CalSTRS is sharing profiles of some of the experts you may meet when discussing your benefits.

Meet Amber

What is your favorite part about working at CalSTRS?

I love giving back to our teachers and making a difference in their lives as they in ours. The culture within CalSTRS is huge; your team is like your family. The work we do is very fulfilling and gives you an opportunity to work and live in a place you love.

Tell us something fun about you.

Paddleboarding is a passion of mine and I trained my golden retriever to join me. It took a summer, but she likes to sit on the paddleboard and be chauffeured around with her ball. Whether it’s paddling in a lake or in the ocean, it always gives me a sense of calm.

Meet Richard

What is your favorite part about working at CalSTRS?

Being a part of an amazing team that truly cares for and values its members. The transition to retirement or starting new careers can be challenging for our members. It’s such a rewarding feeling when our team works together to ease that process and provides them all with valuable information and resources to protect their future.

Tell us something fun about you.

I love any and everything outdoors. From snowboarding the slopes of Mammoth Mountain, swimming in the lakes of Yosemite, hiking and camping under the desert stars, and even climbing peaks and valleys—sign me up for it all! I love to disconnect and enjoy all of nature’s sights, sounds, smells and especially it’s wildlife.

Meet Loren

What is your favorite part about working at CalSTRS?

Being part of our member’s retirement journey. As a benefits specialist, I have the privilege of helping members understand and navigate their retirement benefits. It’s incredibly rewarding to provide clarity and support during an exciting—yet often complex—time in their lives. I also truly appreciate the supportive team environment and the positive, mission-driven culture here at CalSTRS.

Tell us something fun about you.

I’m a proud working mom and wife. These days, my favorite hobby is just soaking in peaceful moments and watching my kids experience new things. Their excitement over something as simple as an elevator makes life way more fun! 

Meet Robert

What is your favorite part about working at CalSTRS?

The ability to give something back to educators that have given so much to students. Being a part of the retirement planning process as a benefits specialist allows me to interact with educators on a daily basis and provide information about the benefit that they’ve been working toward for so many years. 

Tell us something fun about you.

I used to be a math-lete. From fifth through eighth grade, I participated in math competitions. Now, I work with numbers on a daily basis. My five year old has taken up an interest in math. It’s fun for me to see we share that passion. I can’t wait to see where his interests will be in a few years. 

Meet Linda

What is your favorite part about working at CalSTRS?

Working with my teammates. We all get along so well that it’s a joy to be able to see them when we’re in the office. Another reason why I love working at CalSTRS is my interactions with our members. They are all so happy and excited to retire - I love sharing that excitement with them.

Tell us something fun about you.

I love to travel and see different parts of the world. About ten years ago, my friends and I, as well as our families, started visiting national parks every two years or so. It’s humbling to be with nature and witness its beauty.