Strengthening Your Web of Influence is the Key to Your Success
Tracks
Commercial Services
| Monday, January 12, 2026 |
| 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM |
| Junior 4 |
Overview
Junior 4
Details
Meaningful partnership extends far beyond operations – it lies in the power of your web of influence. For CSU San Marcos, Sodexo believed in our campus from the beginning, becoming an early partner who helped us grow and adapt over 35 years. That history has created more than a contract—it’s built a network of trust, credibility, and shared mission. It's how a partnership evolves with purpose. But what drives its strength is not just structure—it’s the informal connections and relationships behind it. In our experience, influence doesn’t just come from hierarchy or data—it comes from people. Those who can share knowledge, bridge communities, and move ideas forward. They are embedded in our campus culture; our operations are not just managed but integrated into leadership. We believe relationships matter, and trust—once established—extends even as new players arrive. By engaging across events and initiatives, Sodexo helps expand and strengthen our collective web of influence, creating lasting, meaningful impact for our students.
Speaker
Eric Cameron
District Manager
Sodexo
Strengthening Your Web of Influence is the Key to Your Success
Biography
Eric Cameron entered the food service industry 32 years ago as a cashier. Through long hours and hard work, he found himself growing into managerial positions. As Sodexo’s district manager in Southern California, he encourages operational excellence and commitments to enhance student experience in every aspect. Eric began his Sodexo career in government services in 2011 at the Twentynine Palms Marine Corps base before becoming the general manager at Chapman University in 2013.
The transition into Sodexo Campus was a positive move for him. He takes pride in strategically collaborating with campus leadership to ensure all dining services meet student needs and desires. His student-first philosophy in all dining programs lead to student satisfaction. Before taking over as district manager, CSU San Marcos averaged a 3.5 out of 5 student satisfaction score. After becoming district manager, they now score a 4.4 average! This trend is shown throughout his district.
To ensure satisfaction, Eric’s methods and strategies always involve teamwork and unity across the district. Whether it’s using catering expertise from Chapman University to assist La Sierra University, marketing support from CSU San Marcos to help Claremont Graduate University, or general operational excellence from Fullerton College to excel Mt. San Antonio College, Eric builds a team that works together in the spirit of collaboration and progress.
This method has seen success and appreciation from campus leadership. Eric’s attention to detail leads to strong relationships with clients. He is always open to meetings, collaborations, and partnerships that lead to the betterment of the dining program. His passion for teamwork is shown with clients, coworkers, managers, and anyone who can assist on excellence.
Deanne Ellison
Executive Director and AVP of Business Development
CSU San Marcos Corporation
Strengthening Your Web of Influence is the Key to Your Success
Abstract
Meaningful partnership extends far beyond operations – it lies in the power of your web of influence. For CSU San Marcos, Sodexo believed in our campus from the beginning, becoming an early partner who helped us grow and adapt over 35 years. That history has created more than a contract—it’s built a network of trust, credibility, and shared mission. It's how a partnership evolves with purpose. But what drives its strength is not just structure—it’s the informal connections and relationships behind it. In our experience, influence doesn’t just come from hierarchy or data—it comes from people. Those who can share knowledge, bridge communities, and move ideas forward. They are embedded in our campus culture; our operations are not just managed but integrated into leadership. We believe relationships matter, and trust—once established—extends even as new players arrive. By engaging across events and initiatives, Sodexo helps expand and strengthen our collective web of influence, creating lasting, meaningful impact for our students.
Biography
Deanne Ellison is a dynamic and accomplished executive leader with a proven track record in advancing university auxiliary services. She currently serves as Executive Director for the California State University San Marcos (CSUSM) Corporation and Associate Vice President for Business Development. In this dual role, Deanne provides strategic vision and leadership to a diverse portfolio of auxiliary enterprises that enhance the student experience and support the university’s mission. Deanne holds a Master of Education in Educational Leadership from Northern Arizona University and a Bachelor of Arts from California State University, Fresno. Her expertise in strategic planning, financial management, operational leadership, collaboration and community engagement continues to make her a driving force in transforming auxiliary services in higher education.
