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: Myrna Pacheco
Title: Interim Clinical Coordinator
Department: Student Health and Counseling Center
Academic Degree(s):

• M.S. Counseling, Fresno State

How long have you worked at Fresno State and in which offices have you worked?
This December, I will complete ten years of working here. I have worked the entire time at the Student Health and Counseling Center.

Are you a Valley native?
I am a Valley native. I was born in Fowler and raised in Parlier.

Are you part of a Bulldog family with generations of Bulldog graduates or current students?
I am the first family member to attend and graduate from here. Currently, my nephew Jacob is a student on campus.

Tell us about your department and what people may not know about it.
My department is a wonderful place to work. We have many fun and exciting social events for staff where we get to come together, eat, play games and have fun.

Halloween party at the Student Health and Counseling Center

What is your most notable accomplishment in your field, and why was it important?
My most notable accomplishment was being part of the case manager pilot program at the Student Health and Counseling Center. About seven years ago, the center started a pilot to introduce case management services in the department. This was the beginning of integrated care; medical providers and counselors working together to better serve our students. The pilot was a success and currently, the case management team has grown and is expanding into its own department.

What are you most passionate about in your field and why?
As a college counselor, I get to be there for students in crisis and connect them with resources and services they need to help them get through the stressors of being a college student. I also get to serve in a unique role, make a positive impact and provide a safe place for students.

What is your favorite quote or saying?
As someone who teaches self-care and work/life balance, my favorite quote is by Dolly Parton, “Don’t get so busy making a living that you forget to make a life.”

What is the most interesting or unusual job you've ever had?
The most interesting job I ever had was when I was in my twenties. I served as one of the youngest members of the city council. I was able to make a positive impact on the quality of life, helped tackle issues like growth, public health and safety, improving recreation, sustainability and keeping the local economy healthy.

What do you like to do for fun in your spare time?
I enjoy riding my peloton bike for exercise and playing badminton.

What is something interesting about you that most people don’t know?
Most people don’t know that I love to sing karaoke. At family gatherings, I’m the first one to get on the microphone and sing.

Myrna Pacheco and her husband

Is there something else you would like to share that was not asked?
I have been married 20 years. I have a 19 year old son, 17 year old daughter, and two dogs. I feel grateful every day for my loving family.