Paula Khodaverdi, it’s hard to imagine this place without you
As we say farewell to Paula Khodaverdi, we would like to reflect on her time here at UC Davis Continuing and Professional Education’s International Programs and her commitment to the success of our students. Paula, a program specialist who will be retiring at the end of the month, joined our team in 1997. Her guidance and friendship will be missed.
“As Paula transitions into a new chapter, her absence will be keenly felt,” said Nari Fujita, director of new academic initiatives at UC Davis International Programs. “I have worked closely with her for 27 years, and during that time she has built a legacy of compassion, dedication and service that will endure.”
“A Toast to Life and Love”
Paula grew up in a multicultural home—her mother was from Italy and on her family’s farm she spoke Spanish with their guest workers. In high school, she was naturally drawn to the international students, and at an early age began tutoring them in ESL. “By the time I was 18 years old, I knew what I wanted to do—work in international education,” she said. “Later I married an Iranian and was exposed to a whole new geographic world that furthered my education in international affairs.”
When Paula was first hired, she set up apartments for the Japanese Police Program, an eight-week program that brought police officers from the National Japanese Police agency in Tokyo to study English as a second language at UC Davis and experience the U.S. law enforcement system. “Within a month, I was designated as a field representative and was running the Japanese Police Program! Everything took off from there,” she exclaimed.
One of Paula’s favorite memories was returning from a site visit to Napa wineries with a student group. “We were having such a great time,” she said. “Kristina Carrizosa and I were sitting on the bus pinching each other asking if this was work or play! It’s so amazing to interact and engage with students and end each day feeling satisfied and complete.”
It’s these daily interactions with students and clients, hearing their voices and feeling content after a long day’s work that Paula said she will miss most about working here. “It is a joy working on a great campus like UC Davis, helping students reach their goals, collaborating with incredible team members and realizing everything I learned and experienced will carry on indefinitely,” she said. “A toast to life and love!”
“Paula’s dedication to our students and partners has been invaluable,” said Nari. “She consistently goes out of her way to ensure their comfort and well-being, often extending invitations to chaperones into her home for dinners.”
“She fosters genuine human connections with our university partners, earning the respect and admiration of both our clients and our team,” said Nari. “Paula will be missed greatly.”
A New Chapter
Paula is looking forward to having more time for learning and exploring, including international travel (of course). “I want to learn new languages, get more involved with environmental concerns, continue creating art through landscaping, volunteer with animal rescues and explore new culinary dishes.” She’s also planning to help at Winters Fruit Tree, her family’s farm in Northern California.
We wish you all the best in this new chapter, Paula, and thank you for your dedication to our students and partners.