Roundtable Magazine | Summer 2023

Making a difference

Alumna Marissa Figueroa is hired as athletic trainer for

The Master of Social Work program equips graduates to make a difference in their communities.

Contents

The office prepares and equips students for the job search.

Spring Commencement

Lancer Nation commemorates the success of 2023 graduates.

Career Center

Wrestling Coach

Derek Moore talks about being a Lancer and more.

Athletic Trainer

Marissa Figueroa (’19) is hired full time by the NFL team Buffalo Bills.

President’s Note

RONALD L. ELLIS, PH.D.

Fellow Lancers,

What a great time to be at California Baptist University! Welcome to the Summer 2023 edition of the Roundtable.

This past April, we celebrated commencement with 1,795 graduates. Family, friends, faculty and staff enjoyed this cheerful occasion that honored the hard work of our students to achieve their goals. We’re happy to feature the stories of some of our graduates in this issue of the Roundtable, along with links to their graduate profile videos.

This edition of the Roundtable highlights some of CBU’s incredible programs. One of those is the Master of Social Work program in the College of Behavioral and Social Sciences, which is preparing workers to go into our communities and support the needs of children, medicine, veterans and policy. The need for this type of social support continues to grow, and the need to be a community that serves has never been more important than it is today.

Another exciting story in this edition of the Roundtable is the success of Marissa Figueroa, class of 2019. Figueroa was hired as the Buffalo Bills’ first full-time female athletic trainer this past May. Figueroa received her master’s in athletic training and talks one-on-one with the Roundtable about how CBU prepared her for this career-changing experience.

Lancer Athletics have much to celebrate! In women’s golf, junior Hailey Loh became the first Lancer to claim a conference championship; CBU wrestling claimed its first Big 12 dual victory; track stars Greta Karinauskaite and Yasna Petrova became the first two Lancers to qualify for the National Championships; the STUNT squad claimed back-to-back National Championships; and Lancer baseball earned a berth to their first Division I postseason.

Additionally, Lancer Athletics saw the return of former Athletic Director Dr. Micah Parker as CBU’s vice president for Athletics. He is overseeing our 20 intercollegiate sports teams, 18 of which compete in the NCAA.

This edition of the Roundtable features a few new columns that I hope you enjoy: a devotional, a history piece and A View of CBU — photos from around campus.

I hope you are enjoying your summer and may the Lord continue to bless!

Ronald L. Ellis, Ph.D., President California Baptist University

THE MAGAZINE OF CALIFORNIA BAPTIST UNIVERSITY

SUMMER 2023

VOLUME 65 • ISSUE 2

EDITOR

Angela Meluski

MANAGING EDITOR

Vivian Quezada

ASSOCIATE EDITORS

Kristeen Farlow, Lauren Rios, Amanda Warner

ART DIRECTOR

Edgar Garcia

SENIOR DESIGNER

Kyle Ready

PHOTOGRAPHY

CBU Athletics, Edgar Garcia, Vivian Quezada

CONTRIBUTOR

CBU Athletics

SUBSCRIPTION INQUIRIES

California Baptist University Division of University Advancement advancementservices@calbaptist.edu 951.343.4226

Alumni and Donor Information Division of University Advancement 800.782.3382 calbaptist.edu/advancement

Admissions and Information

Department of Admissions 8432 Magnolia Avenue Riverside, CA 92504-3297 877.228.8866

The Roundtable is published three times annually for the alumni and friends of California Baptist University.

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Around Campus

CBU triumphs at ADDY Awards

California Baptist University won big this year at both national and local American Advertising Awards ceremonies. A total of 77 medals — including Best of Show — were awarded to CBU at the 2023 Inland Empire American Advertising Awards gala on March 10. On June 2, CBU students won five ADDYs at the national awards competition held in St. Louis.

In the Inland Empire awards competition, CBU design students won a remarkable 58 awards including all 12 of the student Gold awards. CBU design professors and alumni also won a total of 19 awards including eight Gold awards in the professional categories.

Student Lexi Birdsell won Best of Show – the top award for the Inland Empire ADDYs. Gwen Godfrey was presented with the Mosaic Award for her commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion through creative work and advocacy. Anne Sowers won the most individual awards, receiving five Gold.

In addition to student awards, Michael Berger, professor of graphic design, and Christopher Wright, assistant professor of graphic design and visual experience, won a total of 17 awards in the professional awards category, with seven being gold. Two CBU alumni also won in the professional category, including a Gold award.

“To be acknowledged in this way by professionals in our discipline is a testament to the exceptional academic standards we uphold in our program, and the dedication and creativity of our students and professors,” said Dirk Dallas, program lead for graphic design and visual experience at CBU.

Dr. Ellis inducted into Riverside Sport Hall of Fame

At the national competition, CBU students won five ADDYs, the most CBU has ever won in the competition. Birdsell won Gold and the Special Judges Award; Sowers won Gold and Silver; and Hannah Krispin won Silver.

In May, Dr. Ronald L. Ellis, president of CBU, was inducted into the Riverside Sport Hall of Fame. The honor, which had been scheduled for 2020, recognized Ellis for his leadership in the community, including his contributions in the promotion of sporting activities and expanding sports programs.

The Riverside Sport Hall of Fame recognizes athletes, coaches, athletic administrators and community leaders who have brought fame or honor to the City of Riverside through their involvement in athletics.

Under his leadership, CBU has moved to the highest sports level in the NCAA. Initially, CBU competed in the NAIA and won 22 national championships in 12 years. Then the Lancers gained membership in NCAA Division II, with CBU continuing to compete strongly in the Pacific West Conference (winning the 2012 Commissioner’s Cup in their first year). The Lancers also won the NCAA Division II Learfield Directors Cup in 2018. In the 2018–19 season, CBU began a multi-year transition to NCAA Division I status as a member of the Western Athletic Conference, which was achieved in 2022.

Additionally, the state-of-the-art Dale E. and Ann Fowler Events Center opened in November 2017 and is home to various university sporting events and on-campus activities.

In 2012, the Hall of Fame presented Ellis with the Chuck Kane Leadership Award for developing principle-centered leadership, increasing productivity and quality of work while maintaining professional and personal relationships.

“To be acknowledged in this way by professionals in our discipline is a testament to the exceptional academic standards we uphold in our program.” — Dirk Dallas

Film festival showcases students’ work on the big screen

Student filmmakers, peers, families and fans filled the theater at Ramona High School in Riverside for the CBU Student Film Festival on April 22, 2023. The event was held in conjunction with the Riverside International Film Festival. The 14 films — 12 minutes or shorter — included genres such as drama, comedy and thriller as well as a music video and documentary.

The event gives the students the experience of attending a film festival with their film, said Michael Eaton, professor of film studies and film production.

“Screening their short films for a film festival audience is an extremely valuable experience for our student filmmakers because it gives them the opportunity to gauge audience response and to potentially receive awards for their hard work on each film,” Eaton said.

Students handle every aspect of the filmmaking, including scriptwriting, casting, filming and editing.

For Michael Metzler Jr., then a film senior, editing is one of his favorite parts. “When you’re filming it, it’s all cut up in nonchronological order,” Metzler said. “Being able to splice them all together and seeing like, ‘oh, actually this is giving me the effect that I wanted,’ and ‘this is how it’s actually going to look to the audience,’ that’s probably the most fun.”

Watching his films on the big screen with an audience, Metzler said he enjoys the feeling in the room and listening to the audience’s reactions.

“Hearing them laugh at the parts that you wanted them to laugh at — ‘OK, good, it’s actually working,’ because if the audience doesn’t even laugh, then there’s not really much point to it,” Metzler said.

“Screening their short films for a film festival audience is an extremely valuable experience for our student filmmakers because it gives them the opportunity to gauge audience response and to potentially receive awards for their hard work on each film.”

— Michael Eaton

MIND. BODY. SPIRIT.

“I will instruct you and teach you in the way which you should go; I will advise you with My eye upon you.”

Psalm 32:8 (NASB)

Equipping students for the job search

Whether you’re an undergrad, graduate or alumni, the CBU Career Center is here to help you prepare for life after college. From career fairs to interview prep to work experience, students can take advantage of the opportunities available to them:

• Career fairs bring companies and organizations on campus.

• Career Center staff provide guidance and input through mock interviews and resume reviews.

• Students can borrow professional clothes to be interview ready.

During the 2022-23 academic year, the Career Center worked with a record number of students to provide the support they needed to prepare for their future.

1,477 MOCK INTERVIEWS 326

PEOPLE ATTENDED THE ENGINEERING FAIR, A RECORD ATTENDANCE

2,385 STUDENT PROFILES WERE REVIEWED INCLUDING RESUMES,COVER LETTERS, HANDSHAKE PROFILES AND LINKEDIN PROFILES

HANDSHAKE

1,149 RESUMES REVIEWED

101 TIMES STUDENTS RENTED CLOTHES FROM THE CAREER CENTER CLOSET

1,364 STUDENTS ATTENDED 10 CAREER FAIRS

AN ONLINE RECRUITING TOOL FOR COLLEGE STUDENTS TO FIND JOBS OR INTERNSHIPS ON CAMPUS OR WITH REPUTABLE EMPLOYERS

Through each interaction, the Career Center intentionally prepares students on what to expect when they enter the professional world.

Lisa Blair, director of the Career Center, is grateful for the center’s achievements in continuing to foster student success and enhancing employer engagement.

“Through innovative programs, career guidance and an unwavering dedication, we have empowered CBU candidates with numerous opportunities for their professional and interpersonal growth,” Blair said.

“The Career Center’s commitment to student success and strong partnerships with employers remains at the core of our mission. We aim to ensure that every student has the support and opportunities they need to excel in the ever-evolving professional landscape.”

Patricia Brenes (’23) utilized the tools offered by the Career Center to practice her interview skills and found the mock interviews and resume critiques to be helpful.

“The mock interview provided me with the confidence and strategies to stand out during the interview process,” Brenes said. “With respect to the resume critique, Lindsay Davis (Career Center counselor) provided feedback that added value to the information I provided about my professional experience and academic background.”

Brenes encourages students to take advantage of the services the Career Center offers.

“The staff is not only knowledgeable and friendly, but they know what employers are looking for and can guide students to success,” Brenes said.

Lisa Blair

Student Robert Shields, right, reviews his resume with Pablo Hidalgo, career counselor.

EQUIPPING SOCIAL WORKERS TO HELP OTHERS

The need for social workers is greater than ever — in areas that involve children, medicine, veterans and policy, among others. In 2021, there were more than 708,000 social work jobs in the U.S. The profession is expected to grow nine percent by 2031, faster than average, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

708,000

The Master of Social Work program in the College of Behavioral and Social Sciences wants to help communities contend with their social needs. The program – which currently has more than 300 students – provides graduates with the knowledge and skills necessary to work in clinical and community practice.

The program also features weekly Bible studies, a social cinema series, global immersion experiences, faculty mentoring and professional development activities that grow students fully as excellent social work practitioners, said Dr. Charles Lee-Johnson, associate dean of the Division of Social Work.

“At CBU, our focus on faith integration provides social workers with the important skills to incorporate their clients’ faith in their intervention,” he said. “Many clients have a faith orientation, and appreciate when

their clinician can empower and equip them to better understand and utilize their faith for their healing.”

Graduates go on to work in a variety of fields, including medical, family, legal, child protection and education. They conduct research, provide agency leadership and work to change policy. They serve diverse and underserved populations, address a variety of social issues and improve the well-being of individuals, families and communities.

“Employers often rave about CBU MSW graduates concerning their ability to effectively work with individuals, families, groups, organizations and communities,” Lee-Johnson said. “They are more wellrounded and equipped to serve the diverse needs of vulnerable populations.”

did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you?

did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’ The King

BRANDI DAVIS-MURRAY (’23)

ASSOCIATE THERAPIST WITH DISCOVERY MOOD AND ANXIETY PROGRAM IN TEMECULA, CALIFORNIA

Davis-Murray always had a desire to serve those in need. Prior to starting graduate school, she volunteered and gave back whenever opportunities presented themselves.

“Being a Master of Social Work graduate allows me to live out my God-given purpose to serve and advocate for the vulnerable and marginalized in a greater capacity.”

She said the curriculum is heavy but a perfect combination of requirements that helped stretch her. Additionally, the Culture and Justice Lecture Series, social work conference requirements and other professional development webinars and workshops provided opportunities to network and grow within the social work field.

Several professors and staff have helped Davis-Murray on her CBU journey. She highlighted Dr. Dretona Maddox, assistant professor of social work.

“She served as my field liaison and field seminar instructor. Her compassion for the work that she does is apparent through her words and actions. She poured into our class with so much grace, and she made herself available to me when I needed support. I am so grateful for her.”

Davis-Murray appreciated the field practicum and CBU’s Office of Field Education for providing placement opportunities rather than students having to find agencies on their own.

“The field practicum experience allowed me to apply the theories I learned in class and put them into practice in the field. This experience also provided spaces for me to debrief and gain unique perspectives from seasoned social workers working with various populations within the field.”

THE MASTER OF SOCIAL WORK PROGRAM EMPOWERS STUDENTS TO GROW IN THEIR FAITH AND FOLLOW THE COMMAND OF JESUS IN MATTHEW 25:35–40:

“Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When

When

will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’”

Field work

Students in the Master of Social Work program must complete 900 hours of field work. The program offers many options for completing this requirement with organizations that serve marginalized populations throughout the Inland Empire, including school districts, foster care agencies and inmate services. The Office of Field Education within the Division of Social Work partners with more than 250 agencies in the community that provide field practicum opportunities to students. Here are two of them.

Olive Crest

Olive Crest is a nonprofit organization that comes alongside atrisk children and families in and parallel to the child welfare system to ensure safe and loving families. Services include the Wraparound program (individualized services for youth with complex needs), a foster care program, transitional housing program services, an outpatient counseling center and short-term residential treatment. It also has a church-based, volunteer-driven host families program, offering 24-hour care for children whose parents may need extra support.

Master of Social Work interns serve in the Wraparound, foster/ adoption and transitional housing programs, as well as on intake and training teams.

Addison Cooper, regional programs manager for Olive Crest, said the organization values its partnership with CBU.

“By working together, we can make a tangible difference in the lives of the children and families that we serve — and we can also prepare the next generation of social workers to be well-equipped for confident, competent and sustainable careers,” Cooper said.

Olive Crest has hired several CBU MSW graduates as full-time staff and has also partnered with CBU’s Bachelor of Social Work program.

“CBU students are intentional about allowing faith to integrate with their practice. They’re eager to serve and are typically pursuing social work as a calling and a living out of their purpose,” Cooper said. “It’s been a joy to partner with CBU students.”

JORDAN WHITE

MASTER OF SOCIAL WORK STUDENT

White knew she wanted a career centered around helping, working with and getting to know people. Choosing to pursue an MSW made the most sense.

White earned her Bachelor of Arts in Sociology at CBU in 2022. Continuing at CBU for her master’s was an easy choice because she trusted the faculty.

“They have so much to offer; they are intelligent, successful, intense people who have dedicated their careers to being and creating world changers. They pass down content along with their diverse experience,” she said.

White thought that once she entered the program, she would immediately know what type of social work she would pursue.

“Thus far, it has made me feel the opposite; I want to do it all. This program teaches me not to limit myself or my passions. It prepares me not to receive information as a deposit but to truly analyze it and allow it to shape how I communicate.”

White said the program is not short of exceptional faculty members, specifically mentioning Dr. Amy Stumpf, professor of religion, society and culture, and Dr. Jacqueline Gustafson, dean of the College of Behavioral and Social Sciences.

“They are people I admire and professionals I look up to for guidance. Graduate school comes with its form of challenges. Dr. Gustafson and Dr. Stumpf have given their time, prayers, support and ear as I have come to them with questions, frustrations, tears and successes.”

Field practicum provides hands-on experience working in a social work setting, she said.

“I have gotten the opportunity to work with a diverse population of clients while working with professionals. As students, we learn content in the classroom and become professionals in the field. It is such a unique and fantastic opportunity.”

FAITHS Throughcare Program

The Family Attachment Interventions Through Healing Solutions (FAITHS) Throughcare Program serves the justice-involved population and their families throughout San Bernardino County. FAITHS provides psychoeducational classes, one-on-one counseling, case management and community engagement.

MSW students can experience multiple types of programming but are primarily involved in class facilitation, case management and community engagement projects.

Dr. Evan Thomas (‘16, ’19, ’22), director of reentry operations, is a co-founder of FAITHS.

“The FAITHS team invites the next generation of CBU and other university partner students to get involved serving this population and sharing the same educational process that helped shape FAITHS as students emerge into the field and develop their professional identity,” Thomas said.

FAITHS is grateful for the high-quality interns received from multiple universities, including CBU students who stand out because of their levels of empathy and perseverance, he said. Challenges of social work exist in part because some systems are not conducive for the clients.

“To serve clients in those systems, and expend the energy to change said systems, takes a high level of perseverance that is often found in CBU students,” Thomas said. “Additionally, it takes a significantly caring type of person, someone with empathy, to see past a client’s mistakes and acknowledge them for the person they are. Perseverance and empathy often ultimately lead to client rehabilitation, safer communities and breaking intergenerational cycles of trauma.”

JULIA OLSON

MASTER OF SOCIAL WORK STUDENT

Olson has watched how people used their power to oppress others. She felt a calling to pursue her MSW so she might watch God restore some of that power back to people.

“God is doing beautiful acts of restoration all over the world, and I want a front row seat to it!” she said.

Olson earned her Bachelor of Arts in Sociology at CBU in 2022, and she trusted the way the professors blended course content with the Christian worldview.

“We help others because of the gospel, and I wanted to be in a program that would strengthen this practice in me.”

The faculty keeps students motivated and inspired to become excellent social workers.

“It’s easy to remember who you are working for when the professors are passionate as well. With

their level of expectations, I know that I am being prepared to serve with diligence.”

Olson wanted to thank Dr. Amy Stumpf, professor of religion, society and culture, who provided a lens of compassion to her curriculum.

“She has expanded the worldview of many students into thinking about global issues while keeping their hearts soft for others.”

Olson said the practicum opportunities provide a firsthand experience into social work, giving interns a chance to enter the field while also having room to make low-level mistakes. This rounds out the students’ practice and teaches real-world problems and solutions.

“CBU has done so much to provide us with a quality education. My classmates and I feel as though we are constantly learning new things, and this feeling is priceless. I know that I will be properly equipped to serve in the field once I graduate.”

“Everybody can be great because everybody can serve.”

— Martin Luther King Jr.

SPRING COMMENCEMENT HONORS GRADUATES

After years of hard work and a commitment to succeed, students of the CBU graduating class of 2023 joined a nearly 75-year legacy of alumni as they walked across the stage in the Dale E. and Sarah Ann Fowler Events Center. In front of family and friends, the graduates — totaling 1,795 — were recognized by CBU President Dr. Ronald L. Ellis and the Board of Trustees. While the walk itself is a mere 30 steps, what it signifies is monumental.

CBU honored graduates for a job well done at five commencement ceremonies during the week of April 24, 2023. Combined applications for commencement encompassed 21 candidates for doctoral degrees, 600 candidates for master’s degrees, and 1,174 candidates for undergraduate degrees. This graduating class was part of record enrollment at CBU, totaling 11,496 students.

Ellis recognized the students’ hard work and their efforts to earn their degrees in the commencement address.

“Through the sacrifices you made, your true character was exemplified, and the relentless pursuit of your educational goals was steadfast,” he said. “You manifested what it means to Live Your Purpose.®”

“May you move forward with the same resolve that has guided you to this joyful day of celebration,” Ellis said. “May your CBU experience and your CBU degree serve as solid building blocks in a sturdy foundation for all your ambitions and dreams.”

COMMENCEMENT GRADUATES

21 CANDIDATES FOR DOCTORAL DEGREES

600 CANDIDATES FOR MASTER’S DEGREES

1,174 CANDIDATES FOR UNDERGRADUATE DEGREES

Dale E. and Sarah Ann Fowler were recognized for their $28.5 million gift commitment to the university, the largest in CBU’s history. The Fowlers have a history of philanthropic gifts benefiting higher education institutions. CBU named its events center in honor of their generosity. They also each received an honorary doctoral degree.

Adrian Jacobs

BACHELOR OF ARTS, PHILOSOPHY AND ENGLISH OUTSTANDING SENIOR AWARD

Jacobs is a member of the Alpha Chi National Honor Society and was president of CBU’s chapter of Sigma Tau Delta. She received the 2023 A.J. Staples Award for Outstanding English Major and the Scott B. Key Award for Outstanding Philosophy Major.

Amanda Low

BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN CHEMICAL ENGINEERING MIN SUNG KIM INTERNATIONAL STUDENT AWARD

Low is an international student from Malaysia and was recognized for outstanding academic performance. While at CBU, she was on the President’s List for academic merit and interned for the International Center.

Click here to view the 2023 Commencement Ceremonies

GRADUATE SNAPSHOTS

Rachel Blom

BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN ACCOUNTING, BACHELOR OF ARTS IN CHRISTIAN STUDIES

What advice would you give incoming students?

Rely on Christ for strength when we know we are lacking. It is OK when we are going through rough times, because it is ultimately the Lord who is our strength. Call on Him and He will carry you through.

Briana Beltran

BACHELOR OF ARTS IN SPANISH

How did CBU help prepare you for your career?

CBU provided me the opportunity to learn how to honor God in everything I do and see my career as an opportunity to serve God and others. Instead of expecting good things to happen, I have learned that I already have the best gift, redemption through Jesus Christ.

Kylee Price

BACHELOR OF ARTS IN INTERIOR DESIGN, BACHELOR OF ARTS IN PHOTOGRAPHY

Tell us about a favorite CBU event or a special part of attending CBU. One of my favorite events at CBU would have to be the Festival of Color. I love experiencing other cultures, and the throwing of the color is always a bonus.

Rosalee Tilden

BACHELOR OF ARTS IN PSYCHOLOGY

How did CBU help prepare you for your career?

CBU helped confirm my passion for psychology and specifically in the ways that I feel prepared to go into counseling. I have a solid foundation in not only my knowledge of psychology but also in my faith and how I view the world from a biblical perspective.

Kevon Lee

MASTER OF SCIENCE IN HIGHER EDUCATION

LEADERSHIP AND STUDENT DEVELOPMENT

Tell us about a professor or staff member who helped you on your CBU journey.

Dr. Keyisha Holmes, adjunct professor of education, helped me along my way. Not only did she help me with my studies, but she helped me in the professional world. She wanted to see me succeed in all aspects of my life. I believe this is what a great professor should do.

Jessica Johanson

BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN COMMUNICATION

SCIENCES AND DISORDERS, BACHELOR OF ARTS IN INTERCULTURAL STUDIES

What advice would you give incoming students?

I encourage incoming students to get to know their professors and learn from them. There are so many great professors at CBU representing so many fields of knowledge and interest. Start building those connections early on in your college career and learn from them the most that you can.

Nick DiSanto

BACHELOR OF COMPUTER SCIENCE

Tell us about a favorite event at CBU. The Christmas tree lighting was always my favorite event! The candles, snow, donation boxes and holiday food make the entire event cozy and nostalgic. As a basketball fan, however, it’s hard not to say Midnight Madness. The school’s excitement at sporting events is infectious!

Fatemah Davoodi Samiri

BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN NURSING

What advice would you give incoming students?

Don’t give up on your dreams and don’t let the fear of being too late stop you from pursuing them. Stay positive, believe in yourself and trust in God. He knows what’s best for us, even when we don’t.

Marissa Figueroa

NFL Athletic Trainer

Marissa Figueroa (’19) became the first woman hired as a full-time athletic trainer for the NFL team Buffalo Bills in May 2023.

As an assistant athletic trainer, she plays an integral role as part of the overall medical team for the Bills. In addition to helping the football players recover from injuries, she also trains athletes through injury prevention techniques and treatment.

We recently talked with Marissa to learn more about her role as an NFL athletic trainer and her path to achieving this career goal. The interview was edited for length and clarity.

What was your response to being the Buffalo Bills’ first female full-time athletic trainer?

It was incredible, and it’s still super exciting. It was emotional as it brought me back to the moment eight years ago when I dreamt of wanting to be an athletic trainer in the NFL while at Humboldt State University as an undergraduate student.

What was your path to achieving your dream as an NFL athletic trainer?

After graduating from Humboldt State in 2015, I came back home to Corona, California, to work as a student intern athletic trainer for Centennial High School and as a physical therapy aid in sports rehabilitation.

To achieve my dream, I needed to get a master’s degree in athletic training and I chose to attend California Baptist University in 2017. During my second year in the program, I secured a summer internship as an athletic training intern with the Los Angeles Chargers football team.

When I graduated from CBU, I sent out my resume to every NFL team for an internship as an athletic trainer. I didn’t get a response from anyone right away.

Ultimately, I received a fellowship with the University of California, Davis, as an athletic trainer. From 2019 to 2021, I worked with the football and women’s lacrosse teams and gained a lot of invaluable experience.

In 2021, I secured a seasonal internship with the Buffalo Bills as an athletic trainer. The first year was about growing as a professional. The second year was a time to show what I can do to support the athletic training staff. This led to the lifechanging moment of becoming an athletic trainer with the organization this year.

How did CBU help prepare you?

One of the biggest things about going to CBU was it helped me come back to my faith, which was important to me. CBU did a great job preparing me for a career in athletic training. The trauma training course was a great course that helped prepare me for the unexpected, and manual therapy was a good way to connect with players. Better understanding players and their athletic training needs was essential.

What was your most memorable experience as an athletic trainer?

There are so many memorable experiences every day. However, in 2020 with everything that happened (COVID-19 pandemic), we could no longer be in the same space as the players due to restrictions. We also couldn’t be hands on, which is such a big part of what we do. We had to shift how we connected with players and utilized technology platforms such as Zoom and tele-med services to continue helping our student athletes during social distancing.

Who has been the biggest influence in your life and why?

My grandparents on both my parents’ sides have been my biggest influence. They have faced adversities throughout their lives as they sought to give their children a better future. From working since a very young age to support their families to immigrating to a new country from Mexico to serving in the military — their shared experiences created a better life for my parents and thus myself. I learned about hard work and resilience from the opportunities they cultivated for me. They inspired me to do well and dream big. I am so grateful for the support I had and the opportunities I have experienced.

What advice do you have for students in the athletic training program?

My advice for students is that the amount you get out of it ties to what you put into it. There will be times when you will not get hands-on experience. That is when you need to have an open mind and be able and willing to observe and ask good questions.

It is also important to find people who can support you as mentors. I didn’t do this alone. There are people out there who are willing to help you get through the journey.

What are your career goals?

I have a lot of professional growth and learning ahead of me, but one day I would love to be a head athletic trainer.

Marissa Figueroa was among the medical staff honored on Jan. 8, 2023. The medical staff is credited for helping save the life of football safety Damar Hamlin who suffered a cardiac arrest during a game on Jan. 2.

BASEBALL

The Lancers finished 15-15 in conference play and earned a berth to their first Division I postseason, snagging the eighth seed in their inaugural Western Athletic Conference Tournament. Significant nonconference wins this season included a 2-1 series win over Power 5 Oklahoma during the preseason and against University of California, Santa Barbara, at home when they were ranked #9 by Collegiate Baseball Newspaper. Liam Rocha was named the WAC Pitcher of the Year.

STUNT

STUNT squad claimed back-to-back-to-back National Championships and moved to 56-0 as a program. The Lancers finished their historic season with a program-best 22 wins and an unprecedented third national championship. Brandon Seagondollar was named 2023 Division I STUNT National Coach of the Year.

Josh Paino

Breanna Marie Gonzalez

The Lancers men's swim and dive team had a strong showing at the 2023 Western Athletic Conference Swim and Dive Championships. Divers swept the platform event and also placed in the top two spots in the 1 meter. Gael Jimenez took gold in those events and the 3 meter. In the lanes, Mark Kovacsics won the 1,650 freestyle, and Remi Fabiani placed first in the 100 freestyle.

Jimenez and Fabiani became the first swim and dive student-athletes to represent CBU in the NCAA National Championships. Jeff Couto was named 2023 WAC Men’s Diving Coach of the Year.

SWIM AND DIVE WOMEN’S GOLF

Junior Hailey Loh won the 2023 WAC Women's Golf Individual Championship — becoming the first Lancer golfer in program history to claim a conference championship.

Gael Jimenez

Remi Fabiani

TRACK

At the WAC Outdoor Track and Field Championships, CBU's Valentin Soca placed first in the 1500M for men and Maelle Porcher placed first for women. Greta Karinauskaite came in as the defending WAC Champion in the women's 3000M steeplechase. She set the program record, meet record, 2023 NCAA record and secured a top-20 best time in NCAA history with a time of 9:35.55.

In its first year eligible, the team sent six athletes to the NCAA DI West Regionals. In the steeplechase, Karinauskaite ran 9:26.88, setting a West Regional record. Yasna Petrova finished 11th overall in the women’s 5K, a personal best of 15:45.14. The two became the first two Lancers in program history to qualify for the National Championships in Austin, Texas.

The season came to an incredible finish at Nationals: Karinauskaite brought home a silver medal and Petrova finished in the top 20.

WRESTLING

CBU defeated Wyoming 22-10 in Laramie for its first Big 12 dual victory. The Lancers also defeated Cal State Bakersfield 23-17 on the road to earn its first-ever win over the program.

Frank Almaguer

DEREK MOORE

HEAD WRESTLING COACH

2023 Amateur Wrestling News Rookie Coach of the Year

Why did you become a Lancer?

I was recruited by the former head wrestling coach, Lennie Zalesky, to join his staff six years ago. During my visit to campus, I participated in an athletics staff meeting with all the Lancer coaches where they began the meeting with a devotion and ended the meeting with a prayer. I was in awe. I had never experienced an athletics department that truly incorporated faith into the coaching and student experience. I felt strongly called to be part of what was being built here in Riverside.

What is your favorite part about being at CBU?

There is a certain sense of community, respect and support. This is a university that is truly invested in their mission of helping young men and women find and live their purpose in life. The coaches, professors, spiritual leaders and everyone else involved in the mission are working together to support the students.

Who are the most influential people in your career?

I have been mentored by two head coaches in my life, Andy Lausier and Lennie Zalesky. I started my coaching career at Sacred Heart University in Fairfield, Connecticut, after spending six years in the U.S. Army as a field artillery officer. Andy helped guide me through the process of connecting with my athletes rather than treating them like soldiers. Coach Zalesky was my college wrestling coach, so it was special to be able to coach beside him. He helped me understand the power of grace and supporting my student-athletes through their setbacks.

What is your goal for wrestling at CBU?

My vision for CBU wrestling is to develop a nationally elite program that glorifies God through the actions and success of our wrestlers.

What do you want the student-athletes to learn?

My prayer for my guys is that by being part of our program they learn how to chase down their dreams with integrity, how to overcome challenges and use those experiences to support others through their challenges and how to find gratitude in any situation they find themselves.

Your favorite:

Sports memory: NCAA title in 2007 and coaching CBU wrestler Daxton Gordon to his NCAA title in 2018.

Childhood memory: childhood memories is when my parents would take me and my five siblings to my uncle’s ranch in Northern California every Thanksgiving. We would ride horses, play football, play soccer and eat way too much of my aunt’s amazing homemade crescent rolls, which I later found out were Pillsbury.

Food: Movie or “The Bourne Identity” TV show Music Bon Jovi is a go-to.

Hobby: fishing, surfing, boating.

Parker returns to oversee the next era of athletics at CBU

CBU welcomes back a familiar face, as Dr. Micah Parker returns to the University as the vice president for athletics. He previously served as CBU’s athletic director from 2009 to 2020. Since he left, CBU has successfully completed the fouryear transition to NCAA Division I, with the board officially granting active status to the institution in August 2022.

“It feels like a homecoming,” Parker said. “CBU is a special place and I am excited to return and lead the Lancer athletic mission of honoring Christ through excellence in athletics. The program continues to push the boundaries of collegiate sport and I look forward to advancing Lancer Nation into an era of Division I post-transition success.”

CBU leadership share Parker’s enthusiasm for his return, pointing to his more than 30 years of faithful athletic leadership and management experience as reasons to select him for the role.

“Our athletic teams compete at the highest levels of play and Dr. Parker has a proven track record that nets results,” said CBU President Dr. Ronald L. Ellis. “His knowledge of the campus, experience with Division I athletic play, vision to advance the program, and strong Christ-centered leadership style make him a great fit to take Lancer athletics into the future.”

Eighteen of the Lancers’ 20 intercollegiate sports — nine men and 11 women teams — compete in the NCAA. Parker will oversee the program that now has 585 student athletes.

Parker, who has been a part of 57 conference titles and numerous national championships as a coach and director of athletics, rejoins the CBU Lancers after three years as the vice president for athletics at Northwestern College in Orange City, Iowa.

CBU saw many advancements in Lancer Athletics during Parker’s initial 11 years as athletic director. He oversaw the institution’s transitions from the NAIA to NCAA Division II as well as the initial years to NCAA Division I and the invitation to the Western Athletic Conference. He created a corporate sponsorship program and athletic development board, and

“CBU is a special place and I am excited to return and lead the Lancer athletic mission of honoring Christ through excellence in athletics.” — Dr. Micah Parker

CBU FUN FACTS

LANCER STATUE, EVENTS CENTER

The Mounted Lancer is 10 feet tall and weighs over 4,000 pounds. Before games, fans rub the front hoof in hopes of a Lancer victory.

THE CBU SEAL

The CBU seal is located outside of the Eugene and Billie Yeager Center near the Stamps Courtyard. Rumor has it that if a CBU student steps on the seal and doesn’t run to touch the CBU Ring located across the quad within 30 seconds, the student won’t graduate on time.

WANDA’S

A popular dining destination, Wanda’s was not always located in the Yeager Center. When it opened in 1991, it was located in the basement of the James Building. Wanda’s is named after Wanda Price, a longtime CBU employee and friend of the university.

INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

In 2022-23, CBU had more than 270 international students representing 57 countries.

CBU’S ORIGINAL LOCATION

California Baptist College was originally founded in El Monte, California, in 1950. When CBC outgrew the property, it moved to Riverside in 1955.

CBU Through the Years: Annie Gabriel Library

The Annie Gabriel Library was built in 1922, originally to serve as a retirement home and hospital for the fraternal organization known as Woodmen of the World. After purchasing the property in 1954, California Baptist College moved from its original location in El Monte, California, to Riverside in 1955.

On October 20, 1958, CBC celebrated the dedication of the library in the former hospital area. The library is named after Annie Gabriel, whose generous gift of $56,000 in 1960 enabled the initial development of the library’s collection and helped bring its holdings to 27,500 volumes in the early 1960s, which was the number of volumes required for the college’s accreditation.

Gabriel was a nurse and lived in the San Bernardino/ Riverside area and attended Magnolia Baptist Church. She believed in the mission of the college and wanted to help it grow.

The library is now home to over 510,000 books, including a 1780 edition of “A Select Collection of Hymns” which was a hymnal edited under the direction of Selina Hastings, Countess of Huntingdon in England. Hastings was active in John and Charles Wesley’s and George Whitefield’s early Methodist movement in the 18th century.

The library also houses a small collection of illuminated manuscripts dating to the 12th century that were hand-copied by medieval monks at the monastery of Monte Cassino in Italy.

The library hopes to add additional group study rooms, a classroom for research and displays to highlight exhibits. The library also plans to digitize the collections of its archival holdings, including photographs and items from CBU’s history.

#AViewofCBU

Matthew H. Allee

’50s

Mildred Wier-Jarvis (’55) and Bruce Jarvis (’60) retired on the Oregon coast in 1988. Mildred had a 23-year career with Bank of America and Bruce worked 26 years as a counselor with the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation. In June, they celebrated 67 years of marriage. Mildred and Bruce were in the first group of students to attend the new CBU campus in Riverside.

’60s

1 John McRae (’69) and OkHee celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on March 17, 2023. John is a retired chaplain with the United States Army.

’70s

Cheryl Nicholson (’73) and her husband, Gary, have been married since 1974. They have two children and one granddaughter. Cheryl taught vocal music for 17 years and is a worship leader at church. The couple lives in Medford, Oregon.

2 Randy Bennett (’75) retired June 30, 2022, after serving in the Baptist ministry for 50 years. That included being the director of missions for the Kern County So. Baptist Association for 27 years and senior pastor.

Zeldon Gordon Davidson (’76) was named an Adviser of the Year by Golf Inc. Zeldon is the president of Z. Gordon Davidson and Associates.

Dr. David Ajeigbe (’78) obtained a Doctor of Philosophy in Healthcare Services in 2012. He retired in 2016 after working in the healthcare system for over 40 years. He then obtained his real estate license and is a peer reviewer for the Journal of Emergency Medicine. He has published two books, “Zacchaeus Come Down!” and “Your Response Could Make a Difference.” David is married and the father of three grown sons.

’80s

3 John W. (’86) and Barbara Post (’86) celebrated 63 years of marriage on March 11, 2023. Both are retired after working with the State of Montana. They live in Helena, Montana.

4 Caron Rand (Ferguson, ’87) had a solo exhibition of 20 scroll paintings titled “Dark Energy: Black & Gold” at the Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum, Japan, June 2023. It was part of the USA Exhibition.

’90s

Lee Burton (’93, ’97) and Eric Mortensen (’95, ’97) started the Kamali’i Foster Family Agency and are celebrating 25 years in business. Kamali’i is a Hawaiian word that translates to “the children’s.” The organization also works with young adults and provides a counseling center to work with youth who are or were dependents of the court.

Maribeth Myers (Pofahl, ’94) and her husband, Byron, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary. Their daughters are Kelly Marley (Myers, ’02) and Keri Murcray (Myers, ’01) and their sons-in-law are David Marley (’04) and Josh Murcray (’20)

Jorge Gomez (’98) completed a Ph.D. in clinical psychology in 2015 and works as a therapist with Nueva Creacion.

5 David Daffern (’99) earned a Professional Certified Coach (PCC) credential from the International Coaching Federation. He has worked for the Dallas Independent School District since 2018.

’00s

Raquel Fuentes (Lule, ’00, ’05) created a nonprofit organization, La Voz, to support educators with financial support for field trips, cultural enrichment and special educational projects.

Oscar Enriquez (’04) is the space execution manager for Northern California and the Pacific Northwest regions at Constellation Brands.

6 Ryan McDivett (’06) and his family opened a Lego store in Riverside.

7 Kristofer Dorn (’07) won the 2023 NAIA National Championship with the Vanguard University (VU) beach volleyball team as the head coach. Kristofer and his staff received NAIA Coach of the Year awards for the second season. This is Kristofer’s sixth national title. Kristofer is also the campus director for Fellowship of Christian Athletes at VU.

8 Adam Elwer (’08) is a carbon portfolio manager for Eden Reforestation Projects after teaching for 14 years in a Christian school.

9 Greg Johnson (’08) was the composer for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, writing music for the opening/closing and awards ceremonies as well as other activations throughout the month-long event.

Matthew Shumaker (’08) is the regional vice president for Hanover Insurance Group in Southern California.

’10s

10 Lauren Rios ('14, '16) is the digital media manager for the Marketing and Communication department at California Baptist University.

Christopher Carlberg (’15) and his wife, Gabriela, celebrated their 10th anniversary. They have two children and operate a business, Hallelujah Honey.

11 Kayla Ott (’15) works with the Milwaukee Brewers as the senior manager in the premium service department.

12 Marina Rice (Stickley, ’16) owns Rice Collective, making 100% soy candles.

13 Kristin Huneau (’19) works at Parents Anonymous as a CAPIT counselor and group facilitator level 1. She and her husband, Jason, have been married 13 years.

14 Kirby McKenzie (’19) is a nursing home administrator with West Harbor Healthcare. He is married to Aisha.

15 Areva Neely (’19, ’22) is a benefits and wellness specialist. She recently released her fourth book called “I’ll Just Wait.” Neely also began a nonprofit called You’re Worth More, aimed at helping young people obtain a higher education and develop their talents without compromising their values.

16 Raymond Boetger (’19) started a teletherapy practice, Coastline Speech Therapy. Boetger works with military and homeschool families who have children with special needs.

17 Diana Cazares (’19) graduated from Southwestern Law School.

Jenna Inns (Anderson, ’19) and her husband started a production company, Salt Productions, which creates video content for clients.

18 Steve Guglielmana (’19) is a P.E. teacher and volleyball coach at Fresno Christian Schools. This year, both the girls and boys volleyball teams advanced to the state playoffs for the first time, and Steve was chosen as the Fresno Bee Coach of the Year for girls volleyball and coached both the girls and boys all-star matches.

19 Savana Yarnell (Cranford, ’19) started a moms’ group six months ago. The group, Hot Mom Walk (Instagram handle: @cv.hotmomwalk), was featured on NBC Palm Springs.

’20s

20 Michelle Martinez (’21) was chosen to receive the American Red Cross Inland Empire Chapter’s 2023 Services to the Armed Forces Hero Award because of her commitment to outstanding leadership, exceptional job performance, community service and overall presentation as a service provider to the Veterans and the VA Loma Linda/Ambulatory Care Center in Redlands, California.

21 Tiara Richardson (’21) is an assistant principal at a middle school in Highland, California.

Megan Cropp (’22) started the Master of Public Health (MPH) program at Benedictine University.

22 Jinger Miranda (Haberbush, ’22) is a human resources assistant with UtiliQuest. She and her husband, Jacob, celebrated one year of marriage.

Karena Munoz (’22) is a social worker II for the in-home supportive services program with the Department of Aging and Adult Services.

Felicia Watson (’22) is an investigative assistant with the Orange County District Attorney.

Marriages

23 Viola K. Estel (64’) married David Smits on Nov. 19, 2022, at Magnolia Church in Riverside.

Lauren Hoff (’18, ’20) married Sebastian Wiesboeck (’19, ’20). Lauren is a human resources manager at AST, a pharmaceutical manufacturing company, and Sebastian is a cloud engineer at Amazon. The couple live in Washington state.

24 Shanae Hampton (’22) married Wah-Née-Ota Colvin (’23).

Little Lancers

25 David (’06) and Leslie Blair (Newkirk, ’06) welcomed their sixth child, Sophia Faith Blair, on Oct. 23, 2022.

26 Clint (’12) and Phylicia Heinze (Paulson, ’11) welcomed their third child in November 2022.

27 Joseph and Andreana Battaglia (Banuelos, ’13, ’15) welcomed their second child, Jaxson John, born in January 2023. Jaxson joins sister Brookie Sophia, 20 months.

28 Chris (’13) and Kayla Rabbich (Jech, ’13) welcomed their second child, Lily Grace, on April 14, 2023. She joins brother Owen.

29 Julio (’14) and Sarah Solano (Murguia, ’17), welcomed a daughter, Elena Neriah, on May 29, 2023.

30 Nathan (’16) and Brittany Arambula (Throne, ’16) welcomed their second daughter, Nora Maeve, on April 19, 2023.

31 Jackie Contreras (’16) welcomed her third son in 2022. Jackie is a foundation and alumni association administrative specialist at Mt. San Antonio Community College.

32 Jessica Balderas (’20) welcomed a son, Luca, on Sept. 9, 2022.

33 Rodrigo and Itzel Lizarraga (’21) welcomed a daughter, Rebekah. She joins brother Nikolaus, 2.

34 Kevin and Sulgi Lee (’22) welcomed two children during her time in the CBU Master of Social Work program with the second arriving right after graduation: Abigail, 21 months, and Caleb, 6 months.

In Memoriam

Service, Success and Suffering

The CBU Roundtable will feature a new devotional column, penned by a guest author. The purpose of this devotion is to offer God’s wisdom to you — our readers — while providing an opportunity for introspection and inspiration for your daily life.

The history of missions abounds with people who put into practice the words of Jesus, “For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve” (Mark 10:45a). When Cyril and Methodius began working among the Slavs in 863, they had to invent a Slavic alphabet in order to translate the Bible. Francis Xavier and Hudson Taylor, missionaries to Japan and China respectively, served by adapting to the customs, language and culture of the countries they sought to evangelize. David Livingstone served by attempting to create a 1,500 mile “Missionary Road” for the gospel to reach the African interior.

Such service is not always met with success, however, as suffering is also part of the missionary experience. William Carey preached for seven years without a convert, lost his son to an early death and witnessed his wife lose her grip on reality. Amy Carmichael served as a missionary to India for 55 years but spent the final years of her life bedridden due to a fall. However, she believed that suffering enabled her to serve Jesus still, as expressed in her poem, “Hast Thou No Scar?” She writes: “No wound? No scar? Yet, as the Master shall the servant be, And pierced are the feet that follow Me.”

Whether your life is met with success or suffering, know that your service to the Lord will be used for His glory now and forevermore.

Dr. Anthony Chute Professor of Church History Associate Dean, School of Christian Ministries