Team
Welcome, Mayra Soriagalvarro
Capital Projects & Facilities Planning Analyst
What is your role at Merced College?
I am part of the Classified Professionals team, currently working as the Capital Projects & Facilities Planning Analyst in the Facilities Department. I’ve been in this role for three and a half years. Prior to that, I spent seven and a half years in the Business & Fiscal Services Department. Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to witness the college’s growth and contribute in meaningful ways.
What part of your job do you enjoy most?
Although our department maintains a fast pace, I enjoy seeing projects develop from planning to completion. Being part of remodels and new construction on campus, especially spaces that serve and support our students, makes the work truly rewarding. I also enjoy managing project budgets, and with a bachelor’s degree in accounting, financial planning is something I naturally gravitate toward. I find satisfaction in ensuring our projects remain fiscally responsible while still delivering meaningful improvements to campus facilities.
Tell us about yourself. What brought you to Merced College?
I am Bolivian, born and raised in San Francisco, and moved to Merced when I was 14. I began attending Merced College right after high school, though I was focused on working full time at the time. Over time, I learned the importance of balancing both responsibilities and eventually earned my associate degree in 2013 before transferring to Stanislaus State in 2014. Shortly after, I began working at Merced College. In many ways, it feels like I never truly left. This institution has played a significant role in both my education and career, which makes contributing to its growth especially meaningful.
What do you like to do outside of work?
I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, especially my 3-year-old son, Olexander. I truly value experiencing new places with him and creating lasting memories together. While I may not have many formal hobbies, I appreciate simple moments to relax and recharge, whether that is a little online shopping, Pilates, or enjoying a margarita at brunch with my loved ones. Those moments help me reset and return to work with renewed energy.
In celebration of Women’s History Month, who are the women who have had the greatest impact on your life, and what lessons from them do you carry with you in your work?
My mom has had the greatest influence on my life. She showed me what true selflessness looks like and instilled in me the importance of a strong work ethic. No matter how much she carried, she handled it with quiet strength and grace, something I did not fully appreciate until I became a working mom myself.
Over my 11 years at Merced College, I have seen many women balance their careers and family life with dedication and heart. I deeply admire that strength. It has shaped my own commitment to excellence in my work and to supporting other women in both professional and personal growth.
What message would you share with young women at Merced College about confidence, perseverance, and finding their place?
I would encourage them not to give up, even when they have moments of doubt. There may be times when you feel unsure of yourself or uncertain about your path, but that does not mean you will not reach your goals. As the first in my family to attend college, I understand how intimidating it can feel to navigate unfamiliar places. Growth takes time, and your journey does not have to be perfect to be meaningful. Stay consistent, trust your ability to learn and grow, and give yourself grace along the way. Even when it feels difficult, keep moving forward.
Looking back on your time here, what’s a change at Merced College that has shaped the way you do your work?
Leadership has had the most significant impact on how I approach my work. President Vitelli has consistently highlighted innovation and adaptability, demonstrating that change is an opportunity to grow. I have embraced that mindset in my own role, viewing challenges as opportunities to refine processes and improve outcomes. The leadership team’s ongoing support and encouragement of my professional development have motivated me to maintain a strong work ethic and contribute to a collaborative campus environment.
From her supervisor:
“Mayra is a tremendous asset to our team and, honestly, someone I count on more than I can put into words. She is deeply committed to the mission of Merced College, and brings both a strong accounting background, attention to detail, and real project management instincts to everything she does. She’s a great teammate — selfless, steady, and always willing to put in whatever time is needed when the workload ramps up, while still managing projects, a complex network of vendors, and finding ways to improve workflows. I’m constantly impressed by how she stays ahead of our needs and does it all while being a devoted mom to her young son.” Marcus Metcalf Senior Director of Capital Projects and Facilities
