On Tuesday, May 20, 2025, three of our esteemed Library colleagues were recognized at the "Celebrating Service and Staff Excellence Awards" presented by Staff Assembly in partnership with the Office of the Chancellor and EJIE.
Alisak Sanavongsay: 15 Year Service Award
Alisak is our valued Digital Assets Programmer. He summarizes his work as follows,
"When I first started, I developed applications for staff use. These applications included a library project management system (with wiki) and a password locker. I was also involved in web development for the Library’s web presence and any tasks that required programming.
A big part of my job is sending files from our server to a digital assets management system hosted by the California Digital Library (CDL). These files are then made accessible to the public through Calisphere. While projects are active in the Library, I ensure that local copies are available for short-term use for students and staff. I also send archival digital materials to CDL’s Merritt repository for long-term storage. I’ve also been involved in providing web support for faculty projects and co- development work on Calisphere with CDL staff."
Last month we recognized Alisak's work anniversary,15 Years at the UC Merced Library: Alisak Sanavongsay.
Sarah Sheets: 20 Year Service Award
Sarah is our valued Electronic Resources Coordinator. Jim Dooley, Head of Collection Services, honored Sarah as follows,
"Sarah began working at UC Merced when the library was at Castle and the campus buildings existed only as architectural renderings.
As the Electronic Resources Coordinator, Sarah performs critical work in making library electronic resources discoverable and accessible to students and faculty. She also continues to perform important work on several systemwide library committees. I have had the great pleasure to work closely with Sarah for twenty-two years. I continue to be impressed by her energy and creativity in solving complex database problems with a user service focus."
Ross Anastos: Staff Excellence People Management Award
Ross is our valued Head of Access Services. He was nominated by Maria Martinez, Night & Weekend Services Coordinator and honored as follows,
"Ross leads UC Merced's Access Services Department with empathy, integrity, and a deep commitment to his team. He steps in during tense situations to protect and support his staff, ensuring their safety and well-being are always prioritized.
He encourages professional growth by creating opportunities for team members to explore interests beyond their roles. Ross models respect, fairness, and compassion in his leadership, creating an environment where everyone feels valued and supported.
His positive influence has helped cultivate a workplace where people can thrive both personally and professionally."
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Join us in congratulating Alisak, Sarah, and Ross for their invaluable contributions to the UC Merced Library!
