Faculty, Staff Making a Difference
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.
Heidi Breuer, associate professor, literature and writing studies
Breuer was nominated for her compassion for students, especially those working essential jobs during this challenging time, while providing continued support and flexibility.
“People like Dr. Breuer clearly care about their students as humans,” the nominator wrote. “This genuine care and appreciation for her students is undeniable during this difficult time. I do not think words can express my appreciation for Dr. Breuer.”
Dr. James Chun, interim medical director, Student Health and Counseling Services
Chun stepped into his role leading Student Health and Counseling Services in January, and it wasn’t long before he was guiding efforts to ensure the health and safety of the campus community during this unprecedented pandemic.
“Since the COVID-19 threat began, he has kept all of our staff informed and prepared,” the nominator wrote. “He is here every day with a smile on his face and a positive attitude. I am thankful to work with him.”
Nubia Junco-Williams, senior academic adviser, Office of Academic Advising
The student nominator noted that Junco-Williams has provided invaluable assistance, from changing a major to mapping out a detailed path to graduation to ensuring students get the necessary classes. The student said Junco-Williams even stepped in to help with technical issues related to registering for a class.
“She is the absolute sweetest and one of the most caring, helpful people I've met at CSUSM,” the student wrote.
Rachel Macasadia, commencement coordinator, Commencement Office
Macasadia coordinated the university’s first virtual Discover CSUSM Day – and did it all within a two-week timeframe.
“Rachel truly is a CSUSM hero during COVID-19,” the nominator wrote. “She designed, planned, coordinated and implemented a great Discover CSUSM open house with the help of our campus partners, including media production, communications, web services, faculty, staff, Disability Support Services, and many others.”
Maria Rasimas, resource and operations analyst, Planning and Academic Resources
Described as always providing a steady hand, Rasimas (pictured with other budget analysts) has outdone herself while juggling the added pressures of budget constraints while working remotely.
“She has been able to educate people from staff level to VP level in the construction of the budget process, which is critical at this moment in time,” the nominator wrote. “Maria works behind the scenes, but plays a vitally important and pivotal role at the university. There are so many of us who couldn’t do what we do without her.”
Lauren Schwartz, lecturer, anthropology
Schwartz has gone to great lengths to ensure her students’ well-being during this crisis, including constant email communications and ensuring that they have the resources they need to thrive.
“She is an excellent role model for how teachers should be,” the nominator wrote. “She is kind and cares about us, not only as students at a university but as individuals who are fighting each day to survive this world.”
Media Contact
Eric Breier, Public Affairs Specialist
ebreier@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7314