Kelli Breland

In early February, 2023, the UC Merced Library celebrated the five year career milestones for two valued staff members.

Sunni Nelson, Night and Weekend Coordinator in the Library Services unit offers supervision and direct support to Student Assistants working the Library Services Desk and Help Desk. Her customer service focus and warm personality make her an integral support to faculty and students as she provides coordination and expertise in many areas of Library operations and services, and serving as co-lead of our Course Resources Program. Sunni graduated in 2016 from UC Berkelely with a degree in Molecular and Cell Biology with an emphasis in Neurobiology. After graduating, Sunni returned to her hometown of Merced to be closer to family and friends. In her spare time, Sunni enjoys cooking, hiking, and traveling.

Sunni says that one of the most rewarding aspects of her role in the Library "is the opportunity to collaborate with so many fantastic people. All of our undergraduates, graduates, staff, and faculty members that utilize our resources all have unique stories to tell. One minute I might be catching up with a faculty member that is writing her third book, then the next minute I am showing an undergraduate how to locate peer-reviewed articles for their research project. I am thankful to be able to work with my library colleagues to bring the best experience to all of our patrons. Being able to connect with our campus community and Merced community members in the library setting has truly been a wonderful experience."

Mekenna Hagerman joined the Library in 2018 as the Administrative Coordinator and was promoted to Library Business Officer, her current role. Mekenna manages budgets, monitors expenses, provides projections and reports, and coordinates personnel actions. As a graduate of UC Merced (2015) with a degree in Management, Mekenna brings extensive knowledge about business and operations. Aside from her expertise, Mekenna is known for her calm demeanor and welcoming presence. When Mekenna is not working hard in the Library, she enjoys hiking and line dancing. 

When asked what was most valuable about being a part of the UC Merced Library team, Mekenna said, "I get to work in an environment and [be] around people that I enjoy. It's rare that you find a place like that, so I'm very grateful. I also find it fulfilling to know that I am a part of a space on campus that provides an abundance of resources to the faculty and student community. I remember being a student at UC Merced and spending a great amount of time just studying in the Library, so to look back at those memories as a Library employee is neat!"

Please join us in congratulating Sunni and Mekenna on their career milestones! Thank you for your dedication and commitment to the UC Merced Library and the UC Merced community!