Cynthia Fazio, a Champion of Student Health

At Riverside City College (RCC), Cynthia Fazio, RN, Health Services Supervisor, is making a significant impact on student health and well-being. Through her innovative programs and dedicated care, Cynthia has positively influenced the lives of many students and employees.

Cynthia has revitalized the Family Pact Program, providing students with the resources and education they need to manage their reproductive health. She also established a Harm Reduction program in response to the Opioid Overdose Epidemic, distributing over 950 boxes of Narcan since 2023 and successfully reversing two overdose incidents.

In addition, Cynthia organizes Annual Flu Vaccine Clinics, partnering with the RCC School of Nursing and the local health department to provide free flu shots to students, employees, and visitors. Her work includes a safe-celebrations program, which provides students with roofie test strips and resources to prevent date rape incidents.

In Their Own Words

Cynthia's colleagues recognize her dedication and leadership, and when asked to share their thoughts, they were eager to express just how exceptional she is. We felt it was important to include their heartfelt comments in full to highlight the incredible impact Cynthia has on those around her.

Desiree Rivera, BNRC Supervisor: “Cynthia Fazio has been an exemplary leader whose dedication to students and the campus community is incomparable. As Health Services Supervisor, and during her time as the acting Director of Student Health and Psychological Services, her compassionate approach and consistent support created a welcoming environment for both employees and students. I thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to work alongside her and deeply appreciate her actions, which consistently prioritized student well-being and fostered collaboration among our team.”

Dr. Brandon Dominguez: “Cynthia Fazio has been a tireless advocate for student health, always going above and beyond to support the School of Nursing in our efforts to prevent harm and illness. Her guidance and collaboration have been invaluable as we’ve expanded our health promotion and outreach programs, making a lasting positive impact on our students.”

Professor Jarrod Williamson: “Nurse Cynthia Fazio, better known as Fabulous Fazio, is a tireless and caring supporter of students. I have been referring students in need to Fabulous Fazio for more than a decade, and she has always shown great professionalism and deeply authentic concern for the students she was caring for. Regardless of whether the students needed medical care, referrals to public assistance, or just someone to listen to them, Fabulous Fazio cares for each student like s/he is her own child. In fact, she even remembered to check in with me periodically as my own father was dying of dementia recently. Cynthia Fazio is a deeply caring and deeply impressive human being and one of the finest employees here at RCC. We are lucky to have Fabulous Fazio working with us.”

Dr. Mary Rankin, Mental Health Services Supervisor: “Cynthia often wears many hats, including acting Health Services Director when needed. She goes above and beyond for her department and the campus in general. She exudes compassion and care, and this is evident in her student-centered responses and approach. She is frequently the first person in the office and the last to leave to ensure that she supports the ever-growing needs of the community. She is a wealth of knowledge, with an ability to provide support for Health Services, Psychological Services, and even RCC’s Basic Needs Resource Center. Cynthia is someone who I believe demonstrates all the Tiger Pride Values, but specifically embodies the values of Integrity & Transparency, Growth & Continual Learning, Responsiveness, and Student-Centeredness. I believe all who have the privilege of being served by Cynthia, whether as a colleague or RCC community member, have witnessed her commitment to students, employees, and the community in her unwavering devotion to all that she serves, her ongoing engagement and collaboration with others, and her dedication to her role and team. Cynthia is an amazing team player and often minimizes her own efforts while highlighting the achievements of others. She often goes above and beyond any expectation of one within her role and is more than deserving of applause and appreciation! Thank you, Cynthia Fazio, for ALL that you do!!!”

Kate: “As a nurse, I’ve witnessed firsthand the compassionate, sensitive, and high-quality care Cynthia provides to our students. She goes above and beyond, whether by connecting students to relevant RCC programs for additional support or simply being there to hold their tissues and comfort them when they're crying and overwhelmed. As my supervisor, Cynthia has been a source of unwavering support and encouragement, fostering my personal and professional growth. She has cultivated a safe, welcoming environment for both students and employees, and I feel fortunate to work with her, first as a student worker and now as a nurse.”

Maggie: “I don’t feel like there are enough words to fully describe what makes Cynthia great, but I’ll try! To start off, Cynthia, as a person, is one of the most compassionate, fierce, and strongest people I’ve known. Her ability to find a solution for any situation is something amazing to witness. Her experience and leadership can be seen in the way she treats her employees and her students. Her fun personality and warmth are felt during every conversation you have with her, and she knows how to make students feel comfortable and safe to express their needs. She always puts the students first and will always find a way to make sure the students are successful in their academic pursuits. As a nurse, she is caring, gentle, and attentive to all the students who come in for assistance. Her pride and joy are always to see the future nurses of this world succeed and she is always available for them. As a leader, she is always available for questions or feedback and is always looking for ways to improve patient care. Her leadership is what makes this office a pleasant place to work for, and I’m grateful for all the guidance and knowledge she provides to us.”

Valerie: “In my opinion, what makes Cynthia great is her ability to work under pressure. I also admire her resolve when pressures arise; she is always cool and collected. I also find her ability to prioritize the needs of patients and the management of office needs impressive!”

Sonia: “She brings the best out of all the employees. She creates a healthy atmosphere. She has really good communication skills. She allows us to reach out when needed. Cynthia motivates us to be our best. She is genuine and caring.”

Heather M. Smith, Ph.D., M.S.: “During the worst pandemic in more than 100 years, Cynthia worked tirelessly to protect the health of students, faculty, and staff by answering questions, checking on students’ health, and educating RCC on the latest about COVID-19, and giving wise and scientifically sound advice. She did it with an attitude that promoted healing and care. She had challenges of her own, as did most families during this time, but she was a rock of knowledge and a fountain of compassion. I am so thankful for her expertise, her kind words when needed, and her wealth of knowledge and experience. She is an RCC treasure! We love her so much!”

Cynthia Fazio exemplifies the dedication to service that defines RCC. Through her efforts, she addresses health concerns and fosters a community where students can succeed academically and personally. While Cynthia may not seek the spotlight, her impact resonates throughout the campus. Today, we sing Cynthia's song loud and clear, honoring her as the unsung hero she truly is.