Human Resources is Maria's passion! Helping and developing employees do their best work; listening and taking care of their needs; finding the best talent and keeping them engaged; spotting trends and doing something about it; planning for the future; continuously learning & improving. This is what she thrives in. This is what she loves doing!Maria has 20+ years HR experience both nationally and internationally. She has been in diverse and rapidly changing work environments in the public and private sectors. Hospitality is her foundation and is currently employed at the San Diego Housing Commission, an award-winning public housing agency that creates innovative programs providing housing opportunities for individuals and families with low income or experiencing homelessness in the City of San Diego — the eighth-largest city in the nation, second largest in California.Maria holds a Masters in Human Resources from Fordham University in New York City and completed her undergraduate work at Cornell University's Hotel School. In addition, she has been actively involved as a Cornell Alumni Admissions Ambassador, helping recruit the brightest students into Cornell. She has also participated in several charitable fundraising efforts for organizations such as the American Cancer Society in New York, the Hilton Foundation in London and Toys for Tots in San Diego.Specialties: Learning & Development, Rewards & Recognition, Organizational Development, Change Management, Project Management, Policies & Procedures, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, Employee Relations, Performance Management, Employment Immigration, Recruitment/Selection, Benefits & Payroll Administration, Workers' Compensation/Ergonomics/Health & Safety Top 5 CliftonStrengths: LEARNER, FUTURISTIC, RESPONSIBILITY, ACHIEVER, ARRANGER