UC Berkeley Conference Services

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	Denise DiBetta, Director What is your favorite thing about working in Conference Services? I am afforded the opportunity to work with people from all over the world. What do you do for fun when not working? Animal rescue (though it’s not always 'fun'). Also I read a lot and enjoy long walks. What is one of the things on your lifelong "to do" list? I can't even narrow that list down to 10 things! Describe yourself in 3 words: Compassionate, quirky and hard working
	Mary Ellen Miller, Associate Director How long have you been with Conference Services? Since 1984! What is your favorite part about working in Conference Services? I'm never bored...there's always something new every summer... an off-the-wall request, an incident that hasn't happened before, and the variety of groups still amazes me. What is one of the things on your lifelong "to do" list? Retire. What is your favorite summer activity? Taking a long weekend in the wine country, particularly Calistoga where it's always 100 degrees, so you have to lie by the pool all day.
	Krysta Rudnick, Conference Sales Coordinator How long have you been with Conference Services? I started my career with Conference Services in December of 2005. What drew you to your current position? I am a planner by nature, but working in a hotel forced work to be my life’s primary focus. In working for UC Berkeley, I’ve been able to create a nice work/life balance, which allows me to really enjoy my job. What is one of the things on your lifelong "to do" list? I’d love to learn how to play the drums. Describe yourself in 3 words: Loyal, animated and trustworthy
	Nikole Halaka, Conference Sales Coordinator What do you do for fun when not working? I like spending time with my family, reading, knitting and being outside. I also enjoy working on/upgrading my 1970 VW Beetle and playing softball twice a week. What is your favorite summer activity? Other than planning summer conferences, I love BBQ'ing with family and friends whether at home or at a lake, etc. What is one thing on your lifelong "to do" list? I would really love to go to Australia one day! Describe yourself in 3 words: Fun, rebellious and caring
	Kelly Smith, Conference Sales Coordinator How long have you been with Conference Services? Since April 4, 2011 What drew you to your current position? I was truly ready to branch out from the hotel industry but knew that my strengths and talents have always been "hospitality" driven. The conference services team has afforded me the opportunity to do the job I love, in a place that I will continue to grow professionally. What do you do for fun when not working? My husband and I love cooking together and listening to music. We also love going to concerts. What is one thing on your lifelong "to do" list? Taking my family to Washington D.C. and having our picture taken in front of the Lincoln Memorial.
	Lyudmila Fayerman, (Lucy or Lyuda), Conference & Summer Program Coordinator How long have you been with Conference Services? I am a Cal Alumni and I began working with Conference Services right after college. What drew you to your current position? Meeting new people as well as providing hospitality and excellent customer service drew me to my current position. What do you do for fun when not working? When not at work, I love to draw, paint, read, play with my dogs and catch up on movies and shows via Netflix. I also enjoy camping and being outdoors. Describe yourself in 3 words: Artistic, caring and curious.
	Christopher Evans, Conference Sales Coordinator What is your favorite part about working in Conference Services? The friendly atmosphere, challenging workload, and creative freedom. What drew you to your current position? Coming from a hotel and hospitality background, this position allowed me to utilize my knowledge to help my Alma Mater. Go Bears! What do you do for fun when not working? I have an interest in the culinary arts, a passion for improving myself, and a knack for games of all kinds. What is your favorite summer activity? :-) Aside from hosting conferences and helping my wonderful clients; hiking, swimming, and spending time with great people. Describe yourself in 3 words: Empathetic, Deliberate, and Daring
	Jeffrey Church - Administrative Coordinator How long have you been with Conference Services? I worked as a Conference Clerk at Unit 1 my sophomore year at Cal, and I began working full time with Conference Services in May 2012! What is your favorite part about working in Conference Services? The Summer Conference season is fast paced and lots of work! I love being the Administrative Coordinator, and helping customers and staff members run fun and successful conferences! What do you do for fun when not working? My partner and I really enjoy visiting my family in San Jose! We are both kids at heart. We love watching kids’ movies and playing games with my younger sisters! Describe yourself in 3 words: Nurturing, Motivated and Spontaneous!
	Marianna Zbarskaya - Conference and Summer Program Coordinator What drew you to your current position? As a recent Cal graduate, I wanted to continue developing my relationship with the UC Berkeley student body and welcome students from all over the world to embrace the limitless opportunities that our institution offers. What is one of the things on your lifelong "to do" list? To learn the Latin Ballroom dances…well. What is your favorite summer activity? Enjoying a wine and cheese picnic after exploring the picturesque UC Berkeley Botanical Gardens. Describe yourself in 3 words: Sincere, Empathetic, and Mindful
	Zoey Fayerman – Martello, Conference Services Therapy Dog What is your favorite thing about working in Conference Services? Getting petted and loved by the Conference Services Staff. I also love those delicious baby carrots Nikole always brings! What do you do for fun when not working? I like to roll around in the grass, pretend I am a lap dog, and go on walks with my parents. What is one of the things on your lifelong "to do" list? To eat as many raw-hides as I can. Describe yourself in 3 words: Clumsy, sweet, and quiet.