Only a handful of ASI staff can boast the years of experience that Aaron Elimelech has, and his commitment to creating an environment of support and growth at ASI Communications is undeniable. Beginning as a student assistant in 1998, Aaron has over 20 years of experience working at what is now ASI Comm. While its values are mostly the same, he has been at the forefront of many changes within the department.

When Aaron was hired as marketing coordinator in 2003, the design department of ASI was known as “Planet Graphics,” and designers were spread across countless subdivisions of ASI.

“Students were confused about what ASI was and what services we provided,” Aaron recalled. “Aside from quality-control issues, there were over 15 logos going out at once, all from the same place - we really needed consistency.”

With the help of his fellow staff, including Sylvana Cicero, the current director of the USU and SRWC, Aaron spearheaded the consolidation of ASI’s design and communications resources to form ASI Communications. Since its official creation in 2006, ASI Communications has been a leader on campus for designs, branding, marketing and more.

“It’s been incredible to see the changes we’ve made in the past couple of decades,” Aaron said. “The most important decision was to turn the cameras around and feature the students behind the work. Prioritizing students and showcasing their talents is a huge part of who we are.”

Aaron’s passion for working with students is an essential part of his character, and he considers himself more of a mentor than a boss to the students in his department. The students most certainly agree.

“If I wasn’t doing this, I would be a teacher,” he remarked. “Working with students gives me energy, and seeing their progress over the years is beyond rewarding.”

Seeing that development is Aaron’s favorite part about working at ASI. He remembers the support he felt as a student assistant, and providing that same feeling for students is his way of giving back.

“It’s all about seeing students go from A to Z,” he said. “Most students start out shy, but seeing them open up and go from quiet to confident – from followers to leaders – is really a testament to this organization’s importance.”

Aaron Elimelech was awarded the Essential Piece of the Puzzle during the October 2019 ASI employee assembly. As a part of ASI’s commitment to uplifting customer service, each month all full-time staff participates and votes in this monthly employee of the month program.

Those who have had the pleasure of chatting with Jaime Garcia would agree with one undeniable aspect of his character - his helpful energy is contagious. Jaime truly fits the definition of an “Essential Piece of the Puzzle,” not only because of his commitment to carrying out his necessary duties, but also because of his unwavering desire to help others, no matter the task. From his habit of going out of his way to assist maintenance, to voluntarily helping students set up wheelchair ramps, in ASI the word “helpful” and the name “Jaime” are inseparable.

Jaime’s career was kicked off in the warehouse of Specialized Environmental & Demolition, a company that investigates buildings for hazards and potential demolition. He worked his way up to a heavy equipment operator and stayed at the company for nine years before moving on to California Heights United Methodist Church, a much more people-oriented work environment.

“My job was basically maintenance during the day, custodian at night,” Jaime recalled. “It was really my introduction to the types of duties I have here at [Long Beach State].” Jaime took up a similar job in another Methodist church in San Pedro, which ended up being his bridge to our campus.

“I worked with a guy at the church who also worked at CSULB,” he said, “and from time to time I would come by and help out with the work he was doing here.” Again, Jaime’s helpful nature shines through.

“My friend recommended me for this position as soon as it opened up, and I’m grateful he did,” Jaime said. “I’ve done custodial work in the past, but this job brings a whole new level of satisfaction, especially given that I get to work with an amazing team of staff and students.”

The team-oriented aspect of the job is a main source of fulfillment for Jaime, but he describes the come-and-go nature of his team members as “bittersweet.”

“As cool as it is to work with an amazing team that makes you feel young, it’s always a bit sad to see them go come graduation,” he explained.

Outside of work, Jaime loves spending time with his wife and two kids, whether they’re flying kites at the park or enjoying a day at the beach. He enjoys teaching his children new things such as skating, which his daughter has picked up like a natural.

“I’m always looking to improve myself, and I hope to do the same with my family – at home and here at the USU,” he said. “No matter what I want to learn, or who I want to help, I’m always up to the task.” Anybody who knows Jaime would definitely agree.

If you see Jaime around, be sure to say hello, but beware – if he sees you lifting a heavy box, there’s no chance he won’t stop by to give you a hand.

Jaime Garcia was awarded the Essential Piece of the Puzzle during the September 2019 ASI employee assembly. As a part of ASI’s commitment to uplifting customer service, each month all full-time staff participates and votes in this monthly employee of the month program.

It takes high standards and dedication to maintain the large number of accounts associated with ASI. From student organizations to internal finances, Accounting Analyst Stewart Ohanesian has his work cut out for him. To carry out these responsibilities, Stewart is guided by a strong work ethic and a priority to always treat others with kindness.

“I learned the value of determination mostly from my father,” Stewart said, “and both of my parents reinforced the importance of respect. Being able to work in an office where persistence and kindness are emphasized makes it easy to keep those values and lessons in mind.”

On the subject of mentors, Stewart remembered a history teacher from high school that inspired him to make the most out of every circumstance.

“I remember being amazed that he could turn world history – a subject most students dread – into such an interesting and engaging class,” he recalled. “I apply that lesson today by understanding that what I do here is much more than just number-crunching – it’s serving students in a way that ensures they can accomplish their goals and enrich our community.”

“I saw the opening on a college campus, and I could tell it would be a great place to work,” he said. “I’m glad that things happened the way they did – aside from the interesting aspect of the job, it’s also really rewarding to know you’re working to benefit the students.”

Stewart Ohanesian was awarded the Essential Piece of the Puzzle during the September 2018 and August 2019 ASI employee assembly. Click here for his 2018 article. As a part of ASI’s commitment to uplifting customer service, each month all full-time staff participates and votes in this monthly employee of the month program.