all potato variations.

Kelvin Huang

Social and Networking Events Chair

Contact:  k4huang@ucsd.edu

Home department: Environment, Health and Safety (EH&S)

Years with the University: 13

I joined the SAEB: To actively contribute to the enhancement of the campus community and to foster a supportive network among staff members. This involvement allows me to support staff interests and collaborate on impactful initiatives, ensuring a vibrant and engaging environment for all.

My favorite thing about work is: Interacting with my colleagues in different departments across campus.

The best advice I've heard: Life is too short; don't let others ruin it for you.

Outside of work, I enjoy: Attending anything music-related.

My favorite food is: Wagyu smash burger

Aracely Chavez

Special Projects & Campus Collaboration Chair

Contact: arc080@ucsd.edu

Home department: T. Denny Sanford Institute for Empathy and Compassion

Years with the University: 7

I joined the SAEB: For the networking and socializing opportunities. It’s been a great way to meet colleagues from different departments, share ideas, and build professional relationships. The social events and activities make work more enjoyable and help create a sense of community.

My favorite thing about work is: Having access to the many academic resources that help me keep learning and growing. I also love working with amazing people, which makes my job really fulfilling. Plus, the flexibility and work-life balance are essential for staying productive and healthy.

The best advice I've heard: The way someone treats you is a reflection of how they feel about themselves.

Outside of work, I enjoy: Spending time with my family, traveling, and enjoying the outdoors.

My favorite food is: Rolled tacos with extra guacamole

Divya Subramonian

Staff Education/Development Chair

Contact: dsubramonian@ucsd.edu

Home department: Moores Cancer Center

Years with the University: 4

I joined the SAEB because: Staff associations provide a platform for employees to connect and build relationships with colleagues from various departments and levels within the organization. These connections can be valuable for personal and professional growth, fostering a sense of camaraderie among employees and a positive work environment.

My favorite thing about work is: Help transforming research findings from the lab, clinic into practical strategies that enhance the health and well-being of individuals and the public.

The best advice I've heard: Regularly take time to reflect on what you are grateful for. This can improve your overall outlook on life and increase your happiness.

Outside of work, I enjoy: Dancing, yoga, and hiking with my husband little ones!

My favorite food is: Mexican

Hannah Aksamit

Wellness Chair

Contact:  haksamit@ucsd.edu

Home department: Women's Center

Years with the University: 2

I joined the SAEB because: I am personally invested in the holistic well-being of all communities I am part of. By joining, I believe I can contribute to a culture of wellness and resilience within the university community, and explore how this can continue to be cultivated through the Staff Association.

My favorite thing about work is: Overseeing our Women's Center internship program and building rapport, scaffolding learning, and empowering our student leaders fills my cup! There is so much growth that happens over the year.

The best advice I've heard: Just because you can, does not mean you should.

Outside of work, I enjoy: Hiking! There are so many options across San Diego county to explore.

My favorite food is: Depends on the day, but pho or a yellow chicken curry are some favorites. I love all food!

Izzy Narvaez

American Indian and Indigenous Faculty and Staff Association (AIIFSA)

Contact: imnarvaez@ucsd.edu

Home department: Cross-Cultural Center

Years with the University: 5

I joined because: I wanted to become a part of leading AIIFSA to create and foster a community with my Native and Indigenous colleagues on campus. We each have unique backgrounds and practices, and we are brought together by our common values and commitment to supporting Native and Indigenous students and the local community, always working toward indigenizing the university one step at a time!

My favorite thing about work is: Providing a space for students to develop their identities, and watching them build and foster their communities on campus. It is a privilege to witness students' growth each and every year and to know they will be so successful in their future careers.

The best advice I've heard: One of my former supervisors as a student staff once told me "The answer is always no unless you ask." I remember that advice often, and it has reminded me to be an advocate, even if just for myself, and you never know what could happen when you ask!

Outside of work, I enjoy: Exploring San Diego, going to La Jolla Shores, going to the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park, and supporting local businesses at Farmer's Markets or Swap Meets. When I am not out, I love watching reality tv and I am becoming a Bravo-holic.

My favorite food is: Tacos

Michaela Allen-Sanchez

American Indian and Indigenous Faculty and Staff Association (AIIFSA)

Contact: mna001@ucsd.edu

Sarab Aziz

Chair, Arab American Association

Contact: s3aziz@ucsd.edu

Home department: History

Years with the University: 10

I joined because: For the endless sense of community, connection and networking. 🙂

My favorite thing about work is: Listening to the students, learning from the faculty members and connecting with my colleagues.

The best advice I've heard: Life is TOO short

Outside of work, I enjoy: Reading, singing, gardening and traveling...

My favorite food is: Hummus & Falafel

Essma Eweida

Arab American Association

Contact: eeweida@ucsd.edu

Davyda Johnson

Black Staff Association (BSA)

EDI Advisory Council

Home department: Human Resources

Years with the University: 24

Contact: davyda@ucsd.edu

I joined the SAEB because: Joining SAEB provides a dynamic ability to influence, empower and educate others which is centered on cultivating a workplace rooted in inclusivity, equity, purpose, and growth. Essentially, I understand the power of advocacy for the seen and unseen. It is nothing short of a privilege to represent the constituency of BSA and UC San Diego!

My favorite thing about work is: The opportunity to make a meaningful impact across my spheres of influence and contribute to a thriving inclusive workplace.

The best advice I've heard: If it won't matter in 5 years, don't waste 5 minutes worrying about it.

Outside of work, I enjoy: Everything that contributes to my overall sense of fulfillment, growth, creativity and happiness!

My favorite food is: Carribean seafood

Anthony Singleton

co-Chair, Black Staff Association (BSA)

Contact: asingleton@ucsd.edu

Taura Gentry-Kelso

co-Chair, Black Staff Association (BSA)

Contact: tsgentry@health.ucsd.edu

Mario Garibay, Ed.D.

Chair, Chicanx/Latinx Staff Association (CLSA)

Contact: magaribay@ucsd.edu

Home department: Eleanor Roosevelt College Student Affairs

Years with the University: 9

I joined because: I joined CLSA to help build community among Latinx/Chicanx staff and connect with colleagues across campus.

Outside of work, I enjoy: Spending time with my family and watching movies.

My favorite food is: Hawaiian food!

Thalia Roman

Vice Chair, Chicanx/Latinx Staff Association (CLSA)

Contact: troman@ucsd.edu

Hiroko Wilson

Chair, Faculty and Staff Christian Fellowship (FSCF)

Contact: hwilson@ucsd.edu

Home department: Capital Program Management

Years with the University: 6

I joined because: I'm seeking connection with other Christians on campus and community.

My favorite thing about work is: Fantastic co-workers and very supportive supervisors.

The best advice I've heard: Fear not.

Outside of work, I enjoy: Taking a walk with my dog and participating in various volunteer activities.

My favorite food is: Fresh seafood.

Sonia Silva

Faculty and Staff Christian Fellowship (FSCF)

Contact: sosilva@ucsd.edu

Home department: Capital Program Management

Years with the University: 2

I joined because: I wanted to understand what the University has to offer its staff in a very hands-on manner. Being newer to the University, it's a great way to meet colleagues from other departments that I otherwise would not have an opportunity to interact with.

My favorite thing about work is: All of the incredible projects and buildings I get to have a hand in making come alive on campus. The University is always evolving and it's been rewarding being part of that change.

The best advice I've heard: Is to simply, "Be & Trust yourself!"

Outside of work, I enjoy: Outside of work I am an avid baker, I love paddle boarding, shark research, going to the gym, and singing along to 90s R&B.

My favorite food is: Favorite dish of all time would have to be my brother's Mole. Favorite cuisine is all things Italian. Give me all of the carbs!

Cindy Salinas

Faculty and Staff Christian Fellowship (FSCF)

Contact: cbsalinas@health.ucsd.edu

Home department: Post Lung Transplant

Years with the University: 3

I joined because: I want to be part of something meaningful and purposeful.

My favorite thing about work is: My co-workers and their work ethics.

The best advice I've heard: Even the smallest job can make a big difference.

Outside of work, I enjoy: Serving at my church and spending time with family.

My favorite food is: Poke Bowl.

Margaret Marshall

Pan-Asian Staff Association (PASA)

Contact: margaretmimie@ucsd.edu

Home department: Vice Chancellor for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion

Years with the University: 10

I joined: To be part of the campus community and network with other colleagues.

My favorite thing about work is: Supporting leadership with their calendaring.

The best advice I've heard: "No matter how thin the pancake, it always has two sides". Dr. Dillmann used to tell me this all the time.

Outside of work, I enjoy: I am a cigar enthusiast so anytime I get 2 hours to myself, I sit and smoke a nice cigar.

My favorite food is: Lao food, extra spicy!

Chelsea Largoza

Pan-Asian Staff Association (PASA)

Contact: clargoza@ucsd.edu

Home department: Electrical and Computer Engineering

Years with the University: 10

I joined because: Soon after joining PASA, I knew that I wanted to be more involved- and then quickly made my way up to Co-Chair. I am enjoying the opportunity to serve the Asian and Pacific Islander Staff of UC San Diego!

My favorite thing about work is: UC San Diego is like its own little city. The diversity of the campus community (and job opportunities) keeps it fresh and ever-evolving!

The best advice I've heard: Three things because they're all equally important to me: 1. First impressions matter ; 2. Ask for what you want... it's an automatic no if you don't! ; 3. You can't pour from an empty cup.

Outside of work, I enjoy: Dancing and performing with Pasacat Philippine Performing Arts Company and Na Pua 'Ilima Polynesian Dance School

My favorite food is: French Fries!

Sharon Young

Pan-Asian Staff Association (PASA)

Contact: ssyoung@health.ucsd.edu

Home department: Pediatrics

Years with the University: 16

I joined for: Allyship and community.

My favorite thing about work is: Connection and stewardship

The best advice I've heard: It's about the effort.

Outside of work, I enjoy: Singing/dancing.

My favorite food is: Everything.

Veronica Phair

Parents, Guardians and Caregivers Association (PGCA)

Contact: vphair@ucsd.edu

Home department: Department of Extended Studies

Years with the University: 8

Sheri Knox

Director, Retirement Association

Contact: sknox92117@gmail.com

Home department: Retired

Diana Henderson

Staff Sustainability Network

Contact: dlhenderson@ucsd.edu

Home department: Facilities and Space Information Management

Years with the University: 5

I joined the SAEB: To meet other people at the University and make a positive difference in the staff community.

My favorite thing about work is: Connecting people to relevant information utilizing intuitive and dynamic technological applications.

The best advice I've heard: Keep moving.

Outside of work, I enjoy: Hanging out with my dogs, husband, and friends.

My favorite food is: Peaches.

LaWana Richmond

Chair, UJIMA Network

Contact: lrichmond@ucsd.edu

Paul Krueger

Chair, Veterans Staff Association (VSA)

Contact: pkrueger@ucsd.edu

Home department: IT Services

Years with the University: 9

I joined because: I was elected Chair of VSA.

My favorite thing about work is: Networking (and, let's be honest, pay and benefits are great here too!)

The best advice I've heard: "Service and honor are not limited to the military. It's all in how you choose to be and the life you choose to live. Keep a warriors heart, always be ready to do the hard job, and always take care of those in need." -LTC Dale Marrou (my former commander)

Outside of work, I enjoy: Ancient history. 🤓

My favorite food is: Italian.

Carlos Martinez

Treasurer, Veterans Staff Association (VSA)

Contact: cm@ucsd.edu

Home department: Deans Office - School of Social Sciences

Years with the University: 15

I joined because: I believe in building community, at home and at work.

My favorite thing about work is: Being a mentor to my staff.

The best advice I've heard: Always lead with kindness, understanding and patience.

Outside of work, I enjoy: Being a Dad!

My favorite food is: I love all food from all countries... everyone has something delicious to contribute.

Rhett Miller

Visual Arts Group

Contact: rhett@ucsd.edu

Amanda Chavez

Ex-Officio

Home department: Human Resources

Csilla Csori

MarCom Committee Member

Home department: Supercomputer Center

Years with the University: 23

I joined the SAEB because: I felt disconnected working fully remote. Joining the Staff Association has given me an opportunity to create connections with colleagues from all parts of the campus.

My favorite thing about work is: Creative problem solving and hearing from my colleagues that the applications I build helps them get their work done more easily.

The best advice I've heard: "Finished is better than perfect." A friend gave this mantra as a way to overcome perfectionism that gets in the way of finishing a project.

Outside of work, I enjoy: Gardening, making things, board games, and TTRPGs.

My favorite food is: Hungarian cuisine and any home-cooking.

Justin Glover

MarCom Committee Member

Home department: Muir College