making

connections

I Appreciate...

In the Fall 2021 edition of Inside UC Merced, we asked readers to tell us who has made these always challenging, sometimes arduous years under the pandemic easier to bear. Whom among the campus community do you appreciate for sharing the load, clearing a path or lightening the mood?

Here are more words and images of appreciation. We will continue to share these in Monday Memo.

Paul is our go-to person in the Applied Math graduate program. He is genuinely concerned with graduate student welfare, and he and his team work diligently to assist students as they go through our program. Paul is ready to help and always with a smile.

Roummel Marcia (right), Professor, Applied Math

Appreciates

Paul Roberts (left), Graduate Programs Director, School of Natural Sciences

John goes the extra mile, even when it’s not needed, and he is always supportive.

Sandra Mora (right), Personnel and Financial Analyst, Merritt Writing Program

Appreciates

John Bultena (left), Lecturer, Merritt Writing Program

Tamela is very knowledgeable and willing to share that knowledge. Her work ethic sets a great example for subordinates and co-workers to follow. Tamela is always willing to lend a hand, even when her plate is full. I am always impressed by how Tamela treats everyone with respect and a positive attitude.

Tracy Staiger (left), Campus Fire Marshal, Fire And Building Safety

Appreciates

Tamela Adkins (right), Support Services Manager, Protective Services

Tamika does not shame me when I make mistakes, but rather encourages me to be better. When I need redirection and correction, she steers me back on the right track in a professional manner with constructive critique rather than patronization.

Jeshua Hopson (right), Department Specialist, School of Engineering

Appreciates

Tamika Hankston (left), Department Specialist Supervisor, School of Engineering

Valara Villanueva is a fantastic team player who has positively impacted CARE programs during the pandemic, including moving in-person programs to various online platforms. Valara’s strength, warmth and good energy contribute to a great work environment. You are truly appreciated, Valara!

Yesenia Curiel (left), CARE Advocacy Office

Appreciates

Valara Villanueva (right), Prevention Education Coordinator, CARE Advocacy

With a depth of experience, good humor and responsiveness, Sam cultivates positive working relationships and makes it her mission to take care of faculty needs.

Estee Beck (right), Director, Merritt Writing Program

Appreciates

Sam Ocena (left), Associate Director, Merritt Writing Program

how to connect

build your network

Build Your Network is a series of meetings in which colleagues learn about UC Merced and the numerous opportunities to connect with others and expand your opportunities for personal and professional growth.

UC Merced Connect app

The app serves as a central gateway to the university, offering simplified access to resources and information through a personalized interface. Get university news and events Information about dining, parking and transportation, employee benefits, etc.

Career Advancement Mentorship Program

CAMP matches experienced UC Merced employees with staff members who are seeking professional development. There are several sessions and meetings scheduled over the course of a year.

New Employee Orientation

NEO provides newcomers with an introduction to UC Merced and points to critical connections for the onboarding experience. New staff should attend an NEO within 60 days of starting employment.

Events Calendar

Find out what’s happening in and around the UC Merced community.

University Directory

Who’s who at UC Merced? The directory allows you to search by first or last name, department and UCM Net ID.