More than 4,000 students are expected to graduate from Cal State San Marcos this academic year, including six standouts from the Class of 2024 who are receiving special recognition for their achievements.
Honorees were nominated by faculty or staff and endorsed by their college’s dean. Here is a closer look at each award recipient:
Jocelyne Dates, master’s biological sciences
President’s Outstanding Graduate
Dean’s Award, Graduate Studies
Dates' work ethic in the laboratory has inspired her peers and instructors, and her research will leave a lasting impact. Dates has mastered and established techniques that require the manual dexterity of a neurosurgeon while participating in the lab. She has impressively designed the lab logo and built custom-made research equipment, which increased data acquisition rate for an intricate bioassay from 50% to 100%.
Dates has taken the role of a mentor to multiple undergraduate and graduate students and creates a nurturing learning environment. In her role as a Summer Scholars mentor, she provided guidance to 13 undergraduate students and one graduate student, which resulted in a total of 25 conference presentations and several publications prepared.
Dates’ outstanding scholarship and research contributions are the pinnacle of excellence. Her hard work has led her to be accepted into 12 Ph.D. programs (she’ll attend Vanderbilt this fall) and she has secured over $1 million in external fellowship funding to date. Dates will graduate with four manuscripts and one invited book chapter while having delivered 10 conference presentations and co-authored another 15 conference contributions as a mentor.
Megan Hosfield, sociology
Dean’s Award, College of Humanities, Arts, Behavioral and Social Sciences
Hosfield has sought out all the opportunities available to her on campus. After she successfully completed Jonathan Trinidad’s statistics course, she volunteered to audit his class. Trinidad quickly saw her deep understanding of the course, and he recruited her as a paid teaching assistant. In this role, Hosfield actively engages with students and provides them with clear explanation and personalized assistance during class and office hours. She has become a role model to students in lower and higher division statistics courses by leading by example and being responsible and reliable.
In addition to her remarkable work as student teaching assistant, Hosfield leaves an impact on her peers. While in Marisa Salina’s large lecture sociology 311 class, Hosfield shared her own experiences with the intersections of various systems of oppression. It was a powerful experience for Hosfield’s classmates about inequities within public health and social services.
Hosfield’s hard work has led her to be accepted into eight Ph.D. programs in sociology and public health. She plans to study how people with mental health and substance abuse issues begin to rehabilitate socially.
Jack Norwood, business administration, management
Gerevas Family Dean’s Award, College of Business Administration
Norwood works as a programming specialist for Associated Students, Inc., at the Temecula campus where he helps students by developing and managing student-focused programs and initiatives. In this role, he also works with other university student affairs departments and organizations in support of Temecula students.
Norwood has volunteered his time as an ambassador for the Temecula campus. He has participated in an Extended Learning marketing campaign, outreach events to prospective students, and represented the campus on efforts with community partners and Mt. San Jacinto College. Norwood has also represented the Temecula campus as part of the Business Organization for Student Success, the ASI Student Advocacy Committee, the Extended Learning Student Fee Advisory Committee, and has been the university representative for the Temecula Student of the Month.
Beyond the university, Norwood has participated in community service activities. He has been a site lead for the Cesar Chavez Day of Service for two years. Beyond his leadership, Norwood explicitly defines the day of service to the volunteers and its comprehensive benefit to the communities served.
Miranda Grzywaczewski, kinesiology
Dean’s Award, College of Education, Health and Human Services
Grzywaczewski has shown a consistent and unwavering commitment to the CEHHS mission and vision as well as consistent engagement in community service and leadership activities. Through class discussion and peer assignments, she leads by example with her outside-the-box thinking. The effort and hard work she put into her coursework shows in her 3.94 CSUSM GPA, as she is one of the top-performing kinesiology students.
Grzywaczewski possesses a certification to do vascular stiffness measurements, which makes her one of four students to achieve this status. This process takes over 30 clinical screenings to perfect these vascular analysis skills.
Grzywaczewski also serves as the CEHHS representative for Associated Students, Inc., where she holds office hours and encourages student engagement. She has a clear passion for service and care toward others.
Patricia Tulloch, biological sciences
Dean’s Award, College of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics
Tulloch has pushed through barriers and has emerged as a motivated leader who is dedicated to helping underserved communities. She leaves a positive impact while conducting biomedical research as a teaching assistant and working to make a difference in her local and international community.
Tulloch has been a dedicated researcher in biology professor Julie Jameson's lab for three years. She always brings a positive attitude to the lab, and she was excited to learn about mouse surgery, anesthesia delivery and dissection. Tulloch has shared her findings at the University of Irvine Immunology Fair and received funding to present at the American Association of Immunologists meeting in Chicago. She is committed to the study of skin diseases, diabetic wounds and psoriasis and she is a co-author on a manuscript that is soon to be published.
In addition to her work in the lab, Tulloch is a dedicated teaching assistant for Molecular Medicine, BIO 456. In this role, Tulloch demonstrates a natural ability to guide students through a team-based learning strategy while they work on case studies focused on medical therapeutics.
Nick Melanese, business administration, marketing
Dean’s Award, Dean of Students
Melanese was recruited to the men’s cross country and track and field team where he became CSUSM’s record holder for the 800 meters, a multi-time California Collegiate Athletic Association champion and an NCAA qualifier.
Melanese was elected as a Leadership Council Member for track and field, where he oversees and facilitates conflict management, team-bonding, apparel and social media during council meetings. He has also been awarded the Elite 13 Award, which recognizes the athletic and academic achievement of a student-athlete with the highest cumulative grade-point average in their sport.
In addition to Melanese’s athletic achievements, he joined the University Student Union team as a video production student assistant in 2021. Melanese’s creativity and dedication to the USU’s mission and values were quickly recognized, which led him to transition to becoming the USU’s marketing coordinator.
Media Contact
Eric Breier, Interim Assistant Director of Editorial and External Affairs
ebreier@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7314
Latest Newsroom
- CSUSM Breaks Ground on Integrated Science and Engineering BuildingCal State San Marcos on Thursday broke ground on its future Integrated Science and Engineering (ISE) Building, which will allow the university to respond to the critical need for STEM programs, including new engineering majors and enrollment growth. Among the speakers at the groundbreaking ceremony were CSUSM President Ellen Neufeldt; San Marcos Mayor Rebecca Jones; Assemblymember Darshana Patel, who represents the district that includes CSUSM; Jackie Trischman, dean of CSUSM’s College of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics; and representatives from C.W. Driver Companies and HGA, the general contractor and designer of the building, respectively. The emcee was Leon Wyden, CSUSM's vice president of Finance and Administrative Services and chief financial officer. “It wasn’t too long ago when the idea of the Integrated Science and Engineering Building was but a hope and a dream,” Neufeldt said. “So it seems a little surreal that we have finally come to this day, about to break ground on the first state-supported academic building at CSUSM in more than a decade. I am filled with so much gratitude – this milestone reflects the dedication of our faculty, staff, students and partners who work tirelessly to support CSUSM’s mission of student success and social mobility.” The ISE building is estimated to cost $110 million and will be funded through commitments from California State University and private support. It will cover more than 70,000 square feet over three stories. The first publicly funded academic structure on campus since 2014, it’s expected to open in fall 2027. The ISE building will be constructed at the top of CSUSM’s campus, between Markstein Hall (which houses the business college) and the Arts Building. It will feature teaching and research labs, additional classrooms, student support areas, staff offices, a café and outdoor gathering spaces. “It’s an incredible honor to stand here with you today as we break ground on a building that represents not just bricks and mortar, but also a beacon of opportunity, innovation and the future of engineering and technology in our region,” Trischman said. “As dean, I’ve had the privilege of working closely with our remarkable faculty and staff, many of whom met tight deadlines with determination and tremendous creativity. Your dedication to this vision has been nothing short of inspiring.” CSUSM established its engineering program in 2018 with software and electrical engineering; computer engineering followed five years later. The ISE building will house those programs as well as computer science, computer information systems and cybersecurity, while also supporting the addition of industrial and systems engineering. The industrial and systems engineering program will be the only one at a public institution in San Diego County. The new facility will enable CSUSM to expand its enrollment of students in engineering disciplines from 500 to nearly 2,000. It also will advance diversity in a field where fewer than 10% of workers nationally are of Latino descent. By contrast, more than half of CSUSM’s engineering students are Latino. “This groundbreaking marks more than the start of construction – it marks the beginning of a new era for CSUSM,” said Elaine Pollard, president of Associated Students, Inc. “It's an era where student potential is maximized, social mobility is accelerated and the future of science and engineering becomes more diverse, innovative and impactful than ever before.” With eight out of 10 of CSUSM alumni staying in the region, the influx of more engineering graduates will help fill workforce needs in an area that boasts the nation’s largest cluster of technology, life science, defense and communications companies. Data shows that, in San Diego County, there are four software engineering jobs for every one graduate and three industrial/systems engineering jobs per graduate. While state-funded plans call for a one-wing building, CSUSM is seeking private philanthropic donations that will be critical for long-term growth and sustainability, as well as expanding the square footage with a second wing. Learn more about the ISE building at https://www.csusm.edu/iseb/index.html.
- 'Foos,' UCLA Medical Students, Highlight Fall Arts & LecturesAn event showcasing two first-generation UCLA students who share their struggles in navigating medical school highlights the fall lineup of the longstanding Arts & Lectures series at Cal State San Marcos. This season boasts a diverse selection of five events as the university hosts renowned guest speakers and performances. Attendees can reserve tickets online via the Arts & Lectures website now. Mestizaje: Interwoven Identities Among Mexico, Philippines and Spain Sept. 19, 7-9 p.m., Arts 111 This riveting 90-minute dance performance will delve deep into the heart of cultural convergence, narrating a story of unity, diversity and shared history. The spectacle is an homage to the intricate tapestry of identities that emerged from nearly four centuries of Spanish colonization, weaving together the distinct but interconnected cultures of Mexico, the Philippines and Spain. At the core of "Mestizaje" is the celebration of mestizaje itself – a term that historically signifies the process of cultural and racial mixing between Indigenous peoples of the Americas and Europeans. This performance, however, expands the concept to encapsulate the rich exchange among the three regions, highlighting how each culture has been indelibly shaped by the others. CSUSM students: Free Faculty/staff/alumni: $5 Community: $10 Nuestro Camino: First-Gen Success Beyond Imposter Syndrome Oct. 1, 6-8 p.m., USU Ballroom (faculty and staff session, noon-1 p.m.) This powerful and affirming event will honor the resilience, wisdom and lived experiences of first-generation students, staff and faculty. Led by Yanira Hernandez – a first-gen Latina therapist, educator and advocate – the two-part experience invites the CSUSM community into courageous conversations about the imposter phenomenon and how it impacts those who are navigating intersectional identities. The event includes a working session for faculty and staff, a student panel, and an interactive workshop that will guide participants in reclaiming their stories and identities as sources of strength. Food and refreshments will be provided. CSUSM students: Free Faculty/staff/alumni: $5 Community: $10 Foos in Medicine Oct. 8, 7-9 p.m., USU Ballroom Join us for an evening with Irvin Garcia Real and Alexis Aleman, two UCLA medical students who founded Foos in Medicine, a social media community with more than half a million followers and mission of inspiring people from disadvantaged backgrounds to pursue their dreams. Real and Aleman have faced their share of obstacles on the path to medicine, from growing up in low-income, immigrant households to struggling with institutional barriers that underrepresented minorities often face in higher education. Through their signature humor and their advocacy work, these “foos” (short for “fools”) are committed to inspiring others and increasing representation in medicine, STEM and health care. CSUSM students: Free Faculty/staff/alumni: $5 Community: $10 Valley to Coast Speaker Series: Protecting and Restoring Regional Waterways Oct. 28, 5:30-7:30 p.m., USU Ballroom This public panel discussion is aimed at educating and connecting the campus and North County communities around the protection and restoration of local water bodies. Co-hosted by CSUSM's new Climate Action and Sustainability Center, the event reflects the center’s mission to foster climate action and sustainability through community partnerships and student engagement. San Diego Coastkeeper, a key partner in this effort, will contribute regional expertise in water quality and climate resilience, with Executive Director Phillip Musegaas joining faculty experts to explore collaborative solutions. CSUSM students: Free Faculty/staff/alumni: $5 Community: $10 ‘The Cigarette Surfboard’: An Environmental Surf Documentary Nov. 19, 2-6 p.m., USU Ballroom In this film, Taylor Lane, an impassioned surfer, creates a functional surfboard with 10,000 littered cigarette butts collected from California beaches. “The Cigarette Surfboard” takes Lane around the world to learn from professional surfers who are working to protect and restore the health of the oceans through science, education, art, business and political activism. Inspired by this global cast of characters, Lane returns home to California and uses the board to generate uproar on the environmental, human health and economic impacts of cigarette butts. This immersive documentary gives viewers an up-close experience of the ocean through surfers' eyes to amplify a message of urgency and possibility regarding the well-being of our oceans. A moderated Q&A with Lane and filmmaker Ben Judkins will follow the screening. CSUSM students: Free Faculty/staff/alumni: Free Community: Free Media Contact Brian Hiro, Communications Specialist bhiro@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7306
- Departing University Advancement VP Leaves Enduring ImpactAs a child growing up in Ohio, Jessica Berger’s parents always instilled in her the power of education. They never had the opportunity to attend college, but they knew that it could serve as a key to open any door for their daughter. That upbringing made it especially meaningful to Berger when she was hired to be Cal State San Marcos’ vice president of University Advancement in 2021. Berger brought extensive higher education experience from Harvey Mudd College, a private liberal arts school about 90 miles north of San Marcos. But as a first-generation college graduate herself, it resonated deeply with Berger seeing CSUSM’s commitment to social mobility and knowing that more than half of its graduates are, like her, the first in their families to earn a college degree. “I have so much gratitude to my parents,” Berger said. “They gave me the opportunity to do something that they didn't have the chance to do. My dad passed away last year, and I was able to establish a scholarship in their name that supports first-generation students. My parents’ support is really embedded in me, and to be able to give back in that way to students who were like me, it means the world. “It’s so special to be a part of a place where you get to see the dreams of our students and how those dreams are able to come to life because of the work of all the people here.” Those moments are what make this such a bittersweet time for Berger. She will start a new chapter in her life later this month as the executive vice president and chief advancement officer at Chapman University in Orange County. Berger’s last day at CSUSM will be July 24. An interim vice president of University Advancement is expected to be announced in the coming weeks. “It is bittersweet, because I love this place,” Berger said. “I love the people and it's been such a privilege and honor to be a part of this university.” Berger credits success and achievements during her tenure to the meaningful collaboration with the CSUSM community and partners to dream big and create transformational pathways for the future. At CSUSM, Berger’s leadership has been defined by vision, integrity and a strong belief in the power of philanthropy to change lives. Over the last four years, University Advancement surpassed goals every year, raised the highest amount of funds in a single evening at the Blue & Silver fundraising dinner, broke CSUSM Giving Day records, and headed efforts to raise private support through philanthropy and government agencies toward the first state-funded academic building at CSUSM in over a decade—the Integrated Science & Engineering Building that will break ground this summer. In 2023-24, CSUSM raised more than $26 million — a university record that more than doubled the previous high. Two landmark commitments, the university's first eight-figure gifts totaling $20 million, reflected the trust Berger helped build between the university and its supporters. They were also testaments to CSUSM’s commitment to student success. “Jessica has been an extraordinary partner and leader, and we are so grateful for the passion and expertise she brought to the university,” CSUSM President Ellen Neufeldt said. “Her commitment to building meaningful relationships, elevating our philanthropy efforts and guiding a strong, collaborative team will have a lasting legacy. I am grateful to Jessica for her transformational leadership — and the impact she and the entire advancement team have had and will continue to have on advancing our mission as we move forward.” Under Berger’s guidance, University Advancement grew not just in dollars, but in depth by engaging more alumni, connecting more with regional leaders, and laying the foundation for the largest fundraising campaign in the university’s history — a $200 million campaign that is nearly 70% toward its goal. Berger also worked closely with the CSUSM Foundation Board to ensure that philanthropic goals aligned with the university’s strategic priorities, including development of the nation’s first case statement of support for social mobility upon CSUSM ranking No. 1 in CollegeNet’s Social Mobility Index in 2022. The results have included more scholarships, more support for faculty research, and a deeper sense of shared purpose across campus. “I’m so grateful to everyone at Cal State San Marcos,” Berger said. “President Neufeldt really touched my life professionally and personally. She’s been incredibly influential in shaping the leader that I am today. “And I’ve been so fortunate to work alongside the President's Administrative Team, the Advancement team – I call them the ‘A Team’ because they are really such a strong team – and the Foundation Board, a group of volunteers who truly give their time, talent and treasure in numerous ways. And then our campus partners, all of the success and achievements that we've seen have been in collaboration with so many people. I know the strong momentum will continue, and I look forward to cheering on CSUSM’s continued success as a friend and supporter.” Media Contact Eric Breier, Interim Assistant Director of Editorial and External Affairs ebreier@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7314
- New Library Dean Begins Her TenureCal State San Marcos officially has a new dean for the University Library. Cinthya Ippoliti started in her position on July 1. Her hire was announced by CSUSM late last year. "I'm thrilled to join inspiring colleagues within the University Library and CSUSM and contribute to the incredible work already underway to support students, strengthen community and encourage creativity as we continue to build a promising future together,” Ippoliti said. Ippoliti has been a librarian for more than 24 years and has held roles at various academic institutions. Most recently, she served as director of the Auraria Library, where she provided administrative leadership for library services, spaces, partnerships and programming on the tri-institutional Auraria Campus, which includes the University of Colorado, Denver; Metropolitan State University of Denver; and Community College of Denver, serving approximately 35,000 highly diverse students in an urban setting. Before joining the Auraria Library, she was the associate dean for Research and Learning Services at Oklahoma State University and head of Teaching and Learning at the University of Maryland Libraries. Ippoliti takes over for Char Booth, who was the library’s interim co-dean for administration and advancement, and Toni Olivas, who was interim co-dean for faculty and systems affairs. "We are thrilled to welcome Dean Ippoliti to the University Library – she brings impressive experience to the table as well as aligned values and a strong focus on inclusion and equity,” Booth said. “Already in her first days, she has established herself as an excellent communicator and enthusiastic leader, and we look forward to working with Cinthya to continue to grow our support for students and the CSUSM campus community through robust and responsive library services, spaces and programming." Ippoliti holds a Master of Library & Information Science degree from UCLA and bachelor’s in English from UC Santa Barbara.
- New Nursing Program Helps Student Veterans Continue Lifelong MissionTara Jones was only 17 years old when she enlisted in the U.S. Navy in August 2001, driven by a strong sense of duty and a desire to help others. Just months later, the world changed on Sept. 11, and Jones found herself serving during wartime, first stateside and then around the world. “I became a hospital corpsman and was embedded in the Marines,” Jones said. “I worked in trauma bays and in field environments. I saw the best and worst of humanity. And through it all, I knew I was doing what I was meant to do – take care of people.” Jones served for two decades, earning accolades, earning the respect of her peers and gaining the kind of experience that most civilians could only imagine. But when she retired from active duty, a different question emerged: What comes next? “I wasn’t done serving,” she said. “I just needed to find a new way to do it.” That calling led her to Cal State San Marcos, where she is part of the inaugural cohort of the university’s new Veterans Bachelor of Science in Nursing (VBSN) program. The program is designed specifically for veterans who, like Jones, bring a wealth of medical experience and leadership into a second career as a registered nurse. “This is just a different kind of uniform,” Jones said. “The mission is still the same: serve with compassion, leadership and integrity.” A New Path Built for Veterans Jones already had earned a master’s degree in forensic science and worked for the Riverside County Sheriff-Coroner’s Office in her post-military career. But something was missing. “I missed the connection with the patients,” she said. “There’s something sacred about caring for someone when they’re vulnerable. I needed to get back to that.” She learned about the VBSN program at CSUSM after seeing a flyer. The program immediately piqued her interest, especially its focus on supporting veterans’ transition into health care. “When I saw the VBSN flyer, I felt like it was calling me,” Jones said. “I realized I could bring everything I’d learned in the military – trauma care, leadership, the ability to stay calm in chaos – and use it to keep helping people.” She applied and was accepted into the spring 2025 cohort. Now, in her second semester, she’s thriving. For U.S. Army veteran Anthony Caesar Sapinoso, the journey to the VBSN program began in high school, when he enlisted through the Army's Future Soldiers program in 2016. He served as a 68 – an Army licensed vocational nurse – and always knew he wanted to build a career in health care. “I saw that the Army would become my foothold and way to get not only a glimpse but actual experience in the field,” Sapinoso said. While exploring nursing schools across California, Sapinoso found CSUSM’s VBSN program somewhat serendipitously. “I started my search from the Bay Area, where I’m originally from, and branched out. After being rejected from several programs, I was elated when I got the acceptance letter from San Marcos,” he said. “The shorter timeline to licensure and graduation also made CSUSM’s program stand out.” Purpose-Driven Support Designed with veterans in mind, the VBSN program offers tailored advising, peer support and a clinical curriculum that values the lived experience of those who have served. Students complete rigorous hands-on training at hospitals and health care facilities throughout the region, preparing them to sit for the NCLEX-RN licensing exam. “Veterans possess qualities that make them exceptional nurses: leadership under pressure, teamwork and a deep understanding of trauma-informed care,” said Wendy Hansbrough, director of the School of Nursing. “The VBSN program honors their service and supports their transition into one of the most critical professions in our health care system.” Jones says the support from faculty and peers has been key to her success. “The transition from a corpsman to a student nurse is not always easy,” she said. “But this program was built for us. They know where we’re coming from and what we bring to the table.” Sapinoso agrees. Now in his second semester, he admits that he felt some initial hesitation. “I was unaware initially that most of my cohort already had a bachelor’s degree in another field, and I didn’t,” he said. “I felt some slight imposter syndrome, but that quickly disappeared once we started clinicals and skill tests. That’s where my military experience kicked in, and my confidence showed up.” He credits the Army for shaping his holistic approach to patient care and cultural competency. “Being in the Army was both a fun and hectic time where, despite everyone’s different backgrounds, we came together to make the best of any situation,” Sapinoso said. “That spirit of teamwork and care carries into everything I do now.” Faculty like Matt Mincey, who teaches Fundamentals of Nursing, see the difference that veterans carry into the classroom and clinical rotations. “Tara and her fellow veteran students bring a depth of life experience. The ability to remain calm under pressure is incredibly valuable in clinical settings,” Mincey said. “Our role as faculty is to honor that experience while challenging them to grow as professional nurses.” A University Committed to Veterans The VBSN program reflects CSUSM’s long-standing commitment to military-connected students. “At CSUSM, we believe in the transformative power of education, especially when it supports students who have already given so much in service to others,” said Jennifer Ostergren, dean of the College of Education, Health and Human Services. “The VBSN program is a powerful example of what happens when we create purpose-driven pathways that honor lived experience and open doors to meaningful careers.” Jones hopes to specialize in critical care nursing and eventually work in a VA or military-affiliated hospital. Sapinoso, too, remains open to the possibilities. “Whether in the Army or as a nurse, I’ve always wanted to be of service to others,” he said. Looking Ahead With an ever-growing demand for nurses, particularly those with crisis leadership and cultural competency, CSUSM’s VBSN program addresses workforce needs while cultivating the next generation of health care leaders. Interest in the program continues to grow through veteran word-of-mouth and university outreach. The School of Nursing is actively recruiting future cohorts and remains committed to expanding access to this unique and impactful academic pathway. For students like Jones and Sapinoso, it’s more than just a degree – it’s a calling fulfilled. To learn more about CSUSM’s Veterans BSN program, visit www.csusm.edu/nursing or email cehhs-ss@csusm.edu. Media Contact Brian Hiro, Communications Specialist bhiro@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7306
- Business Student Wins Back-to-Back National Surfing TitlesCal State San Marcos surfer and business student Tanner Vodraska captured his second consecutive national title at the National Scholastic Surfing Association (NSSA) Interscholastic Championships, held June 13-15 at Salt Creek Beach in Dana Point. Vodraska became the first CSUSM surfer to win back‑to‑back individual national titles and only the second college men’s shortboard competitor to do so in the past two decades. He is also the first repeat champion in the division since 2017. “Winning the NSSA national championship two years in a row feels like a massive accomplishment,” Vodraska said. “I’m super proud to see all the hard work and time I put into surfing really pay off when it matters the most.” After winning the 2024 title, the first in program history, Vodraska posted a strong 2024-25 regular season, reaching multiple finals and recording two runner‑up finishes. Vodraska advanced through the early rounds at Salt Creek with consistent performances. In the final, he faced the top three ranked surfers from the regular season: Jordy Collins from Western University, Hudson Sanders from Point Loma Nazarene University and David O’Keefe also from Point Loma. Vodraska posted the highest single wave score with an 8.33 (out of 10) and backed it up with a 6.0 for a winning total of 14.33. Collins followed with 13.26, Sanders with 11.93 and O’Keefe with 5.70. “I knew he was both motivated and capable, but the college men’s field is deep,” said Amber Puha, the faculty adviser of the surf club and the chair of CSUSM’s math department. “Everyone on our team knew Tanner would have to bring his ‘A’ game, too — and he did!” Now entering his final year at CSUSM, Vodraska also serves as president of the surf team. “I want to motivate this team and push them to do better and better in their everyday lives,” Vodraska said. “I also hope to bring the school a surf team that won’t be forgotten.” Vodraska said the CSUSM surf program has played a major role in his college experience. “Being part of the CSUSM surf team has brought me support that I’ve never felt before from my teammates,” Vodraska said. “This team has given me memories and good times in college that I’ll always carry with me.” Media Contact Eric Breier, Interim Assistant Director of Editorial and External Affairs ebreier@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7314
