Staff Props

Puente Administrative Director Carolyn Smith retired in June from a career of more than 30 years with the University of California. Much of her UC career was spent on the Berkeley campus, and she brought wide and varied experience when she joined Puente in 2001. Carolyn implemented numerous new administrative and fiscal procedures in Puente, always with an eye to adhering to UC policies, and she could be counted on to offer both advice and support to her staff. Carolyn reports that she is enjoying retirement very much.

Ernest Robles retired from his position as Director, Resource Development and New Initiatives, on June 30, 2008. Ernest came to Puente in 2001 to assume the leadership of the newly created Northern California Regional Center. Following that assignment, he served as Puente's Interim Executive Director. Next, with his background as the founder of the nationally recognized Hispanic Scholarship Fund, he was selected to implement Puente’s first Resource Development Department. We wish him a very happy retirement.

Juliet Espinosa, Puente's long-time Sr. Budget Analyst, accepted a new position and challenge handling finances at the Girl Scouts of Northern California. Juliet was meticulous in keeping Puente's records in order and in overseeing Puente's budget and expenses. She set a high standard and we wish her all the best in her new position.

Puente's accounting group lost a key player when Myra Solomon accepted a transfer and promotion at UC Berkeley. Myra was knowledgeable, accurate, and fast in executing her responsibilities, and she was generous in assisting staff with budget concerns, forms and procedures. Congratulations on your new job, Myra!