Four Staff Members Recognized for 40 Years of Service as part of Awards Ceremony

Photo by Erik Jepsen/UC San Diego Publications

Collectively contributing more than 16.8 million hours to UC San Diego, nearly 500 staff members were recognized for their outstanding service and dedication at the 46th Annual Service Awards held Oct. 14 in the Price Center West ballroom. Acknowledgement and awards were given to those who had reached 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35 and 40-year milestones in their careers.

During the celebration, Executive Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Suresh Subramani expressed his deep gratitude for the commitment, service and loyalty of all UC San Diego staff members. “The outstanding work you contribute, the mentorship you provide and the collegiality you offer our students and faculty is truly inspiring,” Subramani said. “Your partnership and engagement will be integral to our university’s continued success as we move forward with implementing our strategic goals for the future.”

Four staff members were honored for their 40-year commitment to UC San Diego, including Mae Brown, assistant vice chancellor of Admissions and Enrollment Services; Juanita Cantero, administrative assistant in the Marine Physical Laboratory; Teresa Jackson, staff research associate, chemistry and biochemistry; and Mary Walshok, associate vice chancellor for public programs and dean of UC San Diego Extension.

Mae Brown

Assistant Vice Chancellor of Admissions and Enrollment Services

Mae Brown began working in the office of undergraduate admissions at UC San Diego in 1972 as a senior clerk typist, eventually transitioning into the role of director of academic advising at Thurgood Marshall College. “I have always enjoyed working with students and staff at UC San Diego,” said Brown. “I love the spirit of innovation and collaboration.”

Today, she is an integral leader in sustaining and growing the student population on campus as assistant vice chancellor of admissions and enrollment services. On reaching her 40th milestone Brown remarked, “This was one of the most personally fulfilling moments in my professional career. I am still on an emotional high.”

Juanita Cantero

Administrative Assistant, Marine Physical Laboratory

Juanita Cantero joined the UC San Diego Marine Physical Laboratory when she was a senior in high school in 1973, and upon graduation, began working full time as a clerk typist. Cantero was drawn to the campus for the benefits offered to employees and the family-oriented values. “UC San Diego is a wonderful place to work,” said Cantero.

Although she did not plan on 40 years, Cantero is glad to still be an employee of UC San Diego. “It gave me a wonderful feeling to be one of the 40-year recipients,” said Cantero. “It is a special feeling to be recognized for being a longtime employee. I am thankful for it.”

Teresa Jackson

Staff Research Associate, chemistry and biochemistry

Responsible for managing and maintaining the laboratory systems in the chemistry and biochemistry department at UC San Diego, Terri Jackson began as a work study student in 1969. Hailed as an irreplaceable scientific resource, Jackson’s dedication and energy is infamous among those who work with her.

“Terri is probably the most hardworking, thoughtful and helpful individual I’ve ever met. I can’t say enough good things about her,” said Morgan Nunn Martinez, a graduate student in chemistry and biochemistry. “The quality of my life has improved greatly from knowing her. I know everyone in our lab feels the same.”

Mary Walshok

Associate Vice Chancellor for Public Programs and Dean of UC San Diego Extension

Arriving at UC San Diego in 1972, Mary Walshok served as director of Women’s Programs before transitioning into her current role as dean of Extension. Walshok has been instrumental in attracting tens of thousands of students to Extension’s post baccalaureate and certificate programs, assuring a competitive talent pool for San Diego’s innovation economy. Also, as co-founder of CONNECT—a non-profit organization that unites local business leaders with university researchers—she has fostered regional economic growth through cross-disciplinary collaborations.

“I think it’s no secret that I’m a great fan of Mary Walshok,” said Richard Atkinson, UC President emeritus and former UC San Diego Chancellor. “She’s made incredible contributions to UC San Diego, and in addition, she’s been a wonderful bridge to the greater San Diego community.”