No one embodies the spirit of Give to UC Merced like Magdalena “Maggie” Castañeda.
Maggie was born and raised here in Merced. She still lives here, surrounded by her family including her parents, younger sister, cousins and friends.
She is a UC Merced class of 2015 alumna with a BS in management. She joined UC Merced as staff on April 14, 2016, as an administrative assistant for the Office of Alumni Relations. She has more than proven her skills and assets as a team member and leader and is currently the Alumni Relations & Annual Giving Coordinator.
Though, when it comes to Maggie, it seems senseless to have an actual title. She will do anything and everything asked or unasked but needed. Maggie always steps up and offers her support, whether from behind the scenes, or with heavy lifting, or taking a mic at an event. She has an incredible can- and will-do attitude and failure is never an option, though she will always have a contingency plan just in case.
That is what Maggie says she enjoys about her job – there are no two days that are the same, and every day is a new challenge. Additionally, because of the scope of work, she is always meeting new people and making new connections, each with their own incredible story to tell. It is no wonder that her favorite job has been commencement, where all the stories and dreams are celebrated. Maggie says, “I enjoy being able to provide support to the fantastic PASE trio and learning about the behind-the-scenes work.” A true testament to her character, as Maggie is always willing to help everyone, everywhere!
Her favorite part about being in External Relations is working with “such a great team!” She enjoys being able to work with such “hardworking and passionate” coworkers and says, “it’s always exciting to get to work alongside everyone in new capacities.”
In her free time, Maggie enjoys doodling, reading, swimming and sometimes cooking and baking. She especially enjoys quality time with friends and family on the weekends. Coming from a large extended family, her year is sprinkled with celebrations and gatherings, uniting her with family and the opportunity to cook, visit and enjoy each other’s company. When alone and having a moment to herself – well, in true Maggie fashion, she enjoys cooking and baking for her friends and coworkers. And if you have ever attended an External Relations potluck, you have tasted Maggie's culinary prowess through amazing dishes made with love like birria, homemade tortillas, and more!
While she is not sure what her future holds, Maggie does want to pursue a master’s degree down the road, and she loves the opportunities she has had to learn and grow with UC Merced and hopes to continue to support the mission of her alma mater. External Relations has been lucky to have the brilliance and dedication of Maggie and will be fortunate to continue to have her as part of the growth and success of UC Merced.
QUICK FACTS
Favorite Color: Blue
Favorite Food: Birria / Barbacoa
Favorite Drink: Horchata or Jamaica
Netflix or Hulu? Netflix
Spotify / Apple Music / Amazon Music: Spotify
Favorite Movie: The Harry Potter series (specifically the Sorcerer’s Stone) but I also enjoy various Disney and Pixar movies
Favorite Band: None currently.
Movie Theater or Couch: Movie Theater (There is something impactful about a shared experience)
Mountains or Ocean: Ocean
Read or Watch TV: Read
Favorite TV / Movie / Book Genre: Romance and Fiction
Anything you want to add:
"Thank you to everyone who has been supportive of my journey with AR and ER. Also sorry for the sneeze, I promise it is not on purpose!"
