Getting to Know SDCOE: Susana Tsutsumi

Susana Tsutsumi loves working behind the scenes.

“That’s where I thrive – where I feel comfortable,” she said.

That doesn’t mean that her work isn’t impactful and visible. Although many employees may not realize it, they’re looking at Tsutsumi’s work every day. As SDCOE’s webmaster, she has been instrumental in the launch of important website projects such as the new Common Ground, the revamped PeopleSoft Support website, and many of the pages on sdcoe.net.

She said she’s particularly proud of the work on Common Ground.

“Supporting our staff is so important,” she explained. “The culture of SDCOE is providing support and information. Where better to highlight that than our intranet?”

An early love of art and graphic design inspired Tsutsumi to get involved with creating posters and flyers as far back as high school. Before coming to SDCOE, she worked for 15 years at KPBS, starting as a graphic designer and moving into more web-based work.

“It has been an evolution,” she explained, “and I have absolutely loved every step of the way.”

Although leaving an employer she had worked at for so long was scary, she said she was driven by a love of education. All three of her sisters are teachers and her
two children are in elementary school, so she felt an immediate connection.

“It has been so positive here,” she said. “As soon as I started, I was welcomed with big open arms. I have always felt so supported.”

Tsutsumi said she’s excited to be able to support colleagues with new tools and training. She takes pride in connecting with our North Star by ensuring that materials are as accessible as possible for everyone.

"With her calm confidence and depth of expertise, Susana is a valued thought-partner, problem-solver, and team member," said Communications Director Samantha Womack. "She elevates any project she's a part of with her attention to detail and commitment to accessibility."

A typical day for Tsutsumi involves a lot of updating content across SDCOE’s different web platforms and collaboration with employees across the organization. She said she loves how the work changes from day to day.

“Susana did a fantastic job creating our new PeopleSoft Support website, and it was absolutely a pleasure to work with her on this effort,” said Sally Morton, PeopleSoft Support. “She truly is a star employee!”