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 & Conferences and USC 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 nearly 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 six 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, young daughters Mila Neave & Rita Kaye, 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.

As the Associate Director of Catering Sales and Systems, Karla oversees the sales portfolio and turnkey event offerings for USC Private Events and Conferences. Her role is centered around developing a high-impact team and cultivating meaningful partnerships with campus entities and outside clients to deliver bespoke USC experiences, while managing all event systems for our team.

Karla came to USC in 2015, contributing her expertise to Presidential and University Events as the Catering Sales Coordinator for the University Park catering team. She later transitioned to USC Hotel, taking on the role of Catering Sales Manager. In 2017, she took on the role of Senior Sales Manager, where she helped to open the newly established HSC Conference Center and was responsible for developing the key accounts and markets, helping to restructure and unify the four catering pillars of the university into the department it is today.

Karla has worked in the restaurants and catering industry for over 20 years, with experience in family-owned, franchise-level and luxury operations. Prior to USC, Karla served as the VP of Event Operations for a full-service catering and event company, where she specialized in celebrity hospitality, luxury events and experiential marketing.

Karla is a proud Trojan, holding a Master’s in Learning Design and Technology from USC Rossier School of Education, as well as a Bachelor’s in Business Administration and Marketing from Cal State Northridge. In 2014, she earned the designation of Certified Special Events Professional from the International Live Events Association.

Email: karla.campos@usc.edu
Phone: 213-821-3476

As an Assistant Director of Executive Sales and Event Operations, Staci is currently responsible for oversight of our catering and event service requests from the President’s Office, USC Senior Administration and other key University Event Executives. Staci is instrumental in our event operation initiatives, such as upgrades to our procedures, education of our staff, and quality control of all aspects of our event production across all Private Events & Conferences sub-teams.

Staci joined USC as a Catering Sales Manager in 2019. During the pandemic, Staci was hired onto Care Crew, where she assisted with building a cross-campus team that was responsible for maintaining a healthy and safe environment for all university visitors. Staci rejoined USC Hospitality in the summer of 2021 as part of the reopening team for USC Private Events & Conferences, and was promoted to Senior Sales Manager in 2022 and Assistant Director in 2023.

Staci discovered her passion for the hospitality industry while working in her family’s Japanese restaurant as a young girl. She studied Hospitality Management at The Art Institutes and quickly moved into leadership at SBE’s Katsuya by Stark. Staci left the restaurant industry to focus on raising her three daughters and run her own company which produced celebrity experiential consumer brand events across LA.

Email: ssamadan@usc.edu
Phone: 213-740-1479

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

Ozzie Blanco, USC Private Events & Conferences’ accomplished Catering Sales Manager, orchestrates seamless events for prestigious clients including the Price School of Public Policy, Annenberg School of Communications, and Dornsife School of Letters, Arts and Sciences. Her expertise extends to diverse vertical markets, reflecting a keen understanding of clients’ unique needs.

With a robust background in hospitality, Ozzie previously excelled in private clubs like Jonathan Club and California Club. Transitioning into the beauty market, she produced tradeshows and conventions across the US for industry giant Revlon, showcasing her dynamic event management capabilities. A lifelong Trojan fan, Ozzie Blanco embraced her passion and joined the USC family in October 2022, infusing her role with enthusiasm and a commitment to delivering unparalleled event experiences.

Email: osveliab@usc.edu
Phone: 213-821-5329

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

Eugenie joined the Private Events & Conferences team as a Catering Sales Manager in January 2024. She brings 20 years of experience within the hospitality industry, spanning from Europe to Los Angeles. She graduated with a Bachelor in Hospitality Management in Paris, France, with the intention to work in Events. Prior to joining the team, Eugenie oversaw the Food & Beverage and Events departments as the Regional Director for a hotel group based in Burbank. Before this role, she built and opened the Catering and Events Department for a luxurious boutique hotel located in Pasadena as the Director of Catering and Event Sales. This experience led to her being hired by Patina Restaurant Group to assist with the catering brand change at Descanso Gardens from Patina to The Kitchen For Exploring Foods.

Email: elepage@usc.edu
Phone: 213-740-1854

As Catering Sales Manager at the University of Southern California, Sierra Fisher plays a pivotal role in managing and executing a diverse range of catering services for University events. Sierra is responsible for overseeing the planning and coordination of high-profile events, ensuring that each experience meets the highest standards of quality and service.

Sierra joined USC with a robust background in catering and event management. Prior to her role at USC, she worked with a prominent non-profit organization in Los Angeles, managing large-scale conferences across the country. She then served as the Director of Events and Catering at a private country club in the Bay Area, where she played a key role in organizing golf tournaments and other major events. Additionally, Sierra has extensive experience in freelance with wedding and event planners across Beverly Hills, Pasadena, and the South Bay.

Sierra attended her first USC football game against San Jose State, her alma mater in 2021. Sierra and her husband share their home with two Dalmatians and actively foster dogs in need. Sierra’s commitment to her role and her enthusiasm for the Trojan community make her an invaluable member of the USC team.

Email: sierrafi@usc.edu
Phone: 213-740-5947

Lizeth 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 Assistant 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.

As a Senior Banquet Manager at USC Private Events & Conferences, Alejandra manages all aspects of our event production. Together with a team of 6 Banquet Managers and over 55 Banquet Servers she executes events of various size, caliber, and service style ranging from intimate meetings to multi-day and multi-venue outdoor productions.

Alejandra has been in the Hospitality Industry for over 26 years. Throughout the years she has gained experience in events and hospitality management. Alejandra has built a strong network of personal relationships in the industry, serving as the Director of Banquets, Food and Beverage, and Catering in multiple Boutique and Five Star Hotels throughout California, Mexico, and Central America. Most recently, Alejandra was the Banquet Director at the Westdrift Manhattan Beach, an Autograph Collection Hotel, where she had the opportunity to plan and execute important events such as Super Bowl LVI where the LA Rams won the Vince Lombardi Trophy for Los Angeles.

Alejandra enjoys working at USC to deliver the Best USC experience to all our guests and make sure that every guest and staff member experiences the magic of being a part of the Trojan Family.

Email: mariag21@usc.edu

Email: juanagom@usc.edu

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

Email: yfuentes@usc.edu

At the core of our mission is an unwavering commitment to providing unparalleled service, ensuring each event is a turnkey success that mirrors the excellence synonymous with USC.

Email: prosado@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

Email: danaramo@usc.edu

Email: bcousins@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

Email: garcias4@usc.edu

Email: sgaytan@usc.edu

Email: trano@usc.edu