Although a graduate of the University of California, Santa Barbara, I have found my true home here at UCLA. During my four and a half years as a Bruin, I have worked in various positions in the Academic Senate Office. My work with committees overseeing such issues as Diversity, Faculty Welfare, Childcare, and Community and Continuing Education, although focused on the faculty perspective, has highlighted the many commonalities between faculty and staff, which include Work/life Balance, housing, childcare, and healthcare. During my time at UCLA I have also had the opportunity to work on a number of awards committees and Staff Assembly activities, including the Distinguished Teaching Award, Faculty Research Lectureship, Fair and Open Academic Environment Award, the Staff Assembly awards selection committee, and the Emerging Research Speakers Series.

As a participant of the Professional Development Program (PDP), I was able to strengthen my love and respect for this University and surround myself with others who are ready and eager to engage the UCLA community. The Vice President for Special Projects position would provide the opportunity to create and continue programs.