As the Director, Lera oversees the entire unit from sales to operations, responsible for client and guest satisfaction, culinary and audio-visual production, staff morale and well-being, financial performance, and all other critical facets of USC Private Events & Restaurants.

Lera came to USC Hospitality in the fall of 2022 from one of the most engaging and long-standing Private Equity Clubs in LA, The Beach Club in Santa Monica. As the Assistant General Manager there, Lera led a team of 150 employees through the pandemic years and beyond, managing all aspects of club life: athletic & youth programming, private & member events, culinary & beverage programs, communications & marketing, beach operations, facilities, and more. Prior to joining The Beach Club in 2019, Lera had spent a decade with ClubCorp as the Operations Director for their flagship properties, the City Club atop the City National Bank Tower in Downtown LA and the Metropolitan Club at the Willis Tower in Chicago. Lera moved to Chicago from the Vail Valley, Colorado, where she managed one of the clubhouses for the Club at Cordillera immediately after graduating from the Collins College of Hospitality Management at Cal Poly Pomona as a Julian McPhee Scholar. Lera remains a passionate supporter of the Collins College, where she served as a President of the Collins College Alumni Board and taught Club Management course as a part time lecturer for a number of years.

Beginning with her first hospitality job at Hacienda Golf Club in La Habra Heights in 2004, Lera has been fascinated with the industry. The art of connecting people, growing relationships, enriching lives of everyone who happens to come across venues & properties Lera oversees is very close to her Russian upbringing and the most rewarding in her career. Currently, Lera resides in North Hills with her husband Sean, mama Tanya, daughters Mila & Rita, and two dogs Mishka & Zaika. When not working, Lera and Sean love to travel the world, study wine & food scenes, and relax with family all scattered across several continents.

Juanita has had a remarkable career spanning over 38 years, during which she has held various significant roles in operations, management, and leadership, contributing greatly to the University of Southern California (USC) community. Her career journey began in 1988 with a focus on operations, where she played a pivotal role in providing excellent service to students, staff, and administrators. This expertise led to her promotion as the Retail Senior Manager of Operations.

In 1995, Juanita transitioned to the role of Catering Sales & Operations Manager at the University Club, where she continued to demonstrate her leadership and operational skills. Her responsibilities included developing key accounts and markets, as well as playing a critical role in restructuring operations.

Juanita’s career continued to progress, and in 2017, she assumed the position of General Manager at the University Club. Over the years, Juanita’s commitment and leadership helped shape the organization’s growth and success.

Currently, with more than 35 years of experience, Juanita serves as the Senior Manager of Restaurants at USC, where she continues to lead and contribute her wealth of knowledge to the university’s dining services. Juanita’s outstanding contributions have been recognized with multiple accolades, including being a two-time recipient of the USC Auxiliary Services Trojan Award. Juanita has also received the prestigious USC Auxiliary Services “Best” Award. Juanita’s career highlights reflect a consistent dedication to excellence in service, operations, and leadership.

Email: juanagom@usc.edu

Kim Patalano-Moo brings over 25 years of experience in the hospitality industry to her role as the Senior Catering Sales Manager for USC Private Events & Conferences. In her current capacity, Kim spearheads event management for the USC Marshall School of Business and Leventhal School of Accounting. With a focus on a relationship-driven approach to sales, Kim is dedicated to providing a seamless and memorable experience for clients, ensuring that every event under her purview is a resounding success.

Over the course of her distinguished career, she has had progressive experience within hotels across the South Bay, earning a reputation for her unmatched expertise in catering and conference services. Kim’s journey with USC began in April 2009, and since then, she has played a pivotal role in the success of USC Private Events & Conferences.

Kim is a three-time recipient of USC Auxiliary Services Trojan Gold Award, alongside the 2023 “Best” Award, achievements that underscore her exceptional contributions and unwavering commitment to excellence in hospitality.

Email: patalano@usc.edu
Phone: 213-740-3780

As the Catering Sales Manager at USC Private Events & Conferences, Claire Morris oversees an array of distinguished clients, including the Gould School of Law, Enrollment Services, USC Athletics, and the Rossier School of Education. Her client-centric focus ensures meticulously planned events that consistently exceed expectations, extending to diverse vertical markets.

With over a decade of experience in Hotel Catering Sales, Claire is a seasoned catering professional specializing in the luxury lifestyle market. Her proficiency in handling athletic events was showcased in her pivotal role during Super Bowl LVI in 2022, where she orchestrated flawless execution for LA-area college and professional sports teams.

Originally from Manhattan Beach, CA, Claire Morris holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communications from Boston College. Her academic foundation, coupled with a track record of excellence in event planning, positions her as a dedicated and accomplished professional within the USC Private Events & Conferences team.

Email: clairemo@usc.edu
Phone: 213-821-4465

As Catering Sales Manager at USC Private Events & Conferences, Leticia Velazquez is dedicated to providing exemplary service and event execution for her Health Science clients. Since joining the team in August 2023, she is applying her 20 years of experience and love of food and beverage to support clients on both campuses including Keck Medicine of USC, Keck School of Medicine, Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry, Mann School of Pharmacy, and Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy.

Prior to joining the USC team, Leticia served as Director of Sales for a boutique hospitality group in Los Angeles, overseeing sales and production of events at in house venues as well as offsite catering. She began her career and honed her event and hospitality expertise over Patina Restaurant Group, where she sold and coordinated events at iconic Los Angeles venues such as The Hollywood Bowl, LACMA, Descanso Gardens, and The Music Center. As a native Angeleno, Leticia is proud to add USC to that list.

Email: lv21088@usc.edu
Phone: 213-740-1411

Lullette joined USC Private Events and Restaurants Team in February 2025. Since then she has been promoted a few times and now serves as the Catering Sales Manager. Lullette has over 15 years of experience in event and wedding planning, specializing in creating personalized and memorable occasions from intimate gatherings to grand events, focusing on every detail with creativity and care. Outside of work, Lullette loves spending time with family, cooking, and exploring local coffee shops in search of the perfect vanilla latte. 

Email: lullette@usc.edu
Phone: 213-740-1590

Lizetth Gudino, affectionately known as Liz, brings nearly 20 years of hospitality experience to USC. She began her career in 2007 at the Doubletree in Downtown Los Angeles. She then joined the USC Hospitality team in the summer of 2015 as an Event Sales Coordinator at the Raddison Hotel (now USC Hotel). Recently promoted to the position of Office Manager, Liz is a key team member whose diligence and dedication make her a go-to resource in the office.

Alvin started his hospitality career working various part-time roles throughout college, including front desk positions at The Pacific Palms Resort and Fairfield Inn by Marriot, and as a barista at 7 Leaves Cafe. He earned his bachelor’s degree in hospitality management from the Collins College at Cal Poly Pomona with an emphasis in Event Management. 
Since joining USC Private Events in summer 2023 as an Event Sales Coordinator, Alvin has brought a bright personality and meticulous attention to detail to his role. He is eager to contribute to the team’s success and grow professionally here at USC. Outside of work, Alvin enjoys hiking with friends and exploring new boba shops around Los Angeles.

Nohemy began her USC career as a receptionist at the University Club in 2022, showcasing her exceptional personality and communication skills. She then joined the USC Private Events team as a Sales Coordinator during the Summer of 2023. Outside of work, Nohemy is a dedicated mother and enjoys planning creative events like tea parties and movie nights for her three-year-old daughter, Kamila, to enjoy.

Cynthia Gomez brings several years of experience of cultivating special events to her role as Sales Coordinator. Prior to joining USC, she served as Administrative Assistant for Food and Wine at the Hollywood Bowl. She began her career in hospitality as Events Coordinator for the GRAMMY Museum where she assisted with the production and execution of the GRAMMY’s After Party, The Latin GRAMMY Sessions, and many exhibit openings.

Outside of work, Cynthia is a dedicated baseball fan. Serving as a member of the Blue Crew for the Los Angeles Dodgers, she is pursuing attending a game in every Major League Ballpark, just five away from all 30 ballparks. In their spare time, Cynthia and her husband like attending concerts, trying new eateries or just being at home with their 15-year-old cocker-shih-tzu, Kobe and their two red-ear slider turtles, Lady and Gaga.

Jovon graduated from Los Angeles Senior High School, the first high school in Los Angeles established in 1873, in 2004 as a standout three-sport athlete. During his senior year, Jovon was honored as the Most Athletic Person and was named to the First Team All-League Defensive End for the Northern League in football. These achievements earned him a full scholarship for football at the University of Washington in Seattle, where he excelled as a scholar-athlete for both the offensive and defensive lines. Jovon is a proud member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., and graduated in 2008 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in American Ethnic Studies.

After college, Jovon began his career in events with Contemporary Services Corporation (CSC), where he worked at the Rose Bowl, Coliseum, Hollywood Bowl, and the Forum for various concerts, sporting events, and celebrations. In 2010, he transitioned into hotel hospitality at the JW Marriott Ritz-Carlton at LA Live, starting in the banquets department as a Lead Event Operations Attendant. By 2012, Jovon advanced to a Guest Recognition Coordinator role in the Club Lounge at The Ritz-Carlton Los Angeles at LA Live.

In 2014, Jovon continued to progress in his career by becoming a Supervisor for Event Operations at the LAX Marriott, where he guided staff on room setups and meal preparations. In 2018, Jovon shifted his career path into Food and Beverage Management as a Manager at the Marina del Rey Marriott, overseeing the restaurant and banquets department to ensure excellent guest service.

In 2021, Jovon embarked on a new journey as an Event Operations Manager at the University of Southern California, where he leads staff to provide outstanding service across various campus venues.

Email: jovonoco@usc.edu

As a seasoned professional in the hospitality industry, Levi brings over seven years of dedicated experience and a profound passion for operating special events.

Her journey in the field began with a leading venue management company renowned for producing unforgettable live event experiences. Transitioning seamlessly to a prestigious hotel industry in the vibrant city of Long Beach California, where she honed her skills in creating exceptional and memorable guest experiences.

Levi’s commitment to excellence then led her to the University of Southern California, where she can showcase her expertise in operations by orchestrating a diverse range of events with finesse and precision.

Levi is reliable, organized and approaches every task with a positive attitude and contagious enthusiasm, fostering a collaborative and dynamic work environment. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for creating unforgettable experiences, She hopes to continue to make a mark in the world of special events, leaving a lasting impression on clients and guests alike.

Email: flefil@usc.edu

Misa is a dedicated Banquet Manager at USC, with a rich background in the hospitality industry that spans over three decades. Originally from Jalisco, Mexico, Misa moved to the United States at the age of 17 and has since cultivated a remarkable career in hospitality.

With a strong foundation built at the prestigious Jonathan Club, where Misa served for 25 years in roles ranging from busser to lead server, his expertise in providing exceptional service is unmatched. This experience was further enhanced by a four-year tenure as a banquet captain at the Sheraton Cerritos, where Misa honed skills in event management and team leadership.

In October 2022, Misa joined the USC team, bringing a passion for hospitality and an eye for detail. His commitment to excellence is also evidenced by completing the Introductory Sommelier Course in 2019, reflecting a deep appreciation for fine wine and its role in creating unforgettable dining experiences.

Misa holds a Master’s Degree in Hospitality Management from Cal Poly Pomona, earned in 2023. Beyond professional endeavors, Misa is a devoted family person, married with five children, and maintains a lifelong love for soccer, both playing and spectating.

Email: misaelga@usc.edu

With a solid background in hospitality, event operations, and security management, Eddie is an experienced Event Operations Manager who excels in orchestrating seamless, high-impact events. Known for a meticulous approach to event logistics and operations, Eddie has a proven track record of managing complex projects from inception to completion while ensuring the highest standards of guest experience and safety.

Before transitioning into event management, Eddie honed a diverse skill set across various sectors within hospitality, including roles in security management and purchasing. This multifaceted expertise allows Eddie to effectively oversee all aspects of event planning, from vendor negotiations to on-the-ground logistics, while maintaining strict security protocols and budgetary controls.

Whether it’s coordinating large-scale corporate events or intimate gatherings, Eddie thrives under pressure, adapting quickly to changing circumstances and delivering exceptional results. Eddie is passionate about creating memorable experiences and continuously strives to innovate within the dynamic event management industry.

Email: cuevasga@usc.edu

Alonso has a strong operation management background in hospitality, front office, housekeeping, and events experience. Alonso’s keen eye for detail, and analytical skills contribute to his meticulous approach to event operations and execution. Alonso is characterized by a focus on collaboration, fostering a positive work environment, and empowering team members to reach their full potential. In addition to his hands-on management, Alonso has a strong background in designing and delivering comprehensive training programs, assisting professionals to enhance their skills, and drive excellence in the hospitality industry.

Alonso believes that successful events are the results of meticulous planning, open communication, and collaborative team effort. His approach to event operations emphasize proactive problem-solving, a customer- first mentality, and a commitment to delivering results that exceeds client expectations by transforming event concepts into seamless, memorable experiences.

Email: garcias4@usc.edu

Peter joins USC Hospitality as the Hotel Food & Beverage Manager, bringing more than 23 years of experience across the hospitality industry. His career spans a wide range of hospitality environments, from neighborhood diners to high-energy venues in Hollywood and Las Vegas, as well as leadership roles in hotels and resorts. Prior to joining USC, Peter served as Food & Beverage Manager at Pacific Palms Resort and Food & Beverage Operations Manager at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Ontario.

Inspired by his mother, who was a chef, Peter developed a passion for hospitality at an early age. Her dedication to her craft and care for others shaped his belief that exceptional hospitality extends beyond food and service—it is about creating memorable experiences, building strong teams, and treating every guest and colleague with genuine respect and kindness.

Raised in a large family as one of five siblings, Peter credits his parents’ work ethic, sacrifices, and immigrant background for instilling the values that continue to guide his leadership: humility, integrity, hard work, and respect for others. He is especially inspired by his four accomplished sisters, whose achievements reinforced the importance of education, perseverance, and giving back.

Outside of work, Peter’s greatest pride is being a father to his two children. They inspire him every day and motivate him to lead with compassion, integrity, and a commitment to creating meaningful connections both professionally and personally.

Yesenia has been a member of the USC community for over 30 years, beginning her journey in 1991 as a Guest Services Representative at Commons. During her time at Commons she had the unique opportunity to work closely with President Steven Sample. Her journey at USC has included a variety of roles, including crew leader, supervisor, and currently, manager at the University Club, one of our premium venues.

Over the years, Yesenia’s service to the University has been recognized with awards, including the Trojan Achievement Award, the Good Neighbor Volunteer Award, the Gold Award, and the Experience Award.

Email: yfuentes@usc.edu

Samantha joined USC in March 2024 as the Restaurant Supervisor & Membership Coordinator and got promoted to the Assistant Manager for the University Club in March 2025. Before coming to USC, Samantha worked at Oakmont Country Club in Glendale, CA. She started there as an intern right after graduating from Cal Poly Pomona with a B.S. in Hospitality Management and worked her way up to food and beverage supervisor. Working at Oakmont helped her gain experience in restaurant and event management, pool operation in the summer, and internship program oversight. Samantha’s hospitality journey began at Los Angeles Center for Enriched Studies (LACES), where she competed in various culinary competitions, earning scholarships for college. This early exposure to the culinary world fueled her passion for restaurants and hospitality as a whole.

Email: sgaytan@usc.edu

Dana joined USC as a cashier in 2006. Sometime after, she received the opportunity to work as a hostess in restaurants which developed further into other restaurant tasks such as running food, expediting and facilitating banquets. With so many aspects of the business open to her, she took every opportunity to learn something new. Her passion continued to grow until she became an assistant manager in Hospitality.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Dana had the unique opportunity that the pandemic seemed to offer many of us and stepped into a new leadership role as a Manager of USC’s Care Crew. The Care Crew was responsible for helping maintain a safe and healthy environment on campus, particularly for university students, faculty, staff and visitors. Dana and the Care Crew were instrumental in building a cross-campus team that ensured strict adherence to health and safety guidelines. This helped mitigate the spread of the virus and supported the university’s efforts to protect the campus community.

Email: danaramo@usc.edu

With over a decade of experience in audio-visual technology and event production, Saul Arrechea serves as the Senior Audio-Visual Manager for USC Hospitality. In this role, he leads the planning, implementation, and oversight of AV services across private events, conferences, and hospitality venues, ensuring smooth execution and exceptional guest experiences.

Saul brings a strong background in AV systems design, infrastructure planning, and technical operations, having supported high-profile environments across corporate, education, and entertainment industries. He is known for his collaborative leadership style, hands-on approach, and commitment to efficiency, reliability, and service excellence.

Throughout his career, Saul has managed large-scale AV upgrades, hybrid meeting rollouts, and technical teams supporting a wide range of events. He is passionate about creating environments where both clients and staff feel supported by technology—not limited by it.

Originally from the Bay Area and now based in Long Beach, Saul enjoys live music, design, and exploring Southern California’s rich cultural scene. He’s also an avid vinyl collector with a deep appreciation for sound, space, and experiences that bring people together.

Email: sarreche@usc.edu
Phone: 213-740-8824