Dear Student Affairs Family,
Earlier this year at the CSUSM Awards & Service Celebration, we had the honor of recognizing members of our campus community whose dedication, leadership, and commitment have made a lasting impact at CSUSM. Among those recognized was Patricia (Patty) Diaz, who recently celebrated 25 years of service to CSUSM.
I had the privilege of sitting down with Patty for a special video interview to reflect on her journey — not only her professional path, but the growth, courage, and care that have defined her time at CSUSM and within Student Affairs.
During our conversation, Patty shares who she was when she first arrived at CSUSM 25 years ago, and what ultimately brought her here during a time of transition and uncertainty in her life. Like many of our students, Patty took a leap of faith — stepping outside of her comfort zone, embracing new opportunities, and learning to believe in her own potential. Her story is a powerful reminder that the work we do is personal and profoundly impactful. It reflects our shared commitment to transforming lives, one student at a time.
I encourage you to take a few minutes to watch the full conversation here.
In addition to Patty, I extend my deepest appreciation to all the staff and faculty recognized at this year’s Awards & Service Celebration for their years of service to CSUSM and our students:
20 Years
Norma Larios, Interim Associate Vice President & Dean of Students
Heather Northway, TRIO Student Support Services Director
Todd Snedden, Athletics Associate Director
15 Years
Stephanie Briles, SHCS Administrative & Operations Analyst
Greg Hutton, Men's and Women's Head Golf Coach
Mae Talicuran, Disability Support Services Counselor
10 Years
Amanda Casados-Aviles, SHCS Licensed Vocational Nurse
Jenna Dahlin, SHCS Licensed Vocational Nurse
Lissa Lim, SHCS Interim Director of Counseling & Psychological Services
Brenda Mata, EOP Retention Counselor
Lisa Midkiff, Career Center Career Counselor
Christiana Moen, Director of New Student & Family Programs
David Nathanson, Assistant Director of Athletics, Academics, Compliance, Eligibility, Student Services
Lizeth Quiroz, SHCS Front Desk Coordinator
5 Years
Josefina Espino, COMPASS Assistant Director
Tony Pang, Director, Student Engagement & Leadership
Leah Tappero, SHCS Psychologist
Thank you for the inspiration you continue to provide to our students, colleagues, and the broader CSUSM community.
With appreciation,
Viridiana Diaz, Ed.D.
Vice President for Student Affairs
