We hope you enjoy this series where we meet and get to know employees from across campus. Would you like to be featured? Contact us at campusnews@csufresno.edu.

Name: Christine Evans
Title: Administrative Analyst
Department: Library
Academic Degree(s): B.S. in Business Administration with an emphasis in Marketing, Fresno State

How long have you worked at Fresno State?
I started working in the Library as a student assistant nearly 26 years ago in Access Services. I became a staff member in the same area a few years later. I was in Access Services for almost 20 years, mostly as the head of Access Services, then made a career change several years ago. I moved to the Digital Services area of the Library in early 2022. So, to sum it up, I've been working in the Library for a little under 26 years total, 21 of those years as a staff member.

Are you a Valley native?
Yes, I am a Valley native. I have lived in Fresno/Clovis my entire life. My parents and grandparents are from the Central Valley as well.

Are you a Bulldog family with generations of Bulldog graduates or current students?
My grandma attended as a student in the credential program in the late 60s, both of my parents are alumni, and my sister is as well, so definitely a Bulldog family.

Do you have a campus mentor or someone who has helped you in your career?
I have several campus mentors and I've been lucky to interact with so many fantastic and helpful staff and faculty members across campus. One of my biggest, long-time mentors has always been Dave Tyckoson, previous associate dean to the Library. He helped me immensely when I was just starting my career and continued to be a supporter of me for many, many years. He retired several years ago, but I have always appreciated his advice and help throughout the years. That being said, I've been lucky to have been supported by all of my deans and leads throughout the years and for that, I'm eternally grateful.

Tell us about your department and what people may not know about it.
One of the things I mention about the Library is that it has its own technology arm, a specialized team dedicated to meeting the unique, technology-forward needs of a modern Library. While many people associate libraries with books and study spaces, most of our resources and services are digital or are powered by advanced systems, software and equipment.

Digital Services ensures the Library stays ahead of the curve by developing, implementing, and supporting innovative technology solutions. From digitization and web development to systems management, GIS services, data analytics, and more, our Digital Services team keeps the Library running smoothly and adaptable to the evolving needs of students and faculty.

What is your most notable accomplishment in your field, and why was it important?
Several years ago, all of the CSU libraries started a Unified Library Management System. Basically all of the California State University campuses migrated to the same computer system to manage our collections as well as consolidate many of the policies and procedures. This may not seem like a huge deal, however, believe me, it was. I was involved in this project on our library's level as well as being able to make decisions on the consortial level. It was a multi-year project that helped to shape the way that CSU libraries function and I'm proud to say that I was lucky enough to have a front seat in the decision making process.

What are you most passionate about in your field and why?
100%, helping people. I'm very passionate about making sure students, staff and faculty get whatever they need to be successful. I'm glad to be a small part of that journey. Now that I'm not in a traditional public-facing position, I'm still involved in the back end of things and still feel like helping people is my number one priority.

What is a memorable moment you had at your job?
The most memorable moment/event that I've had would be the planning of the new library and its opening in 2009. I was heavily involved in coordinating the move of the entire collection to a warehouse across town for several years, then moving all 1.2 million items back into the Library, and in the correct order. It was a very involved feat and I'm proud to be involved in it.

What is your favorite quote or saying?
If at first you don't succeed, try, try again.

What is the most interesting or unusual job you've ever had?
One of the most interesting things about me is the Library is the only job that I've ever had. I started as a student right out of high school and have been here ever since.

Christine and her family in Monterey

What do you like to do for fun in your spare time?
I love to travel. Some of my favorite places to travel have been Paris and Oahu. My husband, daughter, and I also love to go to Monterey for a quick weekend trip.

What is something interesting about you that most people don’t know?
I love escape rooms. My family and I do them quite often and we are always looking for a new one. If you have any recommendations, please let me know.

Maggie

Is there something else you would like to share that was not asked?
Whenever given the chance, I like to tell everyone about my dogs. I have a senior dog, Maggie, who is a 15 year old dachshund and a mixed breed, Rocky, who is almost four years old. I treat them like my babies and wouldn't have it any other way.

Rocky