Employee of the Month - April 2025
Ayendili Alcantar Alvarez,
Financial Aid Counselor,
Enrollment Services
Awarded April 15 via Zoom virtual celebration. Ayendili was joined by President Jane Close Conoley, numerous Enrollment Services colleagues, her parents, siblings, husband, mother-in-law and friends.
Ayendili Alcantar Alvarez expressed, “I am passionate about fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for students.” A perfect example of Ayendili putting this into action with “exceptional service” was noted by Bret Isgette, an Enrollment Services colleague, who observed Ayendili “assisting a blind student to the restroom from Beach Central. She took the time to guide her, help her, remained in the restroom and talked to her, (answering her many questions) and then assisted her back afterwards. It may seem insignificant, but I am sure it meant the world to the student, especially in knowing where to go when navigating a huge campus... making even one student feel important and cared for is the epitome of the standard we hold here at the Beach.”
Not only has Ayendili received praise for her assistance to a student, but she has also been recognized by a co-worker for her collegial support. Karen Kocis shared, “Ayendili has been an excellent coworker from the very first moment I met her! She is extremely smart and knowledgeable in Financial Aid! She is always happy to step in and help when needed. Especially in the last 4 months when I was put on phone duty, she never hesitated to offer help and guidance selflessly and always with kindness… and we are lucky to have her…I will forever be grateful for her help and support!”
Ayendili’s career path within Enrollment Services began in 2014 as a student assistant within the financial aid department. Upon graduating, she transitioned into a staff position within the same department.
She shared, “Over the years, I have been provided the opportunity to grow and become a seasoned financial aid professional at CSULB. This opportunity has also allowed me help students navigate their financial aid options and subsequently enhance their educational experience at CSULB.”
She’s appreciative of her fellow Beach staffers’ efforts, too, highlighting, “I would like to give a heartfelt shoutout to my colleagues, whose hard work and dedication continue to make a meaningful difference in the lives of students. Their collective efforts ensure that the student population is well-supported and empowered to succeed.”
Beyond her professional role, she enjoys “working on DIY projects, caring for my fur babies and traveling.”