After attending community college and working for a few years, she enrolled at Cal State San Marcos as a psychology major, eager to continue her education but uncertain about what would come next.

“I knew I wanted to keep learning, but I didn't have a clear vision for my future,” Naficy said.

Her path crystallized after a friend encouraged her to connect with CSUSM’s Center for Training, Research and Educational Excellence (CTREE), where she discovered a passion for research and added a minor in biological sciences.

“CTREE changed the trajectory of my career," Naficy said. “They showed me how to explore graduate programs, apply for funding and even present my work at national conferences.”

Now, as she prepares to graduate in May, Naficy plans to pursue a Ph.D. and a career in biotech research, a path she never imagined when she first arrived at CSUSM.

For Kailey Pickering, the journey began even earlier.

Just a few days after graduating from high school, Pickering was contacted by CTREE and invited to learn more about the program.

"As a first-generation college student, I didn't really know what graduate school was," Pickering said. “They explained all of my options in a way that’s welcoming, not intimidating. It’s such a privilege to get a stipend for research, which allows me to focus on my studies without worrying about groceries or gas money.”

Today, this third-year biochemistry student plans to pursue a Ph.D. in microbiology and hopes to become a professor who focuses on teaching, mentorship and research.

Expanding Access to Research and Graduate Education

A new $1 million investment from the Prebys Foundation will ensure that more students like Pickering and Naficy have access to research experiences, mentorship and critical financial support as they pursue graduate school and careers in STEM.

“Programs like CTREE are critical to sustaining scientific success long-term,” said Emily Young, the Prebys Foundation vice president of programs. “They identify and help prepare the next generation of researchers, and the foundation is delighted to be part of the process.”

Led by faculty director Denise Garcia and associate director Richard Armenta, CTREE prepares undergraduate and master's students for advanced degrees and careers in science, medicine and health-related fields. The program has been especially successful in supporting first-generation and low-income students, achieving a graduate school placement rate of 90 to 100 percent in recent years.

“Kailey and Victoria show what's possible when talented individuals are given the opportunity to pursue research and advanced education,” Garcia said. “We've seen our graduates go on to doctoral programs at UCSD, Columbia, Cornell, Harvard, Northwestern and Texas A&M among others. And many of them build careers here in San Diego, helping drive innovation, advance health research and give back to the communities they came from.”

The grant will support students and faculty across several key areas.

Student research: Each year, at least 10 undergraduate students and five master’s students will receive paid research internships, with stipends of up to $20,000. The funding allows students to dedicate meaningful time to research while reducing the financial pressures that often limit participation.

Faculty research: Faculty researchers will receive support for projects involving undergraduate and graduate students. The funding can be used for research supplies, equipment, participant costs and time devoted to mentoring student researchers. The investment is expected to be particularly impactful for early-career faculty members as they establish research programs and pursue external funding opportunities.

Conferences, workshops and research training: The grant will support student and faculty participation in professional conferences, workshops and specialized training programs. Participants will have opportunities to present research, engage with the scientific community and develop skills in emerging research techniques and technologies, including programs offered in partnership with local biotechnology companies.

“CSUSM faculty are doing exceptional research, and they are deeply committed to involving students in that work,” Armenta said. "This investment expands opportunities for both faculty and students, helping researchers advance their work while giving more students a chance to discover what's possible through research.”

The investment also aligns with the Prebys Foundation's commitment to strengthening San Diego County's research ecosystem and scientific workforce. With 8 in 10 CSUSM graduates staying in the region, the university serves as an important pipeline of talent for the county's biomedical, biotechnology and STEM industries.

“CSUSM students reflect the diversity and talent of San Diego County,” Garcia said. “When we invest in their development as researchers, they gain the skills, confidence and experience to pursue opportunities they may never have imagined. We're deeply grateful to the Prebys Foundation for helping us expand those opportunities and support the next generation of scientists and innovators.”

Every contribution to CSUSM brings the university closer to its Blueprint for the Future campaign goal to raise $200 million in philanthropy and research funding.

Media Contact

Brian Hiro, communications specialist

bhiro@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7306

The event allows students to meet with potential employers, secure career opportunities and have free professional headshots taken for their LinkedIn profiles. 

Employers will be there to hire for both internships and full-time positions. Students are encouraged to bring their résumé and dress professionally. 

Students can visit the Cougar Career Closet once a semester to receive up to four free professional clothing items. Students can book an appointment through their Handshake account. 

The Career Center also offers several workshops to help students polish their résumés and practice networking skills. 

Media Contact

Eric Breier, assistant director of editorial and external affairs
ebreier@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7314

Upcoming civic engagement events include:

• Oct. 7: National Voter Education Week Ballot Prep Party, noon-2 p.m., USU 2310 meeting rooms
• Oct. 13: Voter registration tabling, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., Kellogg Plaza
• Oct. 20: Voter registration tabling, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., Kellogg Plaza
• Oct. 27: Voter registration tabling, 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m., USU Arcade

The Department of Civic Engagement provides opportunities for students to develop civic knowledge and participate in democratic engagement. Students gain confidence through initiatives such as Democracy in Action, Speaking of Democracy, days of service, voter engagement and the Town Hall Meeting.

Visit the Department of Civic Engagement website to learn more.

Media Contact

Eric Breier, assistant director of editorial and external affairs
ebreier@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7314

The award honors faculty members, including lecturers, who have mentored a considerable number of students and influenced the environment of the department, college, or university to increase the number and diversity of students engaged in research and creative activities.

Nominations may be submitted by faculty, staff, students, or community partners. Self-nominations are also welcome.

To submit a nomination, submit a letter describing how the nominee represents the intent of the award, such as scholarship, community building and mentoring effectiveness.

The nomination letter should be sent via email to ogsr@csusm.edu. Include the nominee’s name and the award title in the subject line.

Nomination letters are due by 5 p.m. on Oct. 22.

Media Contact

Eric Breier, assistant director of editorial and external affairs
ebreier@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7314

The event, which promotes and celebrates student research and creative activity, is currently accepting applications.

The showcase is free and open to all CSUSM students, offering a welcoming, noncompetitive environment for sharing their work.

All disciplines are encouraged to apply. Examples include, but are not limited to:

• Independent research
• Literature survey
• Course-based undergraduate research projects
• Creative Activities
• Summer Research

The entry application deadline is 5 p.m. on Nov. 3.

To apply, visit the Student Poster Showcase website.

Media Contact

Eric Breier, assistant director of editorial and external affairs
ebreier@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7314

The program is available to CSUSM students enrolled in classes in any of these locations: Temecula, San Marcos, or CSUSM at Southwestern College in Chula Vista. The free program is intended only for academic purposes, such as classes, labs and research projects.

Through this program, approved students can use the dedicated pedestrian lanes at three major ports of entry, making the daily commutes more predictable during the school year.

To qualify for CAP, students must meet all the following criteria: 

• Be currently enrolled at CSUSM, including through CSUSM at Southwestern College.
• Have verified enrollment for the academic year in which they are traveling (approval lasts 12 months, so students need to renew their information with CAP each year).
• Be crossing the border specifically for academic purposes, including in-person classes, research, or service projects.
• Carry valid, up-to-date travel and immigration documents.

CBP determines eligibility and approval; CSUSM does not influence this process, and CAP participation is not guaranteed. 

To learn more about the program, visit the CAP website. 

Media Contact

Eric Breier, assistant director of editorial and external affairs
ebreier@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7314

CSUSM was ranked No. 20 overall in “Regional Universities (West),” a three-spot improvement over its position last year. The university is No. 11 in “Top Public Schools - Regional Universities (West),” two spots higher than last year.

CSUSM also landed in the top 10 in “Top Performers in Social Mobility - Regional Universities (West),” coming in at No. 8 and climbing eight spots. CSUSM is proud to be a national leader in social mobility, ensuring that students have opportunities that transform their lives and the lives of their families and communities.

Another improvement came in the category of “Best Value Schools - Regional Universities (West)” (up 13 spots to No. 27).

In a category that’s new to the rankings this year, CSUSM placed No. 6 in “Best Value Schools for In-State Students - Regional Universities (West).”

In other category rankings, CSUSM was:

• tied for No. 82 in “Undergraduate Engineering Programs (No Doctorate)”
• tied for No. 195 in “Bachelor of Science in Nursing Programs (No Doctorate)”
• tied for No. 255 in “Undergraduate Psychology Programs”
• tied for No. 276 in “Undergraduate Computer Science Programs”
• tied for No. 390 in “Undergraduate Business Programs” 

In rankings released earlier this month, CSUSM was 64th in the nation out of more than 1,500 colleges in Washington Monthly’s “2026 Best Colleges for Your Tuition (and Tax) Dollars,” up from a No. 73 ranking last year.

And last month, CSUSM placed 31st in the country in SmartAsset’s 2026 study of America’s Best Value Public Universities.

Media Contact

Eric Breier, assistant director of editorial and external affairs
ebreier@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7314

The 10th and last episode of “People of the West” will be shown in the USU ballroom from 6-8 p.m. The event is free and open to all members of the campus community.

The episode is titled “The Next Generation,” and the website description reads: “From the Channel Islands to the Coachella Valley, California’s Native nations reclaim their role as caretakers of land and sea.”

“People of the West” is a 10-part series that draws on oral histories, archival materials, Native scholars, cultural practitioners and cinematic storytelling to give a fuller picture of California's past, present and future. It’s produced by Pechanga Studios, the creative arm of Pechanga Resort Casino in Temecula.

Cal State San Marcos is well represented in the series. Two American Indian studies faculty members (Nicole Myers-Lim and Stan Rodriguez) are featured on camera, as are two current or former students: Kiara Love Flores and Aiden Valverde. CSUSM alumna Laila Basquez is a producer for the series.

Learn more about the series at its website.

Media Contact

Brian Hiro, communications specialist

bhiro@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7306

In 2021, she feared that she would be pinned with another moniker: college dropout.

Only two days after her daughter, Aaleyah, was born, Stowinsky began the fall semester as a student at Grossmont College. Amid the pandemic, she was taking online classes while trying to raise a baby who was literally days and weeks old – all without childcare or family support. Feeling overwhelmed by her situation, she stopped attending class and failed multiple courses, ultimately withdrawing from the school.

“Walking away initially felt easier than facing another disappointment,” Stowinsky said. “But over time, that decision weighed heavily on me. I realized I did not want my daughter growing up believing that setbacks meant giving up. I wanted her to see resilience, accountability and perseverance, even during difficult moments.”

The following spring, Stowinsky suppressed her fear of failing again and re-enrolled at Grossmont. Three years later, she earned an associate degree and transferred to Cal State San Marcos. Now, as she's in what she expects to be her final year at CSUSM, her persistence has paid off in a previously unimaginable way.

Stowinsky will be honored this week as CSUSM’s recipient of the 2026 CSU Trustees’ Award for Outstanding Achievement, the highest student distinction within the California State University. Students are selected based on superior academic performance, personal accomplishments, community service and financial need.

The CSU recognizes 22 students every year – one from each campus – with the Trustees’ Award. Stowinsky, who was named a CSU Trustee Emeritus Kenneth Fong Scholar, will receive her award in person during a ceremony as part of the CSU Board of Trustees meeting in Long Beach on Sept. 22.

“Kaitlyn has overcome tremendous personal hardship while pursuing higher education and raising her young daughter,” CSUSM President Ellen Neufeldt said. “Her story is one of transformation, social mobility and an unwavering commitment to creating a better future for herself and others.

“She represents the very best of the CSU system, and she couldn’t be more deserving of this award.”

Stowinsky is pursuing a degree in molecular and cellular biology and is on track to graduate in May. She’s particularly interested in genetics, gender and development, and how human physiology influences neurological and psychological development.

“These fields fascinate me because they merge scientific exploration with deep human questions about identity, resilience and how biology and environment shape who we become,” she said.

From failing out of Grossmont, Stowinsky is now a dean's list student who's a member of Tau Sigma, a national academic honor society for transfer students who achieve 3.5 or higher GPA at the end of their first term. Beyond the classroom, she works for Project Rebound, a campus program that empowers formerly incarcerated and system-impacted students at CSUSM.

During her time at Grossmont, Stowinsky served as a biology peer mentor, chemistry tutor and workshop organizer for the school’s Math, Science and Engineering Achievement (MESA) program, which provides students with the support and resources needed to succeed academically en route to careers in STEM disciplines.

“Many students entering STEM fields feel isolated or intimidated, especially those from underrepresented or nontraditional backgrounds,” Stowinsky said. “Because I understand those feelings personally, I strive to create the kind of support system I once needed myself.”

Stowinsky entered the foster care system at age 4, after her mother went on deployment. When she was a few years older, she would wait by the door every night, wondering when her mom would come home. Instability became her normal – she attended eight different high schools and struggled with her mental health.

“I believed my future would always be limited by my circumstances,” she said.

That feeling of fatalism changed immediately when Aaleyah was born in August 2021. Stowinsky realized that overcoming obstacles and persevering as a student were no longer just about success for her; they were about a different, better future for her daughter.

“Education became more than an opportunity,” Stowinsky said. “It became my way out, my proof that I could rewrite my story.”

The odds might have suggested that Stowinsky would fall far short of a bachelor’s degree. Now, however, she wants even more. She aims to pursue a master’s in science, with an ambition to contribute to research that advances equitable healthcare outcomes and supports people with complex personal histories.

The Trustees’ Award is confirmation that she’s firmly on the right track – as a student and a mother. Aaleyah turned 5 and started kindergarten in August.

"This award is so much more than a recognition of an accomplishment,” she said. “To me, it is a reminder that people have seen my journey, my dedication, my growth and my dreams, and they too believe in me. Their belief is what continues to push me forward on the days when things feel difficult. It motivates me to keep growing into the person, and mother, I know I am meant to become and to continue working every day to honor the faith and support that has been placed in me."

Media Contact

Brian Hiro, Communications Specialist

bhiro@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7306

As President Ellen Neufeldt explained, however, there was a good reason for the break. She effectively took Report to the Community off campus for a road show last year.

Neufeldt and other university officials traveled to Chula Vista for a leadership listening session. They drove north to Temecula for a community breakfast to talk about CSUSM’s growth in Southwest Riverside County.

Perhaps most significantly, they ventured to nearby Carlsbad for the official launch of the university’s second comprehensive fundraising campaign, the $200 million “Blueprint for the Future.”

On Thursday, though, Report to the Community was back on familiar ground – at the Sports Center, where more than 350 business, education, government and nonprofit leaders from North County and beyond gathered to hear Neufeldt’s annual address, her eighth since being hired as CSUSM’s president in 2019.

There was much to discuss. Last month, CSUSM kicked off the academic year with about 17,600 students, the most in its 36-year history. Those students were greeted by the new sight of the university’s fourth housing facility, Black Oak Hall, and its second dining facility, Kwiila Dining.

Even more physical transformation is on the horizon. Looming at the top of campus is the construction of Hunter Hall of Science and Engineering, which will open next fall. And across Barham Drive in North City, work continues on Discovery Hall and Wellness Center, which will add 900 beds to CSUSM’s rapidly growing housing inventory while giving the university its first dedicated space for recreation and wellness.

“As I begin my eighth year as president, I’ve spent a lot of time reflecting,” Neufeldt said, adding that she recently stayed up one night with her dog, Bailey, to watch past editions of Report to the Community.

“As I looked back, something became clear: The Power of Us is a powerful thing. It was amazing to see all that we’ve planned together come to life.”

Neufeldt proceeded to spotlight some of the ways that the Power of CSUSM, the name of CSUSM’s strategic plan (launched in 2022), is manifesting itself four years later.

As part of its extensive support of military-supported students, CSUSM has launched a Veteran to BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) pathway that allows military expertise and training to translate into transferable credits. The university next plans to bring programs onto bases at Camp Pendleton and Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego.

When Hunter Hall opens next year, CSUSM will become the only public university in the region to offer majors in industrial and systems engineering, supported by a $3 million federal grant that Neufeldt announced during her speech.

Meanwhile, the Scholars in Wellness and Innovation Fast Track (SWIFT) Health Programs, born of a $10 million gift from Price Philanthropies, began its second year with a 97% retention rate in its initial cohort. The accelerated degree program was designed to help students earn bachelor’s degrees in three years and address surging regional demand for mental health services.

All of this fits into a larger narrative of CSUSM striving to be a national leader in social mobility under Neufeldt. Toward that end, last fall the university ranked No. 1 in the Social Mobility Index from CollegeNET (out of more than 1,400 schools) for the second time in three years. And CSUSM recently launched the CSU National Center for Social Mobility on campus.

“These examples all come together in what we’ve been working toward as a community: serving our students and meeting the needs of our region,” Neufeldt said. “The focus has always been on the social mobility of our students. We’ve never lost sight of that.”

In other highlights from Neufeldt’s speech:

• Just one year after its kickoff, the “Blueprint for the Future” campaign already has raised $178 million, putting CSUSM 89% of the way toward its goal.
• Neufeldt presented a special challenge coin display (a nod to the coins that are given to parents of new students at the start of the school year) to San Marcos’ outgoing mayor, Rebecca Jones, who received the first CSUSM Community Partner of the Year Award on behalf of the city during Neufeldt’s first Report to the Community in 2020.
• In the last few years, CSUSM has more than doubled its number of memorandum of understanding (MOU) agreements with school districts for guaranteed admission to 27. Those MOUs also extend to tribal nations, including one signed last week with the Rincon Band of Luiseno Indians.
• Associated Students, Inc., has secured a $1 million state grant with the help of Assemblymember Darshana Patel to expand the ASI Cougar Pantry, which assists students struggling with food insecurity.
• CSUSM has started three other new academic programs: a master’s in clinical counseling, a doctorate in nursing practice (its first stand-alone doctorate) and a bachelor’s in clinical laboratory science. Neufeldt said two other doctorate programs are in the works.

Before Neufeldt’s speech, Patricia Prado-Olmos, CSUSM’s chief community engagement officer, presented the Community Partner of the Year Award to Mark Sanchez, superintendent and president of Southwestern College. Sanchez was honored for his role in forging a partnership through which CSUSM brings bachelor’s degree programs directly to students in the Chula Vista area, while Southwestern provides classroom and office space at no cost and collaborates with CSUSM on student recruitment.

After handing out the award, Prado-Olmos got a surprise with the announcement that the honor will now be called the Dr. Patricia Prado-Olmos Community Partner of the Year Award. Prado-Olmos revealed in May that she will be retiring at the end of the current academic year.

Another award annually bestowed at Report to the Community is the Fran Aleshire Leadership Award, which goes to an outstanding alumnus of the Leadership North County program founded by Aleshire in the 1980s. Cathy Baur, CSUSM’s former vice president of University Advancement and the 2024 recipient of the award, gave the honor to Rosemary Eshelman, who has served North County students, families and communities for more than two decades through the Carlsbad Unified School District and Carlsbad Youth Enrichment Services.

The emcee of the event was Brett Ringler, assistant vice president of clinic operations and medicine specialties for Scripps Health, vice chair of the CSUSM University Council and an executive in residence in the College of Business Administration.

Report to the Community is hosted each year by University Council, a citizen advisory board consisting of community leaders interested in the development and welfare of the university. 

North City served as the presidential sponsor of Report to the Community. The signature sponsors were the Burnham Center for Community Advancement, Lifeline Community Services, Pechanga Resort Casino and TrueCare.

Media Contact

Brian Hiro, communications specialist

bhiro@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7306

Donors can choose from dozens of options, including a flight of stairs, a parking lot, a flagpole, a building, or even a tree or bench. 

Gift amounts, starting at $50, support the ASI Cougar Pantry, the ASI Student Emergency Fund (managed by Associated Students, Inc.) and the Student Health and Counseling Services Health Assistance Fund.

The campaign ends on Wednesday, Sept. 30 at 5 p.m. To call dibs, visit the website or contact Sean Briner at sbriner@csusm.edu.

Media Contact

Eric Breier, assistant director of editorial and external affairs
ebreier@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7314

Frank is a goldendoodle who’s the university’s first therapy and facility dog. Frank partners with students, faculty, staff and campus programs to create meaningful moments of connection – whether supporting mindfulness practices, helping students navigate stressful moments, visiting classrooms and campus events, or simply providing a welcoming place to pause and reset.

Frank is available on Mondays from 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. in front of Kellogg Library, on Tuesdays from noon- 1 p.m. at the Veterans Center and Thursdays from 11: 45 a.m.-1 p.m. on the third floor of the library.

He is here for you to de-stress, so come visit him when you need a boost, have an exam or are just dealing with the stressors of life.

You can learn more about Frank at the Mindful CSUSM website or follow him on Instagram and TikTok.

Media Contact

Eric Breier, assistant director of editorial and external affairs
ebreier@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7314

Intellectual engagement goals include co-curricular programs bridging academic and student life and interdisciplinary integration across curriculum. Community engagement goals include bringing together the campus community and the surrounding community.

“Stories as Mirrors, Windows & Sliding Doors” is the Common Read theme for the second year in a row.

Students can pick up a free copy of a Common Read book and participate in activities from noon to 12:50 p.m. in front of Kellogg Library on the following dates: Oct. 8, Nov. 5 and Dec. 10.

The five books selected this year are:

• Smoke Gets in Your Eyes and Other Lessons from the Crematory, Caitlin Doughty
• Somewhere we are Human, Reyna Grande and Sonia Guiñansaca
• Feeding Ghosts: A Graphic Memoir, Tessa Hulls
• If Cats Disappeared from the World: A Novel, Genki Kawamura (library's Student Advisory Board selection)
• I Can Write the World, Joshunda Sanders and Charly Palmer

Media Contact

Eric Breier, assistant director of editorial and external affairs
ebreier@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7314

The event was held in partnership with the Wounded Warrior Project, CSUSM Veterans Center, ROTC and Campus Recreation.

The Alumni Association also noted the participation of the San Marcos Fire Department and the support of Cohn Restaurant Group, which provided gift cards to Draft Republic San Marcos to the first 100 participants to check in.

Participants climbed a total of 2,071 steps, representing the number of steps that first responders climbed in the courageous efforts to save lives at the Twin Towers on 9/11.  

Assemblymember Darshana Patel was in attendance to present a proclamation to the Alumni Association as a thank you for honoring and remembering the lives lost on 9/11.

Media Contact

Eric Breier, assistant director of editorial and external affairs
ebreier@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7314

The recognition reflects a lifetime of service and leadership shaped by Epstein’s own military experience and his dedication to creating opportunities for those who have served.

At CSUSM, Epstein’s support for veterans has been transformational. During the university’s first comprehensive fundraising campaign, which ended in 2018, the Epstein Family Foundation made a $1 million gift to expand the Veterans Center, now the Epstein Family Veterans Center. With one in nine CSUSM students being military-connected, it has since become a home base for thousands of students, providing academic support, career resources and community.

“Dan Epstein’s commitment to veterans is deeply woven into the fabric of CSUSM,” President Ellen Neufeldt said. “What distinguishes Dan is the way he leads with humility, compassion and a genuine belief in others. His generosity has created opportunities for military-connected students, while his time, perspective and leadership have strengthened CSUSM’s connection to the military community. We are grateful for his partnership and the lasting difference he has made for our students and our region.”

Epstein’s involvement with CSUSM extends well beyond philanthropy. As a member of the CSUSM Foundation Board and the President’s Military Advisory Council, he works alongside university leaders and community partners to expand educational access for those who have served.

He has advocated for meeting military-connected students where they are, whether through programs offered on military installations, accelerated pathways that recognize military training and experience, or innovative approaches that make higher education more accessible and relevant to the realities of military life.

Epstein and his wife, Phyllis, also established a $10 million matching gift challenge during CSUSM's current Blueprint for the Future campaign. The match drew additional giving from across the university, expanding support for students including recipients of the SDMAC Foundation Veteran Merit Scholarship.

For Epstein, the cause is personal. He often has said that helping veterans complete their education and transition to civilian life is among the most meaningful ways he can give back.

The award also connects Epstein to another longtime CSUSM advocate for veterans. Maj. Gen. Tony Jackson, a former chair of the CSUSM Foundation Board, received the SDMAC Lifetime Achievement Award in 2022. Together, the two recognitions reflect CSUSM’s longstanding connection to San Diego’s military community and its commitment to supporting veterans and military families.

SWIFT’s mission is to develop a new generation of mental and behavioral health professionals by offering expedited bachelor's degrees that prioritize dual enrollment, community service and practical experience. 

SWIFT’s accomplishments include:

• successfully completing its first year with an 89% retention rate, as 33 of 37 students are continuing in the program;
• the three-year accelerated program receiving 131 applications, representing a 162% increase from last year;
• successfully hosting the CSUSM REP4 Summit this summer, bringing together SWIFT and College Assistance Migrant Program (CAMP) students for an engaging experience focused on connection, learning and community.

Media Contact

Eric Breier, assistant director of editorial and external affairs
ebreier@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7314

Through the Mobile Wellness Initiative, Cal State San Marcos is helping bridge that gap while preparing students to become the next generation of community-centered health professionals. Thanks to new support from the Henry L. Guenther Foundation, the university is poised to expand that impact even farther.

The grant of $480,000 will enable CSUSM and the partnering departments and schools in the College of Education, Health and Human Services to enhance its Mobile Wellness Initiative, an interdisciplinary program that partners with Neighborhood Healthcare and other community organizations to bring health screenings, education and wellness resources directly to underserved communities throughout North County.

The initiative embodies CSUSM's commitment to community engagement by connecting student learning with meaningful service. Through hands-on experiences in real-world settings, students gain valuable professional skills while helping improve access to care for individuals and families who often face significant barriers to health services.

"At CSUSM, we believe that learning and community service go hand in hand," said Rachael Dombrowski, an associate professor of public health and a leader of the initiative. "This support allows us to deepen our impact in the community while providing students with invaluable experiences that prepare them to become collaborative, community-centered health professionals."

A key component of the grant is the purchase of a fully equipped mobile wellness van, which will significantly increase the program's capacity to serve communities throughout the region. The van will transport supplies for outreach events, including tents, tables, educational materials and screening equipment, while also providing a private and confidential space for wellness services and consultations.

As the only student-run mobile health program in North County, the Mobile Wellness Initiative brings together students and faculty from nursing, social work, public health, kinesiology, speech-language pathology and human development. Working across disciplines, participants address health needs through a holistic approach that reflects the complexity of community health challenges.

“The Mobile Wellness Initiative prepares our students to engage across various disciplines to help meet the health needs of our neighboring communities,” said Matt Mincey, a nursing lecturer and the founding director of the initiative. “Our nursing and other CEHHS students will have more opportunities to engage with community partners and collaborating disciplines in the healthcare field, all while gaining patient care experience in our mobile classroom.”

In partnership with Neighborhood Healthcare, a federally qualified health center serving communities across San Diego and Riverside counties, students help connect residents to preventive health services and critical community resources. Outreach efforts focus on underserved populations, including individuals who are uninsured or underinsured, as well as people experiencing homelessness, migrants, refugees and others with limited access to healthcare.

Many of the individuals served through the initiative face an increased risk of chronic conditions such as hypertension and diabetes. By bringing screenings, education and support directly into neighborhoods, the program removes transportation barriers and helps identify health concerns before they become more serious.

For students, the benefits extend beyond the classroom. The initiative offers opportunities to work alongside healthcare professionals, collaborate across disciplines and develop the cultural responsiveness and community engagement skills that are increasingly essential in today's healthcare workforce.

The grant also will support personnel, travel expenses, outreach supplies and a community health assessment that will help guide future programming and ensure that resources are directed where they are needed most.

Media Contact

Brian Hiro, Communications Specialist

bhiro@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7306

The primary goal is enhancing fall-risk assessment, rehabilitation techniques and comprehension of age-related changes in mobility. The project aims to fill in gaps in the body of knowledge on toe strength and balance.

Some key points of this research include enhancing a novel device that measures multiple aspects of great toe function, including force control, force generation across joint angles and force during movement and comparing the relationships in younger vs. older adults.

Reaching these goals will offer significant understanding of how aging affects great toe function and produce a great toe function measuring technique that could help in standardizing measurements utilized by other researchers that examine fall risk in older persons.

Media Contact

Eric Breier, assistant director of editorial and external affairs
ebreier@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7314

Lien joins CSUSM from the University of Northern Colorado, where he has served as associate vice president for enrollment management since 2021. He brings more than 15 years of experience in enrollment management and admissions across public and private higher education institutions.

“Throughout my career, I’ve been drawn to higher education because of its ability to change the trajectory of a student, a family and a community,” Lien said. “That is what makes CSUSM so special. I’m incredibly excited to join President Neufeldt and a university so deeply committed to student success and creating real opportunity for so many students. I look forward to helping build on that impact.”

At the University of Northern Colorado, Lien leads a 100-person enrollment division encompassing admissions, financial aid, the registrar, bursar operations and extended campus programs serving undergraduate, graduate and international students. He also co-chairs the university’s strategic enrollment management plan, working across across all campus divisions to align recruitment, affordability and retention strategies.  

“We are thrilled to welcome Pete to CSUSM and are confident that his combination of strategic enrollment leadership, commitment to access and student success, and collaborative approach will serve our university exceptionally well,” CSUSM President Ellen Neufeldt said. “Pete brings a deep understanding of the enrollment landscape and a proven record of bringing people and data together to advance institutional goals. At a time when higher education is navigating significant changes in demographics, student needs and the competitive landscape, Pete’s leadership will be instrumental in building on our enrollment momentum and ensuring that CSUSM remains a place where students can see a path to achieving their dreams.”

During his tenure at UNC, Lien helped establish enrollment analytics, forecasting and financial aid optimization processes that contributed to a 3.4% increase in overall undergraduate headcount. He implemented the university’s first-year admissions guarantee, launched the UNC Tuition Promise to expand access for Colorado students with significant financial need and helped advance enrollment strategies that contributed to UNC becoming the newest Hispanic-Serving Institution in Colorado.

Before joining UNC, Lien served as director of recruitment at the University of Idaho. Earlier in his career, he held progressively responsible admissions and enrollment positions at Concordia College in Moorhead, Minn., where he began his career in higher education. His experience includes developing access initiatives for first-generation college-bound students, working with community and school partners, and collaborating with faculty and academic departments to support student recruitment and success.

In his new role, Lien will oversee CSUSM’s Enrollment Management Services division and lead enrollment strategy, working closely with Neufeldt, university leadership, academic colleges and student support units to advance the university’s strategic enrollment plan and priorities.

Lien holds a master’s degree in educational leadership with an emphasis in higher education from Minnesota State University Moorhead and a bachelor’s in political science and history from Concordia College. He was named the 2023 Educator of the Year by the Greeley Dream Team, a Colorado organization focused on supporting students through education and career pathways.

Lien will begin his new role at CSUSM on Nov. 1.

Media Contact

Eric Breier, assistant director of editorial and external affairs

ebreier@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7314

Performances of “Worthy” are on Sept. 12 at 6 p.m., Sept. 19 at 7:20 p.m. and Sept. 25 at 9:40 p.m. at the Will Agee Theatre in Inglewood.

“Worthy” is the final installment of Benson’s Haitian Revolution trilogy. It explores the "double debt" that Haiti was compelled to pay France following its independence and links this history to concepts of trauma, freedom, debt, self-worth and what individuals believe they are entitled to.

Tickets are available online.

Media Contact

Eric Breier, assistant director of editorial and external affairs
ebreier@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7314

For Justin Perron, a physics professor at Cal State San Marcos, that pitch was the culmination of months of collaboration and preparation, resulting in a $2.1 million award from the California Jobs First Regional Investment Initiative.

This latest grant builds on previous investments from the National Science Foundation, Laboratory for Physical Sciences, Department of Energy and American Physical Society, and it positions CSUSM at the forefront of quantum education and workforce development.

For Adrian Schnepp, an applied physics major with a focus on quantum information science and technology, these investments translate into opportunities to use quantum technology, not just study the theories behind it.

“Being able to control the behavior and manipulate a single electron is incredible, especially as an undergraduate,” Schnepp said. “I’ve always been the type of person who has to touch the stove to see if it’s hot. I like figuring things out for myself, and that’s what I love about the hands-on research here.”

First-generation student Aiden Rodriguez came to CSUSM as a computer science major but found a new passion in quantum computing after reading about its potential impact on cybersecurity and encryption.

“I stopped by Dr. Perron's office to learn more about it even though I wasn't one of his students at the time," Rodriguez said. "He welcomed me in, answered my questions and became a mentor. That experience sparked my interest in quantum science and ultimately led me to add applied physics as a second major.”

Building California’s Quantum Workforce

As quantum technologies advance, the need for a skilled quantum workforce is becoming increasingly urgent. According to the Governor's Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz), California leads the nation in demand for quantum talent, with more quantum-related job openings than any other state.

To help address that need, CSUSM has offered quantum-focused bridge programs for incoming freshmen, professional development programs for faculty and quantum-centered undergraduate research opportunities.

A key part of this effort is reaching students before they go to college. Through the Center for Research and Engagement in STEM Education (CRESE), CSUSM brings hands-on STEM experiences to K-12 students at more than 20 schools and community sites throughout the region, with undergraduates serving as near-peer mentors.

“By interacting with college students, young learners can better envision themselves pursuing higher education and careers in STEM,” said Ed Price, a physics professor and the faculty director of CRESE. “This is especially important in quantum, which students typically don’t learn much about in high school.”

Access to specialized equipment remains a significant barrier to quantum education and training. With the new state funding, CSUSM will work with UCLA, UC Irvine and Pasadena City College to make the equipment and curriculum developed through its programs available to other training and education programs across the region. The hardware includes quantum optics systems, sensors that use quantum properties to make precise measurements, and NMR systems using magnetic fields to control the quantum behavior of atomic nuclei.

“CSUSM has invested in advanced quantum infrastructure and developed expertise that positions us as a valuable partner in Southern California's quantum ecosystem,” Perron said. “By sharing these resources with educational and industry partners, we can expand access to quantum education and training while further establishing the region's leadership in quantum innovation.”

These investments build on CSUSM's broader leadership in regional, state and federal quantum initiatives. As a founding member of the SoCal Quantum Alliance, CSUSM works alongside leading research institutions and industry partners – including UCLA, USC and Caltech – to advance quantum science and prepare the next generation of talent. At the state and federal levels, CSUSM is also a partner within the Challenge Institute for Quantum Computation (CIQC), one of the NSF’s recently renewed Quantum Leap Challenge Institutes.

“One of CSUSM’s greatest strengths is our focus on providing undergraduates with access to advanced research and technology,” said Charles De Leone, dean of graduate studies and research. “As quantum technology moves from the research lab into the economy, CSUSM is creating opportunities for students to engage with the tools, technologies and research shaping the future. This momentum strengthens our ability to prepare the next generation of talent while supporting California’s growing quantum workforce needs.”

For Perron, the five-minute pitch was the latest step in a much longer effort. With funding secured, the work continues: building out the curriculum, equipment-sharing partnerships and mentorship pipelines that will define California's quantum workforce for years to come.

Media Contact

Brian Hiro, Communications Specialist

bhiro@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7306

Kicking off the month with HSI Week Sept. 14-18, the rest of the month will include a broader lineup of events hosted by the Latinx Center. Together, these programs recognize CSUSM’s identity and responsibilities as an HSI while creating opportunities to celebrate culture, strengthen community, promote inclusive excellence and advance student success.

Everyone is invited to participate in CSUSM Latine Heritage Month events.

CSUSM’s Inaugural HSI Week

5th Annual Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) Summit

Sept. 14, 8 a.m.-2 p.m., USU Ballroom

This year’s summit marks five years of bringing together students, faculty, staff, administrators and community partners to learn from one another, build connections and strengthen efforts that promote student success. The theme of this year’s summit is “Seeds of Servingness: Growing Together.” Nationally renowned scholar and educator Dr. Daniel G. Solórzano will deliver the keynote address. The summit will officially launch CSUSM’s first-ever HSI Week, taking place Sept. 14-18, featuring educational, cultural, and community-building events. The week invites students and employees to explore what it means for CSUSM to be a Hispanic-Serving Institution.

2026 Latine Heritage Month Theme: Floreciendo Juntos (Blooming Together)

Week 1 theme: El Jardin de Comunidad (The Garden of Community)

Floreciendo Juntos: Latine Heritage Month Celebration

Sept. 15, 5-8 p.m., Forum Plaza

Floreciendo Juntos serves as the official kickoff to Latine Heritage Month, bringing together students, campus partners and the broader community in celebration of the diverse cultures, histories and traditions of Latin America. The celebration features interactive cultural activities facilitated by Latine student organizations, cultural food, entertainment and community-building opportunities that promote belonging, cross-cultural learning and meaningful engagement.

Reflejos de Nuestra Gente: Latinx Center

Mural Unveiling

Sept. 16, 5-7 p.m., USU 3200

Join the Latinx Center for the unveiling of Reflejos de Nuestra Gente, a new community mural created by CSUSM alumna and muralist Sandra Carmona and inspired by student voices. Gather with students, campus and community partners for the unveiling, refreshments and a community mixer. RSVP: Latinx Center Mural Unveiling: Reflejos de Nuestra Gente – Fill out form

The Milpa Project Showcase

Sept. 17, noon-1 p.m., Community Ethnobotany Garden

Join biology professor Erika Diaz Almeyda to celebrate and learn more about the Milpa Project. Located in CSUSM’s Community Ethnobotany Garden, the project centers on milpa, a Mesoamerican agricultural practice in which crops such as corn, beans and squash are grown together. A brief presentation will introduce the project and its cultural, ecological and community significance, followed by reflections from students involved in the project and Milpa Comunidad. Come connect, learn, and celebrate the students and community members who bring the milpa to life.

Beyond the Bachelor’s: Exploring Graduate School at CSUSM 

Sept. 17, 6-7:30 p.m., USU Ballroom C 
 

Hosted by: Career Center, Office of Inclusive Excellence, Office of Graduate Studies & Research, Alumni Engagement 

This special event highlights alumni experiences and pathways to graduate education. Join us for a special edition of Life After Graduation, featuring CSUSM alumni who continued their educational journey through graduate programs at CSUSM. Hear firsthand why they chose graduate school, how they selected their programs, what helped them navigate the transition and what they wish they had known before applying. Attendees will also learn about graduate education opportunities at CSUSM and how pursuing an advanced degree can support their academic, professional and career goals.

Conchas y Comunidad

Sept. 18, 10-11 a.m., Founders Plaza

Students, faculty and staff are invited to join us for conchas, conversation and connection. Stop by, meet someone new, and enjoy a little time in community. Attendees can also meet members of MEChA de CSUSM and learn more about the student organization.

Week 2 theme: En Pantalla: Latine Representation in the Arts and Media

Canta, Mami!

Sept. 21, noon-1 p.m., USU 3200

Celebrate the voices that move us at Canta, Mami, an exploration of queer Latina artists in music, from icons like Chavela Vargas to today’s stars like Young Miko. Enjoy food, learn how these artists have shaped culture and representation across generations, then make your own ribbon creation while their music plays.

The Latine Lens: Framing Our Stories

Sept. 24,noon-1 p.m., USU 3200

Explore how Latine artists use visual art, music, photography and media to tell their stories, celebrate culture and challenge stereotypes. Then create a magazine-style collage that brings your own identity, community and vision of Latinidad to life.

Week 3 theme: Haciendo Historia: Making History through Latine Leadership

Abriendo Caminos: Creating space for Latine Leadership at CSUSM

Oct. 1, noon-1 p.m., USU 3200

Join first-generation Latine staff leaders at CSUSM for an open conversation about navigating new spaces, finding your voice and creating opportunities for those who come next. Come connect, ask questions and hear real stories about the many paths to leadership.

Week 4 theme: Hecho en Casa: Honoring Families in our Community

Cena familiar

Oct. 6, 6-8 p.m., USU 3200

Celebrate familia, comunidad and culture at Cena Familiar. Students are invited to bring their families and loved ones to campus for a special evening of food, connection and celebration. Gather around the table, meet other members of the CSUSM community and enjoy a warm night centered on the people who support and inspire us.

Entre Familia: Family Collage Boards

Oct. 8, noon- 1 p.m., USU 3200

Students are invited to create a collage celebrating the people, traditions, memories and values that make their families unique. Use drawings, words, magazine cutouts and stickers to reflect on what you love doing together, a tradition you cherish or something that makes you proud. Materials and prompts will be provided.

Week 5 theme: “Latina Foreva”

Cafecito con Pan: Vice President of Student Affairs, Dr. Viridiana Diaz

Oct. 13, noon-1 p.m., USU 3200

Join the Latinx Center for a special Cafecito con Pan featuring Dr. Viridiana Diaz, vice president for Student Affairs, as part of our “Latina Foreva” Week celebration! Diaz will share her personal and professional journey, her path through higher education and the experiences that shaped her leadership. Come enjoy cafecito, pan dulce and conversation with one of our campus leaders.

Chingona Fest in collaboration with the Women and Gender Equity Center

Oct. 15, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Forum Plaza

Chingona Fest is back with a vibrant tianguis (flea market) theme. In collaboration with the Women and Gender Equity Center, join us for a lively celebration of cultura, creativity and community. Swap clothes, make your own bouquet, create Latine-inspired crafts and enjoy free specialty coffee drinks from Tocho Café, a local Latina-owned coffee truck.

Media Contact

Eric Breier, Interim Assistant Director of Editorial and External Affairs

ebreier@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7314

The rankings focus on college access for less-wealthy students and affordability after financial aid. They use factors such as Pell Grant enrollment and expected access based on admissions, test scores and family income.

CSUSM is also 23rd out of 215 colleges in the magazine’s “2026 Best Colleges for Your Tuition (and Tax) Dollars: West” and 50th out of 100 colleges in its list of “America’s Best Four-Year Hispanic-Serving Colleges.”

Last month, CSUSM placed 31^st in the country in SmartAsset’s 2026 study of America’s Best Value Public Universities.

Media Contact

Eric Breier, assistant director of editorial and external affairs
ebreier@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7314

The interdisciplinary minor will explore the scientific, psychological and philosophical dimensions of mindfulness and its impact on well-being.

A total of 17 units are required for the minor in mindfulness:

• PSYC 100 – Introduction to Psychology (3 units)
• KINE 150 – Foundations in Mindfulness (1 unit)
• KINE 310 – Social and Emotional Health (3 units)
• PSYC 344 – Positive Psychology (3 units)
• SOC 425 – Sociological Mindfulness (4 units)
• UNIV 495C – University Internship (3 units)

With a focus on mindfulness, well-being and contemplative practices, the minor aims to provide students with both theoretical foundations and practical methods. It requires completing an internship, which overlaps with the student fellowship requirement.

For more information, contact Ranjeeta Basu at rbasu@csusm.edu.

Media Contact

Eric Breier, assistant director of editorial and external affairs
ebreier@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7314

The paper details findings that suggest complex interactions among visual feedback, hand dominance, age and tremor dynamics in Parkinson’s disease. The paper was co-authored by Ana Carolina Brisola Brizzi, Shirley Ferreira Campos, Melina Paula Sales, Fabrício Duarte de Almeida, Wellington Pedroso and Rodrigo Cunha de Mello Pedreiro.

Pinto Neto has written and published more than 60 peer-reviewed papers.

Media Contact

Eric Breier, assistant director of editorial and external affairs
ebreier@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7314