- Reporting Procedures for Whistleblower Complaints or Fiscal ImproprietiesTo: All CSUSM Corporation and CSUSM Faculty and Staff The California State University and CSU San Marcos are committed to the highest ethical standards and to creating an environment where fraudulent and other dishonest acts are not tolerated. CSUSM is dedicated to ensuring that all entrusted resources are utilized ethically, prudently, and for their designated purpose. CAMPUS REPORTING OF FISCAL IMPROPRIETIES Campus and auxiliary personnel must notify the Office of Internal Audit of all cases involving an actual or suspected fiscal impropriety. Once informed, the campus Internal Auditor, in consultation with the Associate VP of Administration, is responsible for determining whether notification to the CSU and other state officials is required under CSU Executive Order 1104 (EO 1104). EO 1104 articulates systemwide requirements related to reporting actual or suspected fiscal improprieties affecting the CSU and its recognized auxiliary organizations to the Chancellor’s Office and other state officials. The reporting requirements apply to both state and non-state funds. For questions or to report a suspected fiscal impropriety, please contact the Office of Internal Audit at audit@csusm.edu. WHISTLEBLOWER AND WHISTLEBLOWER RETALIATION COMPLAINTS The Office of Human Resources has been designated by the campus president to receive complaints from employees, former employees, and applicants for CSU employment who wish to report alleged improper governmental activity. CSU Executive Order 1115: Reporting Procedures for Protected Disclosure of Improper Governmental Activities and/or Significant Threats to Health or Safety CSU Executive Order 1116: Complaint Procedure for Allegations of Retaliation for Having Made a Protected Disclosure under the California Whistleblower Protection Act For whistleblower and whistleblower retaliation complaints, contact campus HR at hr@csusm.edu and refer to the following webpage https://www.csusm.edu/hr/lrer/compliance/whistleblower.html for additional information.
- Periodic Review of Vice President for University Advancement Jessica BergerDear CSUSM community, As many of you know, our vice president for University Advancement, Jessica Berger, joined CSUSM in July 2021. Given that our campus policy requires that I conduct a periodic review of vice presidents in the third year of their initial appointment (and at intervals no greater than five years thereafter), I write to inform you that this process has begun and to invite your participation and feedback. Not only is it California State University policy to inform our university community of this review and to allow members to submit comments that respond to the specific criteria, but your participation is also important to me. Your feedback will support CSUSM’s forward progress, particularly as it relates to the leadership of University Advancement. The Periodic Review of the Provost and Vice Presidents policy provides details of the process and criteria. Your feedback and letters are invited on Vice President Berger’s approach to: Leadership and management Strategic planning University and community partnerships, and Functional oversight and management Please note that I am unable to accept petitions and unsigned letters. Please submit an email or letter no later than Tuesday, May 7, addressed as follows: Email: Periodicreview@csusm.edu Dr. Ellen Neufeldt, President California State University San Marcos Administration Building 5302 333 S. Twin Oaks Valley Road San Marcos, CA 92096-0001 Following the deadline, the written responses will be summarized into a report that will be discussed with Vice President Berger. None of the commentators will be identified by name, and responses will be treated in confidence to the extent permitted by the law. Please keep in mind that this is intended to be a constructive process that should benefit both our vice president and university. Thank you again for your participation in this important review process. Sincerely, Ellen J. Neufeldt, Ed.D. President
- Alumni Association Wins Inclusive Excellence AwardThe Cal State San Marcos Alumni Association has received the 2024 Alumni Association Inclusive Excellence Award from INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine, the largest and oldest diversity and inclusion publication in higher education. The award honors alumni associations’ pioneering programs, culture and initiatives that encourage and support diversity, inclusion and a sense of belonging for all alumni, irrespective of racial or ethnic background, sexual or gender identity, religion, socio-economic status, world view and beyond. CSUSM will be featured, along with 31 other recipients, in the June 2024 issue of INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine. "Today, we celebrate not only the remarkable achievements of our Alumni Association and our team, but also the vibrant mosaic of experiences, backgrounds and dreams that define our alumni community,” said Lori Brockett, associate vice president of alumni engagement and university events. “Over 57% of our graduates last year were first in their families to earn a degree, and each one of our alumni brings a unique narrative of resilience, making it imperative that our association board reflects the diversity of our student body.” INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine selected the CSUSM Alumni Association because of its commitment to diversity initiatives, including a focused goal of recruitment and representation on the Alumni Council Board to reflect that of the diverse student body at CSUSM. The CSUSM Alumni Association also was noted for creating and building affinity group alumni networks over the past few years. “We know that alumni associations are not always recognized for their dedication to diversity, inclusion and belonging,” said Lenore Pearlstein, owner and publisher of INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine. “We are proud to honor these college and university alumni associations as role models for other institutions of higher education.” This marks a special recognition for the CSUSM Alumni Association and coincides with the recent accolade won by the CSUSM library for access and diversity. CSUSM proudly upholds its commitment to fostering an inclusive and equitable campus community and also celebrates a decade of consecutive honors as the recipient of the Higher Education Excellence in Diversity award by INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine. For more information about the 2024 Alumni Association Inclusive Excellence Award, visit insightintodiversity.com.
- Business Student Thrives as Fledgling EntrepreneurHow can one turn popular candies such as gummy bears, gummy worms and peach rings into a side business? Ask Cal State San Marcos marketing student Mo Carrasco. Carrasco has been surrounded by entrepreneurs for multiple years, as her mother and aunt have a business in which they create and sell rim dip, a paste usually created with tamarind and chamoy that are then used to cover the rims of beers and other beverages. Carrasaco’s mom and aunt developed their own recipe for these rim dips in 2020. While Carrasco wasn't involved in the process, she used it as inspiration for her own business, Hot Summer Gummies (@hotsummergummies on Instagram). “Where I live, tamarindo gummies are very popular,” said Carrasco, who is from Imperial Valley. “Personally, I don’t really like those ones, but my mom’s recipe was really good, so I pitched ideas.” Carrasco’s mom was on board with the new idea. Together they picked up different kinds of candy, developed logos and packaging, and then Carrasco started selling the new gummies at her community college sporting events while attending Imperial Valley College. “A lot of people really liked them, and I was selling out every time I went to the games,” Carrasco said. “I pitched the gummies to the owners of the stores that had rim dip in them. They loved the idea and gave me space to put them in their stores.” Carrasco said her goal going forward is to expand her business into San Diego, or even sell the gummies on campus. Carrasco is on the right track to help her business progress. Last fall, she was the winner of the Innovation Hub’s Quick Pitch competition, which closely resembles the hit TV show “Shark Tank” in which competitors pitch their business ideas to a panel of judges. Carrasco received $1,000 for her winning pitch. “I was in shock,” Carrasco said. “I had a big smile on my face, and I was like, ‘Oh my god, no way.’ ” Carrasco put the prize money into her savings, with plans to utilize it for her business. Not only did winning the Quick Pitch provide funds to help grow the business, but it also equipped her with lifelong lessons. “I remember sitting down at the competition and I almost walked out because I was so nervous,” Carrasco said. “But I said, ‘We’re just going to do it.’ “It really showed me what I was capable of and helped me step out of my comfort zone – and it made me feel that what I'm doing is good. I got really good feedback. I brought gummies with me and went home empty-handed at the end of the night because I sold them all. It just gave me a lot of confidence.” Carrasco is using this newfound confidence while working toward her degree at CSUSM. She will graduate in May 2025 with a bachelor's degree in marketing. While she has thoughts of continuing with the business, her dream is to be a social media coordinator for the Los Angeles Lakers. “I’m very open-minded,” Carrasco said. “I’ll just see what happens.” Media Contact Eric Breier, Interim Assistant Director of Editorial and External Affairs ebreier@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7314
- HOPE & Wellness Center Receives Public Health Champion AwardCal State San Marcos’ HOPE & Wellness Center is among the winners of the 23rd annual Live Well San Diego Public Health Champion Awards. The awards are given to people or organizations with extraordinary achievements in areas of public health services that protect and promote the health of San Diego County residents. CSUSM was one of the three winners in the category of public health services when the awards were handed out on April 5. “We’re truly humbled to receive this award,” said Cathy Nguyen, coordinator of health promotion at CSUSM. “It’s a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team at the SHCS: HOPE & Wellness Center over the past 23 years.” Part of Student Health & Counseling Services, the HOPE & Wellness Center provides culturally competent health promotion programs to help students develop healthy behaviors and lifestyle choices. The center aims to educate students about various health topics and engage them in activities, events and counseling, all to build healthier students. “Through advocacy, education and culturally competent health promotion programs, we’ve strived to foster a campus culture that prioritizes student well-being,” Nguyen said. “This recognition highlights the collective effort of our incredible past and present staff, interns and peer educators who have contributed significantly to our mission. It reaffirms the importance of promoting wellness in higher education and motivates us to continue our efforts in creating a healthier, happier campus community because public health is everything and everything is public health.” Media Contact Eric Breier, Interim assistant director of editorial and external affairs ebreier@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7314
- Psychology Professor Publishes in International JournalCal State San Marcos psychology professor Alex Huynh recently had a paper published in Cognition, an international journal that publishes theoretical and experimental papers on the study of the mind. Since he started at CSUSM in 2020, Huynh has taught classes on such topics as social psychology and advanced research methods in social psychology. As a social and cultural psychologist, he is interested in culture, diversity and understanding different perspectives. Using these interests, Huynh co-wrote a paper that shows the process of explaining controversial political issues to others. The paper encourages open-mindedness and emphasizes minimizing negativity toward those who disagree politically. Huynh’s paper discusses four different studies performed by him and co-authors Abdo Elnakouri and Igor Grossmann. They explore the method behind the studies, participants and results, then conclude with a discussion about the results found from each of the studies. The authors' conclusion supported their hypothesis -- providing an explanation of a topic results in more open-minded political thinking. The paper, “Explaining contentious political issues promotes open-minded thinking,” was published online on March 23 and is free to read for a limited time. Media Contact Eric Breier, Interim assistant director of editorial and external affairs ebreier@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7314
- New Library Makerspace Invites Campus to Get Hands DirtyA new space has opened in the Cal State San Marcos library that promotes and celebrates the old-fashioned idea of using your creativity and your hands to make stuff. The makerspace, called The Makery, is located on the second floor of the library, just inside the doors leading to the main traffic circle, in an area that used to house the media library. It was unveiled to the campus community on Feb. 29 as part of a soft opening, and the grand opening celebration will take place on April 23, with a ribbon-cutting attended by President Ellen Neufeldt and other campus leaders at noon followed by a open house until 6 p.m. And of course, as befits the name, The Makery’s first official week from April 22-26 will feature a host of maker activities, inviting guests to gather, create, invent, tinker, explore and discover while using a vast assortment of tools and materials. “I don’t want people to be afraid to come in, or afraid of failing or afraid of what they don’t know,” said Kodie Gerritsen, a CSUSM alumna who’s now the makerspace specialist. “They can just come in here and mess up a bunch and still have a finished product at the end of it. I use the term ‘get your hands dirty’ a lot because that’s the point. The point is to come in here and get messy and make things.” The Makery is a project that’s five years in the, er, making. Having noticed that more than half of the 23 California State University campuses boast makerspaces in their libraries, CSUSM’s library dean, Jennifer Fabbi, took the idea to a group of administrators and faculty in 2019. They began to develop the concept, surveyed professors about how they would use it and even visited some existing makerspaces around the state. Then the pandemic struck, shelving the project for more than two years. It was revived in fall 2022 with the hiring of Gerritsen. She had graduated the previous year with a degree in arts and technology/applied physics, and was working as a STEAM ambassador for Center ARTES, an on-campus arts organization founded by CSUSM music professor Merryl Goldberg. Lucy HG Solomon, another School of Arts professor and Gerritsen’s main faculty mentor, heard about the makerspace opportunity and thought Gerritsen would be a good fit. “And it turns out I was,” Gerritsen said. Gerritsen set about designing the 2,280-square-foot space with Char Booth, the library’s associate dean; the Office of Planning, Design and Construction; and an internal library group. Funding came from a Kellogg Library building endowment that is specifically to be used for library renovations. The Makery was chosen through a campus naming contest. It was the overwhelming winner over the other two finalists: “Sandbox” and “Buildbox.” “A makerspace in the library allows for a centralized space that is accessible and open to everyone in the campus community,” Fabbi said. “The Makery is a space where students, staff and faculty can use information to create new knowledge, which is what the library is all about.” The creative flair and sense of whimsy that Gerritsen brought to the design of The Makery is evident even before you step into the room. A large neon sign hanging above the door displays the name of the makerspace in blue, green and orange letters. To the immediate right past the entrance is a collection of 27 high-density foam cubes that can be used for sitting in a large group collaboration or for alternate purposes like building a wall or other structures. On either side of a desk where a student assistant is stationed to welcome visitors are two enclosed rooms. One of them, called The Pantry, features a few desktop computers for people to work on digital projects in a quiet atmosphere. The other is named Gina’s Game Corner in tribute to Georgina “Gina” Lopez, a longtime library employee who passed away last year. It has a game table and shelves that are stocked with games, puzzles and other forms of entertainment. “I wanted to have a place where people can relax and have fun, unload a little bit,” Gerritsen said. “We ultimately settled on a game room, in part because Gina enjoyed those types of things, and also because we have a lot of games in the library and many people don’t know about them.” The rest of The Makery is a large open area with half a dozen square tables topped with butcher blocks and surrounded by bright, colorful chairs. All are on wheels so that the furniture can be moved into any configuration. On an afternoon last month, two of the tables had been pushed together to display a paper welcome banner that visitors could draw and color on, and a third table held a container of purple kinetic sand. The star attraction of The Makery, however, is the back wall. There you can find the primary making equipment, such as sewing machines, embroidery machines, a cameo cutter machine, button makers, a craft printer, a paper cutter and a power drill. There also are bins upon bins of arts and crafts supplies like paint, beads, string, ribbons, clips, rubber bands, markers and dozens more miscellaneous items. The opposite wall is lined with shelves that showcase some of the creations that students already have made during the limited time that The Makery has been open. “It's been cool seeing them make things on their own without direction,” said Ryan Dorsett, a 2015 CSUSM alumnus who in January shifted from a different job in the library to run the makerspace with Gerritsen. “It's like, ‘Wow, you made that here.’ We really wanted people to be excited about the space, and there's been a lot of excitement that students have expressed. They've been very clear in their joy.” Gerritsen said her goal for the rest of this semester is to work out any operational kinks that crop up while gathering data on user numbers and behavior. Starting next school year, she plans to incorporate more programming and foster more partnerships with the campus community, which could include student orientations and campus tours stopping by The Makery or holding academic classes in the space. “We’ll see how much of that can happen by the fall,” Gerritsen said, “but it’s going to grow as time goes on.” The Makery is open Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Friday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The coordinators are seeking donations of craft supplies, office supplies or “anything that you can use to make stuff with,” as Gerritsen put it. Media Contact Brian Hiro, Communications Specialist bhiro@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7306
- Computer Science Student Receives Prestigious ScholarshipJosue Navarrete, a Cal State San Marcos computer science student, has received a 2024 Barry Goldwater Scholarship. The scholarship is awarded to college sophomores and juniors who intend to pursue research careers in the natural sciences, mathematics and engineering. Founded by Congress in 1986, the scholarship has been awarded to thousands of undergraduates, helping to ensure the U.S. is producing the number of highly qualified professionals needed in these critical fields. Navarrete is the third student from CSUSM to ever receive this scholarship. A junior, Navarrete is also a part of U-RISE, a CSUSM program where motivated, undergraduate, underrepresented students majoring in the sciences are prepared to enter and succeed in doctoral studies. Navarrete wants to do just that. They are working toward establishing a research career that integrates data science, ecology and biology. They will also pursue a Ph.D. in data science where they then hope to become a university professor at a Hispanic-serving institution to pursue their interests and train the next generation of researchers. Media Contact Eric Breier, Interim assistant director of editorial and external affairs ebreier@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7314
- Poet Laureate Closes Out Spring Arts & Lectures SeriesThe final spring Arts & Lectures event will feature Jason Perez, San Diego poet laureate. Through poetry, performance and video, San Diego poet laureate Jason Magabo Perez explores the poetics of memory as an act of anticolonial future-making. Perez is also an essayist, performer and author of a book of poetry and prose titled “This is for the mostless” (2017) and the forthcoming book-length poem "I ask about what falls away." He is an associate professor and director of ethnic studies at CSUSM. He will be joined by DJ, music producer, performer and longtime collaborator Shammy Dee. The event is at 6 p.m. on April 15 in the USU Ballroom. Reserve tickets online via the Arts & Lectures website. The event is co-sponsored by the Ethnic Studies program. 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. Attendees can reserve tickets online via the Arts & Lectures website. What: Arts & Lectures event “Jason Perez” Who: Jason Perez, San Diego poet laureate When: 6 p.m., Monday, April 15 Where: USU Ballroom Cost: Free for CSUSM students, faculty, staff and alumni; $5 for community members Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/jason-magabo-perez-tickets-795746708827?aff=oddtdtcreator Information: Arts and Lectures website Media Contact Eric Breier, Public Affairs Specialist ebreier@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7314
- CSTEM to Host Solar Eclipse Viewing Event on MondayBy now, almost everyone knows that the United States will experience a solar eclipse on Monday, April 8. Residents of 13 states are in the so-called “path of totality,” meaning that they will have a chance to view a total solar eclipse, in which the moon completely covers the sun. California isn’t one of those 13 lucky states, so the best we’ll see is a partial eclipse, which isn’t as dramatic but can still be plenty fun. And Cal State San Marcos is getting in on the action. The College of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics will host a solar eclipse viewing event on Monday from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. outside the University Student Union. There will be a solar telescope and sunspotters (weather permitting). Guests can make their own pinhole camera, create a moon crater and learn about research projects that engineering and physics students are involved in. The physics department will provide free solar eclipse glasses, since you should never look directly at the sun during an eclipse. The event is being organized by Tara Fetherolf, a visiting assistant professor in physics who specializes in astronomy. In San Marcos, the maximum coverage of the sun will be 53%, and the time of maximum eclipse will be 11:12 a.m. This will be the last chance to see a total solar eclipse in the continental U.S. until 2044. Media Contact Brian Hiro, Communications Specialist bhiro@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7306
- Seeking Cannabis Users for Research StudyResearchers at Cal State San Marcos are seeking cannabis users for a study assessing the heart rate and blood pressure responses to smoking legal-market cannabis in free-living humans. You will wear an activity monitor and blood pressure monitor for 24 hours while you smoke cannabis. You will not be provided cannabis for this study. You’ll report to our lab twice to be outfitted for the study and to drop the devices off when the study is over; the total time commitment in the lab will be about one hour. If you are 21-45 years old and have used cannabis at least twice a week for the last year, you are eligible to participate. If you have high blood pressure, use tobacco or take certain medications that impact blood pressure, you are not eligible to participate in this study. If you are unsure, please contact the study team. For more information, please contact Dr. Matt Schubert, associate professor of kinesiology, at mschubert@csusm.edu.
- Professor Launches Signature Poetry Project in San DiegoIn his role as poet laureate of San Diego, Cal State San Marcos professor Jason Magabo Perez has launched a signature project that will explore poetry as a form of community empowerment. The project, San Diego Poetry Futures 2024, invites San Diego communities, educators, artists and civic leaders to collaborate in poetry and performance. It was launched on March 27 at the San Diego Central Library. “San Diego Poetry Futures 2024 will be a collaborative space for ongoing expansive poetic experimentation,” said Perez, an associate professor and program director of ethnic studies at CSUSM. “Exploring poetry as a form of intergenerational community empowerment, this initiative will include various programs and projects to bridge communities.” Perez will host writing workshops, film screenings and poetry readings at schools, libraries, bookstores and other community spaces, and will experiment with poetry and performance through community gatherings such as chalk poetry, protest poetry and pop-up open mic events. Activities and events will be free and open to the public in neighborhoods across San Diego. SDPF24 will culminate at the end of the year in an intergenerational, community-responsive poetry forum. In its commitment to social and transformative justice, SDPF24 will promote safe and inclusive spaces for families and communities. “As poet laureate, Jason continues to tell stories of our great city,” said Jonathon Glus, executive director of Arts and Culture for San Diego. “With this signature poetry project, we look forward to inspiring San Diegans and enjoying their shared expressions of spoken work and performance art.” Perez was named poet laureate by San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria in January 2023. His two-year term concludes at the end of this year. Media Contact Brian Hiro, Communications Specialist bhiro@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7306
- Career Center Director Helps Put Students on Path to SuccessYasmine Farley was a doctoral student at Old Dominion University when she attended a career fair and met the director of a career center at another regional institution. The woman encouraged Farley to branch out and expand her horizons in higher education. “She coaxed me into trying career services – and I absolutely loved it,” said Farley, who earned a Ph.D. in higher education from Old Dominion University. “From there, I made sure that all of my experiences would be catered toward going into a career in career services. “So I did a second internship at Old Dominion teaching a major and career exploration class on campus. I taught an academic recovery class. I was trying to just gain as much experience as possible with career services to make me a good job candidate once I finished up my degree.” Farley has devoted her career to helping other students find their career path and prepare them for the job market. It’s what she has been doing since August for students at Cal State San Marcos as the director of the university’s Career Center. Among the goals of CSUSM’s strategic plan is ensuring that every student has the opportunity to participate in hands-on, engaged learning and high-impact, career-activating practices, something Farley has taken to heart in her first year at the university. A point of emphasis during Farley’s hiring was the need to prioritize academic internships, and the Career Center is in the process of hiring for two positions that will help. The interview process is underway to hire an associate director of internships and partnerships, a role that will focus on reshaping CSUSM’s internship program and aiding the campus employment process. Farley also will be hiring a career and internship support specialist to provide additional student support, advisement and guidance related to academic internships and career pathway planning. “We want to make sure that we have those good partnerships across campus and really get some more external partnerships going to bring more internship opportunities to our students, and specifically paid opportunities that will tie into the social mobility aspect of our strategic planning and the institution in general,” Farley said. Paid internships are important to Farley. As a first-generation college student herself, Farley knows the importance of showing low-income and underrepresented students how internships can boost their future success. It’s part of why she and her team have been working hard to get in front of students, whether at cultural centers, classrooms, campus housing or workshops. “We want to help them understand how important it can be to get an internship and how much it can help them in their future career,” she said. “Because it's all well and good for you to have a job to meet the needs of today, but you're also in college to think about your future and being able to advance yourself and your family. And internships can help in that, which is also why we want to have that emphasis on paid internships because we understand that students may have financial needs and may not have the luxury of taking an unpaid opportunity just to gain experience.” As Farley has been meeting with campus constituents, she has focused on three goals: strengthening relationships with collaborators, both internal and external; enhancing services; and elevating the identity of the Career Center. “There were just some things that I was seeing pretty immediately when I got here that were simple changes to help people know more about what the Career Center is doing,” she said. “And I feel like that has been very helpful with increasing career counselor appointments and attendance at some of our workshops.” That included record-breaking attendance at CSUSM’s fall job and internship fair last October, which drew more than 500 students to the USU Ballroom. Farley is hoping for a similar turnout at the upcoming spring job and internship fair, which is April 9 in the USU Ballroom. “One of the things that I have charged my team with and that I really want to see us grow in with the Career Center is our partnerships across campus,” Farley said. “We are partnering with a lot of our identity centers, we have been going into the residence halls, partnering with RAs and really getting out of the office. We don’t always want to make students come to us, we really want to be able to meet students where they are so that they can get this information in a variety of ways and from myriad places.” Media Contact Eric Breier, Interim Assistant Director of Editorial and External Affairs ebreier@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7314
- Bestselling Author Highlights Spring Arts & LecturesThe signature spring Arts & Lectures event will feature George M. Johnson, a bestselling author who champions for Black and queer representation in literature. As Johnson’s memoir achieved massive success as a New York Times bestseller, it also became the American Library Association’s third-most-challenged book of 2021. But with each shove, Johnson continues to persevere and advocate for Black and queer voices. “Black storytelling has often been banned,” he says. “My book is a tool so that Black queer kids and LGBTQ teens can see themselves and read about themselves and learn about themselves.” Johnson will speak about the importance of sharing diverse stories – why we should remain resilient, how representation in media can support young adults’ mental and physical health, and what we can do to support these voices. By listening to one another and understanding the history, language and actions necessary to change the world, we can form a community where we are all free to be our true, authentic selves. Johnson will be signing copies of “All Boys Aren’t Blue” after the event, which is at 6 p.m. on April 3 in the USU Ballroom. It's co-sponsored by the University Library and Pride Center. Reserve tickets online at the Arts & Lectures website. 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 "An Evening With George M. Johnson, author of ‘All Boys Aren’t Blue’ ” Who: George M. Johnson, bestselling author When: 6 p.m., Wednesday, April 3 Where: USU Ballroom Cost: Free for CSUSM students; $5 for faculty, staff and alumni; $10 for community members Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/an-evening-with-george-m-johnson-author-of-all-boys-arent-blue-tickets-795743810157?aff=oddtdtcreator Information: Arts and Lectures website Media Contact Eric Breier, Public Affairs Specialist ebreier@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7314
- CSUSM to Host Annual College Is for Me! Conference April 20Cal State San Marcos is hosting the College Is for Me! conference, a free event to show how higher education can lead to social mobility, from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. on April 20 in the USU Ballroom. The College Is for Me! conference annually attracts students from throughout San Diego, Riverside and Orange counties, helping to educate mostly first-generation prospective college students and their families about the college process. The conference features topics such as getting into college, paying for college and what college can do for you. "College Is for Me! was a beautiful event that highlighted the multitude of higher ed opportunities in our region,” Tina King, president of the San Diego College of Continuing Education, said about a previous edition. Not only will the event help rising college students with the transition process, but in conjunction with Earth Day, the conference this year also will address how college can support careers in sustainable professions, research and advocacy. “I feel a lot more prepared for the application process after today,” said Ben Tactay, a former Escondido High School student who attended a past event. Free breakfast and lunch will be provided. The conference is co-sponsored by CSUSM's Early Assessment Program, Escondido Compact, Gear Up, MiraCosta College, Oceanside Unified and Project Rebound. Register for free at this link. What: College Is for Me!, a free conference to show how higher education can lead to social mobility When: 9 a.m.-1 p.m., April 20 Where: USU Ballroom Cost: Free Registration: https://collegeisforme2024.bpt.me/
- Information on Annual Staff and MPP Performance EvaluationsAs employees of CSUSM, we each serve an important role in furthering the mission and vision of the university. One of the ways in which we can align our work with the mission of the university is through a collaborative, ongoing process of performance management whereby managers and employees plan for, monitor and review objectives and goals set for the employee’s success. Annual performance reviews are a key component of this process. The annual review period for non-probationary represented staff employees is April 1, 2023 through March 31, 2024. The completed evaluations, with accompanying Performance Development or Improvement Plan as applicable, should be submitted to the Office of Human Resources no later than June 7, 2024. The annual review period for MPP employees ends on April 30. The completed evaluations, submitted via MPP evaluation form or brief narrative, should be sent to the Office of Human Resources no later than June 28. As a reminder, each employee evaluation should include either a professional development plan or a performance improvement plan. We have included links below to better assist you: Electronic performance evaluation signature and submission instructions: https://www.csusm.edu/hr/performance_management/performance_eval/evaluation_signature_instructions.pdf Performance evaluation schedule: https://www.csusm.edu/hr/performance_management/annual_performance_evaluation_schedule.html Performance evaluation forms: https://www.csusm.edu/hr/performance_management/performance_evaluation_forms.html Don’t hesitate to reach out to Human Resources (hr@csusm.edu) or Pablo Chavez (pchavez@csusm.edu) with any questions.
- Celebrating GAyPRIL With More Than Two Dozen EventsIn celebration of gAyPRIL, Cal State San Marcos’ Pride Center is partnering with campus organizations to present an exciting lineup of events. Everyone is invited to participate in the following events: Poster Making April 2, 8-11 a.m., Pride Center Visit the Pride Center to make posters for the Pride Walk at noon. HIV/HEP C testing April 2, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Forum Plaza The Vista Community Clinic testing van will be in Forum Plaza offering free HIV/HEP C testing and health education. Pride Walk/Flag Raising April 2, 11:30 a.m., Forum Plaza/Chavez Circle Students, staff, faculty and administrators will gather in front of the USU and walk the campus to show support for CSUSM's LGBTQiA+ community members. An Evening With George M. Johnson, Author of “All Boys Aren't Blue” April 3, 6 p.m., USU Ballroom Johnson’s memoir has achieved massive success. A New York Times bestseller, it also was the American Library Association’s third-most-challenged book of 2021. Johnson will speak about the importance of sharing diverse voices and listening to others. He will be signing books afterward. The event will be preceded by a meet-and-greet with Johnson from 3-4:30 in the Pride Center. Make Your Own Pronoun Pins April 4, 11 a.m., Pride Center Visit the Pride Center to create your own pronoun pin. Uniedo Cultura y Eduacion April 4, 5:30-8:30 p.m., Forum Plaza/USU Arcade Come celebrate Latinidad, an evening of Latinx culture and education. There will be a keynote speaker, and Latinx resources and departments on campus will be showcased. Queer Scrapbooking April 8, 1:30-3:30 p.m., Pride Center Join the Pride Center for a chill DIY session of scrapbooking, using queer magazines and fun crafting tools to make collages. History of Drag and Ballroom April 8, noon-1 p.m., Pride Center Delve into the rich culture of the New York ballroom scene, highlighting the contributions of the Black queer community in creating many of the foundations of modern queer culture. Black Pride April 10, 11 a.m.-noon, Pride Center In highlighting the Black queer experience, discussion will focus on key Black figures in the queer liberation movement and center the experience of Black queer students at CSUSM. Queer POC Karaoke April 10, 5-7 p.m., Pride Center Sing your hearts out for Queer POC music artists after listening to an important presentation highlighting queer artists who have changed the music world. Rainbow Ripples (Tie-Dye Event) April 11, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Pride Center Join the Pride Center in creating your own gAyPRIL tie-dye item. T-shirts will be provided, or bring your own item. KPOP Dance Party April 11, 6-8 p.m., Pride Center Learn some choreography and play random dance party while acknowledging queer icons in the KPOP industry. LGBTQ+ in Latin America April 16, noon-1 p.m., Latinx Center In collaboration with the Latinx Center, the Pride Center invites you to learn about the history of queer representation in Latin America, noting the importance of pronouns and major events through an intersectional lens. Toy Talk April 16, 6:30-8 p.m., Pride Center An inclusive evening with sex therapist/educator Sandra focusing on gender, sexuality and relationship diversity. Long Live Queen April 17, 10 a.m.-noon, Pride Center Explore the history of the band Queen and the impact that Freddie Mercury had on the queer community. The event also will touch on the band's new front man, Adam Lambert, and how he is continuing the legacy. LGBTea With the Director April 17, noon-1 p.m., Pride Center Come learn about the director of the Pride Center as they “spill the tea." They will be answering questions about their experiences and what they have learned throughout their life. Cookies and Queers April 18, noon-1 p.m., Pride Center The Pride Faculty Staff Association will sponsor a cookies-and-milk mixer, giving students the opportunity to meet their members. Steers & Queers April 18, 6-8 p.m., USU An educational event hosted by the Pride Center about LGBT rodeo, the queer community involved in rodeo and queer western culture. Students will be taught and get to practice western dancing. Food will be served. Sexual Health Presentation April 22, noon-1 p.m., Pride Center Vista Community Clinic will provide a workshop on sexual health for the LGBTQiA+ community. Rainbow Recognition April 22, 5:30 p.m., USU Ballroom The Pride Center will host its annual celebration for LGBTQIA+ students who are graduating in 2024. Students earn a rainbow cord and/or stole and are celebrated for their accomplishments at CSUSM. Slam Poetry Event April 23, noon, Pride Center Participants have the opportunity to express their unique experiences and perspectives through poetry. A nationally recognized slam poetry performer, Espi (he/she/they) will take part in the event. Inclusive Language April 23, 2-3 p.m. An event that is geared toward promoting a more inclusive environment around campus. ‘Drag Race’ Viewing Party April 24, 10 a.m.-noon, Pride Center Join the Pride Center for a viewing party of the “RuPaul's Drag Race” season 16 finale. Found Family Feud: Queer Edition April 24, 5:30-8:30 p.m., Pride Center Team up with friends and compete against others in this queer edition of “Family Feud.” Vibrant Voices April 25, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Pride Center Join the Pride Center to paint a bench that will be donated to campus. EMS Pride Day April 27, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., USU Ballroom, Pride Center A day for LGBTQiA+ students to visit campus and make their decision to attend in fall 2024. HIV/HEP C Testing April 29, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Forum Plaza The Vista Community Clinic testing van will be in Forum Plaza offering free HIV/HEP C testing and health education. SLC Banquet April 30, 5-7 p.m., McMahan House The students of the Student Life Centers for Identity, Inclusion and Empowerment come together to celebrate the 2023-24 school year. Media Contact Eric Breier, Interim Assistant Director of Editorial and External Affairs ebreier@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7314
- Student Team Among H20 Impact Challenge WinnersA team of Cal State San Marcos students was recently honored in multiple categories at the SDSU Chinyeh Hostler Social Venture: H20 Impact Challenge. The event, hosted by San Diego State, is a pitch competition based on identifying a significant problem related to the impact of water on the region. Competitors then present an innovative solution to the problem. CSUSM’s winning team included biotechnology master’s student Kanav Aggarwal and undergraduates Ashley Gamez (marketing) and Bella Bowman (digital art). Aggarwal is the inventor of ChloroBoost and presented the pitch during the competition. The team won $2,000 for the most innovative solution of the competition and second place overall. ChloroBoost focuses on conserving water in agriculture, an industry in which 40% of water usage occurs. ChloroBoost improves water retention in soil. Farmers put biofertilizer in their fields, let it dry and then can grow their crops like usual. Doing this can reduce wastewater by half, ultimately improving soil quality. The CSUSM team was among nine teams from five Southern California colleges and universities that competed for a total of $40,000 in cash prizes. The team won a total of $9,500 for its presentation. The team ended its competition presentation by proposing a two-year plan, including testing and studies, that would end with a regional launch in December 2025. Media Contact Eric Breier, Interim assistant director of editorial and external affairs ebreier@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7314
- Updates to Web and Instructional Materials AccessibilityCSUSM is committed to ensuring that the campus web environment is accessible to everyone. The following procedure updates are part of the continuous improvement process for creating an inclusive environment for the campus community. IITS wants to make sure that you are aware of these changes and understand how they might impact you. To learn more, please visit the informational websites linked below. Web Accessibility Checker Software (coming May 2024) Guidance for Websites Used for Student Instruction (updated March 2024) Process for External Website Domain Request (March 2024) Website Document Scanning (updated March 2024) Training for Creating Accessible Documents (updated March 2024) Guidance for Linking to External Websites (March 2024) Notification Icon for External Websites (March 2024) Instructional Materials Accessibility (updated March 2024) Instructions for Deleting or Downloading Unused Files from Canvas (updated March 2024) Website Accessibility Training (coming May 2024) If you have any questions or require assistance during the process, please reach out to the IITS support team at helpdesk@csusm.edu.
- Infinity Lab Experience Invaluable for Biotech StudentShruti Jha knew an internship would provide valuable experience as she prepares for a career in the biotechnology industry. But working for Alcheme Bio in Cal State San Marcos’ Infinity Lab has exceeded all of Jha’s expectations. Not only has it provided hands-on learning opportunities, but Jha has been able to work closely with and learn from Vanessa Small, the founder, chief executive officer and chief scientific officer of Alcheme Bio. “I knew since it was a startup that I would get to do a lot more than if I was at a bigger company, but the experience has been amazing,” said Jha, who will graduate from CSUSM with a master’s in biotechnology in May. “Working with Vanessa has been especially helpful. She is a great mentor.” CSUSM’s Infinity Lab is a state-of-the-art research facility that launched last spring to offer affordable bench space for bioentrepreneurs. Alcheme Bio is one of four bioscience entrepreneurs that are part of the lab along with Grann Pharmaceuticals, Indaptus Therapeutics and GSD Bio. The Infinity Lab’s convenient location in CSUSM’s Extended Learning building, ready availability of research equipment and instrumentation, and collaborative environment are key elements of the laboratory’s success. Originally designed as a teaching space, the university pivoted because of the pandemic and reimagined the Infinity Lab as part of its innovation ecosystem under the direction of Dr. Scott Gross, associate vice president of industry partnerships, and Dr. Betsy Read, the founder of the university’s biotechnology program. They’ve received added assistance from Debora Galasso, a 25-year veteran of the biotech industry who is a lecturer in the Master of Biotechnology: A Professional Science Master’s program. The lab has become the perfect place for students like Jha to gain real-world experience while learning from seasoned professionals like Small. “Vanessa is very patient,” Jha said. “Even though she's the CEO, she is very much willing to teach me and to answer questions.” Growing up in India, Jha was always interested in biology and initially considered pursuing a career as a doctor. But her interests shifted more to research and studying how things work and why they work in a particular manner. Jha earned her bachelor’s in biotechnology from St. Xavier's College, Ranchi in India. She chose CSUSM for her master’s degree both because of its location in a hub for biotechnology and its strong program that combines science and management. The master’s program requirements include completing a semester-in-residence project, and Jha learned about the Infinity Lab from Read, who recommended reaching out to Alcheme Bio. Jha’s lab work includes protein purification, extracting protein, and trying to grow it and scale it up. She said the experience has been invaluable as she works toward finding a job in industry after graduation in May. “It has been so great, especially for me being an international student,” Jha said. “This opportunity was perfect for me, and I'm grateful to Alcheme Bio.” Visit the Infinity Lab website to learn more about joining the lab. Media Contact Eric Breier, Interim Assistant Director of Editorial and External Affairs ebreier@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7314
- Students to Vote on Referendum for New Wellness and Recreation FacilityNext month, Cal State San Marcos students will have a chance to make their voices heard regarding their desire for a new wellness and recreation facility on campus. From April 9-11, a referendum will be held in which students can vote on whether they want to increase their student fees to fund the project. Voting will begin on Tuesday, April 9 at 7 a.m. and be open until Thursday, April 11 at 5 p.m. Ballots will be sent to eligible students via their university-registered email addresses. All matriculated students who pay the recreation fee are eligible to vote. The wellness and recreation facility would be the first of its kind in the California State University system. The referendum is proposing to lease about 60,000 square feet of space in a new multi-phase student housing building on Barham Drive, next to The QUAD housing complex. The facility is envisioned as a central hub dedicated to lifelong success, bringing together health, wellness, basic needs and student support services and programs that create a sense of community and well-being. The current recreation fee for students is $35 per semester. The direct operating costs for the facility require the fee to be fully active when the building opens, at minimum. Because the facility is anticipated to open in fall 2026, the fee is proposed to increase to $265 starting a year before, in fall 2025. The additional fee revenue will support the purchase of furniture and equipment, and fund the pre-opening hires of full-time and part-time staff, the training of part-time student staff, and the development of branding and materials. Each subsequent fall semester, the fee would increase by 3% to adjust for inflation and increases in the expense budget, which is standard practice in the CSU. During the summer term, the fee would be 25% that of the prior fall semester fee. The wellness and recreation facility would provide student-oriented spaces and services to support all Cougars while promoting the eight dimensions of wellness (emotional, physical, social, spiritual, financial, intellectual, environmental and occupational). “With a diverse student body, CSUSM stands committed to prioritizing physical and mental wellness as vital components to student development and providing valuable access to resources for students to learn and develop long-term healthy behaviors,” said Lisa Dickinson, the director of Campus Recreation. Among the proposed features of the facility are: more than 10,000 square feet for cardio machines and strength training equipment (more than triple the space of the fitness center in Clarke Field House). dedicated wellness areas that include mindful reflection space, comfortable lounge seating and massage chairs for students to relax and rest. an outdoor rooftop deck featuring a synthetic turf field for fitness programs, intramurals, sport club workouts, team-building, student organization events or other student activities. two standard-sized indoor courts suitable for basketball, volleyball, pickleball and events, with a spectator viewing area. three multipurpose rooms featuring flexible flooring for a variety of individual and group activities, including Zumba, hip-hop dance, strength-based cardio, yoga, Pilates or mindfulness/meditation sessions. multiple activity rooms and gathering areas to accommodate a wide range of wellness programming. an esports digital collaboration area for gaming practice, competitions, spectator viewing, studying and socializing. an outdoor courtyard of over 8,000 square feet with hammocks and a wood deck patio. CSUSM students have advocated for increased wellness, basic needs and recreational spaces and services to support campus community for almost a decade. Since 2019, working groups of students and staff have been tasked to identify ways to achieve this goal. The effort has included two student surveys garnering almost 2,500 responses and multiple focus groups and forums with more than 250 students, staff and administrators. Recent data suggests that student interest and desire for the expansion of wellness, fitness, basic needs and recreation remain overwhelming. In a survey last fall, 91% of students said a new facility should be a high priority for CSUSM, with 53% indicating a “very high” priority. Asked about the impact that a new facility could have on students and the university community, more than 90% of students surveyed said it would make a significant or moderate impact on attracting new students, improving students’ quality of life, reducing stress and overall enhancing the campus community. More than 50 student ambassadors are leading the campaign to educate and inform students about the fee referendum and encourage them to use their voice by voting. “I am excited for the chance to see our campus grow and compete with CSU schools that have established recreation and wellness facilities,” said Alyssa Loschiavo, Campus Recreation student coordinator and a student ambassador. "This project can be monumental for CSUSM and inspiring for students to look back on helping bring the facility to campus, and I am proud to be a part of it.” For more information, including the complete voters guide and a list of FAQs about the referendum, go to: https://www.csusm.edu/rec/referendum.html. Media Contact Brian Hiro, Communications Specialist bhiro@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7306
- Celebrating APIDA Heritage MonthIn celebration of Asian Pacific Islander Desi American Heritage Month, Cal State San Marcos’ APIDA Student Life is partnering with campus organizations to present an exciting lineup of events. Everyone is invited to participate in the following events: Defining Diaspora: “Philippine Father” March 25, noon, Cross-Cultural Center (USU 3400) Join APIDA Student Life as Michael Flores, the director of the documentary “Philippine Father,” discusses his experiences and his works centered around racism, class and imperialism. APIDA Cultural Festival April 12, 5 p.m., USU Amphitheater The festival is an annual celebration of cultures that are a part of Asia, Southeast and South Asia. Similar to the night markets that are part of those communities, the festival recreates those spaces that are filled with food, festivities and entertainment. Defining Diaspora: Rolling Into Spring April 17, 3 p.m., Cross-Cultural Center Join APIDA Student Life to make spring rolls from scratch and learn the cultural significance of the ingredients. ‘SEADRIFT’ Screening and Talk With the Associate Producer April 17, 6 p.m., USU 2310B Join APIDA Student Life for a screening of the documentary film “Seadrift.” Defining Diaspora: Harvesting Hope-Empowering Filipino Farmworkers April 25, noon, Cross-Cultural Center Join APIDA Student Life as it highlights the contributions of Filipino organizations in the wider farmworkers movement. Ti Leaf Lei Workshop May 1, noon, Forum Plaza Learn how to make a traditional Hawaiian Ti leaf lei. All leis made will be given to the graduates participating in the APIDA Recognition Ceremony on May 8. APIDA Recognition Ceremony May 8, 6 p.m., USU Ballroom This is the 18th annual APIDA recognition ceremony, celebrating the students who graduated in fall 2023 and applied to graduate in spring 2024 or summer 2024. Participants will receive a free APIDA stole. Media Contact Eric Breier, Interim Assistant Director of Editorial and External Affairs ebreier@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7314
Load more...
Loading...