Celebrating FOA's 2026 Retirees

Each July, it is our privilege and joy to celebrate the Finance, Operations and Administration employees retiring from UC Davis.

This year, we honor 58 FOA colleagues who collectively contributed over 1,200 years of service.

Each retiree has helped shape UC Davis, and we are grateful for the many contributions they have made to our division and the university. As you read this year's retiree profiles, I encourage you to reflect on the colleagues who have made a difference in your own work, celebrate their remarkable careers and learn about the exciting adventures that await them in retirement.

To our 2026 FOA retirees, thank you for your years of service, partnership and commitment to making the university better every day. On behalf of the entire FOA community, congratulations on your well-earned retirement. We wish you health, happiness and fulfillment in this exciting new chapter.

Go Ags!

Clare Shinnerl
Vice Chancellor
Finance, Operations and Administration

Linda Durst | Admin IT, 38 years

After a distinguished career spanning more than three decades, Linda Durst is retiring from UC Davis, leaving behind a legacy rooted in collaboration, system innovation and a deep commitment to supporting the campus community.

For Linda, the most meaningful part of her time at UC Davis has always been the people. From colleagues within her unit to partners across campus, UC Davis Health, and the broader University of California system, she built lasting relationships through shared projects and collective problem-solving. She especially valued the connections with payroll and systems experts at the UC Office of the President and other UC campuses, where collaboration was often paired with camaraderie and a shared sense of humor. 

 The people that I have worked with have been my key stand-out. … They’ve shared their knowledge, efforts, and even their sense of humor.” — Linda Durst

• Read more about Linda  

• Linda began her career in early 1988 as part of a team supporting the original batch Payroll system, at a time when each UC campus operated independently. Over the years, she played a key role in the system’s transformation, including the addition of read-only screens and the implementation of the Payroll and Personnel System, which allowed departments to directly update employee records. As a member of the Functional Users Group, a close knit team representing HR, Benefits, Payroll, and IT, Linda contributed to the rollout of the Payroll and Personnel Entry and Update System, including the successful launch of its first divisions in July 1996. The group was not only a team of collaborators, but also a strong support system that celebrated important milestones together.
  
  As the campus grew, so did the systems Linda supported. She contributed to enhancements in time reporting, staffing, financial integrations such as DaFIS and KFS, and the expansion of web-based reporting tools. A defining aspect of Linda’s work was her passion for documentation. Beginning in the late 1990s, she created and shared how to guide departments using early versions of the PPS data warehouse. Following UC Davis’ transition to UCPath in 2019, her documentation efforts evolved into comprehensive data dictionary resources and guides supporting multiple UCPath data warehouses, ensuring that critical knowledge remained accessible to users across the university.
  
  Linda reflects most proudly on her role in supporting the Payroll and Personnel system, its data, and the many business and user communities that relied on it. Her work helped bridge technical systems and everyday operations, making complex processes more understandable and effective for others.
  
  As she begins her next chapter, Linda is looking forward to traveling and spending more time with family and friends. She plans to enjoy road trips, along with hobbies such as stained glass, organizing family photos, reading and getting back into hiking.

Michael Johnston | Transportation Services, 34 years

After 34 years of dedicated service, Maintenance Supervisor Michael Johnston is retiring from UC Davis. During his time on campus, Michael witnessed firsthand how dramatically technology and campus operations have evolved. From changes in infrastructure to the ways employees perform their work, he saw the campus grow and adapt over the decades.

Our campus employees are the absolute best. Everyone working together to make campus a must-see destination and top educational institution in the world.” — Michael Johnston

Read more about Michael

Kobe Childs-Floyd | Payroll Services, 34 years

After more than three decades of service, Kobe Childs-Floyd, assistant payroll director, is retiring from UC Davis, closing a career defined by community and connection. When she began working on campus in the early 1990s, what stood out most was not just the work, but the culture. From colleagues and student assistants to the broader Davis community, Kobe consistently felt a genuine sense of warmth and belonging, a spirit that extended well beyond campus.

Kobe brought commitment, professionalism, and a thoughtful approach to work each day. Her contributions have touched every corner of our campus, and she will be truly missed.” — Matt Okamoto, Associate Vice Chancellor and Controller

Read more about Kobe

Tarran Richardson | Environmental Health and Safety, 33 years

After more than 25 years in environmental health and safety, including over two decades as a safety specialist, Tarran Richardson retires from UC Davis and leaves behind a legacy of professionalism and dedication, with a lasting impact on campus safety.

Whether it was a custodian, groundskeeper, or a double M.D./Ph.D. Nobel Prize winner, everyone demonstrated a strong commitment to their work.” — Tarran Richardson

Read more about Tarran

Polly Castillo | Supply Chain Management, 30 years

Throughout her 30 years at UC Davis, Polly Castillo has been a valued member of the campus community, bringing dedication, professionalism and a strong commitment to service. From starting as a temporary employee to building a long career in Supply Chain Management, Polly made a lasting impact supporting Accounts Payable operations while forming meaningful connections across the university.

I have been truly blessed to have worked with some of the best.” — Polly Castillo

Read more about Polly

Lisa Berriz | Vice Chancellor's Office, 28 years

After years of keeping the university’s top leaders on track, Lisa Berriz is trading deadlines for sunsets.

Lisa’s UC Davis career began 29 years ago with Temporary Employment Services, as a Blank Assistant I assigned to Workers’ Compensation. She moved quickly into the School of Law, where she supported faculty and proctored exams — including enforcing the “pencils down” rule with no-nonsense clarity that let you know Lisa is not to be trifled with.

From there, she took on roles of increasing responsibility in Information and Educational Technology, where she supported leadership and managed technical projects before joining the Chancellor's Office. During what would become her longest tenure at UC Davis, Lisa managed the incredibly demanding schedules of Chancellor Katehi, Interim Chancellor Hexter and Chancellor May, anticipating needs and helping keep the work of the university's highest office moving forward. 

• Read more about Lisa

• Across these roles, Lisa built a reputation as someone who could be trusted with anything — managing complexity and sensitive information, navigating competing priorities and ensuring that leaders could stay focused on the work in front of them.
  
  She brought that same approach to Finance, Operations and Administration, where she supported then-Vice Chancellor Kelly Ratliff and Chief Operating Officer Blair Stephenson. For the past four years, she worked side-by-side with Vice Chancellor Clare Shinnerl.
  
  “Lisa has been a partner and a steadying force and interacted with everyone with professionalism and an engaging smile — even in the most tense high-stakes moments,” said Clare. “Lisa knows everyone and made it easy for me to operate in a fast-paced environment where connecting with the right people at the right time enabled initiatives in FOA to move forward!”
  
  In recent years, Lisa has played a key role in elevating some of FOA’s most visible efforts. From the Chancellor’s Outstanding Staff Awards to the FOA Excellence Awards and FOA All-Staff Meetings, she ensured that not a single detail was overlooked. These events, which bring together staff and leadership to recognize excellence and build community, rely on behind-the-scenes precision — the kind of work Lisa consistently delivered.
  
  As she reflects on retirement, Lisa is candid about what she’ll miss.
  
  “At work you meet all these wonderful people and build this web of contacts who help you get things done. You analyze and problem solve and implement, and then do it all over again. It’s very stimulating,” she said with a laugh. “I don’t think I’m going to get this level of engagement from my husband.”
  
  While she looks forward to spending more time with her grandchildren, tending her garden and traveling, Lisa is also thinking about what comes next — how to find new forms of meaning and connection after a career defined by both.

Teri Greenfield | Capital and Space Planning, 25 years

After a dedicated career at UC Davis, Teri Greenfield retires with a deep appreciation for the campus community and the role she played in supporting its growth and evolution. Teri served as a data analyst in space management, where her work centered on maintaining and interpreting a complex, ever-changing dataset of UC Davis buildings.

Her role required not only technical expertise but also a comprehensive understanding of how campus spaces were used in the past, how they functioned in the present, and how they could evolve to meet future needs.

UC Davis captured my heart from the first time I visited the campus decades ago as a prospective graduate student. I felt a sense of community almost immediately.” — Teri Greenfield

• Read more about Teri
• A key part of her work involved the campus space database, FacilitiesLink, a system widely used across UC Davis. Over time, Teri became known to many as the person who departments could turn to for updating and managing their space data. She worked closely with department space coordinators during the annual fall updates, emphasizing that their collaboration was essential in keeping the data accurate and meaningful. 
  
  During her time at UC Davis, the system also grew significantly in reach and impact. FacilitiesLink expanded well beyond its earlier user base, reflecting the university’s increasing reliance on the system and the strong campuswide collaboration that supported its continued development.
  
  Over the years, Teri visited hundreds of buildings and thousands of rooms across campus, gaining a unique perspective on the university’s physical and academic landscape. Through her work, she developed an appreciation for the research and innovation happening throughout UC Davis, from laboratories to outlying areas. Along the way, she also became a steward of campus history and stories. “I know which buildings are reportedly haunted, how buildings were repurposed during World War II, and where the secret storage spaces are located,” she said.
  
  Rather than a single standout moment, Teri reflects on her career as a collection of meaningful experiences that deepened her connection to the university. One particularly memorable time was working on campus during the pandemic, when the usually vibrant campus became quiet. The absence of daily activity highlighted just how much energy and life the campus community brings. During this time, her work also evolved as space management practices shifted to meet the changing needs of departments in a post-pandemic environment.
  
  As she begins this next chapter, Teri looks forward to spending more time outdoors and away from the computer. She plans to stay active through volunteering and continuing to learn, while also enjoying long hikes and traveling with friends and family. As a Davis resident, her connection to campus will continue. “I will still be enjoying the campus for many years to come," she said. 

Terrence Ireland | Budget and Institutional Analysis, 24 years 

After years of dedicated service to UC Davis, Terrence Ireland, director of Budget Operations, stepped into retirement with sincere appreciation for the people and purpose that shaped his career. 

Throughout his tenure, it was the dedication of those around him — not just the work itself — that left the greatest impact. Terrence was continually inspired by the passion, resilience and commitment of his colleagues to advancing the university’s mission, even during challenging times. 

 The one constant has been the dedication that people bring to making this university a world-class institution. Even in times when there were furloughs or no annual merit increases, they would just push on for the benefit of the mission. Really inspiring.” — Terrence Ireland

• Read more about Terrence 

• Although it may sound odd, the height of the pandemic stands out as one of his most defining experiences. Transitioning an entire team to remote work was no small feat, yet the BIA staff did so with resilience, flexibility and a spirit of togetherness. Many were balancing caregiving responsibilities at home, but still delivered excellence every day. What held them together was their creativity in staying connected, particularly through their “Play” Slack channel filled with humor, photos, memes, and TV and movie recommendations. “It kept us going and made us an even stronger team,” he recalls.
  
  As Terrence looks ahead to retirement, he is excited for more time with the people who mean the most to him. Whether cycling through the scenic routes of Northern California, enjoying spontaneous adventures with his kids and his partner, or traveling to new places, he is eager to embrace the freedom this next chapter brings.

Marine Erby Jr. | Building Maintenance Services, 20 years

After more than two decades of dedicated service, Facilities Management bids a heartfelt farewell to Marine Erby as he begins a well-earned retirement. Marine’s journey to UC Davis is a testament to his hard work, perseverance and commitment to growth.

He first joined the campus community in 2003 as a temporary employee after years of working across California as a contract painter, specializing in drywall and concrete work. Marine spent 12 years returning annually as a contract employee before transitioning into a permanent role with Student Housing, and eventually returning to Facilities Management as a full-time painter. From his very first day, Marine embraced the opportunity to learn and grow within the organization.

“Enjoy life because it goes fast and hard, and it’s unpredictable. Don’t settle and never give up. When times get hard, stand even taller and trust your instincts — they’re usually right. Be thankful for the opportunities you have. Take life one day at a time, and remember to pray.” — Marine Erby Jr. 

• Read more about Marine 

• Reflecting on his time at UC Davis, Marine considers his ability to adapt and connect with others as one of his greatest accomplishments. What once felt like an intimidating environment quickly became a place of belonging as he leaned into learning from experienced colleagues and embraced the diverse cultures that make up the campus community. Over the years, he built strong relationships and developed a deep appreciation for the people around him, crediting those connections as a cornerstone of his success.
  
  Among the many projects he contributed to, one stands out as especially meaningful: a highly detailed, multicultural mural completed in collaboration with fellow painters at the College of Engineering. The project required precision, teamwork, and responsibility, as each painter played a critical role in bringing the vision to life. Marine welcomed the challenge, approaching it with care and confidence while remaining mindful of the faculty, staff and students who would experience the finished work. For him, it was an opportunity to push himself creatively and contribute to something truly unique on campus.
  
  The most rewarding part of Marine’s career, however, goes beyond any single project. He reflects with gratitude on the stability and opportunities UC Davis provided him and his family. Through his work, he was able to support loved ones, help care for his grandchildren, and build a strong foundation for the future. He describes his time at Facilities Management as a blessing — not only for the benefits it provided, but for the people who made the experience so meaningful. “Some of the coolest and nicest people you’d ever want to meet,” he shared, speaking to the strong sense of community he found across trades, departments and campus partners.
  
  As he prepares to step into retirement, Marine knows exactly what he will miss most: the people. From coworkers to faculty and staff across the university, the relationships he built over the years have left a lasting impact. Still, he is looking forward to a new chapter filled with family, travel and long-awaited hobbies. He plans to spend more time with his grandchildren; travel with his wife on trips to Italy, Hawaii, the coast and the redwoods; and enjoy hobbies like bowling, restoring classic cars and attending car shows. Ever willing to embrace a new challenge, he’s even considering trying skiing for the first time.
  
  Marine’s legacy at Facilities Management is one of resilience, humility and connection. His contributions, along with the relationships he built along the way, will not be forgotten. Congratulations, Marine, and thank you for your years of service. Wishing you all the best in this next chapter.

Daisy Tom | Supply Chain Management, 17 years 

Daisy Tom, strategic sourcing manager for life sciences at UC Davis, experienced a strong sense of community and support throughout her career on campus. From her first day through retirement, she valued the welcoming environment and the willingness of colleagues to help one another.

What stood out was the friendly welcomes and sincere help I received, not only during the first day, but throughout my career at Davis.” — Daisy Tom

• Read more about Daisy

• One of the most significant moments of Daisy’s career came during the COVID-19 pandemic. As part of a campus team, she helped ensure the availability of essential personal protective equipment, including masks, gloves, face shields, sanitizing products, and COVID-19 test kits for staff and the Davis community testing. Her efforts supported campus operations and helped protect public health during a time of uncertainty.
  
  As Daisy enters retirement, she is looking forward to traveling and reconnecting with family and friends, while reflecting on the meaningful experiences and relationships that defined her time at UC Davis.

Suzanne Ullensvang | Arboretum and Public Garden, 17 years

After more than 17 years with the UC Davis Arboretum and Public Garden, Suzanne Ullensvang is retiring with a legacy rooted in community, connection and growth.

As a resource development manager, Suzanne played a vital role in advancing the Arboretum and Public Garden's mission while fostering meaningful relationships with donors, volunteers, students and community members. Throughout her career, she found that the true impact of the Arboretum extended far beyond its beautiful landscapes.

Sometimes people think the Arboretum is all about the plants and the gardens, but it's also about the community and personal connections that are created through the gardens and how our landscapes can help everyone be healthier." — Suzanne Ullensvang

• Read more about Suzanne  

• Since joining the Arboretum and Public Garden in 2008, Suzanne has enjoyed the variety of her work and the opportunity to engage with people from all walks of life. Whether working with donors, assisting community volunteers, welcoming plant sale customers, or mentoring students through the Learning by Leading internship program, she found fulfillment in helping others connect with the Arboretum and Public Garden’s mission.
  
  Among her most memorable experiences were several accomplishments from the past year. These included helping secure the largest gift in Arboretum and Public Garden history to support the Learning by Leading program, collaborating with donors to create a meaningful tribute bench grouping overlooking Lake Spafford, supporting a record-breaking year of Arboretum plant sales, and leading a successful community fundraising campaign that will result in a new Arboretum All-Star Habitat Demonstration Garden near the Arboretum Teaching Nursery.
  
  Having joined the organization shortly before the Arboretum Teaching Nursery opened, she estimates she has worked at more than 100 plant sales over the years, helping to welcome visitors, coordinate operations, and ensure a positive experience for thousands of customers.
  
  Reflecting on her time at UC Davis, Suzanne is especially grateful to have been part of a dedicated and passionate team. She appreciates working in an environment where individual strengths were celebrated and where collaboration helped create lasting impacts on both campus and the broader community.
  
  As she begins her next chapter, Suzanne is looking forward to spending more time gardening, traveling, paddleboarding and cross-country skiing with her husband and daughter. She is also excited to explore new hobbies and continue learning new things.

Gabriela Renteria | Risk and Emergency Management, 15 years

Long before she led emergency preparedness, managed risk or helped guide the university through the COVID-19 pandemic, Gaby was a UC Davis student with a clipboard standing at the corner of Hutchison Drive and California Avenue counting cyclists wearing helmets as part of a campus safety survey. During one shift, she shook her head as a cyclist rode by talking on one of the first cell phones she had ever seen.

Looking back," she said, "I think it's proof that caring about the safety and well-being of the UC Davis community has been in my blood for a very long time." — Gabriela Renteria

Read more about Gabriela

Mertianna Georgia | Shared Services Organization, 13 years

Throughout her time with the Shared Services Organization, Mertianna has been an incredible asset to the Staff Employment team, bringing a wealth of knowledge, consummate professionalism and a genuine passion for helping others. She has provided unmatched customer service to her clients in Continuing and Professional Education, FOA, and the Offices of the Chancellor and Provost.

Read more about Mertianna

Heloisa T. Kinder | Administrative Innovation and Technology, 11 years 

After a meaningful career at UC Davis, Heloisa T. Kinder retires with a lasting legacy of innovation, collaboration and impact across the campus community. Throughout her time at UC Davis, Heloisa found the greatest value in the people she worked alongside. That strong sense of connection shaped her experience and contributed to the success of many initiatives she supported.

The supportive colleagues and collaborative partners made every project rewarding." — Heloisa T. Kinder 

• Read more about Heloisa 

• As an instructional designer within Administrative Innovation and Technology, Heloisa played a central role in developing training programs for major campus systems, including Kuali Financial System, UCPath and Aggie Enterprise. These complex, high-impact efforts required both technical expertise and a deep understanding of user needs, resulting in practical, accessible training that supported employees across campus.
  
  Heloisa also brought creativity and innovation to a wide range of projects. She developed courses for Safety Services and Transportation, including ergonomics training, and contributed to the design of websites and animations. These projects allowed her to seamlessly blend instructional design with creativity and technology, enhancing the learning experience for the campus community
  
  As she begins this next chapter, Heloisa looks forward to exploring creative pursuits, traveling and enjoying more unhurried time with family and friends.