Jolene Sedita, Student Affairs Coordinator, School of Public Policy,UCR

I have been with the University of California for 20 years. I have spent the past 17 years at UCR working with the Office of Undergraduate Admissions and now the School of Public Policy. I earned my BA in Sociology from UCI and my MPA from Cal State Fullerton.

Dr. Bryan Scott, Postdoctoral Fellow, Northwestern University

Dr. Bryan Scott is the LSST Discovery Alliance Data Science Fellowship Program Postdoctoral Fellow at the Center for Interdisciplinary Exploration and Research in Astrophysics (CIERA) at Northwestern University. He earned his PhD in Physics & Astronomy from UCR in 2022, where his research examined the intersection of astrophysics and cosmology in the context of photometric and spectroscopic intensity mapping, novel techniques for surveying large volumes of the universe. While earning his PhD at UCR, he was the Teaching Assistant Development Program Lead Consultant and a leader of the UCR American Physical Society Inclusion, Diversity, and Equity Alliance (APS-IDEA) team. He currently co-directs the Data Science Fellowship Program, an international fellowship program for Astronomy PhD students intended to build scientific, technical, and professional skills required to address the next generation "big data" challenges shared across all branches of Astronomy. His other scholarly interests include the history, sociology, and philosophy of science.

Dr. Huguette Albrecht, Director of Grants & Contracts, Bourns College of Engineering, UCR

Huguette Albrecht is the Director of Research Development in the Grants and Contracts office of the Bourns College of Engineering at UC Riverside. She holds a Ph.D. in Molecular and Cellular Biology from the University of Strasbourg, France. Her research specialty areas include virology, plant and human biology, immunology, and oncology. Huguette transitioned to research development 10 years ago. Prior to her current position she successively was the Editorial Coordinator on the Interdisciplinary Research Support team at UC Davis, and the Research Development Associate on the Sustainable L.A. Grand Challenge team at UCLA.

Dr. Dena Plemmons, Director of Research Ethics & Education, Graduate Division, UCR

Dena Plemmons, Phd, is the founding Director of the Research Ethics Education Program at the University of California, Riverside.

Vivian Gonzalez, Basic Needs Coordinator, UCR

Currently the Basic Needs Coordinator for the Basic Needs Department. She is a first generation college student with her B.A from CSUF and MSW from CSULB. Coming from a social work background, she hopes to continue making an impact on campus and continue addressing housing and food insecurity among students.

Dr. Emma Wilson, Associate Dean of Graduate Division, UCR

Emma Wilson is the Associate Dean of the Graduate Division and a professor of Biomedical Sciences. Her lab studies Toxoplasma gondii and the neuroimmune interactions that it is causes in the brain.

Katharine Fitzgerald, Education Abroad, UCR

Katharine Fitzgerald is a Program Advisor for the Education Abroad office at UCR. She earned her B.A. in history from UCR and her M.A. in history from the University of Edinburgh Scotland.

Dr. Clifford Morrison, Postdoctoral Scholar, UCR

Dr. Clifford Morrison, a biotechnologist and synthetic biologist, earned his Ph.D. from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, New York. Presently, he serves as a postdoctoral scholar in the Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering at the University of California, Riverside. His research is primarily centered on environmental biotechnology with a focus on plant synthetic biology and plant-microbe interactions. Dr. Morrison is committed to leveraging biotechnological innovations to address pressing environmental and agricultural challenges.

Dr. Sarah Sawaf, Outreach Coordinator, CAPS, UCR

Dr. Sarah Sawaf is the Outreach Coordinator for Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS). She received her BA in Psychology from UCR, her MSW from USC, and her DSW from CBU. She is passionate about mental health promotion, prevention, and stigma reduction. She currently co-instructs the Mental Health Allies program and serves on the Riverside County Suicide Prevention Coalition Higher Education Subcommittee.

Dr. Damaris Godinez-Vidal, Project Scientist, UCR

Damaris Godinez-Vidal, Project Scientist of Evolutionary Systems Biology in the Department of Nematology, earned my Ph.D. in Plant Pathology at the Postgraduate College, Mexico. I then studied the early events leading to water deficit responses in the liverwort Marchantia polymorpha as a post-doc at the University Autonomous of Mexico before I joined UCR as a Project Scientist at Groen Lab. I work with plants like chili paper, tomato, cowpea, tobacco, poplar, rice, citrus, Arabidopsis thaliana, and M. polymorpha. Our group studies the evolution of interactions between parasitic nematodes and their hosts, including plants (mustards, rice, nightshades, and their wild relatives) and plant-feeding insects. Our research aims to unravel this complex evolutionary tug-of-war using a combination of laboratory and field experiments. Focusing on the central role that plant chemicals play, his group uses omics technologies and analytical approaches from evolutionary and systems biology to zoom in at the molecular level.

Stephen Morales, Director of Foster Youth Services, UCR

Stephen Morales is a MSW specializing in clinical social work, champions LGBTQ+ and foster youth for 15+ years. Experienced in housing, TAY centers, PEI programs, and aiding mental health stigma reduction. Board president at REACH LA, empowering young LGBTQ+ BIPOCs. Striving for LCSW. Passionate about fostering excellence and diversity in FYSS at UCR.

Cheryl Gerry, CFAO of Graduate Division, UCR

Cheryl Gerry is the Assistant Dean and Chief Financial & Administrative Officer for the UCR Graduate Division.

Anne Sullivan, Teaching Assistant Development Program Coordinator, Graduate Division, UCR

Dr. Sullivan received her B.A. and Ph.D. in English from UCR, where she researched nineteenth-century British literature and media history. She completed her dissertation, “On Fire: Industrialization, Media Technologies, and the Imagination, 1800-1900,” in 2018 while continuing as a lecturer in the University Writing Program (2017-2019). After UCR, Anne joined the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) as the inaugural Weisman Postdoctoral Scholar in Visual Culture (2019-2021) and as the Anne Rothenberg Postdoctoral Scholar in Visual Culture (2021-2022). In 2020, Anne was awarded a Harry Ransom Center archival research fellowship in support of her second book project, “Imaging the Universe in Victorian Astrophotography and Literature.” In 2022, Anne’s research and pedagogy was recognized with a finalist award from the American Council of Learned Societies (ACLS) Emerging Voices Fellowship program. After a rewarding time mentoring first-year and continuing Teaching Assistants (TA) in the TA Development Program (2022-2023), Anne is now pursuing her passion for teaching as a lecturer in UCR’s University Writing Program.

Dr. Christine Mata, Associate Vice Chancellor and Dean of Students, Academic Affairs UCR

Dr. Christine Mata has been serving as the Associate Vice Chancellor and Dean of Students since 2019. She considers it a privilege to work with UCR students whom she considers to be the best and brightest in the University of California!! Dr. Mata earned her PhD from UCLA, MA from Michigan State University and a BA from UC Irvine. 

Dr. Shawn Ragan, Vice President, California Indian Nations College, UCR

Shawn Ragan is the Vice President and Chief Operations Officer at California Indian Nations College, a two-year Tribal college located in the Coachella Valley. In his role, VP Ragan oversees Academics, Accreditation, Admissions, Enrollment Management, Institutional Effectiveness, IT, and Student Affairs. VP Ragan works with students, faculty, and administration to build academic and student programs that address the specific needs of Native and non-Native students. He is also an Adjunct Professor at the University of the West in Rosemead, CA and the President of the Riverside and Inland Empire local society of the Archaeological Institute of America. VP Ragan has a B.A. in History from Boise State University, an M.A. in History from the University of California, Riverside, and is currently completing the final chapters of his Ph.D. dissertation, “Inter Divos Referri : Roman Imperial Cult in the Third Century C.E.,” which examines the intersection of politics and religion in periods of crisis. VP Ragan was also the Graduate Student Association (GSA) President for two years at UCR. Outside of the academy, he enjoys spending time with his family and two dogs, enjoys mid-century Americana, and is an avid Nebraska Cornhuskers football and Sevens Rugby fan. 

Cati Porter, Executive Director, Inlandia Institute, UCR

Cati Porter is a poet, editor, and arts administrator. She received her MFA in Creative Writing from Antioch University Los Angeles. She is a 2023-24 California Arts Council Individual Artist Fellow.

Dr. Juliann Emmons Allison, Associate Professor/Faculty Director, Dept. of Society, Environment & Health Equity/Sustainability Office, UCR

Juliann Emmons Allison is Associate Professor of Society, Environment & Health Equity, Faculty Chair of Sustainability and Director of Global Studies at the University of California-Riverside. Emmons Allison’s current research examines the sustainability of Southern California’s warehousing industry, gender and transitions to renewable energy sources, and ecological grief. Her research has most been funded by the Coachella Valley Mountains Conservancy, the American Alpine Club, the California Energy Commission, the California Department of Transportation, the National Institutes of Health and the National Science Foundation. Recent publications include Unsustainable: Amazon, Warehousing & the Politics of Exploitation, co-authored with Ellen Reese, and The Oxford Handbook of Energy Politics, co-edited with Kathleen J. Hancock. 

Dr. Hillary Jenks, Co-Executive Director, Inland Empire Labor Institute, UCR

Dr. Hillary Jenks, Co-Executive Director of the Inland Empire Labor Institute (IELI), is a leader with over 15 years of dedicated experience in managing complex organizations and serving diverse stakeholders in the fields of education and workforce development. At IELI she directs Plug In IE, a High Road Training Partnership in Sustainable Logistics, co-convenes the region’s California Jobs First collaborative (Thrive Inland SoCal) with IEGO, and oversees the Institute’s strategic planning and financial management. Previously she directed professional development programs for over 3500 graduate students at UCR, led the Center for Social Justice and Civil Liberties for the Riverside Community College District, and taught at Portland State University. She received her PhD from the University of Southern California.

Dr. Stephanie King, Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles

Dr. King is a biomedical scientist at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles studying gastrointestinal stem cell regeneration. During her time at UCR she served as GSA EVP and UC Graduate and Professional Council President. She enjoys hiking on the weekends with her husband, 1yo son, and two dogs. 

William Gerdes, Assistant Principal, Citrus High School

WIlliam Gerdes is a graduate of the Cal State San Bernardino where he recieved a BA in English Literature and a Masters in English Composition.  He taught high school English for 15 years and then went on to work as a Teacher on Special Assignment. For the last seven years he has served as an administrator in the Val Verde Unified School District. He lives in Riverside with his wife, four children and three cats.

Dr. Dianne Elton, Director, International Education Center (retired) UCR

Diane Elton was the Director of UC Riverside’s former International Education Center. Nationally, she serves on the Membership Engagement Committee of NAFSA: Association of International Educators which has oversight for the group’s international conference career center and resume mentoring in the field of international educational exchange.  Additionally, Diane has been a NASFSA reviewer for juried sessions, posters and publications. She has also reviewed scholarship and opportunity applications for international agencies of Japan and the United States.  For UCR, Diane has served on multiple scholarship/fellowship selection committees, including Fulbright and Grad Slam panels. Currently, Diane serves as Board Secretary for the World Affairs Council of Inland Southern California and past president of the International Relations Council of Riverside, having led the group to Best in Nation status for its Sister City programs. Last Spring, Diane was awarded UCR's Global Ambassador Award as one of the inaugural inductees.

Dr. Francisca Reyes, Campus Director of Blackstone LaunchPad, Office of Technology Partnerships, UCR

Dr. Francisca Reyes was introduced to entrepreneurship when she was a graduate student. Since then, her focus is on Mexican American female entrepreneurs, rural entrepreneurship, technology transfer and entrepreneurship-led economic development.  She has provided technical assistance to entrepreneurs and reviewed the novelty of technologies prior to commercialization at New Mexico State University’s Arrowhead Center and taught Entrepreneurship, Business and Economics at Western New Mexico University. Most recently, she worked with the United Nations Development Program Mexico creating strategies to attract investment and incorporate small businesses in global value chains. Francisca holds a Doctorate in Economic Development from New Mexico State University, an MBA and MPA from University of Texas at El Paso and a BS in Industrial Engineering from Institute of Technology in Durango, Mexico.  She joined the University of California - Riverside’s Office of Technology Partnerships on December 1, 2021, as the Entrepreneurial Education Lead and Campus Director for the Blackstone LaunchPad, where she promotes entrepreneurship among UCR students. 

Dr. Frank Figueroa, Council Member, City of Coachella

Frank Figueroa, Ed.D., a native of Coachella and the proud son and grandson of farmworkers, is the first openly OUT elected official in the City of Coachella, driving progress and advocating for inclusivity. With extensive public service experience including roles on the Planning Commission and the Southern Coachella Community Services District Board of Directors, he prioritizes the needs of all residents. Figueroa's decade-long tenure at the University of California, Riverside, underscores his belief in the transformative power of education, striving for equal access to educational opportunities for every individual in Coachella. As a UCR alumnus, Figueroa exemplifies integrity, compassion, and perseverance as he works towards an inclusive and prosperous Coachella. Figueroa remains committed to his vision of a better community for all.

Sophia Jurisch, Executive Director, Ability Accounts

Sophia Jurisch is the Executive Director of Ability Counts, Inc., a non-profit organization in the Inland Empire that focuses on supporting individuals with special needs. With 24 years of experience in human services and an additional 9 years in finance at UC Riverside, Sophia brings a unique blend of expertise to her role. Her passion for making a positive impact on the lives of those in need is evident in her commitment and drive to create a more inclusive and supportive community for individuals with special needs. Through her leadership and experience, Sophia continues to make a lasting difference in the lives of many within the Inland Empire region. Her time at UC Riverside was marked by her dedication to ensuring financial compliance and maximizing funding opportunities for the institution. Through her expertise and commitment, Sophia played a crucial role in securing grants and managing contracts that contributed to the university's growth and success.

Nora Hackett, Executive Licensing Officer, UCR

Nora Hackett was awarded a Ph.D. in Biology from Brown University, where she studied hormone action in isolated fat cell systems. She had further research experience with lung cell turnover in animals exposed to oxidizing gases and particulates. She studied to become a patent agent and worked for almost 30 years at several sites of the University of California, including Lawrence Livermore National Lab, to help faculty to disclose and protect inventions which arise from their research. She has had extensive experience in negotiating contracts with and the licensing of inventions with private industry. In retirement, Nora is especially interested in supporting and encouraging young women to study engineering and technology innovations.

Sol Garay, Advisor to Mayor, City of Riverside

Sol Garay serves as an Education Advisor to the incumbent Mayor of Riverside, Patricia Lock Dawson. In addition to this role, he provides essential administrative assistance within the office, catering to resident inquiries, handling vital document printing and filing, and staffing the Mayor at events. Sol earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with a concentration in International Relations from the University of California, San Diego. He is also a current student at Riverside City College, studying Japanese language and literature.

Maryana Carreon, Cheech Program Associate, The Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art & Culture

Maryana Carreon is the Cheech Program Associate at the Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art & Culture of the Riverside Art Museum and also serves on the board of Riverside Latino Network. She is an advocate for Chicane/Latine artistic expression, environmental justice, community care, and Indigenous Rights. Carreon earned her Bachelor of Arts in Cultural Anthropology with a minor in History from the University of California, Santa Barbara.

Wajdie Ahmad, Biopharmaceutical Entrepreneur, UCR Alumnus

Wajdie Ahmad is a seasoned Biopharmaceutical entrepreneur and investor, boasting over 23 years of invaluable industry experience. At present, Mr. Ahmad is a co-founder in several clinical-stage biopharmaceutical ventures, each dedicated to pioneering novel therapeutics aimed at addressing unmet medical needs. Mr. Ahmad's academic journey includes earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from the University of California, Riverside, and a Master of Business Administration degree in Management from the University of California, Irvine. Mr. Ahmed worked at Allergan, where he held various roles of increasing responsibility within the Biologics manufacturing and development groups. His most notable endeavor includes co-founding and serving as the Chief Operating Officer of Bonti, a company he helped establish in 2015.

Sam Konyn, Software Developer, Board of Trustees, UC Riverside

Sam is a UCR Alum. for the past 20 years he has been developing software for automotive diagnostics. He is the chief architect for Mopar's cloud-based diagnostics used by Stellantis dealerships worldwide. He has been a UCR patron for the past 8 years and a member of the UCR Foundation Board of Trustees for the past 4 years.

Jose Medina, Former State Assemblymember, Riverside County

Jose Medina is an educator and politician who represented the 61st Assembly District of California. Medina was the Chair of the Higher Education Committee and a member of the California Latino Legislative Caucus and the California Legislative Jewish Caucus. Prior to being elected to the Assembly in 2012, he was a teacher at Riverside Poly High School.