Sharon Van Bruggen

Executive Director of University Centers at UC San Diego

Sharon Van Bruggen leads and directs the vision, mission, and strategic direction of the student union facilities at UC San Diego, including Price Center, Student Center, and Che Facility. More than 20,000 visitors a day enjoy the restaurants, study lounges, outdoor spaces, and meeting and event venues that contribute to a vibrant campus life at UC San Diego. Sharon enjoys working with and learning from the student leaders who serve on the University Centers Advisory Board (UCAB). A few of her favorite projects include establishing the Graffiti Art Park at the Student Center and Y Más at Price Center. Prior to joining University Centers, Sharon worked for Alumni Relations at UCLA, as well as Catholic Charities and the YWCA. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from UCLA and an MA in Nonprofit Leadership and Management from the University of San Diego. She is a member of the Association of College Unions International (ACUI), the National Association of College Auxiliary Services (NACAS), and National Association of Student Personnel Administrators (NASPA). An artist at heart, Sharon loves to paint, travel, and experience destinations both near and far.

John Payne

Associate Director of University Centers

John Payne leads and directs daily operations of University Centers, which includes Price Center, Student Center, and Che Café Facility, serving 20,000+ people daily. He works closely with the Director of University Centers to create and execute strategic plans for University Centers and their various business units. In his free time he enjoys all types of sports, including baseball, football, and skiing.

Adam Weaver

Assistant Director, Event Services & Programs

Adam Weaver joined University Centers in 2020 and leads a talented team to deliver a comprehensive slate of event services and programs to support a vibrant campus community. Outside of work, Adam enjoys spending time with his family and his dog (Fumble), traveling, and watching the Baltimore sports teams.

Amanda Marples

Assistant Director of University Centers, Marketing & Assessment

Amanda Marples joined University Centers in 2014 bringing her rich experiences in marketing consumer products and developing consumer research. Her wide range of responsibilities here at UC San Diego includes strategic communications, student life enhancement, facilities marketing, and assessment. She enjoys working with such talented students and is honored to be part of their learning experiences. Outside of work, her passions include trail running, and her cats Marley and Joy.

Scott Strong

Executive Assistant to Sharon Van Bruggen of University Centers at UC San Diego

Scott W. Strong (Scottie) joined University Centers in the late summer of 2023, relocating to San Diego from Jacksonville, Florida. Scott is a U.S. Air Force veteran and University of Florida graduate.  Scott is originally from Chicago, Illinois, and is a huge fan of Chicago sports (Bulls, Bears, Sox, etc.) Scott brings his administrative and problem-solving skills from both legal and medical backgrounds to assist Sharon in her vision at UC San Diego’s student union. Scott loves sports, movies, pop culture, and hanging out with family and friends.

Sharon Van Bruggen (she/her)

Executive Director of University Centers at UC San Diego

Sharon Van Bruggen leads and directs the vision, mission, and strategic direction of the student union facilities at UC San Diego, including Price Center, Student Center, and Che Facility. More than 20,000 visitors a day enjoy the restaurants, study lounges, outdoor spaces, and meeting and event venues that contribute to a vibrant campus life at UC San Diego. Sharon enjoys working with and learning from the student leaders who serve on the University Centers Advisory Board (UCAB). A few of her favorite projects include establishing the Graffiti Art Park at the Student Center and Y Más at Price Center. Prior to joining University Centers, Sharon worked for Alumni Relations at UCLA, as well as Catholic Charities and the YWCA. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from UCLA and an MA in Nonprofit Leadership and Management from the University of San Diego. She is a member of the Association of College Unions International (ACUI), the National Association of College Auxiliary Services (NACAS), and National Association of Student Personnel Administrators (NASPA). An artist at heart, Sharon loves to paint, travel, and experience destinations both near and far.

Anthony Mislang Cabrera

Technical Event Production Manager

Anthony Cabrera joined University Centers in May 2023 and enjoys mentoring student staff in producing memorable events. He attributes his technical expertise to Viejas Entertainment and Production, producing countless upscaled shows and concerts for (generational) artists like O-Town, Rob Base, Peter Cetera, Berlin and CCR. He loves going to the movies, DJ-ing parties, singing and creating music video content (mostly covers) for his Youtube channel. He is an alumni of 220 dance team, and bleeds purple and gold for the Lakers.

Rosalie Celestial

Senior Event Manager 

Rosalie Celestial earned a degree in theater before deciding to pursue a career in event management. In her role, she assists student organizations and campus departments with scheduling, reservations, and planning for variety of events. Her favorite thing about working for UC San Diego is the daily interactions with amazing colleagues and students.

David Duran

Event Manager

David grew up in Encinitas and graduated from CSU San Marcos with a dual degree in Sociology and Criminal Justice. David started working in Events as a student and quickly realized he had found his calling. He earned professional certificates in Event Planning, and Event Management and Design. He has over six years of experience in the field. If not planning events than David enjoys fresh water and deep-sea fishing along with gaming and traveling.

Kaitlyn Rosenthal

Event Manager

Kaitlyn grew up in San Diego and graduated from Cal Poly SLO with a degree in Experience Industry Management. She is a big fan of pink clouds, the smell of a campfire, yoga, making jewelry, sewing, and glass art.

Victor Plancarte

Event Manager

Victor Plancarte joined University Centers in May 2024, after earning a degree in Animal Science from UC Davis. Victor has over four years of experience working in events from his time on the events team at the UC Davis School of Law. He is an avid foodie, and in his free time, he loves camping/hiking, playing games with friends, spending time with his family, and making music playlists for every occasion.

Brook Falkenstein

Director of Technical Services

Brook Falkenstein has been with UC San Diego for more than 22 years, training and mentoring scores of intelligent, creative, and skilled student workers. He regularly attends professional conferences and training to stay updated on the latest industry developments. He loves traveling, watching movies, sailing, swimming, snowboarding, mountain biking, and attending concerts.

Matt Gawel

Reservation & Event Process Manager

Matt Gawel joined University Centers in February 2023, relocating to San Diego from Portland, Maine. Matt is proud to support the student teams overseeing the Open Desk study spaces and the Event Reservation and Information Center while also processing the University Centers’ space requests. He has over 15 years of experience working closely with college students and their campus events. Outside of UCSD, Matt is an accomplished poker player and avid supporter of the US Soccer team.

Mark Kinsey

Assistant Director of Technical Services

Mark Kinsey joined University Centers in 2004 and has helped produce hundreds of events on campus and in the student union--everything from speed dating to high-profile political speakers. Before joining the team, he operated his own business and worked in technical services at SeaWorld San Diego. He enjoys all sorts of outdoor activities, and is a long-time volunteer with the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Cave and Technical Rescue Team. He is a member of the 501st Legion, a Star Wars costuming group.

Ella Markus

Technical Event Production Manager

Ella Markus joined University Centers August of 2024 after working for the UC San Diego Conrad Prebys Music Department, producing shows for many different students and outside clients. She is super excited to continue working for UCSD, and to mentor a wonderful student staff! If she’s not hanging out with her birds, you can find her paddleboarding, baking various desserts, completing 1000-piece puzzles, or volunteering at Free Flight Bird Sanctuary!

Kia Neri

Program Manager

Kia Neri joined University Centers in 2016 with a focus on the needs of UC San Diego commuter students. She works closely with the All Campus Commuter Board (ACCB) and other campus partners to serve commuter students. She loves a good ghost story, salty popcorn, and collects cobalt glass.

Adam Weaver

Assistant Director, Event Services & Programs

Adam Weaver joined University Centers in 2020 and leads a talented team to deliver a comprehensive slate of event services and programs to support a vibrant campus community. Outside of work, Adam enjoys spending time with his family and his dog (Fumble), traveling, and watching the Baltimore sports teams.

Jim Zadai

Technical Event Production Manager

Jim Zadai has been with University Centers for a little more than a year and has already found his place as a mentor. He enjoys sharing his knowledge and working with the student staff who are employed by Technical Services. He finds it gratifying to know that his work helps students achieve their own successes.

Armando Abundis

Senior Graphic Designer

Armando Abundis helps make University Centers look good. He is the creative force behind Price Center and Student Center signage, logos, posters, brochures, displays and reports.  He acts as a mentor to the student graphic design team, helping them refine their skills and build professional portfolios. He is a dedicated soccer fan and never misses a Raider’s game.

Amanda Marples

Assistant Director of University Centers, Marketing & Assessment

Amanda Marples joined University Centers in 2014 bringing her rich experiences in marketing consumer products and developing consumer research. Her wide range of responsibilities here at UC San Diego includes strategic communications, student life enhancement, facilities marketing, and assessment. She enjoys working with such talented students and is honored to be part of their learning experiences. Outside of work, her passions include trail running, and her cats Marley and Joy.

Micaela Stone

Marketing Specialist

Micaela Stone graduated from UC San Diego in 2017 and was also a student Marketing Assistant for University Centers during undergrad. She joined the University Centers team as their Marketing Specialist in 2022. She helps manage the student marketing team and oversees the University Centers social media accounts, the Student Event Insider newsletter,  and various marketing initiatives. Micaela enjoys taking care of her many plants, reading, trying out new coffee shops, thrifting, and going on hikes.

Sandra Amaro

Senior Custodian

I joined UCSD in 2020 and it's a place where you can develop personally, work and grow. I really enjoy working at University Centers.

Julio Ariosa

Senior Custodian 

Julio Ariosa has served UC San Diego for more than two years. He grew up in Cuba and in his free time he follows Cuban Baseball League games and players.

Joel Burdeos

Events & Facility Services Operations Manager 

Joel Burdeos is a native San Diegan and joined University Centers in 2022. In his role, he helps manage daily facility operations and serves as a primary point of contact for all operational aspects of events in University Centers facilities. Prior to joining University Centers, Joel worked for the San Diego Padres in Event Operations. 

Paul Correia

Senior Custodian

Paul Correia has been with UC San Diego for more than 10 years. He is a true blue Padres and Chargers fan.

Ramon Cruz

Operations Manager

I enjoy the environment around the campus and the group of people I work with. On my free time, I enjoy smoking and grilling on my Taeger smoker, and walking around Seaport and Mission Beach. I'm a true blue Dodger fan.

Karla De Julio

Lead Custodian

Karla De Julio has been with UC San Diego for more than 5 years; she works cheerfully to maintain the various student union spaces for everyone who visits daily. In her free time, she enjoys relaxing with family and friends and traveling to her favorite vacation spots.

Manuel Hernandez

Senior Custodian

Manuel Hernandez came to UC San Diego from the hotel industry and has been here for more than 5 years. When he is not at work, he enjoys relaxing with friends and family, sharing a good meal and having good laugh.

Darren Hugie

Senior Custodian

Darren Hugie has been with UC San Diego for more than 7 years. He enjoys the campus environment and all the great people he works with; He grew up North Carolina and is a Dallas Cowboys fan.

Chris Ladwig

Assistant Maintenance Supervisor

Chris Ladwig has been with UC San Diego for more than 10 years, helping with improvement and repair projects throughout Price Center and Student Center. He enjoys being part of a creative team, tackling a wide variety of challenging projects. On his days off, he spends time building gasoline-powered remote controlled boats.

Raven Lewis

Lead Custodian

Raven Lewis has served UC San Diego for more than 15 years, working to keep Price Center and Student Center at its best. He is a big fan of the Dallas Cowboys, and does his best to never miss a game.

Monica Llamas

Senior Custodian

Monica Llamas joined University Centers in 2019 as part of the night crew, making sure the student union facilities are clean, safe and ready for guests each day. She came to UC San Diego from the hospitality industry, and is a dedicate member of the team.

Manuel Madrigal

Senior Custodian

Manuel Madrigal is my name, but I'm known as Manny. Some of you might remember me from when I worked at Cups Cafe 1997-2005 and others from my 15 years of service with UCSD surplus sales. To those that don't know me I'm friendly, outgoing, a padre fan, and yes, a bitter charger fan but still a fan.

Vicki Moore

Lead Custodian

I love going to the Sunset Market with my 4-year-old son, I love cooking and learning new recipes, and I love karaoke.

Alejandro Morfin

Operations Manager

I've been working at University Centers and feel proud of being part of the team. I enjoy my weekends with my family and friends, and going to the beach or any amusement parks. I play soccer on Sundays and sometimes ride my mountain bike. 

Evarist Nyibigira

Bussing Custodian

Evarist Nyibigira has served UC San Diego for more than 5 years. He and his team keep Price Center clean and safe for all visitors. He is originally from Central Africa, and regularly keeps in touch with family and friends there.

Chris Ochoa

Chris is an accomplished professional with over six years of dedicated service at UC San Diego. Throughout his tenure, he has exhibited exceptional leadership skills in effectively overseeing custodial teams, guaranteeing the utmost cleanliness and maintenance of facilities. His commitment to upholding the highest standards of cleanliness has resulted in consistently impeccable environments for staff, faculty, and students alike. Chris's expertise lies in implementing efficient systems and protocols to streamline custodial operations, ensuring optimal productivity and resource allocation.

John Payne

Associate Director of University Centers

John Payne leads and directs daily operations of University Centers, which includes Price Center, Student Center, and Che Café Facility, serving 20,000+ people daily. He works closely with the Director of University Centers to create and execute strategic plans for University Centers and their various business units. In his free time he enjoys all types of sports, including baseball, football, and skiing.

Mirian Rios

Senior Custodian

Mirian Rios has been with UC San Diego for more than 10 years, helping to keep the student union at its best. She enjoys spending time with family and stays healthy by attending her weekly yoga class.

Russell Shotwell

Senior Building Maintenance

Russell Shotwell enjoys taking on special projects and problem-solving for the student union. He finds it satisfying to use his skills to build, repair, and refresh spaces throughout Price Center and Student Center. He loves the Christmas season and always orders mint-chip at the ice cream parlor.

Nick Vacchio

Facility Services Manager

Nick Vacchio worked as a House Manager for nearly three years at University Centers before being promoted to a managerial position. He has a degree in Communications from UC San Diego and enjoys working with the eclectic variety of events at the student union. Outside of work, Nick enjoys experimenting in the kitchen and playing in San Diego’s Floor Hockey League.

Lamar Williams

Senior Custodian

Lamar Williams has served UC San Diego for more than 15 years. He provides a variety of services that help keep the student union, clean, safe and enjoyable for all visitors. He is happiest during football season and is a long-time Chargers fan.

Alan Zamarripa

Senior Custodian

Ian Fulcher

Supervisor, Starbucks

My name is Ian Fulcher, and I have been honing my coffee craft for the last several years. With my free time, I enjoy indulging in my hobbies and spending time with my cats and loved ones. I've especially enjoyed ocean swimming, and skydiving!

Sheny Garcia

Supervisor, Starbucks

Sheny Garcia has been with UC San Diego since 2019 and enjoys cooking, listening to music, and is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in organizational management. She finds that directing and coaching students in their work responsibilities is the most rewarding aspect of her job, as she can be a part of their journey to success.

Belinda Go-Oco

Assistant Manager, Starbucks

Belinda Go-Oco is originally from the Philippines. Belinda migrated to the United States 21 years ago and has lived in San Diego for two years. She enjoys playing the guitar and spending time at the beach. Her career goal is to be an entrepreneur and open her own coffee shop one day.

Maria Orozco

Auxiliary Operation Manager

Maria Orozco manages the campus Starbucks and Campus Bike & Skate and all its operations. Maria loves the work-life balance she has at University Centers and strives to be an example for student employees as they too manage school, work, and life. Maria loves coffee, her pet husky, running, and working with students.

Cindy Penning

Lease Admin

Cindy Penning joined University Centers in 2018 working with Retail Lease Administration. She has a positive attitude toward her work and feels she learns something new everyday. In her free time, she likes to spend time with family and friends and claims chocolate peanut butter as the best ice-cream flavor ever created.

Daniel Salinas

Food Service Lead, Starbucks

I am a UC San Diego 2019 Alumni, who in their free time loves to read, watch, and research all animation.

Kris Wells

Manager, Campus Bike & Skate (Website)

Kris Wells is responsible for the day-to-day operation of the UCSD's Campus Bike & Skate Shop. He loves sharing his interest in cycling with UC San Diego students and staff, and is always happy to recommend great places to ride.