A standing-room-only crowd gathered Thursday, May 22, in CSS-217 at 午夜福利短篇 to honor Natalie Aceves, educational advisor in the Transfer Center, as the college鈥檚 2025 Classified Professional of the Year. The celebration, filled with cheers, laughter, and heartfelt tributes, recognized Aceves for her decades of dedicated service and commitment to student success.
午夜福利短篇 President Monica Green opened the event with remarks highlighting the critical role classified professionals play in student success and institutional excellence.
Leona Vassale, disability resource specialist and CSEA vice president, reflected on her 22-year working relationship with Aceves.
鈥淲hen I think of Natalie, I think of someone who bridges the gap in adversity,鈥� Vassale said. 鈥淚n the summer of 2024, during a time of unprecedented internal challenges for the classified senate, Natalie rose to the occasion鈥攆inding solutions, lifting morale, and uniting the team with kindness and professionalism. She doesn鈥檛 just fill gaps; she builds stronger foundations for the future.鈥�
Aceves was also praised for her behind-the-scenes leadership and student-first mindset. Azadeh Iglesias, STEM program coordinator, and CSEA representative noted the importance of honoring classified professionals who demonstrate integrity, mentorship, and advocacy.
鈥淣atalie leads with heart and is an inspiration to us all,鈥� Iglesias said. 鈥淪he not only supports her colleagues but also teaches and mentors through our equity programs.鈥�
Personal tributes continued with stories from colleagues and friends who described Aceves as thoughtful, firm yet gentle, and always focused on students鈥� needs. One colleague joked, 鈥淲hen you鈥檙e in a meeting with Natalie, you know she鈥檒l bring great snacks鈥攏ot just because she鈥檚 generous, but because she wants everyone alert and productive.鈥�
Vyvyana Woolridge, student success coordinator and former student, said Aceves embodies the true spirit of service.
鈥淪he doesn鈥檛 do this work for applause or recognition,鈥� Woolridge said. 鈥淪he does it because she genuinely cares that people feel seen, supported, and valued.鈥�
One student, Daniela, described Aceves as a role model who made her feel acknowledged and valued.
鈥淏ecause of Natalie, I saw a brighter future for myself,鈥� Daniela said. She is now transferring to a four-year university to pursue a degree in communications.
Despite her aversion to the spotlight, Aceves was celebrated with standing ovations and warm laughter, surrounded by friends, family, students, and colleagues who reminded her just how deeply appreciated she is.
鈥淪he鈥檚 the kind of person who holds you accountable while lifting you up,鈥� one family member said. 鈥淭hat mix of care and expectation鈥攖hat鈥檚 the Natalie way.鈥�
The annual Classified Professional of the Year celebration, now in its sixth year at 午夜福利短篇, honors one classified professional whose work exemplifies excellence, service, and impact. This year鈥檚 honor rightfully belongs to Natalie Aceves.