Celebrating Our Spring 2025 Classified Recognition Recipients
This spring 2025 semester, Fullerton College proudly recognized the recipients of the Classified Recognition Award. An annual tradition, this accolade honors those who are nominated for their hard work and the positive impact they make. The award was given to Student Services Specialist Alicia Contreras and Custodian II Ronald Mendez.
Alicia Contreras
Alicia Contreras is a proud mother of four (two daughters and two sons) who inspire her every day to lead with purpose and compassion. She earned her associate’s degree in sociology from Fullerton College in 2013, where her journey in higher education first began.
She first started working in Admission and Records, and through hard work and dedication, was promoted to an hourly position in Student Life and Leadership. From there, she advanced to a project coordinator role, and in 2020, became a Student Services Specialist. In this role, she has the privilege of supporting our Associated Student Executives, assisting in coordinating major events on campus such as Students of Distinction and Commencement and overlooking Student Center activities and clubs. The best part of her job is serving our amazing students and working with the Student Life and Leadership team.
For Contreras, Fullerton College has been more than just a workplace—it’s been a foundation for her personal and professional growth. She is passionate about creating welcoming spaces for students and helping them find their voice, build community and achieve their goals.
Ronald Mendez
Ronald Mendez brings over 41 years of professional experience in custodial services, including 29 years specializing in floor care, window cleaning and general office and classroom cleaning. For seven years, he served as a lead supervisor in the private sector, polishing his leadership skills and setting high standards for custodial excellence.
Mendez has proudly dedicated nearly four years to Fullerton College, where he began as Custodian I and then Custodian II. He continues to make a positive impact across campus. He is also certified to operate the Nilfisk Liberty SC50 autonomous floor scrubber, showcasing his commitment to embracing new technology to enhance custodial operations.
Originally from Guatemala, Mendez earned his Certified Public Accountant CPA and built a strong background in business auditing before transitioning to custodial leadership. He remains closely connected to his roots, visiting Guatemala twice a year to care for his mother, a role he holds dear and approaches with deep compassion.
Mendez enjoys walking the beautiful Fullerton College campus before his shift begins, finding peace and motivation in its environment. On his days off, he engages in soccer matches and is a passionate supporter of his favorite team Real Madrid.
A proud leader at Fullerton College, Ronald strives daily to maintain a safe, clean, and welcoming environment for faculty, staff and most importantly, our students. His dedication to leadership extends beyond his assigned building as he consistently seeks opportunities to improve our campus community through teamwork, innovation and pride in service.
