20
July
2020
|
13:38 PM
America/Los_Angeles

Faculty, Staff Celebrated for Contributions During Pandemic

As Cal State San Marcos faculty and staff continue to go above and beyond on behalf of students and the campus community during the COVID-19 crisis, we’re pleased to highlight some of the campus heroes as nominated by students and colleagues.

Know someone who deserves special recognition for their efforts? Email details to publicity@csusm.edu and we’ll include them in an upcoming edition of this ongoing series.

 

Rosa Conrad, outreach staff, University Library

Among Conrad’s many contributions since the University Library’s move to a virtual environment are creating a video to introduce new and potential students to the library and coordinating its first virtual Pause for Paws event.

“Rosa’s ability to adapt and meet short deadlines, all while continuing to be innovative and maintain a positive attitude has been remarkable, and I am so glad I have the opportunity to work with her and that students have the opportunity to interact with her as they learn about the library,” the nominator wrote.

 

Marylou Gonzalez, retention counselor, Educational Opportunity Program (EOP)

Gonzalez has been instrumental in encouraging students to continue moving forward on their path to graduation.

“Marylou goes out of her way to make sure people reach all their academic goals as she role models solution-focused interventions that help students in the EOP department remain resilient,” the nominator wrote. “She has a great sense of humor and goes the extra mile even on days off to accommodate students’ needs prior to graduating.”

 

Danielle McMartin, associate director, Global Education

While the COVID-19 pandemic has led to challenges across campus, it has included unique ones for Global Programs and Services as it works to ensure the well-being of international students. McMartin (pictured with the Global Programs and Services team at last year’s International Fair) was highlighted for her ability to rapidly respond to an ever-evolving situation as she continued to provide valuable services and keep international students informed.

“At this time, it's really important to be responsive and dedicated, which she does with great efforts,” the nominator wrote. “Her work should be much appreciated.”

 

Rachel Miller, lecturer, psychology

Miller was highlighted for her compassion and her ongoing assistance for students during the transition to virtual learning in the spring. The nominator also praised Miller for her support of Disability Support Services.

“Dr. Miller pushes everyone to reach their fullest potential,” the nominator wrote. “She pays special attention to everyone’s schoolwork and provides feedback that is helpful. Dr. Miller will always be memorable to me. She is direct, funny and, most importantly, accountable.”

 

Toni Olivas, engagement and inclusion librarian, University Library

Olivas was praised for her ability to continually find and implement ways to engage with CSUSM students, faculty, staff and the community, all while implementing inclusive practices. Olivas’ accomplishments during the pandemic include launching the library’s first campus Common Read virtual book discussion, and she is currently working on the next context exhibit, which will be the library’s first all-virtual exhibit of the series.

“Toni’s passion and work ethic has been inspiring and extremely motivating as she continues to engage with the CSUSM community and library partners,” the nominator wrote.

 

Library Technology Initiatives and Development (LTID) team

The LTID team includes Ian Chan, head of library technology initiatives and development; Amanda Dalgleish, web development and user experience specialist; Roger Delgado, DevOps specialist; Steven R. Espinoza, systems operations analyst; and Khuong Vu, analyst/programmer.

“Ian and his team have been responsive, nimble and innovative in transitioning the library to virtual services – no easy task,” the nominator wrote. “They continually improve the library’s online tools and systems, enhance the user experience, and enable the library’s website to be utilized in new and exciting ways.

“They have also taken on a huge task this summer of testing and changing the process for logging in to library databases so only one login is required. This is especially crucial as students, staff and faculty continue to work virtually. The team has also played a key role in building the infrastructure for the Together/Apart COVID-19 Community Memory Archive.”

Media Contact

Eric Breier, Public Affairs Specialist

ebreier@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7314