Briefly describe your job/role at UC Berkeley:
Ann serves as the coordinator for UC Berkeley's first Disability Cultural Community Center, creating inclusive spaces and advocating for the disability community on campus.
How long has the nominee worked at Cal?
Four years.
What does the nominee love about working at UC Berkeley?
Ann loves connecting with passionate advocates and leaders across campus, witnessing student leadership development, and collaborating with colleagues outside disability-specific spaces to advance inclusivity and equity through cross-promotion and mutual support.
What makes the nominee a star, what sets them apart from their colleagues?
Ann champions the non-negotiable rights and opportunities of disabled community members, working beyond basic compliance to ensure representation and respect. She excels at both creating safe, welcoming spaces for community building and engaging in impactful advocacy work that pushes the campus to truly value the contributions and dignity of disabled individuals.
What tip would the nominee pass on to other staff to thrive on campus?
Ann would advise that even when your contributions may not seem valued in your immediate environment, finding your own community of like-minded colleagues who validate your work and see your authentic self can be incredibly fulfilling and sustaining.
What can we find the nominee doing on the weekends?
On weekends, Ann enjoys spending time outdoors with her family, particularly exploring new parks with her toddler—anywhere outside her office!