I started working with UTeach in February 2017 on a temporary assignment and permanently joined the team in March 2017. I coordinate all purchasing requests and maintain purchasing information; manage payments to a variety of vendors and consultants; and assist with travel arrangements for Institute staff, visitors and consultants. I also assist our Events & Office Coordinator with planning meetings, workshops, and conference calls and provide on-site support during these events.

My work with the university began in August 2001 as assistant to the superintendent of University Charter School, a program which provides K-12 educational services to children and adolescents in residential and treatment facilities. I was promoted to Human Resources Coordinator and managed all human resources functions for the school district, which included approximately 150 UT employees and facility staff members. I later joined the Thompson Conference Center in 2009, and managed operations for the UT Informal Classes program as Senior Program Coordinator.

Prior to my employment with UT, I worked with my uncle, Amado M. Peña, Jr., in Santa Fe, NM. I managed his gallery and traveled with him around the country, exhibiting his work in various art galleries and art fairs.

Favorite quote: “I have been absolutely terrified every moment of my life, and I never let it keep me from doing a single thing I wanted to do.” –Georgia O’Keefe

Something not many people know about you: I attended the Ann Webb Skin Institute for esthetics and laser technology and am a licensed esthetician and certified laser technician.

Phone: 512-232-8471

Email: mercado@uteach.utexas.edu