Chung comes to CSUSM from San Diego State, where he serves as the associate vice president for enterprise information systems. In that role, he oversees the strategic direction and stewardship of SDSU’s enterprise information systems ecosystem. He has worked at the university for more than 14 years, with a diverse portfolio spanning technical and programmatic units in information technology, student affairs and academic affairs.

“I am thrilled to be joining CSUSM and be part of a community that is dedicated to empowering our diverse learners to transform their lives through higher education," Chung said. "As chief information officer, I am humbled to have the unique opportunity to lead and nurture CSUSM’s future in technology. I look forward to collaborating and partnering with the campus and broader Cougars community in service of our students, faculty and staff.”

Before joining SDSU, Chung served as senior technology manager for Student Affairs at UC Riverside.

He brings more than 25 years of experience in both the private and public sectors, including the last 17 years in higher education at major public universities servicing a diverse region and student body. As an entrepreneur and professional in the field of business and technology, he worked with clients ranging from Major League Baseball to Carnegie Hall.

Chung is a proud first-generation graduate of the California State University system, having earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Cal Poly Pomona with an emphasis in computer information systems. He lives in San Diego with his wife, daughter and three dogs.  

Chung replaces John Humes, who has served as interim CIO since January.

Chad Huggins, technical director, CHABSS School of Arts

Responsible for the Arts building, Huggins has been on campus numerous times during the pandemic to supervise upgrades and major repairs, including replacing the dance floor. The nominator noted that he also led and supported all on-campus efforts, including classes that met on campus during the fall and ones meeting on campus this spring.

“This has meant much work with health and safety to establish distancing guidelines, access to PPE, etc., in our classrooms and throughout the building,” the nominator wrote. “It has also meant planning and budgeting kits for students who pay lab fees for their classes. Chad has worked with shop technician Judy Ryan to budget, purchase and distribute these kits that include materials and supplies for students so they can benefit from their art studio classes. Chad has worked with technician Albert Rascon on the digital equipment, including check-out that gives access to photo and video equipment to our students.”

John Pili, library services specialist, Library User Services

Pili was lauded for continually seeking out new methods of connecting with students, including starting up Virtual Library Learn sessions and providing students with encouraging study spaces through Virtual Study Sessions.

“John has been so thoughtful and compassionate toward our students while we all attempt to navigate this virtual world,” the nominator wrote.

“John always puts our students first, and he has not let COVID-19 get in the way of that. He is using this unique opportunity to expand upon his skills in order to improve the experience of our users and ensure they are getting the most out of their experience at CSUSM.”

Blake Schilling, Inspiration Studios coordinator, IITS

Before the university moved to virtual learning last spring, Schilling contacted instructors to make arrangements for them to visit Inspiration Studios to record their lectures as quickly as possible. The nominator noted that when one instructor wanted to visit to record his lectures last fall, Schilling redesigned the learning glass technology so the instructor could record without needing Schilling’s assistance to ensure social distancing.

“Blake further revised the method of using the learning glass so the instructor could record the lectures to the cloud and have immediate access to post them for the class,” the nominator wrote. “The instructor was so pleased with the new functionality, he continued to come weekly and recorded lectures he had previously made because the quality had improved so much.”

Rosa Solorio, custodian, Facility Services

Solorio is assigned to Craven Hall, and her nominator noted her diligence in ensuring that all areas are clean and disinfected.

“I see her disinfecting all of the high-touch surfaces multiple times a day,” the nominator wrote. “There have been so many tasks and cleaning duties added to her already busy schedule, and she has taken them on with a smile and a great work ethic. I have never seen her sitting down or taking a break. I feel safe working in Craven Hall because I know Rosa is there doing her best to keep us safe.

“The work of our custodial team plays a key role in the university’s return-to-campus policies. Without their hard work and dedication, returning to campus would not have been possible. Rosa stands out in that essential department.”

Hugo Wong, library services specialist, Library User Services

Wong was nominated for his instrumental role in ensuring users continue to receive services from the library throughout the pandemic. The nominator noted that Wong’s impact extends beyond the library, as he also monitors the university’s CougarBot.

The nominator noted that during the transition to virtual hours, Wong has helped support numerous events, including the library’s virtual open house and other virtual services.

“With his constant drive to learn and help others learn, I am grateful to work with Hugo and have more opportunities to hear what new skills he has discovered and how we can use those skills to improve our services and workflows,” the nominator wrote. “Hugo has always gone above and beyond, and he continues to be an essential part of the University Library and of CSUSM.”

Media Contact

Eric Breier, Public Affairs Specialist

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

In response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, and in alignment with the California State University’s decision for all 23 campuses to have a unified approach, more than 90% of courses are occurring virtually this fall. Select labs and courses that use specialized equipment or have certain accreditation/licensure requirements will have in-person instruction.

Earlier this month, the university launched its “CSUSM as One” website, which provides information and resources for students, faculty and staff to navigate the fall semester.

While the semester may look different, President Ellen Neufeldt expressed excitement and optimism during her annual Convocation address on Thursday morning.

“Even though this will be unlike any other fall semester in history, I can’t but help feeling excitement for what’s before us,” she said in an address streamed virtually. “So much is in flux, but the fundamental parts of our university are unchanged. Our dedication to our students, our region and each other will move us through and past this moment and on to the next 30 years.”

Computer lab available for students

The University Student Union and IITS have partnered to establish a computer lab in the USU Ballroom and Meeting Rooms for students who need access to computers, printing services, power and/or Wi-Fi.

Beginning Aug. 31, the USU computer lab will be open from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Friday on a first-come, first-served basis.

Students will use the campus app to check into the lab and receive an assigned station. The process is as easy as opening up the app and scanning their digital ID when they arrive. The app also has an “On Campus” button that will show available on-campus services, including the number of computers available in the USU so that students will know if there are open stations before arriving.

Visit this link for more information.

New appointments

• Carl Kemnitz began his tenure as the university’s new provost and vice president of Academic Affairs on July 1.
• Professor of chemistry and biochemistry Jackie Trischman began a one-year appointment as CSTEM’s interim dean on July 1, succeeding the college’s founding dean, Katherine Kantardjieff, who left for a position as provost at Cal State Monterey Bay.
• Biology professor Deborah Kristan began a one-year appointment as interim dean of the College of Education, Health and Human Services on July 1, succeeding Emiliano Ayala, who decided to take on a faculty position in the college as a special education professor.
• The California Indian Culture and Sovereignty Center named Eric S. Trevan as a visiting scholar of innovation, business and economic policy for tribal nations.

COVID-19 testing site

CSUSM is hosting a San Diego County-operated, walk-up coronavirus testing site, expanding critical testing services to North County residents.

The testing center, which is free and open to the public seven days a week, operates independently of the university within the Viasat Engineering Pavilion on campus.

Weeks of Welcome

The annual Weeks of Welcome started Aug. 29 and runs through Oct. 10. It includes dozens of virtual events to meet new people and kick off the new academic year.

Visit the Weeks of Welcome calendar for a complete schedule.

Arts & Lectures for fall

The university’s longstanding Arts & Lectures series is presenting a virtual fall lineup, with all of the events taking place via Zoom. This season boasts a diverse selection of six events.

Attendees can reserve tickets online via the Arts & Lectures website.

Summer snippets

• Psychology professor Sharon Hamill was among 25 faculty and staff members recognized by the California State University system with Faculty Innovation and Leadership Awards for their commitment to student success, particularly in courses or areas with traditionally low success rates or persistent equity gaps.
• Robert Iafe, an associate professor of chemistry, and Paul Jasien, a professor of chemistry and biochemistry, received a grant of almost $1 million from the National Science Foundation that will support the retention and graduation of high-achieving, low-income students in chemistry and biochemistry.
• CSUSM received a best practice award for social equity and justice at the California Higher Education Sustainability Conference for the second straight year.
• TRIO Student Support Services will receive a federal grant of more than $1.7 million over five years, the U.S. Department of Education announced this month.

Media Contact

Eric Breier, Public Affairs Specialist

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

Beginning Aug. 31, the USU computer lab is open from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Friday on a first-come, first-served basis.

Students will use the campus app to check into the lab and receive an assigned station. The process is as easy as opening up the app and scanning their digital ID when they arrive. The app also has an “On Campus” button that will show available on-campus services, including the number of computers available in the USU so that students will know if there are open stations before arriving. 

Students must adhere to all university safety protocols while on campus and in the computer lab, including wearing a face covering. The ballroom has been configured to ensure proper social distancing and workstations will be cleaned and sanitized after each use.

While the computer lab is not considered a “quiet space,” students participating in virtual classes should bring their own headphones so as not to disturb others working in the space.

Second-floor restrooms and the first-floor gender-inclusive restroom will be open and water bottle filling stations are available, though water fountains have been shut off.

No other USU services or spaces will be available for use at this time.

Students can call the USU at 760-750-7450 during the lab’s operating hours with questions or leave a message after hours.

Students needing support for hardware issues (computer, webcam, etc.) or with any software tools (Cougar Courses, Zoom, etc.), should visit the IITS For You Student webpage. For technology needs (laptops, webcams, wireless hotspots, etc.), please visit the IITS For You Appointment webpage.

Media Contact

Eric Breier, Public Affairs Specialist

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

Know someone who deserves special recognition for their efforts? Email details to publicity@csusm.edu and we’ll include them in an upcoming edition of this ongoing series.

Denise Garcia, professor, biology

Garcia quickly implemented changes in the transition to virtual learning to ensure that students would still be successful from home.

“Dr. Garcia has gone above and beyond for all of her students to make sure that we are safe and successful during the pandemic,” the nominator wrote. “She is spending her own time constantly checking in on us, making sure we're aware of campus resources and even giving us her own advice on how to remain calm. She has shared with us resources that include meditation, mindfulness, and is spending valuable time out of her day to cheer us up.”

Ashley Gragido, student success facilitator, Office of Undergraduate Studies

The nominator noted that in addition to Gragido’s tireless work as the student success facilitator, she has served as the faculty lead for First Year Programs’ academic recovery courses.

“Ashley led the team of instructors and taught two sections, including our first for transfer students on probation,” the nominator wrote. “Her passion and dedication for our students came through every day this semester as we reflected on how to best serve students in this crisis, and she used every opportunity to advocate for her students and ensure they were getting the support they needed to succeed, both on an individual level and collectively.”

Michelle Manriquez, student support services lead, IITS

Manriquez was lauded for exemplifying extreme efficiency and effective communication within her team. She made adjustments to employee schedules as needed and continues to support her team while working remotely.

“Michelle personally helps us on issues that we may not be able to handle and ensures that we possess the knowledge required to excel at the Student Technology Help Desk,” the nominator wrote. “On multiple occasions throughout the transition, she went out of her way to ensure all of her employees were able to work from home and that everyone was doing well in this unprecedented time.”

Valissa Middleton, lead, Distribution Services

Debbie Russo, mail clerk, Distribution Services

Middleton and Russo (pictured in a file photo taken before social distancing and face coverings were required) have gone above and beyond to assist IITS in mailing hotspots and webcams to faculty, staff and students.

“Without being asked, Valissa took it upon herself to create a spreadsheet to track and record the serial and IMEI numbers of the equipment being mailed and sends periodic inventory updates,” the nominator wrote. “This information has been extremely helpful to IITS for tracking purposes. She truly is a hero with her positive and helpful attitude.”

The nominator noted that, “even while wearing a mask, you can tell Russo is still smiling.” “When I go to Distribution Services to pick up mail and packages,” the nominator wrote, “her positive attitude and energy are something I look forward to.”

Media Contact

Eric Breier, Public Affairs Specialist

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

Know someone who deserves special recognition for their efforts? Email details to publicity@csusm.edu and we’ll include them in an upcoming edition of this ongoing series.

Christopher Bickel, associate professor, sociology

Bickel has gone out of his way to ensure that students are aware of critical resources, showing them how to apply for unemployment, how to make a mask, even how to grow their own food.

“Professor Bickel has been extremely helpful, kind, understanding, and overall an amazing professor to have during this pandemic,” said the student nominator. “I can say with complete certainty that Professor Bickel is one of the most humane professors that I have had.”

Char Booth, associate dean, library

Booth was instrumental in ensuring a smooth departure from the library building for faculty and staff, even remaining on site to make sure library staff and faculty got everything needed to work remotely.

"They exemplify grace and courage under pressure," the nominator said. "They find ways to get the work done (and done well) in a timely manner, especially in these uncharted waters!"

Susan Eldridge, senior instructional developer, IITS

Eldridge has “been an absolute lifesaver” for faculty during the transition to virtual learning, responding promptly to all questions with detailed information so that faculty know exactly how to proceed.

“I know that Susan is there to support me, and as a result, I have very little anxiety about virtual teaching,” said the nominating faculty member. “I imagine that Susan and the rest of the IITS team are incredibly overwhelmed by emails and phone calls during this time of COVID-19, but you would never know it from Susan's prompt and patient responses.”

Holly Hampton, head of user services, library

Hampton has worked tirelessly to ensure that students and faculty have been able to continue to access the library materials they need despite not having access to the physical space in the library.

"I can say without a doubt that Holly puts students first ... always!" the nominator wrote. "For that, and so much more, I am proud to call her a colleague."

Lauren Magnuson, head of collections, delivery and access, library

Magnuson quickly led a major expansion of the library’s digital collections, making a huge amount of content accessible through free, open-access resources and by working with publishers and vendors.

"Through her tireless efforts and outstanding leadership, Lauren has provided access to online academic materials needed to support the campus’ successful transition to virtual instruction during the COVID-19 pandemic," said a nominating staff member.

Barbara Taylor, director, Academic Technology Services

Even before all the details related to virtual instruction were determined, Taylor was providing training and visiting departments in preparation. She continues to be available around the clock to address questions and concerns.

"She responds so quickly to questions," the nominating faculty member said. "She is super helpful and never seems frustrated when we have the most basic tech questions."

Media Contact

Eric Breier, Public Affairs Specialist

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

Now it’s quite literally a place for inspiration.

Instructional and Information Technology Services (IITS) recently held a grand opening of the new Inspiration Studios, which is located in Kellogg Library 2302. The opening was a huge hit with students, faculty and staff as amazing technological advances of today and the future are on display for hands-on use.

“Technology is a great avenue for inspiration as it creates new learning pathways, and the technologies in our new space definitely aim to inspire both faculty and students,” said Kevin Morningstar, the dean and chief information officer for IITS. “The Augmented and Virtual Reality equipment — all top of the line — are literally gateways to different worlds. With new 3D imaging and production facilities and a number of special use studios for video, music and online content development, the creative opportunities and new technological possibilities of this space will truly inspire all who come here to use these tools.”

One of the most popular features of Inspiration Studios is sure to be the Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) stations. Extended Reality (XR), which blends VR and AR, is not only used in entertainment, but it has become mainstream in areas such as job training and education.

There are enough workstations where a class of 32 students can fully engage with VR experiences throughout a semester. Yuanyuan Jiang currently teaches Computer Science 497-9 Topic Course Virtual Reality in the space. The course helps students develop 3D VR simulation software.

Graphic arts professor Tony Allard plans to move one of his art classes into the studios with the goal of teaching art that goes beyond two dimensions.

“We know that educational institutions and companies are increasingly adopting VR and AR to enhance learning and training beyond what was possible using traditional approaches so we wanted to ensure we are providing experiential learning that sets our students up to succeed in their future studies and employment,” Morningstar said. “For example, virtual reality can be used to help students overcome their fear of public speaking, explore countries and spaces they cannot easily access, restore towns through historical research and digitally enhanced photos, explore oceans or even step inside the human body.”

Inspiration Studios was born from a 2018 conversation between Jiang and Katherine Kantardjieff, dean of the College of Science and Mathematics. Jiang was interested in teaching a class on a programming language used to build VR games called Unity but CSUSM didn’t have the necessary lab computers and technologies.

So the IITS team met with more than 20 campus faculty members who were either utilizing AR/VR technologies or were exploring their use in their respective classrooms. The department then partnered with various technology companies to purchase the latest AR/VR products available. After getting Facilities Development & Management on board, the inspirational environment was created.

“The studios have helped me and my fellow classmates in the VR development course have a place to constantly develop and test our projects that we could not do elsewhere,” said software engineering student Anthony Garcia, who leads the AR/VR student club that meets Fridays from 10 a.m. to noon in the Inspiration Studios. “It is a great asset to the campus. It provides state-of-the-art hardware, software tools and a space for technical and creative minds to come together and create some really engaging and exciting experiences.”

The studios also feature 3D scanning, modeling and printing, an immersive 360-degree video production area, a Learning Glass that is basically a transparent whiteboard, and a laser fabrication machine called Glowforge that uses a laser the width of a strand of hair to cut, engrave and shape designs from a variety of materials.

CSUSM student Christopher Delgadillo is working on a physics research project with professor Ed Price. He visited the grand opening and was blown away by the space’s capabilities.

“This place is the foundation to build a great community,” Delgadillo said. “It’s a great way to bring students in to learn about VR technologies and what it has to offer for educational and job opportunities.”

Inspiration Studios is open to all CSUSM faculty, staff and students. Students are free to drop in to look around any time Monday through Friday between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. Faculty are welcome to reserve the space for instructional use, projects and research. The CSUSM community can reserve a time online.

The former media production space has come a long way in a short time.

“Just like other IITS projects — such as the Kellogg 2000 computer lab update — Inspiration Studios is an example of rethinking our usage of space and technology across campus and ensuring we are doing all we can to prepare our students for the opportunities and challenges of the future,” Morningstar said. “CSUSM is committed to offering students the best educational opportunities and student experience, and Inspiration Studios is a space specifically designed with that principle in mind. This project is also driven by the themes of Innovate, Engage, Connect and Inform, which were developed for the campus’ 2018 CSUSM Technology Strategic Plan.

“Through the implementation of this plan, CSUSM will provide students and faculty with the kinds of technologies that improve learning and better prepare our students for near-future opportunities.”

Media Contact

Eric Breier, Public Affairs Specialist

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

Located in Kellogg Library 2302, this state-of-the-art space is a place where faculty, staff and students can explore exciting technologies of today and tomorrow. Inspiration Studios is the product of IITS’ ongoing dedication to rethinking the relationship of learning, space and technology.

With a focus on virtual reality, augmented reality, 3D printing and much more, Inspiration Studios was designed in response to faculty and student requests to create a space dedicated to preparing students for the jobs available today and future career opportunities.

One example of the new frontiers IITS is exploring includes extended reality (XR), a blend of virtual reality and augmented reality, which has become popular over the past decade and is constantly growing. Depictions of XR in movies and television has been seen for many years, but now this technology is used extensively in education, job training, art and more because of its unparalleled capability for immersion.

IITS has deployed multiple virtual reality development workstations in Inspiration Studios, which has allowed a class of 32 to engage with virtual reality experiences throughout this semester.

Inspiration Studios includes:

• 3D scanning, modeling and printing: allows the design and creation of three-dimensional objects as well as scanning real objects so they can be incorporated into virtual environments to enhance learning.
• Immersive 360 video production: the Insta360 One X allows recording 360-degree video that places the viewer in the middle of the action and creates virtual experiences for the XR systems.
• Learning Glass: a great way to showcase any project that includes writing, including formulas, equations or words. This transparent whiteboard can create dramatic, futuristic recordings of the learning process that can be used to teach content in an engaging manner.
• Laser Fabrication: our Glowforge uses a beam of light the width of a human hair to cut, engrave and shape designs from a variety of materials.

Inspiration Studios retains all of media production studio’s original media-creation capabilities, including videography, photography and audio recording.

The new features unveiled this week complement the current resources and functions available to students, staff and faculty, including dining hours and information, an interactive map, events, campus directory and Cougar Athletics. Since launching in summer 2016, the official CSUSM mobile application has seen over 6,700 downloads.

Register for Classes, Plan your Degree on Your Phone

The latest update to the app features PeopleMobile, a user-experience platform developed by GreyHeller that lets students access their MyCSUSM account easily from any smartphone or tablet.

Previously a view-only module, the new MyCSUSM on a native, mobile platform allows students to:

• Add, drop or swap classes
• Search for classes
• Access Degree Planner
• Plan with College Scheduler
• View class schedules, grades, to-do list

“We are excited to offer students enhanced functionality for MyCSUSM in the mobile app,” said Becky Hunt, director of software development and solutions. “We hope these new features make life easier for students, and we look forward to continually making improvements to the app.”

Summer Course Registration

The enrollment period for Summer 2017 courses begins on March 27. Current CSUSM students can register for summer courses on MyCSUSM online or on the CSUSM mobile app beginning this week. (Students should view their email to find out the exact date their registration opens.) Open enrollment begins April 3.

The Summer 2017 session runs from June 5 to Aug. 12 in either a full session or two blocks. The term is managed by the University’s Extended Learning. Classes are fully transferrable and can help students continue their momentum to degree completion.

To view information about Extended Learning’s tuition costs, add/drop policies and refunds, view: http://www.csusm.edu/el/courses/creditcourses/summer/

Commencement 2017

Graduating students and their guests can find commencement information in the CSUSM mobile app using the Commencement 2017 module. This module can be accessed when users change their persona from the default “student” and select the appropriate Commencement ceremony. The Commencement module contains schedules, graduation participation form and information about the alumni association.

As the events get closer, the module will feature customized notifications to graduates and guests targeted for each ceremony, as well as a live video feed and social media.

Download the CSUSM app now: iTunes | Android

More than just cosmetic, this bold and modern redesign will help the University better showcase key initiatives, highlight stories and share the CSUSM experience with a broad audience. Some of the featured content is top research and compelling campus stories, information for our prospective students on admissions and student life, academic programs, Cougar Athletics, the Forward Together campaign and campus events.

While the web address is the same – www.csusm.edu – the look and feel represents a significant change from the previous website homepage, which launched four years ago in 2012.

“This new design represents a true evolution for the campus homepages as we are updating both the focus and the design," said Kevin Morningstar, CSUSM's Chief Information Officer. "CSUSM’s new look brings a fresh and open design, that is focused on highlighting the campus community with a visual presentation that flows with updated graphics, engaging video, and flexible content that is mobile device friendly.”

In addition to communicating the CSUSM brand to an external audience, the website is also an important information and resource repository for the campus community. A new menu still provides easy access to commonly used internal and external resources such as MyCSUSM, webmail and Cougar Courses. Enhanced search functionality and a complete A to Z site index will also help users navigate to their desired destinations on the web.

The new www.csusm.edu was built with a responsive design, which provides users with an optimal viewing and interaction experience across a wide range of devices. The University homepage will now change in appearance and orientation on a user's phone, tablet or desktop to allow for easy reading and navigation.

This project was led by the CSUSM Web Services team in conjunction with the Office of Communications.

Jim Hamerly, Ph.D. became dean of COBA on June 1 after previously serving as the College's interim dean since fall 2014.

“Dr. Hamerly has acquired a cadre of stellar experience in academia as well as private and corporate business that has prepared him well to lead and guide the College from a unique, dual perspective,” said CSUSM Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Graham Oberem. “In addition to his exceptional teaching abilities, his leadership efforts have focused on supporting student success academically and professionally.”

Over the course of his three decade career in business, Hamerly developed a record of distinguished leadership, serving six years as corporate vice president of AOL Time-Warner, Netscape Communications Corporation and Pages Software, and as the founder, president and CEO of numerous companies. Hamerly also has ten years of corporate research experience at Xerox Webster Research Center and Palo Alto Research Center.

In 2002, Hamerly joined CSUSM as an adjunct faculty member in CoBA, teaching entrepreneurship, corporate venturing, customer analysis, management information systems and operations management. In 2007, he became the director of Business Community Relations, overseeing the signature program Senior Experience, organizing events and mentoring students.

“I am humbled and honored to serve as dean,” said Hamerly. “I am excited about our college’s future and look forward to working with faculty, staff, students, alumni and community partners to advance our programs, while exploring new opportunities to maintain the college’s leadership position on-campus and in the region. I’ve enjoyed teaching and interacting with thousands of students in my ten years at CSUSM, as well as working with over 500 community partners, and look forward to this new challenge.”

Hamerly holds a Bachelor of Science from MIT, a Master of Science from UC Berkeley and a Ph.D. from Carnegie Mellon University in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science. He has had over 50 professional peer reviewed papers and presentations published in various journals, including the Journal of the Optical Society of America, Journal of Applied Photographic Engineering, Journal of Photographic Scientists and Engineers, Physics Today and Vision Research.

Kevin Morningstar joined CSUSM on July 1 as chief information officer (CIO) and dean of Instructional and Informational Services (IITS).

As CIO and dean of IITS, Morningstar is responsible for the management and support of technology throughout campus.

“Mr. Morningstar has built a strong record of developing and implementing forward-thinking technology plans, working collaboratively across all areas of the campus community, managing the investment of millions of dollars of technology and equipment infrastructure, and leading and mentoring departments with large numbers of professional staff,” said Oberem.

Previously Morningstar served at Cal Poly Pomona since 2004, most recently in the position of associate chief information officer for Academic Technology. Prior to that he held information technology positions for the cities of Azusa and Colton.

“I feel very honored to be appointed to the position of dean and chief information officer at California State University San Marcos,” he said. “CSUSM strives to be a leader in the use of information technology that supports the teaching and learning mission, and that was a distinguishing characteristic that attracted me to this opportunity.”

Morningstar holds a master’s degree in business administration from the University of Redlands and a bachelor’s degree in economics from California State University, San Bernardino.