On March 19, Cal State San Marcos hosted a powerful and memorable event to celebrate an initiative titled “Veterans History Project: An Unveiling of the Journey.” The event, which drew more than 350 registered attendees, was a blend of heartfelt veteran stories, emotional video presentation and community-wide recognition for the dedicated individuals behind the project. Led by Jason Beyer, the director and interviewer for the project and a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, and Marilyn Huerta, project art director and a CSUSM communications specialist, the project aimed to capture the personal stories of veterans in the hopes of preserving their legacies for future generations. The Journey of the Veterans History Project The CSUSM version of the Veterans History Project began as a passionate initiative to honor the experiences of military veterans, ensuring that their stories are archived and shared with the broader community. Beyer learned about the Veterans History Project through the Library of Congress after attending a Student Veterans of America conference, and he wanted to focus on preserving these stories for the nation's history. He played a pivotal role in connecting with veterans and the Library of Congress for the archival process. Huerta collaborated with Beyer, providing invaluable contributions to the interview and video production process. From meeting the veterans to filming their stories, Huerta was instrumental in capturing the essence of these men and women who served our country. She also helped organize the event at CSUSM, which included a resource fair and reception for military-affiliated guests and students. She is not only a veteran spouse but also the daughter of Vietnam War veteran Lawrence C. Finley, Sr., who died just a few days after she met the veterans in this project. A Day of Recognition, Reflection and Connection The event featured a series of poignant moments, from the resource fair and reception to the keynote speech by veteran Amy Forsythe. Forsythe, who also served as the event’s emcee, shared her experiences and reflections as a military veteran. She is the author of the book “Heroes Live Here,” which chronicles the stories of veterans and their families at Camp Pendleton, shedding light on the sacrifices made by those who serve. Her speech, with a call to action to “share your story,” resonated deeply with the audience. Two CSUSM representatives – Josh Loop, interim director of Veterans Services, and Ryan Stevenson, a psychologist from Student Health & Counseling Services – were guest speakers at the event, further emphasizing the university's commitment to supporting its veteran community. Another highlight of the event was Jim Desmond, representing the 5th District of the San Diego County Board of Supervisors, virtually delivering remarks about the county's ongoing support for veterans. As a veteran himself, Desmond shared stories from his time in the Navy and presented a proclamation from San Diego County to Beyer and Huerta for their work on the Veterans History Project.   California Legislature Honors Veterans, Project Leaders The event’s significance was further underscored when Darshana Patel, assemblymember for California’s 76th District (which includes CSUSM), provided certificates of recognition for Beyer, Huerta, Forsythe and each of the six veterans who participated in the project. The certificates not only acknowledged the veterans' service but also celebrated their willingness to share their personal stories with the public. Those stories will soon be available to the public at both the Library of Congress and CSUSM’s Kellogg Library as part of the Voices of North County archive. Jennifer Ho, communities and cultures archivist from CSUSM’s library, provided insight into the archival process, detailing how these veteran interviews would be transcribed and preserved for posterity. The raw interviews, slated for transcription later this spring, will be accessible for generations to come, ensuring that these veterans' legacies remain alive in the hearts of future citizens.   Veteran Stories Captured for Posterity The veterans whose stories were featured at the event came from diverse backgrounds and service experiences, but all shared a common thread – an unwavering commitment to our country. The veterans interviewed for the project are: Jan Michael Letigio Lacea (CSUSM alumnus) – U.S. Navy: 2011-18, Hospital Corpsman 1st Class (E-6) Albert F. Toro – U.S. Army: 1967-69, Sergeant (E-5) Thomas Galyean – U.S. Army: 1968-72, Captain (O-3) Elmer Royce Williams – Minnesota National Guard: 1942-43, U.S. Navy: 1943-80, Captain, Ret. (O-6) Dora Ann Beacham (CSUSM alumnus) – U.S. Marine Corps: 1992-2014, Master Sergeant, Ret. (E-8) James Robert Forster II – U.S. Air Force: 1967-71, Staff Sergeant (E-5) “When my friend Jason Beyer from CSUSM asked me to be a part of this, I thought it was a small school project, but it turned out to be part of a larger, critical mission of preserving veteran stories,” Lacea said. “Especially for the Greatest Generation, our World War II veterans, some of their stories may be soon lost forever. I am truly honored for Jason, Marilyn Huerta and the rest of CSUSM for inviting me to be part of this project, especially as an alumnus. I’m happy to share my story, particularly for those that I served with and for those that are no longer with us.” These veterans, along with their families, were honored at the event, receiving recognition not only for their military service but for their participation in the Veterans History Project. Four of the six veterans were present at the event to receive their certificates.   A Memorable Event for All The event’s setting, an intimate video viewing experience, allowed guests to reflect on the stories of these veterans. The videos were emotional and engaging, mixing humor with heartache as each veteran shared their unique journey. “What I wasn't expecting was how emotional I became,” said Shad Thielman, a lecturer in CSUSM’s history department. “It made me think of my father, grandfathers and those we have lost. In a sense, it humanized things again, which is one of the most important aspects of such history.” Beyer and Huerta expressed a strong desire to continue this important work, ensuring that future veterans’ stories are preserved in a similar fashion. For those who were unable to attend the event or wish to revisit the powerful video that was previewed during the ceremony, the video is now available for viewing online. Media Contact Brian Hiro, Communications Specialist bhiro@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7306

Justin Lewis, Cal State San Marcos' director of the Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) and Project Rebound, has been recognized as a 2025 Nonprofit Board Leader of Influence by the San Diego Business Journal. The nomination of Lewis noted that he “is a transformative leader in higher education, philanthropy and social justice.” In his roles at CSUSM, Lewis oversees programs expanding access to education for low-income and justice-impacted students, creating pathways to opportunity. “His leadership extends beyond academia, shaping initiatives that drive economic mobility and equity,” the nomination said. As a board member for Episcopal Community Services, Lewis supports the Resource Development Committee, advancing fundraising efforts for early childhood education, mental health and substance use recovery programs. He also played a key role in St. Paul’s Cathedral’s major gifts campaign, helping raise over $2.5 million. A North San Diego NAACP lifetime member and longtime Williams College mentor, the nomination noted Lewis' deep commitment to community impact. As one colleague in the nomination said, “Justin is a great leader and mentor. His knowledge of business proved invaluable during and after my internship. With 30-plus years of volunteer experience, his vision, fundraising expertise, and dedication to social justice make him an outstanding candidate.” Media Contact Eric Breier, Interim assistant director of editorial and external affairs ebreier@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7314

Cal State San Marcos celebrated the completion of the structural phase of its University Village Housing and Dining (UVHD) project with a topping-out ceremony on Thursday, March 20.   A topping-out ceremony typically marks the placement of the last or highest steel beam.   Construction on the 2.5-acre site began in January 2024 and is expected to be complete in fall 2026. The 137,000-square-foot UVHD is being built on what was formerly Parking Lot O. It features a three-wing configuration to create gathering spaces and student life areas.   The seven-story residence hall – which includes a 10,000-square-foot, two-story dining facility – will have 555 beds, providing affordable housing for underserved, low-income students.  “We are breaking down barriers to higher education and making it possible for more students to stay focused on their studies and thrive,” CSUSM President Ellen Neufeldt said at the event. “From pod-style communities that foster belonging to all-gender restrooms, study and social spaces, and secure, modern designs, this is more than just a place to live – it’s a place to grow, connect and succeed.”  Leon Wyden, CSUSM’s vice president for Finance and Administrative Services and chief financial officer, served as the event emcee and welcomed San Marcos councilmembers Danielle LeBlang and Ed Musgrove, who presented a certificate of recognition from the City of San Marcos.   The UVHD project is being funded in part by $91 million received from Gov. Gavin Newsom and the California Legislature.   “Today, as we celebrate reaching the highest point of construction, we pause to recognize the incredible teamwork and dedication that got us here,” Wyden said.   Partners on the project include McCarthy Building Companies and Gensler. Wyden also thanked the trades teams and contractors, including Nevell Group Inc. (framing), Critchfield Mechanical Inc. (mechanical), Bergelectric Corp. (electrical), A.O. Reed & Co. (plumbing), Kimble and Company (fire protection) and Sunset Glazing (glazing systems).  Wyden also credited university partners, including Planning, Design and Construction, Student Affairs, Housing and CSUSM Corporation.  “Today’s topping-out ceremony isn’t just about celebrating a structure that has reached its highest point,” Neufeldt said. “It’s about the heights we are helping our students reach because of this project.” Media Contact Eric Breier, Interim Assistant Director of Editorial and External Affairs ebreier@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7314

Looking to get ahead, catch up or explore new subjects this summer?  Cal State San Marcos is offering nearly 200 courses this summer in online, in-person and hybrid formats, open to CSUSM students, visiting students from other institutions and community members. With flexible scheduling and accelerated timelines, many courses can be completed in just five weeks. Summer Session at CSUSM runs from June 2 to Aug. 9, providing students with varied course options to quickly advance their academic progress while accommodating busy summer schedules.   2025 Summer Class Sessions Full session: June 2-Aug. 9 First block: June 2-July 3 Second block: July 7-Aug. 9   Registration Information Priority registration for current CSUSM students begins March 25. Community members and students from other institutions are also welcome to enroll without formal admission to CSUSM, beginning April 30. Credits earned during summer session are fully transferable to other colleges and universities.   Wide Range of Courses Available This year's summer session schedule includes popular courses from more than 40 academic departments, such as biology, chemistry, mathematics, economics, history, communication and many more. Most classes follow an accelerated five-week or 10-week format designed to help you maximize your summer productivity.   Financial Aid Opportunities CSUSM students enrolled in summer courses may be eligible for financial aid, including grants or tuition discounts, depending on the number of units taken. To make summer classes more accessible, a flexible payment plan is also available, allowing students to pay tuition in manageable installments.   Campus Housing Options Students enrolled in summer classes may have the option to live on campus, providing a convenient and distraction-free environment to help you stay focused and succeed during the summer term. For specific housing dates, availability and details about potential discounts or promotions for summer residents, please contact CSUSM Housing directly.   Learn More and Get Started! For detailed information about Summer Session – including course listings, registration instructions, financial aid eligibility and housing options – please visit csusm.edu/summer. Have questions? Reach out to us at 760-750-4020 or summer@csusm.edu.   Make this summer count – enroll today!

Cal State San Marcos biology professor Erika Díaz-Almeyda is featured in a new PBS documentary for her research on microbial ecology. The documentary, “Good Natured” by filmmaker Ashley Stokes, takes viewers on a journey through Florida’s wild spaces, introducing individuals dedicated to conservation, innovation and “striking a balance between human progress and environmental stewardship.” Díaz-Almeyda attended the premiere at the Tampa Theatre on Feb. 19. The documentary aired on PBS on Feb. 27 and can now be watched on its website. Díaz-Almeyda was connected with Stokes through a former colleague in Florida, and she says she bonded with the filmmaker instantly through a shared vision of how to confront climate change. Díaz-Almeyda’s portion of the documentary focuses on her work at Triangle Ranch, which features a permanent conservation easement just north of Myakka River State Park. She collected three years of data and observed high microbial diversity. “Microbial ecology means that I study small, invisible microbes,” Díaz-Almeyda said. “I want to know which microbes are where and what are they doing. Most microbes are beneficial and are needed for ecosystem health. My goal is to support decision-makers to document how their practices have an impact at microbial level.” Díaz-Almeyda came to CSUSM in 2023 from New College of Florida because she wanted to be closer to family. At CSUSM, besides teaching in the biology department, she is a faculty fellow through the Innovation Hub. In that role, she created the Milpa Hub, a project that aims to promote the growth of milpas – traditional agricultural systems – to promote environmental and community resilience. Díaz-Almeyda says the experience with the documentary motivated her to seek training in science communication. As a result, she was awarded a National Science Foundation-funded science communications fellowship for pre-tenure faculty of color through the SciComm Identities Project, a joint venture of the University of Rhode Island’s Metcalf Institute, Michigan State University’s Knight Center for Environmental Journalism and the URI Science and Story Lab. Media Contact Brian Hiro, Communications Specialist bhiro@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7306

The CSU Shiley Haynes Institute for Palliative Care is offering discounted rates for students who attend the 2025 National Symposium for Academic Palliative Care Education and Research, which is in June at Cal State San Marcos. The main symposium is June 2-3 with a post-symposium workshop on June 4 The cost for students is $50 for the June 4 post-symposium workshop, $175 for the main symposium June 2-3 or $225 for both the workshop and main symposium. Breakfast and lunch are included each day. Early-bird registration rates are also available for faculty and professionals until April 1. The early-bird rates are $100 for the workshop, $425 for the main symposium or $525 for both. The symposium is a unique and interactive multidisciplinary conference designed to highlight the latest in academic palliative care research, teaching and practice. It is the only event of its kind in the country designed for university faculty, practitioners and researchers focused on advancing palliative care. Visit the CSU Shiley Haynes Institute for Palliative Care website to register or for more information. Media Contact Eric Breier, Interim assistant director of editorial and external affairs ebreier@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7314

Cal State San Marcos is ranked 31st in the nation on Research.com's list of the “50 Safest College Towns in America for 2025.” CSUSM is ranked second in California behind Saint Mary's, which is 29th overall. Research.com compiled its rankings using the most recent data from the FBI's Uniform Crime Reporting Program and the latest population estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau. The website calculated the violent crime rate, property crime rate and total crime rate per 1,000 residents. Northwest Florida State College in Niceville, Fla., is ranked No. 1. Research.com is an educational platform that helps students find the best schools, academic opportunities and career paths.  Media Contact Eric Breier, Interim assistant director of editorial and external affairs ebreier@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7314

The fastest NCAA Division II women's 400-meter runner in the country is home after sailing to victory at the national indoor track and field championships in Indianapolis on Saturday.  Cal State San Marcos student-athlete Rasha Badrani won in a time of 52.92 seconds, a 0.28-second edge against her closest competitor, Peace Nwaelehia of West Texas A&M.  Badrani said she has been running track since junior high school, but the championship was the culmination of years of hard work.   “I just went out there telling myself that I was the strongest one out there and I know I can finish,” Badrani said.   It’s this mindset that her coach said makes her a winner.  “She has an intrinsic motivation that I’ve never seen before," said Anthony Heredia, assistant coach of sprints and hurdles. “Rasha is always one who will do the things no matter who is watching. She has an insanely strong will, and I think that’s what carries in her races. When she wants something, she is going to take it. And she’s not going to let anyone else dictate that.”  Badrani, a 2022 graduate of San Pasqual High School in Escondido, is a junior at CSUSM majoring in business administration management.   Badrani’s win is the first NCAA national championship for CSUSM's track and field program. She is also the second athlete from CSUSM to win an NCAA national title. The first was Jaime Jacob, who won the 2019 women's golf individual championship.  Badrani said next she wants to win the same race in the outdoor championships at the end of May.  Media Contact Jerry McCormick, Director of Strategic Comms jmccormick@csusm.edu

When Grant Muāgututiʻa was a boy growing up in Oceanside, his love of the Samoan language took him to the homes of community elders who would regale him with stories that had been passed down through the generations. When he was a student at the undergraduate, graduate and postgraduate levels, linguistics took him to some of the cradles of Polynesian culture: Samoa, Hawaii, New Zealand and back to Hawaii. And when he was seeking his first tenure-track job in the field, linguistics took him to Cal State San Marcos as an assistant professor in the liberal studies department five years ago. Muāgututiʻa, though, never could have dreamed that linguistics would take him here – on the shores of Oʻahu, the waves lapping at the sugary sand, as he walked the blue carpet (yes, blue) and rubbed elbows with Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and other stars of the Disney glitterati before the world premiere of the animated film “Moana 2” last November. “It wasn’t even in the realm of my imagination,” Muāgututiʻa said. “But it was an awesome experience.” You don’t think of linguistics, simply defined as the scientific study of language, as intersecting neatly with a visual medium like cinema. And indeed, Muāgututiʻa was more than a little caught off guard when the filmmaking team behind the sequel to the wildly popular movie “Moana” from 2016 contacted him out of the blue two years ago. They were seeking a linguist to lend an air of authenticity to character names and other language used in “Moana 2,” which picks up the story of a young heroine from ancient Oceania who’s called by the ocean to go on an epic wayfinding journey. Muāgututiʻa might not have been expecting the directors’ call, but he certainly was a qualified candidate. “As far as I know,” he said, “I’m the only Samoan with a Ph.D. in linguistics in the entire world.” Muāgututiʻa was invited to join the Oceanic Cultural Trust, a collective established for the original “Moana” nine years ago to ensure that the film was not only authentic but also respectful of the cultures and histories of Polynesia. Besides Muāgututiʻa as the linguist, the other 12 members of the trust include an archaeologist, a botanist, a choreographer, a historian and additional cultural experts. The Oceanic Cultural Trust is headed by Kalikolehua Hurley, who was born and raised on Oʻahu. Hurley, who affectionately calls Muāgututiʻa “Dr. Grant,” came to CSUSM last fall as part of a panel discussion about the work of the trust, following a screening of “Moana 2.” “We aim for the stories we create at Disney Animation to reflect the peoples, cultures and places we’re inspired by in their creation,” Hurley said. “ ‘Moana,’ which finds inspiration in Pacific peoples, cultures and islands, would not feel truthful without the inclusion of all the things that make the Pacific what it is, including, of course, language.” Muāgututiʻa was excited by the opportunity to contribute his expertise to “Moana 2,” which debuted on Disney+ on March 12. He recalls being a doctoral student in Hawaii when the original was released and taking his wife and (at the time) two young children to see it in the theater. “I was very moved and inspired by it,” Muāgututiʻa said. “It was amazing to see representations of our culture on the big screen like that." Over the course of many months starting in 2023, Muāgututiʻa and the other members of the trust participated in a series of screening cycles – essentially viewing the film in various stages of completion – and afterward met with the filmmakers to discuss their thoughts as a group. In addition to providing general cultural feedback, as the resident linguist, Muāgututiʻa was relied upon to suggest language for the film – from character and location names to more granular things like dialogue, dialect, pronunciation and spelling – both for the movie itself and for marketing materials leading up to the release. And he couldn’t just fall back on his deep knowledge of the Samoan language; rather, he had to tap into words and phrases common to all of the Pacific Islands, an umbrella term that also covers lands such as Hawaii, New Zealand, Tahiti and Tonga. Muāgututiʻa’s most valuable contribution was the name of the villain, Nalo, which means “lost” in a variety of different Polynesian languages. Nalo is the god of storms who is jealous of the bonds that humans form between each other and uses his power to curse the island of Motufetū and cut off the voyaging between islands. Muāgututiʻa also gave the movie the character of a fruit bat named Peka, the sidekick of a secondary antagonist, Matangi, who’s an eccentric demigoddess and Nalo’s enforcer. Fruit bats are plentiful in Samoa, and the word “peka” can be traced back to the original Polynesian language thousands of years ago. “I helped shape the names in the movie,” Muāgututiʻa said, “although they all might not have come directly from my brain.” One of the words that didn’t come from Muāgututiʻa’s brain but that pleased him greatly is “tautai,” which means “wayfinder” (or “navigator” or “seafarer”) and is the title that Moana receives during a special ceremony. “Tautai” also happens to be the name of Muāgututiʻa’s second son (he has four children total, the most recent a son born in January). “Watching the film, when he hears his name, his face just lights up,” Muāgututiʻa said. “For my kids, Moana has always been there, so they’ve always seen themselves on the big screen. That’s huge for me, both as a father and a scholar.” As the son of two parents of Samoan descent who was raised in one of the most populous Samoan communities in California, Muāgututiʻa marinated in all things Polynesia as a child – even as he assimilated quickly into the American way of life. His twin passions were language and the performing arts, which makes sense given that they are so intertwined in Polynesian culture that they might as well be synonymous. Polynesia had no written language until only a couple of centuries ago, so music and dance were employed to convey stories across the ages. Muāgututiʻa, in fact, felt torn between studying linguistics and ethnomusicology in college. He chose linguistics, of course, and attended the University of Hawaii at Mānoa (the first university in the nation to offer Samoan language courses) for his bachelor’s degree and doctorate, with a stop in between for his master’s at the University of Auckland in Aotearoa New Zealand. Auckland, not coincidentally, is the largest Polynesian city in the world. “I was able to piece together this curriculum that I was super interested in,” he said, “learning and filling gaps of the facets of history that weren't available to me in Southern California.” During and between the time that he pursued his two advanced degrees, Muāgututiʻa worked in Polynesian outreach for the Oceanside Unified School District and as the director of performing arts for the Le Fetūao Samoan Language Center in Hawaii (for the latter, he received an award in the shape of a fish hook, a traditional Polynesian symbol, that’s displayed in his office at CSUSM.) Muāgututiʻa is a linguist professionally, but his love of music still burns brightly. For the last three years, he has been in a band called FAIVA (Samoan for “craft”) with two other Samoan musicians. FAIVA has played at CSUSM a few times, and one of their most cherished gigs is performing songs from “Moana” and other Polynesian favorites at Disneyland for hundreds of wide-eyed children and their families. A big part of Muāgututiʻa’s work as a scholar is the melding of language and performing arts, and using the latter as a vehicle for the maintenance and even revitalization of Polynesian languages, many of which face endangerment. At CSUSM, he’s part of a group of faculty and staff behind the Asian, Pacific Islander and Desi American (APIDA) Success Initiative; one of the thrusts of that collective is utilizing grant money to support language curriculum development for Pacific Island studies. Last year, CSUSM launched its first Samoan language and performing arts program, a five-week course in partnership with MiraCosta College that brought 30 kids from K-8 and 30 adults to campus. The program culminated in a performance at the Oceanside Samoan Cultural Celebration last July. “There's such a strong interest and a thirst to learn our culture, learn our language,” Muāgututiʻa said. “Not only has that enabled outreach to the community, but it also has helped me with the opportunity to develop and test curricular materials. None of this would have been possible without the support of CSUSM and the awesome team of faculty and staff that we have here.” The runaway success of movie franchises like “Moana” – the two films have grossed a total of almost $2 billion worldwide – can only aid in the linguistic and cultural preservation that is the foundation of Muāgututiʻa’s career. And he’s not done with “Moana,” either. He also is a member of the cultural trust for the live-action version of “Moana” that’s set to premiere in summer 2026. He frequently was on location for that film, the production of which wrapped last fall. “In a lot of ways, I was just in the right place at the right time,” Muāgututiʻa said of his work on both versions of “Moana.” “It's a lot of pressure, but also a huge privilege that comes with the responsibility to be able to speak for me personally, for my family, for my people on a platform that millions and millions of people will see for a long time. We haven't always been welcome in these spaces, and to have that opportunity now, I don't take it lightly.”   Watch more videos, of Muāgututiʻa singing a song from “Moana” and sharing the connection of music to Polynesian culture.  Media Contact Brian Hiro, Communications Specialist bhiro@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7306

The fifth Arts & Lectures event of the spring features the oral histories of military veterans and offers an intimate look into the personal experiences, challenges and triumphs of veterans from diverse backgrounds.  The event is at 6 p.m. on March 19 in the USU Ballroom. Reserve tickets online via the Arts & Lectures website.  The stories shared will be archived at the Library of Congress and in CSUSM’s Kellogg Library, preserving their legacies for future generations. The keynote speaker is Amy Forsythe, a Marines Corps veteran, Navy reservist and CSUSM alumna. The formal program will be preceded by a veteran/military resource fair and reception at 5 p.m.  CSUSM’s Arts & Lectures series offers a diverse lineup of artistic, cultural and scholarly events every semester based on input and proposals from students, faculty, staff, alumni and community members.    What: “Veterans History Project,” an Arts & Lectures event that features the oral histories of military veterans  When: 6 p.m., Wednesday, March 19  Where: USU Ballroom  Who: Keynote speaker is Amy Forsythe, a Marines Corps veteran, Navy reservist and CSUSM alumna.  Tickets: Visit the Arts & Lectures ticket webpage  Cost: Free for CSUSM students and military-affiliated community and resource fair guests; $5 for faculty, staff and alumni; $10 for community members    Media Contact Eric Breier, Interim assistant director of editorial and external affairs ebreier@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7314

Members of the Cal State San Marcos community visited San Diego Mesa College on Feb. 25 for the inaugural CSUSM Day. The event was organized similar to a college fair with 30 tables filled with faculty and staff who helped educate prospective transfer students about CSUSM. This is the first time CSUSM's four colleges have collaborated for an exclusive event like this. Various organizations from CSUSM were present, including Housing, the Office of Financial Aid, and New Student and Family Programs. Members of the sociology department also visited classrooms to engage with Mesa students. Prospective students attending were encouraged to meet with representatives, faculty members and Crash, CSUSM's mascot. The event was a fantastic opportunity to learn more about CSUSM and show why students should continue their education at the university.  “CSUSM Day at San Diego Mesa College was an incredible success and I am immensely proud of our CSUSM community,” said Christina Montell, CSUSM's admissions adviser who organized the event. “This event provided an outstanding opportunity to not just connect with San Diego Mesa College students, but also Mesa organizations and faculty, fostering a sense of collaboration and shared goals. I am excited about the future partnerships and pathways this event has opened up. It was truly inspiring to see the commitment to education and community from both CSUSM and San Diego Mesa College. ” Media Contact Eric Breier, Interim assistant director of editorial and external affairs ebreier@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7314

Almost a decade ago, at another university on another coast, Ellen Neufeldt set out to organize a symposium on social mobility. As she called around to invite participants as an administrator at Old Dominion University in Virginia, she received the same answer again and again: “I will come, but first you must tell me what social mobility is.” Neufeldt related that story on Thursday under a very different set of circumstances. She’s now in her sixth year as president of Cal State San Marcos. Social mobility has increasingly gained prominence in the world of higher education. And, most significantly, Neufeldt was speaking to an audience of more than 400 people packed into the University Student Union ballroom for the now-annual National Social Mobility Symposium. A cross-section of education, government and other leaders from across the country congregated over a day-and-a-half to delve into the once-foreign concept and the many ways that social mobility is interconnected with the vital work of educating students. “The national and higher education conversation has changed in many ways,” Neufeldt said in remarks kicking off the symposium. “Right here at CSUSM and in the CSU in general, social mobility has been part of the core mission of who we are. In fact, through CSUSM’s strategic planning, we established our vision to be a national leader in social mobility. “While social mobility includes upward economic mobility, it also encompasses broader access to opportunities and resources, education, and overall quality of life.” In a fortuitous stroke of timing, the symposium began on the same day that the College Futures Foundation – an Oakland-based nonprofit – released its inaugural California Mobility Index. The CMI ranks four-year institutions in the state based not on how exclusive they are, but rather on the rate of low- and medium-income students they enroll and the return on investment they provide. California State University campuses account for 13 of the top 15 spots (including CSUSM) in the CMI, the debut of which drew coverage from such media outlets as the Los Angeles Times and EdSource.   CSU Chancellor Mildred Garcia was one of four keynote speakers at the symposium, calling it one of the system’s “signature events.” “At the CSU and at our peer institutions represented here today, social mobility is our greatest strength, our immense source of pride, and it’s our reason for being,” Garcia said.  Neufeldt discussed, and other speakers at the symposium explored, the concept of a four-legged stool – the systemic barriers that predominate in higher education and prevent the thriving of social mobility. The four legs consist of: the college rankings that historically have focused on, but are gradually evolving away from, exclusion over inclusion; the media that has long skewed its coverage toward Ivy League and flagship institutions; state governments that tie funding formulas to outdated ranking models; and industries and employers that still tend to recruit primarily from elite institutions. “We must be intentional about dismantling barriers, changing practices and expanding opportunities,” Neufeldt said. “We must view every decision by asking ourselves: Who is being left out? What structures are we upholding that need to be reimagined? “This is not just about education. It is about our economy, our workforce and the future leaders of our regions and nations.” Joining Garcia as keynote speakers at the symposium were Nate Hilger, an economist and data scientist and author of the book “The Parent Trap: How to Stop Overloading Parents and Fix Our Inequality Crisis”; Charles Welch, president of the American Association of State Colleges and Universities; and Alejandra Campoverdi, founder of the First Gen Fund and a former White House aide to President Barack Obama. On Friday, two current or former elected officials spoke to the assembled crowd: Toni Atkins, the former leader of the California State Senate; and Scott Peters, the U.S. representative of the congressional district (50^th) that includes San Marcos. Atkins talked about the tie between her own story of social mobility as a first-generation college graduate who grew up poor in Appalachia and her political work in the state as a fierce advocate of education, affordable housing and LGBTQ rights. “Social mobility allowed me, the daughter of a seamstress from Appalachia, to become the first woman to be president pro tempore of the California State Senate,” Atkins said. “It allowed me to live a life far beyond my dreams. I want to make sure current and future students get a chance to live that life as well.” Peters appeared at the symposium for the third year in a row. He also hosted Neufeldt and other leaders from CSUSM in Washington last summer. “This is the right place for the symposium,” Peters said. “Cal State San Marcos is a model that I talk about all the time in my work.” The symposium emcee, also for the third straight year, was Wenda Fong, former chair and current trustee of the CSU Board of Trustees. “It is our highest mission to afford students of all backgrounds, races, ethnicities, abilities, identities and orientations the opportunity to earn the lifelong benefits of a high-quality college degree,” Fong said. “This mission and these values have never been more essential. Our world, and the changes coming in the future, require higher education to prepare students for a society of rapid change in technology, increasing interconnectedness and new forms of employment.” Other highlights from the symposium included: a look at how technology is shaping the future of higher education, emphasizing the role of innovation in creating equitable opportunities. quick pitches on impactful programs, and dozens of best practices, showing clear examples of how institutions can foster social mobility in creative ways. panels showcasing how different organizations measure social mobility through rankings and how university leaders reinforce the importance of adapting to student needs. the Coalition of Urban and Metropolitan Universities (CUMU) on how institutions and economic leaders work together to drive regional change and bolster the workforce and economy. a discussion on best practices throughout the educational pipeline, emphasizing strong partnerships between K-12, community colleges and universities to create seamless pathways to higher education. Media Contact Brian Hiro, Communications Specialist bhiro@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7306

If you sit down with Nicole Mendez, you may question her decision to major in chemistry and math in her first college experience. After all, years later she owns an MFA from San Diego State in filmmaking and is currently pursuing a second master’s degree in literature and writing studies from Cal State San Marcos.  She’s earning the latter while also working full time as the administrative coordinator with the LTWR department. She’s also a wife and mom to three children.  Creating art has always been inside Mendez, and her work reflects that. She will show her documentary “Bad Child” on March 4 in Arts 111 as part of CSUSM’s Arts & Lectures series.   The 13-minute film will be shown at noon, followed by a brief discussion from Mendez. She’ll also lead a panel discussing the impacts of sexual assault, how trauma is expressed artistically and the many resources available to survivors. Staff from Student Health & Counseling Services and faculty and staff from the department of psychology and the School of Arts will sit on the interdisciplinary panel.  As with most A&L events, CSUSM students, faculty, staff and alumni are free. Community members are $5. Tickets are available online.  The topic is heavy. She wrote and produced it as a retelling of her personal sexual abuse as a child primarily at the hands of her step grandfather.   “So the film is entirely my story,” Mendez said. “It goes through every kind of what I see as different stages of the outcomes. I was sexually abused as a child multiple times, so this is something that impacted me throughout my entire lifespan. The film goes through different developmental stages and how it affected me throughout that time.”  The film also has interviews with psychologists who speak to the technical side of recovering and healing. Mendez included facts from her own research as well as statistics on recovery.   Her own personal story is woven throughout the film.  She sees the event as an opportunity to discuss a subject that still doesn’t get enough attention on college campuses, although she is quick to praise the work done by SHCS.  “There’s a lack of people who talk to their children about sexual assault,” said Mendez, 42. “It's not discussed enough as kids are growing up. It's ignored. So I think a lot of young people get to college and they don't think about these risks, and they don't think that these things do happen. And then when they happen to someone they know, or they're aware that these things are occurring, they don't know what to do. They don't know how to help. They don't know how to positively contribute to such an important issue. And so those are all things I want to touch on.”  Filled with expert interviews and personal narratives, the film touches on her experiences while also placing a hard emphasis on the importance of parental and caregiver support in the aftermath.   Healing is an individual journey, one that could be made much longer and more difficult without the presence of support.   That’s particularly important when the abuse happens to a child, according to Mendez.  “How that event impacts you is greatly determined by the support you receive or don't receive when you disclose that event, it is so critical for someone who has had horrible things happen to them,” Mendez said. “After disclosure is supported appropriately, they (a victim/survivor) will likely have less severe outcomes compared to someone who might have had something happen and they tell someone, and the person doesn't believe them, or they tell them they're a liar. There's such a big impact.”  The switch in pursuits to visual arts as an undergraduate student at a small liberal arts college in Portland wasn’t as much of a stretch as it seems because it aligned with Mendez’s interests. And when she took a film class in the SDSU MFA program in 2018, it sparked a passion for filmmaking, leading to a transition from fine art to film.  While some people choose activities when they have free time, Mendez simply doesn’t have much. Instead, she makes time for her creative outlets partly by involving her family.  Her first film — a short narrative about a girl and her grandma — was inspired by her childhood experiences – memories of making tamales with family and listening to music, which often sparked creative ideas. In the film, the girl goes into one of her grandma's rooms and starts using her sewing materials and tries to make herself a dress. At the end, the grandma comes in and offers to help her as a form of connection through action.  Mendez finds inspiration from both real-life experiences and music, particularly non-lyrical film scores. Her art is personal, often reflecting childhood experiences and family dynamics as someone who grew up in Chula Vista but also lived in Florida, Connecticut and other parts of San Diego and L.A.  In addition to making documentary films, she’s an accomplished painter. She painted her daughter for a decade in a series that explored themes of childhood innocence and the contrast between child and adult expressions.  “That was obviously a very personal series,” Mendez said of her now 16-year-old daughter. “I was, in a sense, reexamining my own childhood through these pictures of her. And then when I went off and started making films, I did some animations, and all of those had to do with my childhood. And then the film about the dress. There were elements of my childhood that were put into that.”  Her love for color and patterns is evident in all her work, from painting to filmmaking to her personal style.  Mendez of course finds it challenging to balance full-time work, family responsibilities and creative pursuits. She has slowed down on creative work to focus more on family time, especially as her three children — one in high school and two in elementary school — have more activities.  Mendez’s goal is to educate and inspire collective improvement in supporting victims and addressing sexual assault. Healing is a process, and it’s one that is different for every survivor.  She reported her abuser during the making of the documentary, which took a long time to be processed. He was arrested the same week the film was completed in spring 2022, adding another level of emotional impact to the project.   Just last month — three decades after the abuse began — he was sentenced to six years in prison. At age 87, he will most likely spend the rest of his life behind bars.  The reporting process was challenging with delays and emotional tolls, but Mendez felt it was important to go through it at the pace it required. The documentary serves as a testament to her persistence. The long journey of reporting and seeking justice is over, but the healing continues.  “I won't say there's a real resolution because I do feel like when someone experiences sexual assault of any sort, no matter how minor it is, it affects you forever,” Mendez said. “It'll affect you less if you handle it, you face it, you deal with it, you process it and process it and process it. I do believe it gets better, and some of that is shown in the film. It's not all just dark and negative. It’s more factual and just this is how it was and is.   “I want people to take something away from it as far as how can we be better? Just collectively, parents, teachers, mentors, people who are in those positions to receive that information, those disclosures. How can we as a community, as society, be more supportive and be better?”  Mendez the chemist and/or mathematician never surfaced, and probably for good reason as her art has and will inspire others.   But perhaps there’s something to order, problem solving and truth that chemistry and math provide that also speaks to who she is.   Whatever she chooses to do with her career, it’s clear Mendez is one thing above all — resilient.   “I want to focus on how to help people who have experienced that because when someone discloses sexual assault, the reactions that they receive to that disclosure impact the outcomes of that assault, sometimes more than the assault itself,” Mendez said. “It has such a profound impact on how someone heals or is able to cope that it is really critical that people have an idea of the language to use and how to address those situations.   “And the reality is this does happen, or people have experienced it in their past. But it still affects them, of course.  To know how to interact with someone about those topics who has had those experiences, that’s really important.”  Media Contact Eric Breier, Interim Assistant Director of Editorial and External Affairs ebreier@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7314

Cal State San Marcos is ranked No. 15 in a new state index that measures the extent to which schools drive upward mobility among underserved learners. The inaugural California Mobility Index (CMI) ranks 82 four-year institutions that collectively enroll almost 800,000 undergraduate students. But rather than the traditional approach of rewarding institutions based on the exclusivity and standardized test scores of their incoming class, the CMI evaluates institutions on the proportion of low- and moderate-income students they enroll and the return on investment they provide within the state of California. The CMI is the product of a partnership between the College Futures Foundation and the HEA Group. “This new state index is a step in the right direction to ensure that the work at CSUSM and other CSUs is acknowledged and highlighted,” CSUSM President Ellen Neufeldt said. “I am encouraged to see more rankings evolving to recognize the institutions that are making the greatest impact on students’ social and economic mobility. We’ve known all along that we are changing lives and the communities we serve. As the national conversation around the ROI of higher education continues, we can clearly see that college is indeed an investment that pays off.” The index is based on the share of Pell Grant recipients that an institution enrolls, the average earnings of those students within 10 years after enrollment and the average out-of-pocket costs paid by those students for their degree. Pell Grants are federal financial aid awards available to low- and moderate-income students. Researchers used U.S. Department of Education data to track the earnings of such students after graduating.  The CMI is dominated by schools from California State University, with CSU campuses accounting for 13 of the top 15 spots. CSUSM has become recognized as a national leader in social or economic mobility under the leadership of President Ellen Neufeldt. The university ranks No. 2 out of more than 1,200 schools nationally in the current Social Mobility Index by the online publication CollegeNET, and it topped that same list two years ago. CSUSM also annually hosts the National Social Mobility Symposium, which draws hundreds of leaders from across the country to discuss ways to make higher education more accessible to all.

When Karen Charles participated in Cal State San Marcos’ commencement ceremonies to receive her bachelor’s in 2000 and her teaching credential in 2001, she did so on a small grassy area in Forum Plaza. At the time, there were four main buildings on campus with University Hall having just opened a couple of years before Charles graduated with her liberal studies degree. So, it’s easy to imagine her shock at seeing campus for the first time since those commencement ceremonies when she arrived in the summer of 2023 to attend family orientation with her daughter, Kaiah, who was an incoming first-year student that fall. “It was crazy,” Charles said. “I thought, ‘This was my little school, and it's just so beautiful.’ I was so proud of how far it's come. I almost got teary eyed. I feel like I was there at the beginning, and it's become this incredible university. Attending orientation, I don’t know why people in the area would want to go anywhere else. It’s so gorgeous and you have everything.” Charles attended CSUSM with a single goal – becoming an elementary school teacher. And she credits the university for helping to prepare her for the career she’s enjoyed for more than two decades. “Like with anything, once you actually get into teaching it can be so different than what you learned in school,” Charles said. “But CSUSM really does a great job of setting you up for success. “It was helpful that so many of my professors had been in the classroom before. It wasn't someone just telling you what it was going to be like, it was based on real-life experience. That made a huge difference learning from people who actually know what you're going to be going through and what it’s like. They didn’t sugarcoat everything, which was good because they know that there are good things about teaching and there are challenging things about teaching.” Charles was a first-generation college student, and she was focused from a young age on becoming a teacher (brief thoughts about becoming a nurse ended in fifth grade when she sliced open her hand and saw the blood). She always loved working with kids – even when she was one herself. In elementary school, she often helped in the kindergarten classes, loving every minute working with younger students. An Escondido native, Charles taught in her hometown at Conway Elementary (now known as Conway Academy of Expeditionary Learning) for three years before moving across town to help open Bernardo Elementary School in 2005. She has been at Bernardo ever since, teaching first grade throughout her career. “I love what I do,” Charles said. “First grade is so much fun because a lot of these kids come in knowing letters and sounds, but they literally leave as readers. First grade is so foundational that just to see their growth is so rewarding. “And we have great families at Bernardo. I love my team that I work with and we have an awesome principal. I couldn't work at a better school.” Charles has similar feelings about CSUSM. She was about 7 months pregnant with her first child, Benjamin, when she received her teaching credential at commencement in 2001. A year later, she began teaching at Conway. She had three more children – Kaiah and sons Elijah and Josiah – with Kaiah following in her mom’s footsteps by attending CSUSM. Like her mom, Kaiah is looking toward a career working with children. She is majoring in psychological science and works about 30 hours a week doing applied behavior analysis therapy to help young children with autism learn and develop skills. “I love working with kids. I feel like I was born to do it,” said Kaiah, who likely will pursue her master’s with an eye on being a therapist. It's gratifying for Charles to see how Kaiah is finding her place at CSUSM and looking forward to diving deeper into her major as she completes her general education courses.       “I'm so happy she's there, and she's really happy that she's there, too,” Charles said. “Right from the time we got to orientation, it just felt like a family and a community.” Media Contact Eric Breier, Interim Assistant Director of Editorial and External Affairs ebreier@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7314

Irma Ramos Arreaga started her role as Cal State San Marcos' outreach and inclusion librarian last February.  Before joining CSUSM, Ramos Arreaga worked at a public library in San Mateo, where she helped with children's services such as story times, arts and crafts, and community work. “The reason that I came here was because the job was very similar,” Ramos Arreaga said. “With outreach, you're doing a lot of work in the community. In this case, the community is the campus, and so all the outreach that I was doing for children is experience that I use here, just in a different setting. “There's typically not a lot of outreach librarians at university libraries. A lot of the time, outreach is embedded into other jobs. In recent years, outreach has become its own job to further connect with the student body. I like outreach because I like talking to people, I like connecting to people, and I get that more in my position than in a different academic library position. I like that CSUSM is a Hispanic-Serving Institution and that I would be able to help my community.” Ramos Arreaga’s position has two different parts. On the outreach side, she's like the library's personal cheerleader, helping plan events, scoping out new services while promoting the current ones and overall connecting people to the library.  On the inclusion side, Ramos Arreaga helps develop new programs through the library, and she works hard to make sure each program is meaningful and inspiring for those who participate.  “The focus is really bringing new perspectives, new identities and new discourse for the campus to be a part of," she said. “We're being inclusive of the different populations on campus through our programming. As we are planning for programs, we're thinking of what groups to highlight and what would be representative and impactful for our campus.”  The day-to-day schedule looks very different for Ramos Arreaga depending on the time of year. Many of her days are spent planning or hosting events in the library. Her busiest time of year is before each semester when the library prepares each art exhibit for the campus population.  The Context Exhibit Series this semester features the work of Isidro Pérez García, whose exhibit is titled “Migratory Land Knowledges.”  “Isidro Pérez García was inspired by his life,” Ramos Arreaga said. “He lived in the States undocumented for 20 years. A lot of the experiences that he had working under-the-table jobs influenced the exhibit, and then his background from Mexico, being from the countryside, working on farmland, that knowledge is also embedded into the artwork. Everything in the exhibit was made by him. The frames in the exhibit include handmade paper. The ink is made from cochineal (cochinilla), which lives on cacti. He harvested this parasitic insect and made ink out of it, which is an ancestral practice. He made all the anatomical hearts that are on the spiral table. He made the spiral table with the help of his brother, using scraps from an old furniture company that he worked at. Every decision that he made for every piece has a purpose. It's very meaningful.” Long before an exhibit is set up at Kellogg Library, an artist must be located. Finding the artist takes a combination of going out to see community exhibits and sourcing through connections. After a potential artist is found, Ramos Arreaga meets with them and thoroughly views their collection, making sure they are a fit for the campus.  Ramos Arreaga’s connection with the artists continues after the exhibit is completed. Eager to get the community involved, Ramos Arreaga invites the artist on campus for a workshop. For the library exhibit last fall, artist Salvador de la Torre came to campus and led students in a printing workshop.  The workshop this semester will take place March 27 from noon-1:30 p.m. Pérez García will be bringing handmade paper and teaching attendees to harvest and create ink with the insects he uses to create his ink. Students will learn to balance the pH level to the ink and change the colors. Students will be able to use the paper to create their own designs and paint. All the work Ramos Arreaga does on campus is in collaboration with the outreach team, including Rosa Rodriguez, James Guerrero and Victoria Holley.   In addition to the exhibit workshops, Ramos Arreaga helps Allison Carr, the academic transitions librarian, run CSUSM’s Common Read program. Multiple times during the academic year, the library organizes programs relating to Common Read. Once again this year, the selection focuses on banned books. The library gives out free banned books at several of these events.   “Who doesn't like giving out free books?” Ramos Arreaga said. “But people are usually really excited, and we interact with a lot of people in a short amount of time. So it's nice to see the campus and give out books.” That is ultimately what Ramos Arrega hopes to accomplish in her role: see the lively campus and spread the love of books to the community.    Upcoming Events Common Read Banned Book Giveaway: March 4, noon-12:50 p.m., Kellogg Library Meet the Artist: Isidro Pérez Garcia: March 18, 5-7 p.m., Kellogg Reading Room (fifth floor) Exhibit Workshop: March 27, noon-1:30 p.m., The Makery (second floor)   Media Contact Eric Breier, Interim Assistant Director of Editorial and External Affairs ebreier@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7314

Build and launch a rocket, view the surface of the sun and discover how chemistry is better than magic.  These are just a few of the more than 100 hands-on, interactive activities and demonstrations that will engage thousands of attendees at Super STEM Saturday on March 8 at Cal State San Marcos. This rain-or-shine science festival is from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and is free and open to the public. Children of all ages are invited to attend.   “What we take away from our childhood is really meaningful to what we decide to do as adults,” said Simon Kuo, vice president of corporate quality for Viasat, one of the lead sponsors of Super STEM Saturday. “That’s why we believe it’s really important to expose kids to science and technology so that it can help them better appreciate it and perhaps even choose a career in STEM.”   “Super STEM Saturday is a powerful event,” said Jackie Trischman, dean of the College of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics at CSUSM. “I want our community to see someone who looks like them having fun doing science. It’s also an opportunity to bring our community together and celebrate what science does for us on a daily basis.”   “We are proud to collaborate with the community to inspire the next generation of innovators at Super STEM Saturday,” said Kurtis Indorf, CEO of The Classical Academies. “We’re excited to see students and families come together to explore the endless possibilities of STEM.” The sponsors of Super STEM Saturday include Viasat; the County of San Diego; ASML; Bristol Myers Squibb; General Atomics Sciences Education Foundation; Grifols; the Issa Family Foundation; Pacific Premier Bank; Qualcomm; Cox Communications; DigiKey; ESET; Hologic; RBC Capital Markets; Young, Minney & Corr, LLP; Calsense; Hilbers, Inc.; Keenan; North Island Credit Union; San Diego Foundation; San Marcos Community Foundation; and Stradling.   What: Super STEM Saturday, a free interactive science festival for all ages  When: Saturday, March 8, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.   Where: Cal State San Marcos, 333 S. Twin Oaks Valley Road, San Marcos   Parking: Free in lots E, F and H More information: www.csusm.edu/superstem    About The Classical Academies   The Classical Academies is an organization of award-winning, tuition-free, California Public Charter Schools serving North San Diego County since 1999. With seven campus locations and over 5,200 students in grades TK-12, the schools are making a tremendous impact as they reinvent public education.  

The fourth Arts & Lectures event of the spring semester features a film screening of “Bad Child.”   The event is March 4 at noon in Arts 111. Reserve tickets online via the Arts & Lectures website.  The film is a short documentary about the more intimate, less visible outcomes of enduring repeated childhood sexual abuse. The film focuses on one survivor's reflections while expert interviews place emphasis on the importance of parental and caregiver support. Director Nicole Mendez will discuss the film’s format and its contents, then host an interdisciplinary panel examining impacts of sexual assault, artistic expressions of trauma and resources available to survivors. Panelists include CSUSM faculty and staff from Student Health & Counseling Services, the Department of Psychology, the School of Arts and more.  CSUSM’s Arts & Lectures series offers a diverse lineup of artistic, cultural and scholarly events every semester based on input and proposals from students, faculty, staff, alumni and community members.    What: Arts & Lectures event “Bad Child,” a film screening and interdisciplinary panel on sexual assault  Who: Panelists include director Nicole Mendez and CSUSM faculty and staff from Student Health & Counseling Services, the Department of Psychology, the School of Arts and more.  When: March 4, noon  Where: Arts 111  Cost: Free for CSUSM students, faculty, staff and alumni; $5 for community members  Tickets: Visit the Arts & Lectures ticket webpage        Media Contact Eric Breier, Interim assistant director of editorial and external affairs ebreier@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7314

Join us in celebrating the history and accomplishments of women through Women’s Herstory Month. Cal State San Marcos has scheduled events throughout March that provide opportunities for students to reflect on and discuss their experiences with womanhood and identity.    Sapphic Sounds  March 4, noon, USU 3200 Celebrate women’s herstory with the Women and Gender Equity Center by discussing the rise of queer women in pop and their place in the music industry and by decorating vinyl records.     Journey to the Manosphere March 6, noon, USU 3200 Join us as we explore the rapidly growing "manosphere," a network of online spaces shaping modern masculinity, power dynamics and societal roles.   Women’s Leadership Summit March 7, 9:30 a.m., USU Ballroom The Women’s Leadership Summit invites members of the CSUSM community to explore and engage in topics related to women’s leadership and empowerment. This year's theme is "Amplify Your Voice: Your Impact," providing participants the opportunity to learn how to challenge the limitations placed on women while building the confidence and strength to empower others. The event also will help students network with women in various professional disciplines and learn from each other’s experiences. Register by Wednesday, March 5, and learn more about the topics and speakers on the WLS website.   Heart to Art Workshop  March 11, noon, USU 3200 Join the WGEC and College of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics for an engaging conversation and creative activity celebrating women in STEM. Explore how women are transforming the STEM industry while connecting with peers in a fun and inspiring environment.   Celebrando Herencia Chicana March 12, noon, USU 3200   Join us as we celebrate and empower the legacy of Chicana resilience and culture in collaboration with the WGEC, Latinx Center and Cross-Cultural Center.   Make Your Mark  March 13, noon, USU 3200 Join the WGEC and APIDA Student Center for an insightful discussion on the history of tattoos in the Philippines and their connections to gender and identity.    Breaking Down Barriers  March 18, 5 p.m., USU 2310 Join the WGEC and Latinx Center for an empowering celebration of women of color in entrepreneurship. Hear from inspiring panelists as they share their journeys, challenges and successes in building their businesses and making an impact.   DAMN. We Need a Change. March 19, 1 p.m., USU 3200 Join the WGEC to discover practical ways to get involved, make an impact and advocate for the causes you care about.   Know Your Rights Workshop  March 20, noon, USU 3200 Join the WGEC and the DREAMer Resource Office for a "Know Your Rights" workshop and learn how to be a strong ally for our undocumented community. Gain valuable knowledge and resources to advocate and support effectively.   Feminist Festival March 20, 5 p.m., Forum Plaza Join the WGEC and Tukwut Life for a vibrant celebration of femininity and female identity. Enjoy an evening of music, food and performances while building community and embracing CSUSM’s feminist spirit.   Drop the F-Bomb: Trad Wife Movement March 24, 11 a.m., USU 3200 Join us for an engaging discussion on the "trad wife" movement and its relationship to feminism. We’ll explore the historical and cultural roots of traditional gender roles, the resurgence of domestic femininity in online spaces and how these ideas align — or clash — with feminist perspectives.   Uplift & Unwind: Shelf Care March 25, noon, USU 3200 Join the WGEC to talk about feminism and literature while creating bookmarks. Media Contact Eric Breier, Interim Assistant Director of Editorial and External Affairs ebreier@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7314

Octavio Martinez first heard the term “social mobility” during his freshman year. Fast forward a few years, and Martinez – now president of Associated Students, Inc., at Cal State San Marcos – spoke on a panel of students and alumni at the 2025 National Social Mobility Symposium held Feb. 20-21 in the University Student Union Ballroom. Martinez spoke alongside Hunter Brody Chanove and Ashley Bonilla, both CSUSM alumni, and Myles Villafranca, a graduate student at Clayton State University in Georgia. Brody Chanove works in product marketing management at Viasat, and Bonilla is an evaluation consultant for Intention 2 Impact, a social impact consulting firm.  Education has always been important to the Martinez family. Martinez has four sisters, including two with CSUSM connections. One of his younger sisters is a first-year student, while his older sister, Yulisa, was the first in their family to graduate from college. Yulisa graduated in 2017 and majored in liberal studies. She returned to CSUSM to get a master's in education and now teaches second grade at nearby Twin Oaks Elementary School.  Yulisa’s journey to a degree provided inspiration for her younger brother. “I always knew I wanted to continue my education,” Martinez said. “My parents never finished college, and it’s something that they wish they could have continued if they had more time and more resources. They saw what education did for peers who did finish and they always let us know that you can finish your degree and have financially stable lives, because education is a gateway to being financially stable and to have prosperity in life.”  After seeing his sister thrive at CSUSM, Martinez realized how he could thrive as well.  “Because she came to CSUSM, it allowed me to see myself here, too,” Martinez said. “Being a part of my community has been something that I always strive to do, something that's super important to me. As I look into my future, that's something I want to do, and I definitely saw that in my sister.” While attending CSUSM, Yulisa was involved in several organizations around campus. Similar to her brother, she volunteered with ASI.  Martinez joined ASI last year, though it wasn't the first way he got involved on campus. He worked for the Office of Inclusive Excellence as a student assistant. He also had a job where he gave out reminders on wearing masks on campus during the COVID-19 pandemic.   Between those two experiences, Martinez felt compelled to get even more involved.  “I wanted to make more of an impact on campus and voice student concerns, but also be a voice that I didn't see represented on campus,” Martinez said. “After seeing the work that impacts students, I wanted to do something that was forward facing with students. I knew that ASI was a prominent student group on campus that allowed me to talk to different administrators and with different student leaders. I knew that was something I wanted to do to close the communication gap between administrators and students.” From October 2023 to May 2024, Martinez was the diversity, equity and inclusion representative for the ASI board of directors. He then was elected president and began the role last August.  Martinez is set to graduate in May with a degree in business administration marketing. He's applying to schools to pursue his MBA, and he aspires to work in higher education or local government. “Because of my education, I am now more confident,” Martinez said during the Social Mobility Symposium panel. “Coming into higher education, confidence was put on a pedestal for me, showing that I can be a leader and share my knowledge with others. I’ve been able to see the impact of Cal State San Marcos and the impact of education and how it has so much influence on a person’s life.” Media Contact Eric Breier, Interim Assistant Director of Editorial and External Affairs ebreier@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7314