Congratulations to our 2024 Dispatcher of the Year, Sonia Del Castillo! She was presented with the award by Chief John Thomas during National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week.
Sonia has been a dispatcher with the UCLA Police Department since 2010, where she answers calls that come in and prioritizes them based on urgency. She also monitors radio traffic from UCLA Fire and Emergency Medical Services and dispatches calls to the appropriate agency. Prior to joining UCPD, Sonia worked as a security dispatcher at L.A. Live and the Staples Center (now Crypto.com Arena).
The award recognizes Sonia's positive attitude, strong work ethic, and great sense of humor (which is often needed during shifts). She provides exceptional customer service in being empathetic with callers, and anticipates officer needs from having built strong relationships with them.
In addition to being an excellent dispatcher, Sonia has planned and cooked for numerous officer appreciation lunches. She is known for one of the best taco, tostada, and nacho bars around which draws everyone into dispatch whether they're in the office or out in the field. This past year Sonia was also a member of the UCLA Police Department Family Day planning committee, helping with all aspects of the event. Her contributions in bringing personnel together to share in food and conversation strengthen the family bond between all members of the department.
Although Sonia likes to stay out of the spotlight, her great work ethic, even-keeled temperament, and ability to bring people together has not gone unnoticed. Congratulations again to Sonia on this well-deserved recognition!
