CDU Names 2023 Women of Distinction Award Recipients
The CDU Staff Council has announced the 2023 CDU Women of Distinction Award recipients. Dr. Bita Amani, Kathleen Arakaki, Raquel Munoz, and Claudia Ramirez have received the special honor for their outstanding leadership and poised conduct in their professional field.
“Staff Council began the Women of Distinction award in March 2022 to honor and celebrate the staff and faculty who have left an indelible mark on the CDU community and community at large through their exemplary service and commitment,” said April Walter-Brown, CDU Staff Management Council Chair. “The CDU Woman of Distinction is one who volunteers her time to help improve the quality of life for others, establishes standards that inspire and encourage other women to achieve their full potential, provides leadership, and influences decisions that shape and define our city and community.”
Dr. Bita Amani is an Associate Professor in the Department of Urban Public Health at CDU who has founded and led numerous initiatives such as the Cuban Health Exchange, the UCLA/CDU COVID-19 Racism and Equity Task Force, and the CDU Black Maternal Health Center of Excellence.
Kathleen Arakaki, who works in the Office of the President as the Chief of Staff of the University, has helped bring numerous initiatives to fruition, including the feline Trap-Neuter-Release program.
Raquel Munoz serves as the University Registrar. She was born and raised in Southern California and is committed to serving her community through mentorship and volunteer work.
Claudia Ramirez is the Helpdesk Manager at CDU and during her tenure she’s seen the Helpdesk grow to five members, processing over 8,900 work orders yearly.