March 2026 A&F Times
March Column
As we settle into the spring semester, the care and support consistently demonstrated across Administration & Finance continues to stand out. This time of year often brings a steady rhythm of activity and, through it all, our division’s shared commitment to service remains constant.
Administration & Finance may not always be the most visible part of the campus experience, with attention often centered on what happens in the classroom, but our work touches nearly every corner of it. Across Financial Services, University Budget and Resource Planning, Facilities Management, Information Technology, Risk Management and Safety Services, Entrepreneurial Activities, Human Resources, and now also in partnership through the SFBRN, there is a shared throughline - steady, essential support that helps keep the university moving forward.
We carry significant responsibilities - stewardship of public funds, safety of our campus, compliance with systemwide and state requirements, and so much more. The work calls for judgment and partnership and much of what allows Sonoma State to operate each day is built through the collective effort of our division’s teams.
That said, with March upon us, we know how quickly the remainder of the semester will fly by. In what feels like a blink of an eye, we will be preparing for commencement - celebrating students as they cross the stage and look toward beginning their next chapter. Whether we are processing a financial aid package, issuing a paycheck, completing a vendor payment, running a recruitment, managing a budget, maintaining facilities, booking a conferencing event, mitigating risk or resolving a technology issue, it is important to remember that our work connects directly to that moment - a milestone for our students supported by the many teams across campus who help make it possible.
What's Happening on Campus
Career Fest is Back!
With graduation in sight, it's time for our Seawolves to hit the job search! The Career Center is hosting their annual Career Fest on Friday, March 13th. The Career Center team will be hosting a variety of workshops and pop-up events in the days leading up to the career fair to help students prepare and feel confident before meeting with employers. If you have any students in your area preparing to graduate this spring, please help spread the word and make sure they are aware of this opportunity as they prepare for life after graduation!
Support Art @ SSU
Art from the Heart celebrates its 42nd -anniversary benefit auction and party at the University Art Gallery on Saturday, April 4th from 5-8pm! Proceeds from the auction directly benefit the Art Gallery's exhibition, publication, and lecture programs—programs that educate and inspire our campus and surrounding community. As always, Art from the Heart is an exciting evening of art, food, wine, and music that has become one of the oldest continually-held fundraising events in the area and a must for novice and seasoned collectors alike. The event features a silent auction of modestly-priced works by over 100 artists from Sonoma County and across the U.S., including current SSU students and professional artists. It’s a great way to support the Gallery (and in turn, the careers of worthy artists), and go home with an original work of art.
Spring 2026 Budget & Planning Forum
Join the campus community for the Spring 2026 Budget & Planning Forum on Thursday, April 2nd from 9am-11am in Ballroom A. This event is an opportunity for members of the campus community to learn more about current budget planning, ask questions, and engage in meaningful dialogue.
Dinner and a... Murder Mystery?
Step into the Upside Down for a night of suspense, secrets, and seriously good food at the Stranger Things Murder Mystery Dinner. From Eggo waffles and Surfer Boy Pizza to a build-your-own “Philly Cheese Steak” bar and Demogorgon-worthy desserts, the menu is packed with clever nods to your favorite Hawkins crew. But this isn’t just dinner, it’s a full-blown investigation. As the mystery unravels, you’ll work to uncover what’s lurking beneath the surface before time runs out. This is an event you won't want to miss! Join in on the fun at The Kitchens on Thursday, March 12th from 4-7pm.
Chili Cookoff Champ!
Congratulations to Saul Razo Aguilar for taking home the title of Champion at the 7th Annual Chili Cookoff! A total of 10 members of the Culinary Team entered their specialty chilis, but Saul's "Soul Crusher" chili took the top spot.
This year's top three finishers:
- First Place - "Soul Crusher" - Saul Razo Aguilar
- Second Place - "Fat Jimmy's Grease Bucket" - Daniel White
- Third Place - "Your Mom's" - Danica Hulbert
Kudos to the entire Culinary team for another successful event! A total of 450 guests came out to enjoy the event, with 200 people casting votes. Thank you to all who came out to support, and keep an eye out for more fun dining events coming soon!
Shoutouts!
Facilities Management proudly recognizes Keith Tucker, Maintenance Mechanic, as our certified Aerial Lift Equipment Trainer at Sonoma State University. Keith is certified to teach the safe operation of boom lifts and scissor lifts to Facilities personnel and campus partners. Known for being thorough, patient, and informative, he always places safety first, ensuring every participant is confident and well-prepared. Congratulations to our newly certified operators from Landscaping, Maintenance, and the Auto Shop: Britta Baskerville, Jack Pieper, Keith Tucker, Bryan Carter, Ezekiel Hart, Gabe Fowler, and Wayne Dickman. And thank you, Keith, for your dedication to safe operations and your continued commitment to Communication, Transparency, and Teamwork.
Jake Hornsby shared recognition and thanks for Ivonne Mejia Burzunza and Sadie Pettit for their work in helping to advance the SFBRN ITS team through coordinated team-building and strategic ideation sessions. After the initial session led at Sonoma State, the team has expanded the reach to lead additional sessions at partner campuses CSU East Bay and San Fransico State University. Way to go team!
Have you noticed the large logs floating in the North Lakes? These were added last fall as part of the North Lakes Rehabilitation Project to provide safe space for turtles and other wildlife to lounge - safe to say they seem to be enjoying the new additions!
In yet another example of "Twinning at SSU", members of Suite 2050 from both Academic Affairs and A&F showed out in their festive attire for Valentine's Day! We love to see our team's outfits so in sync!
Live at Cabernet Village Apartments
Contemplating a move for spring or summer? Check out Cabernet Village Apartments! Nestled in the northwest corner of the Sonoma State University campus, these apartments offer spacious livimg (more than 1,200 square feet of living space!) in a secluded setting. These two bedroom, one bathroom apartments include open living spaces, modern kitchens, are pet friendly, and the monthly rent of $2,500 includes all utilities (including laundry). Availability is limited, so if you are interested, please email [email protected] for more information!
Anniversaries!
Celebrated Anniversaries in February
| Name | Department |
|---|---|
| Mary Ferrer | Kitchens |
| Taylor Green | Parking |
| Aimee Studer | University Police |
| Maria Alves | Housekeeping |
| Maritza Hernandez Sanchez | Housekeeping |
| Shawn Taylor | University Budget & Resource Planning |
| Kelley Greene | Operations & Engineering |
| Shyla Penn | Seawolf Services |
| Michael Alvarez | Housekeeping |
| Tyson Hill | Risk Management & Safety Services |
| Jaime Lugo | Landscaping |
| Trisha Ramos | Payroll & Benefits |
| Ivonne Manriquez | Financial Aid |
| Elizabeth O'Brien | Seawolf Services |