06
October
2015
|
11:45 AM
America/Los_Angeles

Kimberly D'Anna-Hernandez: Helping Students Flourish in STEM

A first-generation college student who went on to earn her Ph.D. in zoology, Kimberly D’Anna-Hernandez, an assistant professor at Cal State San Marcos, is helping students from a myriad of backgrounds flourish at the collegiate level.

Cal State San Marcos has a wonderful reputation of empowering students of color in the STEM fields,” D’Anna-Hernandez said. “I love helping my students get to the next level. We’re just a stop along the way—to be able to help them move forward is pretty special.”

In fact, she has accompanied students to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineer and Mathematics) conferences across the country, including Miami, New Orleans and Chicago.

Her students give D’Anna-Hernandez high marks.

“Her lectures are understandable and very helpful. She takes her time trying to get you to understand and if you have any questions she's always available,” wrote one student in a review. “Loved class and her.”

D’Anna-Hernandez is earning praise for her research in behavioral neuroscience too. Currently she is studying the role of acculturation and other psychosocial measures in stress for Mexican and Mexican-American pregnant women. Her work suggests the integration of traditional cultural values into prenatal care may have beneficial effects on their maternal health.

She honored to be contributing to CSUSM during its 25th anniversary.

“Part of the beauty of Cal State San Marcos is that it is a young university open to ideas and forward in its thinking,” D’Anna-Hernandez said. “I hope that we can keep that spirit alive as we continue to grow through the years.”

I love helping my students get to the next level. We’re just a stop along the way—to be able to help them move forward is pretty special.
Dr. Kimberly D'Anna-Hernanez