California State University San Marcos Dining Supervisor Honored

As California State University, San Marcos (CSUSM) gears up for the new academic year, the university is shining a spotlight on the exceptional talent within its Sodexo team. Among those being recognized is Marcela Elliott, the Senior Supervisor of Sodexo’s retail department, who was honored as Employee of the Month for the entire Western Region back in March 2024.

Although the award was presented several months ago, the announcement is being made now to inspire the campus community as students and staff return for the fall semester. This timing reflects CSUSM's commitment to celebrating the individuals who contribute to the university’s success, setting a positive tone for the year ahead.

Marcela Elliott plays a crucial role in overseeing the retail operations at CSUSM, managing popular on-campus dining locations such as Starbucks, Hilltop Bistro Grille, Qdoba, Crash’s Café, Crash’s Market, and the newly opened Kalamata. Beyond her daily responsibilities, Marcela also provides vital support to the Operations Manager, Bernard West, by managing concessions during sports seasons, ensuring seamless service for both students and visitors.

Paul Reardon, Sodexo General Manager at CSUSM, shared his thoughts on Marcela’s journey and contributions: "Her perseverance to push through language barriers to keep learning and improving, as well as her sense of urgency to take care of the students in our operations, has been remarkable. She has worked with many managers before us and learned how to work each position, but since Bernard and my arrival, her willingness to achieve even greater heights in operational excellence, training, as well as a multitude of administrative duties that were new to her, has been impressive. Marcela embraced the challenge and rose to a new level of customer service."

When asked about Marcela’s impact, Liliana Garay, Kalamata Lead at CSUSM, shared, "Marcela is dedicated, hard-working, and passionate. I feel comfort and support in my job knowing that she cares as much as she does. She outperforms what's expected, and I'm glad she's my supervisor." These sentiments were echoed by Brenda Hovis, Commercial Services Manager at CSUSM Corporation, who described Marcela as “the foundation for retail. She is strong and dependable. She is the teacher and the leader. Marcela, you are an amazing role model with imagination and heart. It is a pleasure to work with you."

Bernard West, Sodexo Operations Manager at CSUSM, summed it up perfectly: "Marcela gives 100% every day and leads by example. She always goes above and beyond to provide the highest quality culinary experience. Marcela is an inspiration to me as a person who is able to overcome adversity and obstacles, never giving up when the going gets tough. She always gives great customer service to our guests and clients on campus."

Marcela Elliott’s recognition as Employee of the Month is a testament to her hard work and leadership and a reflection of the programs and services that Sodexo delivers at CSUSM. As the campus continues to grow and evolve, so too does the spirit of excellence embodied by leaders like Marcela.