If you’ve ever wondered what keeps a department running smoothly – from lab transitions and seminar logistics to HR tasks and event planning – Susan Yunkes can tell you. As an administrative assistant IV, she is a go-to person when something needs to get done, fixed, or figured out. 

Hired in October 2023 to work out of the College of Sciences’ Dean’s office, her role has proven crucial to ensuring departments continue to function efficiently through adversity. 

“I currently support the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry by helping streamline operations and bring organization back to spaces that needed attention,” she says. “I work closely with the department chair and vice chair on a variety of projects to ensure things run well behind the scenes.”

With a sharp eye for detail and a deep sense of purpose, Yunkes brings order to chaos and heart to every project she touches. Whether she’s coordinating travel or transforming cluttered spaces into functional labs, she appreciates the variety in her day and the sense of community she has found working for the college. 

Yunkes was awarded the college’s Distinguished Classified Staff Award in 2024, demonstrating the impact she has had in her role and service to the college.

“There’s a great deal of pride in knowing the work I do supports groundbreaking research, faculty success, and a better experience for students.”

What is the biggest misconception about your job?

That I sit at my computer all day doing nothing, when in fact the work is constant and often unpredictable. People sometimes assume administrative roles are purely clerical, but my job is actually very strategic and people-focused.

I’m juggling priorities, coordinating with multiple teams, handling everything from travel and HR to event planning and space management. A lot of what I do happens behind the scenes, but it’s essential to keeping the department running smoothly and supporting everyone else’s success. It’s rewarding to see tangible improvements in spaces and systems because of the work we’ve put in.

What was the last big project you completed?

One of the biggest recent projects was transforming cluttered, unused spaces into functional labs for incoming faculty. It required coordination with facilities, researchers, and department leadership to ensure everything was completed on time.

Once the labs were ready and occupied, I celebrated with a quiet weekend off sitting by the Durango pool, relaxing with a drink, and unwinding with my dog, Penny. It was the perfect way to decompress and recharge.

What brought you to UNLV?

My boyfriend moved to Las Vegas during the COVID-19 pandemic and, at the time, I was still working at the University of Florida College of Medicine in Jacksonville. It was a tough time when job options were limited and moving wasn’t really possible right away. A few years later, once things settled down, I finally made the move.

Joining UNLV felt like a fresh start and just the right fit. I’ve really enjoyed being part of a university that’s growing and changing, and I’m happy to be part of that energy.

My boyfriend, Mark, was super happy that we were finally together again after three years of long distance, though honestly, I’m not sure if he was more excited about me moving or the dog coming along!

Who inspires you?

I’ve always looked up to the strong women in my life, especially my sisters and my friends back home in Jacksonville. Their resilience, kindness, and ability to support one another through all kinds of challenges inspires me every day. They show me the power of family, community, and friendship, and I carry that with me wherever I go. I’m also inspired by people who show up with positivity and treat everyone with respect — qualities I strive for in my own life.

When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?

I wanted to be a teacher or have some kind of role where I could help others. I’ve always enjoyed being involved, whether it was helping classmates or planning school events. Looking back, it makes sense that I ended up in higher education, where I still get to support students and be part of the campus experience in meaningful ways.

What advice would you give your younger self?

Stop comparing yourself to everyone else. No one has it all figured out, even if it looks that way. Everything doesn’t have to be perfect. Focus on progress, not perfection. Speak up, trust your instincts, and don’t be afraid to take up space. You’re more capable than you realize, and the path doesn’t have to be linear to be meaningful.

And seriously, take the vacation days, go to the beach, and unplug. Burnout isn’t a badge of honor. Also, treat yourself every now and then; a little shopping therapy never hurts.

What’s your favorite part about living in Las Vegas?

I grew up in Florida, so my hair is definitely loving the dry air — no more humidity! I love all the concerts, shopping (I can’t resist a good find), and just how much is always going on here. I do miss the beach, but Vegas has its own kind of fun. I’ve even gotten into playing a little Keno now and then — some wins, some losses, but always entertaining!

What’s your ideal vacation?

It's all about sunshine, the beach, and spending time with friends and family. Give me a cold drink, some great food, and a football game on in the background — preferably the Jacksonville Jaguars or Dallas Cowboys — and I’m set. It’s the perfect mix of relaxing and having fun with the people I love.