Liz Piña-Figueroa
Manager of Administrative Services (DPS)
"I love Tucson’s mountains, especially at sunset."
Please share a little bit about where you grew up and what brought you to Tucson (if you were raised here, what is something that you enjoy about Tucson?).
I was born in Mexico City, but I have lived in Tucson for almost 36 years, so I’m practically a Tucsonan. What brought me here was to learn English (ESL) and attend college. I love Tucson’s mountains, especially at sunset.
How long have you worked at the college or university, and can you share a little bit about your job within the college?
I began my employment at the University of Arizona in 2005 as an office assistant in the Department of SERSP (Special Education, Rehabilitation, and School Psychology), now DPS. As you can probably tell, I truly love my job—I work with wonderful people.
"Making sure that faculty and students are taken care of is a big part of my role"
What's one part of your job that people might not realize or understand about what you do daily?
Making sure that faculty and students are taken care of is a big part of my role, and I always strive for timely delivery. Over the years, my work has been shaped by the needs of my programs, requiring adaptability and a focus on providing support in the most efficient and practical way.
If there's a favorite place you enjoy on campus and around Tucson, please share what makes it special.
Tucson has so many great spots, but one of my favorites is bike rides around the Tucson Loop, eating at a local restaurant or breweries - especially places with live music.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
I like to observe things, especially at night. I love looking at the stars through my telescope or viewing the mountains with my binoculars. I also enjoy sewing, playing pickleball, and trying new food recipes.
Liz Piña-Figueroa with her family and friends at the Loop