News

Children's Show That Professor Consulted on Nominated for Peabody Award

The Native-themed children’s show that a Cal State San Marcos professor served as a Native production consultant for has been nominated for a Peabody Award. The Peabody Awards recognize excellence in storytelling across television, radio and digital media, celebrating narratives that illuminate, inspire and empower audiences. Their prestigious standing within the media industry stems from their academic foundation and reputation for discerning exceptional content. Joely Proudfit, chair of CSUSM’s American Indian studies department, was the Native production consultant for the Netflix animated series “Spirit Rangers,” which ran for 39 episodes across three seasons from 2022-24. On Thursday, “Spirit Rangers” was nominated for a Peabody Award in the category of “children’s/youth.” “Spirit Rangers” is a fantasy-adventure preschool show that “celebrates community, nature and the rich heritage of Native American storytelling.” It was created by Karissa Valencia, a member of the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians and the first California Native American showrunner. The show featured an all-Native writers’ room and Natives in every aspect of production. More than 100 Indigenous people worked on the series. “This recognition fills me with immense pride,” Proudfit said. “The lasting cultural impact this show is creating and will continue to create for generations to come makes me forever proud. “This nomination honors not just my work, but the entire team’s commitment to authentic Indigenous storytelling.” Proudfit worked alongside Valencia to help guide all production elements while collaborating closely with Indigenous communities worldwide to authenticate cultural representations, art, music and language. Her meticulous oversight extended to every aspect of the series, from script dialogue to visual artistry and musical sounds. Proudfit, who’s also the director of the California Indian Culture and Sovereignty Center at CSUSM, consulted on “Spirit Rangers” through her company. Native Media Strategies provides resources that help foster more authentic representation of Native and Indigenous peoples in Hollywood. Among other projects, Proudfit previously offered Native consulting services to “Stumptown,” an ABC crime drama that aired in 2019, and “Hostiles,” a 2017 Western film starring Academy Award-winning actor Christian Bale. She currently serves as a consulting producer for "NCIS: Origins" on CBS and also is co-directing an upcoming documentary project. The 68 Peabody Award nominees were chosen by a unanimous vote of 27 jurors from more than 1,000 entries across television, podcasts/radio and the web in entertainment, news, documentary, arts, children’s/youth, public service and interactive/immersive programming and media. Winners of the 85^th annual Peabody Awards will be announced on May 1, with a ceremony hosted by comedian and actor Roy Wood Jr. to be held on June 1 at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel in Los Angeles. Established in 1940 by the National Association of Broadcasters, the Peabody Award was created to honor excellence in radio broadcasting as the industry’s equivalent to the Pulitzer Prizes. It was later expanded to include television and then to new media including podcasts and streaming. Media Contact Brian Hiro, Communications Specialist bhiro@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7306

STEM Teacher Celebration Fosters Community, Collaboration

Cal State San Marcos recently hosted the 2025 STEM Teacher Celebration, which brought together a diverse group of future and current STEM educators and professors to foster community and collaboration. Hosted by Math and Science Teacher Initiative (MSTI) and the CSUSM Noyce Teacher Scholars Program, the event reinforced the shared commitment to preparing and empowering STEM educators. “The STEM Teacher Celebration had guest speakers who provided invaluable insights and teaching strategies that greatly benefited the teacher candidates,” student Sunny Naidu said. “The seasoned educators highlighted successful case studies and provided examples of how these strategies can be implemented in the classroom to foster collaboration, critical thinking and creativity among students. “The interactive nature of the small-group presentations allowed the teacher candidates to ask questions, share their experiences and participate in discussions, leading to a rich exchange of ideas. Many teacher candidates left the celebration feeling inspired and equipped with new strategies that they could immediately apply in their future classrooms.” Some 40 STEM teacher candidates, MSTI Cougar Mathematics and Science Teacher Scholarship Program recipients, Noyce Scholars, undergraduate Students of Promise, practicing STEM teachers, and faculty and administrators attended this year’s event at the McMahan House on campus. Through engaging roundtable discussions, participants explored practical strategies for implementing California mathematics and science curriculum frameworks. The event highlighted the importance of ongoing professional learning and support in advancing effective STEM teaching and learning. “As a teacher candidate, I appreciated the roundtable discussions at the STEM Teacher Celebration,” student Courtney Wilson said. “It was a unique opportunity to hear real teachers share innovative and practical approaches to teaching – and the food was great, too!” Media Contact Eric Breier, Interim assistant director of editorial and external affairs ebreier@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7314

Lecturer Receives Prestigious Fellowship for Work as Filmmaker

Cal State San Marcos lecturer Rajee Ranpathi Samarasinghe has been named a Class of 2025 Guggenheim Fellow, one of the most selective and prestigious fellowships in the nation. From a pool of nearly 3,500 applicants, Samarasinghe is one of 198 individuals across 53 disciplines who were chosen for the fellowship for both prior career achievement and exceptional promise. This marks the 100^th class of Guggenheim Fellowships awarded by the John Simon Guggenheim Memorial Foundation to professionals who have demonstrated outstanding ability by publishing a significant body of work in the fields of natural sciences, social sciences, humanities and the creative arts. Samarasinghe was recognized under the discipline of “Film-Video.” A lecturer in CSUSM’s art, media and design department since 2021, he’s a Sri Lankan filmmaker and visual artist who left his native country during its civil war and is now based in Southern California. “This is an incredible honor that will enable me to continue pursuing my creative work, especially during such uncertain times,” Samarasinghe said. “I’m deeply grateful to everyone who has supported me throughout my career, and it’s a privilege to share this recognition with such an inspiring cohort of artists, scholars and innovators across so many disciplines.” Each Guggenheim Fellow receives a monetary stipend to pursue independent work at the highest level under the “freest possible conditions.” Samarasinghe said he plans to dedicate his time primarily to his second feature film, “The Moment,” a hybrid documentary filmed in China, as well as several other projects. His first feature, “Your Touch Makes Others Invisible,” is scheduled to be released next month. He also has directed multiple award-winning short films. Samarasinghe earned a bachelor’s degree in visual arts from UC San Diego and a master’s in film and video from the California Institute of the Arts. Many Guggenheim Fellows’ projects respond to timely themes and issues such as climate change, Indigenous studies, identity, democracy and politics, incarceration and the evolving purpose of community. Since its founding in 1925, the Guggenheim Foundation has awarded more than $400 million to more than 19,000 fellows. Media Contact Brian Hiro, Communications Specialist bhiro@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7306

Former Student Rises to Executive Producer at NBC 7

David Villasenor does more before 9 a.m. than most people do all day. If you’re a watcher of “NBC 7 San Diego News Today,” you’ll see the fruits of his and his team’s labor. Villasenor is an executive producer at the station and has worked there for nearly 14 years. He attended Cal State San Marcos and majored in communication. He now oversees the news programs for the morning show from 5-7 a.m. and the midday show at 11 a.m. His job consists of proofreading scripts for the show and working with staff, including writers, producers and anchors. He also handles breaking news for both NBC 7 San Diego and Telemundo 20, which are both located in the same building in Kearny Mesa. On Aug. 2, he’ll celebrate his 14^th anniversary at the station. It’s a day that’s special to him. “I remember that date because that’s the day my son was born. He was born at 7 o’clock in the morning,” Villasenor said. Villasenor is a fourth-generation San Diegan who chose CSUSM because it offered night classes, which allowed him to support himself during the day. At one point, he worked three jobs to put himself through school. He also had a goal: to work for NBC 7 one day. His journey there began as a boy in the sixth grade. “My middle school multimedia program teacher came into the class to promote the program,” Villasenor said. “Ever since then, I fell in love with it. I was the little 8-year-old nerd coming home from school watching Marianne Kushi (current morning anchor) on TV as a kid. I was a news junkie from a very young age.” His average day consists of waking up at 2 a.m. and starting to send emails to his staff. He arrives at the station at 3 a.m., immediately has a quick meeting to discuss the news of the day and then starts working with the anchors to read scripts to get ready for the first show at 5 a.m. He also listens and watches out for breaking news that needs to be added to the shows. Once the show goes off the air at 7 a.m. to make room for the “Today” show, he has a wrap-up meeting with staff and then repeats the process for the next show at 11 a.m. His hard work has paid off, as he won a National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences Award, also known as an Emmy, in 2022. The path to this award wasn’t easy, but he kept his eye on the prize. “I was in construction for 10 years, and then I knew I wanted to be in media,” Villasenor said. “My goal was to be on air. But I had a lot of responsibility with family and siblings. I had to stay home and be the dad in a sense to my younger siblings, so I ended up staying here and applying for a cameraman job at KUSI. They said, ‘We don’t have a cameraman job, but we do have a job for writing.’ Now, writing was not my best subject and neither was grammar and spelling, so I had to fake it until I made it. I was working at KUSI while I was at Cal State San Marcos.” He got his big break after a producer at the station got into an argument with the anchor on set on Thanksgiving and then walked out. “I was the only other person there, so I had to jump in the seat,” Villasenor said. “And from that day on, I’ve produced and then moved up to executive producer.” He said he likes working at NBC for a few reasons. “I have great coworkers. They make you want to come to work,” he said. “The majority of people I work with love what they do because you have to love what you do in this industry.” He has this advice for anyone wanting to break into the media or any other career: “Don’t pass up an opportunity because every opportunity that presents itself to you, whether it’s an internship or the opportunity to meet someone to make a connection, whether it be through your teachers at school or someone who knows somebody, can connect you to somebody in the business.” Media Contact Jerry McCormick, Director of Strategic Communications jmccormick@csusm.edu

Celebrating APIDA Month With Exciting Lineup of Events

In 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. Book Talk and Signing April 15, 4 p.m., USU 2310-B Come join us for a book talk and signing of Jade Hidle's newly published memoir, “Hair.” The first 30 attendees will receive a free copy of the book, which details how various mental illnesses are compounded by histories of racism, from the Vietnam War to the COVID-19 pandemic. With honesty and humor, “Hair: A Lai Mỹ Memoir” is a story of how breaking cycles is an ongoing process of becoming a daughter and mother. APIDA Cultural Festival April 18, 5 p.m., USU Forum Plaza Enjoy free food, cultural performances, music and more! RVSP to receive a free parking pass for the event. Spill the Tea: Appropriation vs. Appreciation April 21, 3 p.m., USU 3200 Pasifika Luncheon April 29, noon, USU 3200 Lei Workshop May 1, noon, Forum Plaza APIDA Recognition Ceremony May 5, 5:30 p.m., USU Ballroom This is the 19th annual APIDA recognition ceremony celebrating spring graduates. RSVP by April 25 to participate and receive a free APIDA stole! Media Contact Eric Breier, Interim Assistant Director of Editorial and External Affairs ebreier@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7314

Career Center Brings Back Etiquette Dinner With Personal Touch

The CSUSM Career Center proudly revived a cherished tradition this spring with the return of its Etiquette Dinner – the first one held in five years. This dynamic evening of professional development, networking and fine dining was designed to equip students with essential skills for career success. Hosted by Dr. Yasmine Farley, director of the Career Center and a certified etiquette consultant through Gonzaga University, the event offered students hands-on experience in navigating formal dining settings while cultivating professional presence and confidence. “Growing up as a first-generation college student from a low-income, single-parent household, I didn’t have access to these types of experiences,” Farley said. “Over time, I learned the importance of etiquette and professionalism in building my career – and it means the world to be able to pass those lessons along to our students at CSUSM, especially in a way that is accessible and cost-effective for the university.” Thanks to Farley’s recent certification, the Career Center was able to provide this training in-house, eliminating the need to hire an outside facilitator and allowing more students to participate. The evening guided attendees through a multicourse meal while covering topics from The Etiquette Institute’s framework, “The Four Cs” — context, culture, change and comfort — noting that etiquette isn’t about being perfect, it’s about being present and respectful. Students explored practical tips on professional dining – like how to navigate formal place settings, handle utensils correctly, engage in graceful conversation, manage beverage and soup etiquette, and avoid common faux pas. Attendees also learned about networking and how to build a personal brand that leaves a lasting impression. For many, the dinner was a transformative learning opportunity. “I'm very grateful to have received the opportunity to attend the Etiquette Dinner hosted by the Career Center,” said Angel Albarote, a human development major. “It was a fun time learning about dining in a professional setting while connecting with other attendees.” “I gained insight into proper table manners and how to carry myself in formal dining and networking settings, skills that are essential for both personal and professional growth,” said Leo Smith, a pre-business major. “Thank you to Dr. Farley and the Career Center for hosting this wonderful event!” Anahi Martinez Perez, a business administration major, echoed those sentiments, saying: “The event was not only an enriching experience in terms of etiquette and professionalism but also an invaluable opportunity to network with like-minded individuals. I look forward to seeing this event grow and continue to inspire more professionals.” The dinner also welcomed CSUSM alumni, including Jasmin Casas, who reflected on the joy of reconnecting with her alma mater. “It was awesome to be back on campus as an alum,” said Casas, who graduated in 2024 with a degree in literature and writing studies and now works as a legal assistant in the San Diego County District Attorney’s Office. “I can’t wait to see what my awesome new friends will do next.” As the Career Center continues to expand its programming in support of student success, the return of the Etiquette Dinner reflects the team’s ongoing commitment to providing inclusive, practical and empowering opportunities for professional development. For more information about upcoming events or to learn how to support student professional development, visit www.csusm.edu/careers. Media Contact Eric Breier, Interim Assistant Director of Editorial and External Affairs ebreier@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7314

CICSC Receives $3 Million Gift From San Manuel Band of Mission Indians

The California Indian Culture and Sovereignty Center (CICSC) at Cal State San Marcos has received an endowment gift of $3 million from the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians. San Manuel is a longtime supporter of CSUSM, having contributed nearly $1 million when the CICSC opened its doors in 2011. Since then, the center has become a home away from home for American Indian students in their higher education pursuits. The CICSC also champions groundbreaking research, publications and events to empower Native voices and inform public policy. This additional funding will enable the CICSC to expand cultural preservation programs, strengthen student success, foster community engagement and support operational excellence. “This transformative gift from San Manuel, combined with the exceptional work of our American Indian Studies Department and the CICSC, positions CSUSM to better serve Native American students," CSUSM President Ellen Neufeldt said. "We’re committed to building a comprehensive program that promotes both academic rigor and cultural empowerment. Together with our tribal partners, we aim to set new standards for Native American student achievement in higher education.” San Manuel's gift builds on its partnership with CSUSM and demonstrates a commitment to strengthening tribal sovereignty through education. The investment will empower Native American students to become leaders, scholars and researchers shaping the future of California tribal communities. “This endowment represents more than funding – it's an investment in the preservation and advancement of Indigenous knowledge, leadership and sovereignty," said Dr. Joely Proudfit, director of the CICSC. “With these resources, we can amplify Native voices, deepen our research initiatives and create even more powerful opportunities for our students to engage with tribal nations while pursuing academic excellence.” "The CICSC helps to enhance the educational experience of students within the CICSC community,” said Lynn Valbuena, chairwoman of the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians. "Through advocacy, research, leadership and systemic change, the CICSC fosters an environment where Native culture, tribal sovereignty and progress can flourish." San Manuel’s $3 million gift, amplified by a $1 million match contribution from the Epstein Family Foundation, reflects a shared commitment to empowering the Indigenous community at CSUSM and supporting the CICSC. For more information about the CICSC, visit csusm.edu/cicsc, contact center director Joely Proudfit, Ph.D., at jproudfi@csusm.edu, or call 760-750-3535. About the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians The San Manuel Band of Mission Indians is a federally recognized Indian tribe located on the San Manuel Indian Reservation near Highland, California. San Manuel exercises its inherent sovereign right of self-governance and provides essential services for its citizens by building infrastructure, maintaining civil services and promoting social, economic and cultural development. As the Indigenous people of the San Bernardino highlands, passes, valleys, mountains and high deserts, the Serrano people of San Manuel have called this area home since time immemorial and are committed to remaining a productive partner in the San Bernardino region. For more information, visit http://www.sanmanuel-nsn.gov.

Arts & Lectures Explores Historic Lemon Grove Case

The final Arts & Lectures event of the spring semester features a lecture on the 1931 landmark case Roberto Alvarez v. the Board of Trustees of the Lemon Grove School District, which was the first successful school desegregation court decision in U.S. history. The event is at 6 p.m. on April 23 in the USU Ballroom. Reserve tickets online via the Arts & Lectures website. This lecture by Dr. Robert R. Alvarez Jr., a professor emeritus of ethnic studies at UC San Diego and the son of the lead plaintiff in the case, will review the specific struggle by the Mexican families of Lemon Grove in the greater context of the Mexican challenge to U.S. school desegregation. The case established the rights of children of Mexican immigrants to equal education, despite local, regional and national sentiment that favored not only segregation, but the actual deportation of the Mexican population in the United States. Current educational equity issues for Mexican immigrant and Latino communities will be contextualized through regional data compiled by the National Latino Research Center at CSUSM. 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, “Educational Equality Now!” Who: Robert R. Alvarez Jr., a professor emeritus of ethnic studies at UC San Diego and the son of the lead plaintiff in the case Roberto Alvarez v. the Board of Trustees of the Lemon Grove School District. When: 6 p.m., Wednesday, April 23 Where: USU Ballroom Tickets: Visit the Arts & Lectures ticket webpage Cost: Free for CSUSM students; $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

CSUSM Earns Military Friendly® School Designation

Highly Ranked Lacrosse Clubs Gearing Up for Title Runs

The 2025 spring season has been one to remember for the Cal State San Marcos men’s and women’s lacrosse clubs. But the best, they hope, is still to come. The CSUSM men’s team has a record of 11-2 and is ranked eighth nationally among Division II schools in the Men’s Collegiate Lacrosse Association. The Cougars have one game left in the regular season, and it’s a big one – Friday, April 18 at home against their top rival, UC San Diego, which is undefeated and ranked No. 1 in the MCLA Division II poll. “We have a lot of transfers that have played at a higher level in the NCAA who have come in and have really helped with the team chemistry,” men’s coach Tim Puls said. “We all have one goal on our team, and that is to win a national championship.” The CSUSM women have been even better. They are unbeaten at 10-0 and ranked first nationally among D-II schools in the Women’s Collegiate Lacrosse Association. Their regular season has finished, with the next challenge upcoming in the WCLA regionals, April 12-13 in Santa Cruz. “At the beginning of this season, we struggled with offensive communication and showing up to game days focused and ready,” women’s coach Jillian Dohrmann said. “Late fall, our whole offense met outside of practice and talked about their disconnect, and ever since then we have been excelling and have had great communication and collaboration.” The Cougars’ men are led by sophomore midfielder Colin Dobbins, a Carlsbad native who transferred to CSUSM from Stevenson University, a NCAA Division III power. Dobbins paces the team with 52 goals, and none of them were more significant than the six he scored in an upset win over then-No. 1 Air Force last month. For his efforts, he was named the MCLA Division II Warrior Player of the Week. “He is the backbone of our offense,” Puls said of Dobbins. “He wants to make his teammates better and makes them work hard day in and day out in practice, and it shows during games. He is our go-to guy, and when we need someone to make a play, we call his number.” Dobbins has accomplished all of this after recovering from a broken collarbone. “Having the team’s support really gave me confidence and helped me recover faster and stronger,” Dobbins said. For the women’s team, the top scorer is Shea Morgan with 44 goals, but the heart of the team is goaltender Cierra Warfield. She has posted one shutout and four other games in which she allowed three or fewer goals. “The key to my success this season has been staying consistent with my game and practice and having a great community around me to lift me up when I fall,” Warfield said. After the rivalry game against UCSD at Mangrum Track & Field, the men’s team next will head to Santa Barbara for the Southwestern Lacrosse Conference tournament April 25-27, with a goal of advancing to the MCLA national championships from May 5-10 in Round Rock, Texas. The women, meanwhile, are gearing up for regionals, where they hope to qualify for the WCLA nationals from May 6-9 in Wichita, Kansas. The Cougars finished third at nationals last year. “This year we are aiming for first place,” Dohrmann said. “The team is looking forward to playing and traveling. We have worked hard in fundraising throughout the year to afford these trips.” Media Contact Brian Hiro, Communications Specialist bhiro@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7306

Biology Student Receives Prestigious Goldwater Scholarship

Cal State San Marcos biological sciences student Marisa Mendoza has received the 2025 Barry Goldwater Scholarship, becoming the fourth student from the university to receive the prestigious recognition. Mendoza has worked in the lab of biology professor Elinne Becket for two years, applying her independent research skills to studying taxonomic and functional profiles associated with plastic marine substrates. In her recommendation letter for the award, Becket noted that “Marisa has already made a tremendous impact on our lab’s research productivity, leading efforts on two projects. Overall, Marisa is an incredible researcher who is effective, reliable, collaborative and highly resilient.” Becket said Mendoza began making an impact while still a student at Palomar College before transferring to CSUSM. In furthering her education at CSUSM, Mendoza continues to give back by mentoring students in the Bridges to the Baccalaureate program, which prepares community college students who are interested in biomedical research careers to seamlessly transition to four-year universities. “She is already an exceptional researcher at such an early stage, and her grit, integrity and adaptability will lead her to be very successful in her Ph.D. endeavors and beyond,” Becket wrote. “I believe she will make a strong impact in the microbiology field in her future career.” The Goldwater Foundation is a federally endowed agency established in 1986, and the scholarship program that honors Sen. Barry Goldwater was designed to identify, encourage and financially support outstanding undergraduates interested in pursuing research careers in the sciences, engineering and mathematics. From a pool of more than 5,000 college sophomores and juniors, 1,350 science, engineering and mathematics students were nominated by 445 academic institutions to compete for the 2025 Goldwater scholarships. Learn more about applying for the Goldwater Scholarship and other opportunities by visiting CSTEM's Funding Opportunities webpage. Media Contact Eric Breier, Interim assistant director of editorial and external affairs ebreier@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7314

Librarian Wins Award for Service to Local Beer Industry

Cal State San Marcos librarian Judith Downie has received the Outstanding Service Award from the San Diego Brewers Guild. Downie, who curates the Brewchive through the University Library, was given the honor during the San Diego Beer News Awards on March 25 at Societe Brewing in Kearny Mesa. She was recognized for her tireless volunteerism on behalf of the San Diego Brewers Guild. For almost a decade, Downie has served as the curator of the Brewchive, a comprehensive archive launched in 2017 that celebrates a county that’s widely regarded as the capital of craft beer. The collection is one of only a handful of special collections nationwide focused solely on beer. It includes photos, videos, marketing materials, coasters, beer lists, menus, recipes, brewing logs, brewing manifestos, unique or rare trade periodicals, and interviews. Many of them come from the personal collection of Greg Koch, who founded Stone Brewing with Steve Wagner in San Marcos in 1996. Downie, a special collections librarian, has worked for the University Library since the early 1990s, when she was still a student at CSUSM. She graduated from the school in 1994. Media Contact Brian Hiro, Communications Specialist bhiro@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7306

Administrator Wins Woman of the Year Award From NAACP

Patricia Prado-Olmos, chief community engagement officer for Cal State San Marcos, has been named Woman of the Year by the North San Diego County branch of the NAACP, the nation's oldest and largest civil rights organization. Dr. Prado-Olmos received the honor at the organization’s Blue & Gold Freedom Fund Awards Gala on April 5 at the Westin Carlsbad Resort & Spa, where she was praised for her “remarkable leadership exemplified by the lasting impact of her contributions.” The NAACP specifically recognized Prado-Olmos for her steadfast commitment to social justice, equity and community empowerment. Her leadership and advocacy for marginalized communities, along with her dedication to inclusive education, have made a meaningful impact both within and beyond the university. “I am extremely honored and humbled by this recognition,” Prado-Olmos said. “I’m very grateful to the NCSD NAACP for their partnership and commitment to building a transformative relationship with CSUSM. The community’s willingness to work with me, and with CSUSM, has galvanized our collective work to advance student success.” Prado-Olmos began her career at CSUSM in 1997 as a professor of multicultural/multilingual education, and has served as an administrator on the campus since 2008. In her current role, she leads initiatives that strengthen ties between the university and community partners in the region, including military affairs, tribal partnerships, economic development and community-engaged scholarship, positioning CSUSM as a catalyst for social change and regional prosperity. Her work has expanded access to higher education for underrepresented populations and ensured meaningful support for diverse communities. She has played a key role in CSUSM’s Coalition on Black and African American Education as well as the university’s Black Student Success Initiative – both of which focus on closing equity gaps, offering culturally responsive resources and empowering students through leadership development. Prado-Olmos also was recently honored as a 2025 Nonprofit Board Leader of Influence by the San Diego Business Journal for her work as the board vice chair for MAAC (Metropolitan Area Advisory Committee on Anti-Poverty of San Diego County, Inc.), which provides a wide range of services that focus on promoting economic mobility and self-sufficiency. Prado-Olmos holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Pomona College and a Ph.D. in educational psychology from UC Santa Barbara. Media Contact Brian Hiro, Communications Specialist bhiro@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7306

CSUSM to Name Baseball Field in Honor of Founding Coach

Cal State San Marcos will honor Dennis and Marilyn Pugh by naming its baseball field the “Dennis A. Pugh Baseball Field” during a ceremony at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, April 12. As the founding coach of CSUSM’s baseball program, Pugh built more than a winning program – he built a culture that shaped generations of student-athletes. Pugh, who died in 2020 at age 73, launched CSUSM’s baseball program in 2007 and quickly built it into a competitive force. Under his leadership, the Cougars achieved eight winning seasons in 10 years, earned 282 victories and made three NAIA tournament appearances. His 2015 team set a program record with 36 wins, securing CSUSM’s third Association of Independent Institutions (A.I.I.) conference championship in five seasons. “Coach Pugh’s dedication to excellence, both on and off the field, has left an indelible mark on our university and the community,” CSUSM President Ellen Neufeldt said. “By naming this field in his honor, we ensure that his legacy continues to inspire future generations of Cougars.” Beyond wins and championships, Pugh helped develop talent that rose to the professional ranks. Three of his student-athletes were drafted by Major League Baseball teams, while four others signed as free agents – a testament to his ability to cultivate top-tier talent. Pugh also oversaw the construction of CSUSM’s baseball field, which opened in 2011. Marilyn and Dennis further supported the program with a philanthropic gift to upgrade the batting cages, create a modular training facility and establish an endowed fund to maintain the baseball facilities. Thanks to their generous support, combined with community members who recognized his profound impact, CSUSM is able to name the field in his honor. “It was a genuine honor to coach alongside Dennis for nine years,” said Art Warren, former assistant baseball coach at CSUSM. “He was an icon in San Diego as both a baseball and football coach and was well-known for how much he cared about his students.” Before his time at CSUSM, Pugh was already a legend in the San Diego baseball scene. As the head coach at Mission Bay High School from 1979 to 2006, he led the team to 10 San Diego Section finals appearances and secured eight section championships. Additionally, he coached football at Mission Bay for 13 seasons, accumulating 86 wins and two San Diego Section titles. Even after retiring from CSUSM in 2016, Pugh returned to Mission Bay High in 2017 and remained active in the program until his death. “I am forever grateful for the lasting impact that Coach Pugh left on my life,” said Brandon Bentson, a former student-athlete. “Having the field named after him is a tremendous honor and testament to his legacy at Cal State San Marcos.” The naming of the field serves as a fitting tribute to a man whose impact on the game and the lives of his players will be felt for generations. CSUSM invites the community, alumni and former players to attend the ceremony and celebrate Pugh’s enduring legacy. Visit the RSVP webpage to join this event. Media Contact Eric Breier, Interim Assistant Director of Editorial and External Affairs ebreier@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7314

Arts & Lectures Presents Hip-Hop Step Aerobics Experience

The next event in the spring Arts & Lectures series features the Oside Steppers and guest instructors. Attendees have the opportunity to experience modernized step aerobics set to hip-hop music, offering a fun, intense workout that burns calories, boosts cardiovascular health and relieves stress. The event is at 6 p.m. on April 14 in the USU Ballroom. Reserve tickets online via the Arts & Lectures website. The event includes showcases, instructional sessions and practice for all skill levels. In a bonus panel discussion, get to know your instructors and discover how they use movement to enhance their well-being. The panel will be moderated by Daja Marks, a CSUSM alumna, artist/activist and experimental documentarian. 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: Art & Lectures event, “Xtreme Wellness: Keep It Moving” When: 6 p.m. Monday, April 14 Where: USU Ballroom Who: Daja Marks, a CSUSM alumna, artist/activist and experimental documentarian Tickets: Visit the Arts & Lectures ticket webpage Cost: Free for CSUSM students; $5 for faculty, staff and alumni; $7 for community members Media Contact Eric Breier, Interim assistant director of editorial and external affairs ebreier@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7314

Pride Center to Celebrate gAyPRIL With Series of Events

In 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. gAyPRIL Kickoff and Flag-Raising April 8, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., USU 3100 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. After the flag-raising at Chavez Circle, guests are encouraged to return to the Pride Center for refreshments and community. Voices of Resilience April 10, 5-7 p.m., USU 3100 Join an inspiring evening of artistic expression at Voices of Resilience, an open-mic night dedicated to showcasing diverse forms of performance and creative media. This event invites poets, musicians, visual artists, fashion designers and performers of all backgrounds to share their work, unified by the themes of perseverance, recovery and resilience. Crystal Clarity: Spirituality & Identity April 15, U-hour, USU 3100 This event will feature meaningful discussions about spirituality and a hands-on crystal-making activity to empower your personal journey. Queering the Map April 17, 4-6 p.m., USU 3100 Come to the Pride Center for a discussion about queerness around the world and about how our own identities affect our lives with women’s gender and sexuality studies professor Mikee Inton-Campbell. This event focuses on stories – the stories of our own lives and learning from the stories of others. Chromatic Queerness April 23, 1-4 p.m., Forum Plaza Come to Forum Plaza to celebrate being queer and all things positive as participants tie-dye multiple types of clothing and connect with San Diego Pride. Cookies & Queers April 24, U-hour, USU 3100 Meet CSUSM’s Pride Faculty and Staff Association! Pride FSA will be holding a meet-and-greet with their members in the Pride Center. Trans Makeup Tips April 29, U-hour, USU 3100 Learn about makeup techniques to pass easier, feel more like yourself and gain confidence in your look. Makeup brushes will be available for you to take home, too. gAyPRIL Sendoff April 30, U-hour, USU 3100 As gAyPRIL comes to a close, we remind ourselves and the world that we don’t just exist for one month a year. We will talk about the significance of Pride Month and what we can do. Media Contact Eric Breier, Interim Assistant Director of Editorial and External Affairs ebreier@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7314

Grandmother's Care Inspires Nursing Student

Audrey Reyes had never stepped foot on Cal State San Marcos’ campus before she enrolled in the Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, almost by accident. Reyes, a Northern California native, graduated with a bachelor’s degree in health science from Sacramento State in 2023, but knew she wanted to continue her education to pursue a career in nursing. She applied to multiple California State University schools and stumbled upon CSUSM through the Cal State Apply website. Though she wasn’t familiar with CSUSM, she enjoyed her CSU experience at Sac State and liked what she saw when she visited Southern California over the summer. However, nursing was not always Reyes’ goal. “I was very anti-nursing for a long time,” Reyes said. “My mom is a labor and delivery nurse, so she was planting that seed in my head. But I was like, ‘No, I’m going to do my own thing.’ ” But the death of Reyes’ grandmother from COVID-19 complications in early 2020 changed her perspective. While Reyes was familiar with health care because of her mom and through volunteer work, she never had seen it the way she did during her grandmother’s time in the hospital. “I firsthand saw the nurses be that connection for us in a time where we couldn’t go into the hospital,” Reyes said. In a time when the world was shut down and her freshmen year at Sac State was online, the connection that the nurse made with her and her family provided inspiration. “Seeing the connection that the nurse was able to create and help us communicate with my grandma in her last days really left a lasting impact,” Reyes said. “It made me think, ‘I want to be that kind of person for someone.’ ” Once Reyes started pursuing nursing, she found herself liking it more than she imagined. Through the groups of people and professors she met, she found motivation that helped her find the career she wants to pursue. Armildre Baez, an alumna who graduated from the ABSN program, is one of the professors whom Reyes credits for her success at CSUSM. “I think the way she carries herself in the hospital reinforced our learning and was very supportive,” Reyes said. Through the imposter syndrome that Reyes sometimes felt, Baez was there to encourage her and her fellow classmates. Reyes still gets to see Baez during her internship work at Kaiser Permanente in San Marcos, where Baez works as a progressive care unit nurse. “What stands out most about Audrey as a nursing student is her unwavering dedication and genuine compassion for others,” Baez said. “Her intelligence was evident in the way she grasped complex concepts and applied them thoughtfully. I am confident that Audrey will be an amazing nurse one day and will make a meaningful impact in her patients' lives." Being away from home for the first time has been one of Reyes’ biggest challenges while attending CSUSM. “I never had the classic college experience of moving away and dorming,” Reyes said. “Through going to Cal State, I got that experience and was really lucky to meet some good people here.” As Reyes is preparing to walk across the commencement stage in May, she is most excited for the nursing pinning ceremony. Her parents are high school sweethearts from the Philippines, where they each got their college degrees. They moved to U.S. at different times in their 20s. “My mom is really excited about the nursing pinning because her mom was the one who pinned her,” said Reyes, whose mom will pin her. After graduation, Reyes anticipates remaining in a hospital setting in medical surgical or telemetry, with an eye on eventually working in pediatrics. Media Contact Eric Breier, Interim Assistant Director of Editorial and External Affairs ebreier@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7314

Arts & Lectures Event to Explore the Poetics of Memory

Through poetry, performance and video, Jason Magabo Perez – the most recent poet laureate for the city of San Diego – will explore the poetics of memory as an act of anticolonial future-making at the sixth Arts & Lectures event on April 7. The event is at 6 p.m. in the USU Ballroom. Reserve tickets online via the Arts & Lectures website. Perez is a poet, essayist, performer and author of the book of poetry and prose titled “This is for the mostless” (2017) and the forthcoming book-length poem "I ask about what falls away." An associate professor and director of ethnic studies at CSUSM, Perez will be joined by DJ, music producer, performer and longtime collaborator Shammy Dee. What: An Arts & Lectures event that will explore the poetics of memory as an act of anticolonial future-making. When: 6 p.m., Monday, April 7 Where: USU Ballroom Who: Jason Magabo Perez, the most recent poet laureate for the City of San Diego 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

University Spotlights History of Local Veterans

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

SDBJ Award Recognizes Director of EOP, Project Rebound

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, Lewis has a deep commitment to community impact, the nomination noted. As one colleague 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