Before her recent switch to fellow NSHE institution Nevada State University, Ana Hacsi, ‘12 Criminal Justice and ‘13 Psychology, was an administrative assistant for over 18 years at UNLV.
While working for the UNLV College of Education's Student Services Center, she did “a little bit of everything.” Daily tasks often included monitoring the front desk and fielding questions from students or other departments related to the school’s programming.
Hacsi's colleagues say she never shied away from a volunteer opportunity. She served on UNLV’s Homecoming and Safety committees, was also involved in the Classified Staff Council, and signed up every year for at least one AskMe Booth shift. She also participated in community projects like Hygiene Kit Making for the College of Education’s Alumni Association and PALS peer mentoring program’s Trunk or Treat.
“Her creativity and dedication have not only elevated our projects but have also illuminated our office, bringing true spirit. She is a true pleasure to collaborate with, and her positive influence is felt by everyone on the team as well as our students,” former colleague Colleen Naryan, Workforce Readiness advisor, said of Hacsi prior to her leaving UNLV in the spring.
Born and raised in Mexico City, Hacsi and her family moved to Las Vegas when she was a child. “My mom thought Las Vegas was a great family place,” she says.
Now, she's a big fan of the Las Vegas Golden Knights and says in her spare time that she enjoys documentaries, psychological thrillers, and spending time with friends and family.
How do you feel about being recognized as a Classified Employee of the Year?
Honored and humbled by such an amazing award. I never thought in all the years I have been here I would be honored with this once in a lifetime recognition.
What was your favorite aspect of the job?
The students and working with and meeting April Zangari, Briseyda Montes, and Colleen Naryan. The interactions I have with them are priceless. I do everything in my power to make sure that when the students leave or hang up the phone with me, they feel better that the issue they had is gone. I can’t and won’t be able to say enough of my corkers. We have been through A LOT and knowing I have those three ladies at work to laugh and grow together has been the best part of my job.
What is a good way to achieve a healthy work-life balance?
Leaving work at work and spending as much time with your loved ones.
Do you have a quote, phrase, or piece of advice you find especially inspiring?
Your leadership should not determine the possibilities you have. Go for not only the stars but for everything! Never sell yourself short.
If this award came with a $50,000 bonus — where would you travel?
I would take a mini vacation with my amazing husband to Spain. He has been such a rock through so many ups and downs with me that this would be a small thank you to him. I would also take some of my close friends on a trip anywhere they would want to go, they have been my source of empowerment. I am who I am because they helped me see I can do anything!
Advice for new employees?
Get out of your box, join committees, go to events and meet people! You will never grow if you never explore your possibilities and trust me you have so many to give and take!
What’s a good way to get involved on campus?
Join communities! Go to Rebels After Dark, go to your department events.
What’s been one of the most memorable moments in your time at UNLV?
Walking the stage for my two degrees I received at UNLV.
What’s something people would be surprised to learn about you?
As personal as I am, I have a very small group of friends.
For the people you work with on a daily basis, what is the type of person or colleague you wish for them to see you as?
I hope/wish they know how much I truly love my job and I would do anything to make sure the office ran as efficiently as possible. With such a small advisor ratio, I wish I could do more to help them and our students. I would like them to see me as a hard worker who loved to know them more and appreciate them as a person and as an advisor and never taking no as an answer.
