T H E M AGA Z I N E O F C A L I F O R N I A S TAT E U N I V E R S I T Y, F U L L E R T O N
SPRING 2013
President Mildred García Pledges ‘Heart and Soul’ to Education
President’s Viewpoint On February 1, I was honored to be officially inaugurated as Cal State Fullerton’s fifth CSU board-appointed president. In as much as this was a deeply meaningful and humbling milestone for me both personally and professionally, more importantly it marked a milestone in the life of the University, and signaled the next chapter for this great institution – a future of boundless possibility. My sincere thanks to the inauguration community and steering committees for their work. Particular thanks go to the inauguration sponsors; because of their generosity, no state funds were used to support this event. A special expression of our thanks can be found on page 24. In my inauguration address, I reflected on the work we have done on the three-themed call to action I made during this past fall’s convocation. Foremost has been our success approaching completion of a strategic plan for the University that defines clear priorities to guide decision-making about allocating scarce resources. I congratulate the Steering Committee and the campus community for their participation in shaping a workable vision for the future and look forward to implementing the final plan when it emerges. You can read more about both the inauguration, which was held during Homecoming Week 2013, and the status of our work on the three themed “pillars,” beginning on page 14. In support of these pillars, the President’s Strategic Fund has been created to allow us to respond quickly and nimbly to efforts that will have the greatest impact. We would like to thank the members of the Cal State Fullerton Philanthropic Foundation for their commitment and pledge of 100 percent support to the President’s Strategic Fund. Their generosity helps us in our goal of strengthening the educational mission of Cal State Fullerton and providing an enriched experience for our students. Many others have joined the board in their support, and more than $175,000 has been raised for the fund. Elsewhere in this issue, you’ll find a Titan Pride story on the successful DC Scholars Program, which boasts many high-profile alumni and has expanded this year to include spring coursework. You’ll also read about the impressive work of Kevin O’Grady ’90, ’93 and Jeff Senge ’93, both of whom are considered national leaders in their respective fields. It is an honor serving as your president, and again, thank you for your support.
Mildred García President California State University, Fullerton
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COVER STORY
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President Pledges ‘Heart and Soul’ to Education
Before about 700 witnesses, Cal State Fullerton President Mildred García was inaugurated February 1.
2 University News
3 Philanthropic Foundation
5 Titan Athletics
6 Alumni News
TITAN Titan is the magazine of California State University, Fullerton, published by University Advancement for alumni, friends and the University community. We welcome your observations, news and comments.
Spring 2013
/ VOLUME 12, NUMBER 2
In This Issue TITAN PRIDE
8 Capital Knowledge MILESTONES
20 Titans Owe Thanks to Mel Franks
22 In Focus: Access With Dignity
COVER
24 Class Notes
as CSUF president in an affair full of
27 Spotlight: Lisa Boalt Richardson ’89
Image by Greg Andersen
28 Titan Profile: Kevin O’Grady ’90, ’93
EDITOR Cathi Douglas ’80 ART DIREC TOR Howard Chang ’00 PRODUC TION PL ANNER Andrea Kelligrew ’99 SENIOR DIREC TOR, DESIGN Mishu Vu
President Mildred García was inaugurated historical significance.
WRITERS Debra Cano Ramos ’84, Mimi Ko Cruz ’91, Michael Mahi ’83, Pamela McLaren ’79, Valerie Orleans ’80 CONTRIBUTORS Greg Andersen, Matt Gush ’12, Ben Licera, Katie McGill, Kathy Pomykata ’80
PRESIDENT Dr. Mildred García VICE PRESIDENT, UNIVERSIT Y ADVANCEMENT Gregory J. Saks A SSOCIATE VICE PRESIDENT, STRATEGIC COMMUNICATIONS Jeffrey D. Cook
TITAN ADVISORY BOARD Sherry Angel ’78, Elaine Beno ’83, Laura Bleiberg, Jeff Brody, David Ferrell ’78, Janine Fiddelke Arp ’80, Bryan Fisher ’92, Dianna Lopez Fisher, Jimmy Hsieh ’10, Gary Lycan ’69, Cynthia Ragland ’93, Bobbi Rice ’82, Joan Rubio, Paula Selleck, Steve Scauzillo ’81, ’05, Andi Stein, Kelly Teenor ’86, ’96, Anne Valdespino, Greg Young ’90
University Operator 657-278-2011 I Titan Magazine 657-278-4850 I P.O. Box 6826, Fullerton, CA 92834-6826 I TITANmagazine@fullerton.edu I fullerton.edu I © 2013 California State University, Fullerton. Nonprofit standard postage paid at Santa Ana, CA. I Report address errors to uarecords@fullerton.edu or 657-278-7917.
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For more university news, please visit news.fullerton.edu.
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University News GREGORY SAKS NAMED VICE PRESIDENT FOR UNIVERSITY ADVANCEMENT Gregory J. Saks, vice president for University Advancement at Cal State Dominguez Hills, has been named to the same post at Cal State Fullerton. Saks, who has more than 15 years of experience in developing and implementing comprehensive fundraising programs for both public and private universities, joined Cal State Fullerton as vice president for University Advancement in early January. “His wide range of experience and advanced skill set will help us continue advancing the University for many years to come,” President Mildred García said upon announcing his appointment. Saks leads the division responsible for alumni relations, fundraising, government relations, major events and communications. In addition, he provides leadership for the Cal State Fullerton Philanthropic Foundation as its executive director. “You can’t live in Southern California or work in the CSU without becoming aware of Cal State Fullerton’s remarkable achievements, and I very much look forward to joining the Titan family,” said Saks.
MCNAIR SCHOLARS PROGRAM TO CONTINUE Cal State Fullerton’s Ronald E. McNair Scholars Program will continue for at least six more years, thanks to an additional $1.1 million in federal funding. “We received notice through our legislators’ offices that we will receive the five-year grant, which begins in 2013,” said Kandy Mink Salas, associate vice president for Student Affairs, adding that the Clockwise, from top, are six of last year’s graduating campus expects to receive $220,000 McNair Scholars: Anthony Rodriguez, Josue Guadarrama, per year. Undergraduates who are Lisa A. Gonzales, Erica A. Nieblas, Suzette M. Puente, selected to be McNair Scholars and Burrel J. Vann Jr. are encouraged to attend graduate school and attain doctoral degrees. Cal State Fullerton has received The program was established by the U.S. more than $2.5 million in federal grants Department of Education in 1986. It is for the program, which was instituted on named for the late astronaut, Ronald E. campus in 1999. It provides low-income McNair, who was the second African and first-generation college students American to fly in space. opportunities to seek advanced degrees. TITAN
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CAMPUS EXPANDS WITH BUILDING PURCHASE Cal State Fullerton’s campus property has expanded by 3.6 acres with the close of escrow on the building that currently houses Western State College of Law, located across the street from the Visual Arts Center at the corner of Dorothy Lane and State College Boulevard. The CSUF Auxiliary Services Corp. purchased the 86,500-square-foot building for $18.25 million in October following the CSU Board of Trustees authorization and issuance of systemwide revenue bonds for the purchase. The debt will be paid with rental income, initially from Western State College of Law, which will continue to occupy the building for up to three years. Prior to CSUF tenants moving into the building, a $4-million seismic retrofit to the structure is planned and will be funded from the current rental. The University will then lease the space as needed, similar to the 30-year arrangement for its use of the College Park Building. A campus committee is considering the units to be housed in the facility at 1111 State College Blvd. University Extended Education is expected to be among those slated for future occupancy.
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Philanthropic Foundation NEW ENDOWMENT CAMPAIGN SUPPORTS ECONOMIC FORECAST
University News
Longtime CSUF supporters James Woods ’67, chairman emeritus and former CEO of Baker Hughes Inc., and his wife, Jeanette, made the first pledge of $500,000 to kick off a $1-million endowment campaign to support and sustain the Cal State Fullerton Mihaylo College of Business and Economics’ annual economic forecast and analysis. Dean Anil Puri announced the kickoff at the 18th annual Economic Forecast Conference. “We are looking to all of you to help us match Jim’s gift,” Puri said to the more than 800 business, community and government leaders in attendance. “My career wouldn’t have been possible without the CSU system,” noted Woods in 2006, when he was awarded an honorary doctorate of humane letters in recognition of his success as a business leader and philanthropist. “It paved the way. I am truly indebted.” Woods serves as a member of Mihaylo College of Business and Economics’ Dean’s Advisory Board, and in recognition of the couple’s support of the college, his name graces the grand foyer of Mihaylo Hall. DEBATE ALUM DONATES $100,000 IN HONOR OF FORMER COACH
Alumnus Jim Peterson ’64 has donated $100,000 to establish the Lee Granell Debate Program Endowment in honor of his former coach. The announcement was made at the 50th anniversary celebration of the Debate Team. Granell joined the faculty in 1960, and during his 24 years on campus he served on the then-Faculty Council (now Academic Senate), the University Curriculum Committee and as department chair, in addition to director of forensics for nine years. He died of a heart attack in 1984 at the age of 50. Endowment funds will be designated for student scholarships for debate team members, with preference given to those who have a financial need or are military veterans. PHILANTHROPIC BOARD APPOINTS NEW COMMITTEES
The Cal State Fullerton Philanthropic Foundation Board at its September 6 meeting established three new standing committees to address ongoing issues. The Marketing Communications Committee will consist of members Jo Bandy ’94, Paul Carter ’92, Dwayne Mason, who is the board’s student representative as president of Associated Students, Inc., Greg Bunch ’79, Doug Simao and chair Robert Alvarado ’87. The Advocacy Committee will be led by Marilyn Brewer, with members Dick Ackerman and Vicki Vasques ’76. David Bowman, who is the board’s faculty representative as professor and chair of geological sciences, will lead the Resource Development Committee, with members Paul Folino, Ernie Schroeder ’67, Geoff Payne ’80, and Steve Mihaylo ’69. IN OTHER FOUNDATION NEWS...
Rachelle Cracchiolo ’71, ’76 (B.A. psychology and M.A. education), CEO of Teacher Created Materials, is the $10,000 Presenting Sponsor of the College of Education’s Honor An Educator event to be held April 20. … Edison International has committed $25,000 to benefit Project MISS, a STEM-related summer program for middle school girls.
Kelly Ferguson in the field.
TEACHING AWARD HONORS GEOLOGY STUDENT Spending hours in the classroom teaching upper- and lower-division geology classes to undergraduates has not only inspired graduate student Kelly Ferguson to consider a career in teaching, but also has earned her national recognition. The National Association of Geoscience Teachers has recognized Ferguson with its Outstanding Teaching Assistant Award, a national award given annually to the best teacher assistants from around the country. She is one of four honored this year. “It’s a really good feeling to know that my integrity and passion for geology and for teaching shows through to my colleagues and mentors,” said Ferguson, who is working toward completing a master’s in geology. “My goal when I teach is to inspire students to look more closely at the landscape around them, to get out in nature, and to ask questions. Hopefully this award is a reflection that I have succeeded, however little, toward this goal.”
For more information, please visit foundation.fullerton.edu. CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY, FULLERTON I
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CSUF, UCI GARNER GRANT TO FIGHT CANCER Cal State Fullerton’s Health Promotion Research Institute and UC Irvine’s Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center have been granted a total of $341,349 – $190,753 to CSUF and $150,596 to UCI – in first-year-funding of a four-year federal grant, expected to total more than $1.3 million by 2015. The grant from the National Cancer Institute aims to boost research at both institutions on cancer in underrepresented communities. “Cancer is the second-leading cause of death among all major ethnic groups,” said Sora Park Tanjasiri, professor of health science and director of CSUF’s Health Promotion Research Institute, who is leading the research with UCI’s F. Allan Hubbell, professor emeritus of medicine, public health and nursing science. “However, the risk of developing cancer varies considerably by ethnicity,” Tanjasiri said. Non-Hispanic black males have the highest overall cancer incident and mortality rates of any ethnic group. “The overall goal is to establish a collaborative partnership between investigators at CSUF and UCICFCCC that will increase cancer health disparities research at both institutions,” Hubbell said.
DONOVAN APPOINTED DIRECTOR OF ATHLETICS Jim Donovan, former director of athletics at the University of Hawaii at Manoa, was appointed director of athletics at Cal State Fullerton. University President Mildred García made the appointment following a nationwide search. Donovan steps in for Dr. Steve Walk, who has served as interim director since July. A 21-year veteran of athletics administration, Donovan, 53, becomes the 11th director of athletics in the history of Cal State Fullerton after overseeing Hawaii’s 21-sport operation with a budget of more than $30 million from 2008-12. During his tenure, the athletic programs saw a collective improvement in both Academic Progress Rate (APR) and overall grade point average (GPA) with Donovan managing a department that included more than 120 full-time staff, 200-plus part-time staff, and 450-plus student-athletes.
College of Engineering and Computer Science students Ben Lahiji, left, and Derek Bosman display their Titan V race car, which was displayed at the 2012 L.A. Auto Show. Lahiji and Bosman are members of the Society of Automotive Engineers team that designed the formula-style car. A video of the vehicle and its builders is available on the University’s YouTube page at youtube.com/user/CSUFullerton.
NEW CSUF VETERAN CENTER DEDICATED Veterans, students and members of the campus community attended the dedication of the new Veterans Student Services Center in Room 230 of University Hall on November 9. The center offers computers and an office area where student veterans can study, receive tutoring and hold meetings. About 500 student veterans attend CSUF.
President Mildred García and Congressman Ed Royce ’77, left, toured the new center after the dedication ceremony attended by local officials, veterans and campus members.
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Titan Athletics WOMEN’S SOCCER BEST IN THE BIG WEST
KELLY FORD ERA BEGINS
Kelly Ford was hired this summer as the third Cal State Fullerton softball head coach in the Titans’ 34-year softball history. CSUF softball won a national championship in 1986, has made 27 postseason appearances and boasts 28 All-Americans among its alumnae. Prior to joining CSUF, Ford guided the Mt. San Antonio College program to four California State Championships, seven South Coast Conference Championships and earned South Coast Conference Coach of the Year honors five times. TITAN WOMEN’S VOLLEYBALL MAKES HISTORY
The Cal State Fullerton women’s volleyball team had one very memorable victory in 2012. The Titans made history Oct. 13, defeating Long Beach State for the first time in 30 years. The last time the Titans beat the 49ers was on Oct. 19, 1982.
TRUSTEES APPOINT WHITE AS CHANCELLOR The California State University Board of Trustees in October named Timothy P. White, chancellor of University of California, Riverside, as the seventh chancellor to lead the 23campus CSU system, the country’s largest four-year public higher education system. “I am humbled to have been chosen to lead the California State University system at such a transformative time,” said White. “As chancellor, I look forward to engaging with faculty, students, staff, campus presidents and CSU trustees, along with the communities we serve, as we advance this vital system of higher education for California’s future.” White succeeds Chancellor Charles B. Reed.
FORMER TITAN JOINS CFL HALL OF FAME
Former Cal State Fullerton two-sport star Damon Allen was inducted into the Canadian Football League’s 2012 Hall of Fame Class in November. Allen is the third former Titan football player inducted in the CFL. Receiver Allen Pitts was inducted in 2006 and running back Mike Pringle ’00 (B.A. criminal justice) was included in 2008. Allen played 23 seasons in the CFL and currently ranks second among professional football’s all-time prolific passers. Allen led the Titans to two Pacific Coast Athletic Association championships. He was also on the 1984 NCAA National Championship baseball team as a spot starter and reliever. SUZUKI MAKES PLAYOFF DEBUTS
Washington Nationals catcher and former CSUF standout Kurt Suzuki made his postseason debut during the National League Divisional Series. The former Titan made the most of his very first playoff at-bat, as he connected on a second inning run-scoring single.
INDUSTRY AWARDS COSTNER FOR ‘HATFIELDS’ Oscar-winning alumnus Kevin Costner ’78 scored three more industry honors – this time in television. Costner won an Emmy for his leading role as Devil Anse Hatfield in the History Channel’s miniseries “Hatfields & McCoys.” Costner also took home the Golden Globe award for best actor in a miniseries or TV movie during the 70th annual awards, and a Screen Actors Guild award for outstanding actor in a television movie or mini series.
For more information, please visit fullertontitans.com. CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY, FULLERTON I
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Cal State Fullerton’s women’s soccer team closed out the 2012 regular season capturing their first Big West Conference title since 2007. Fullerton’s Big West regular season title is its sixth in the history of the program and its fourth solo title after sharing the crown in 2004 and 2007. The Titans have won three Big West Tournament titles. Cal State Northridge (No. 2) defeated CSUF (No. 1) in the Big West Conference Tournament championship game.
For the latest news and upcoming events of the Alumni Association, please visit fullerton.edu/alumni.
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Alumni News ALUMNUS NAMED A CALIFORNIA TEACHER OF THE YEAR
Samantha Kist ’11, Liberty Mutual representative, and Paul Carter ’92, immediate past president of the Alumni Association, enjoy the 2012 Night of the Pachyderm festivities.
JOIN CSUF ALUMNI FOR NIGHT OF THE PACHYDERM Join the CSUF Alumni Association for food, drinks and prizes prior to watching the Titans take on the Dirtbags from Long Beach on Friday, May 3. The tailgate party begins at 5 p.m. at Golleher Alumni House, with the baseball game immediately following at 7 p.m. at Goodwin Field. For more information, call 657-CSU-ALUM or email alumnirelations@fullerton.edu .
Cal State Fullerton alumnus David Goldenberg ’93, ’01 was one of five teachers across the state selected as a 2013 California Teacher of the Year. Since 2005, Goldenberg has taught 10th- and 11th-grade history at Arnold O. Beckman High School. He teaches advanced placement and honors classes in world history and advanced placement classes in U.S. history.
Did You Know? The CSUF Alumni Association annually hosts more than 75 events! We simply can’t share all the details here. Visit our website at fullerton.edu/alumni and our Flickr page at flickr.com/csufalumni to catch up.
Take your Titan Pride with you! Join or renew your membership in the Cal State Fullerton Alumni Association and receive a Titan duffle bag.* A $45 Alumni Association annual membership offers you numerous members-only privileges and keeps you connected with CSUF and other Titans. You will enjoy: • Online career tools and professional development programming • Discounts for restaurants, theme parks and shopping • Special discounts on social and networking events • Access to key campus facilities – Rec Center, intramural sports, Library, Extended Education • Member pricing for Titan athletics and performing arts tickets • Three annual one-day parking passes • Alumni travel opportunities Sign up today by calling 657-CSU-ALUM or join online at fullerton.edu/alumni. Use promotion code: 13TMS when applying online. *While supplies last. TITAN
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Alumni Association
Alumni News
Vanessa Alvarez ’02, ’03; Yesenia Baranda ’05; Diane Castillo ’10; and Dung Vu ’04 were some of the nearly 90 Titan alumni attending the CSU Super Mega Mixer in November.
THE POWER OF THE CSU - OC SUPER MEGA MIXER
Titan Pride is contagious – it spread to some of the 2.6 million California State University alumni through the OC Super Mega Mixer on November 13. CSUF took the top spot for alumni participants, with nearly 90 Titan grads attending the second annual CSU Super Mega Mixer held at House of Blues Anaheim. The all-CSU mixer initiated by Fullerton alumni in 2011 doubled in participating schools with 11 CSU campuses coming on board this year and close to 300 attendees. Alumni from Dominguez Hills, Fresno, Los Angeles, Monterey Bay, Northridge, Pomona, Sacramento, San Bernardino, San Marcos and Stanislaus expanded their social networks with other CSU grads in the heart of Orange County. “It was a tremendous opportunity to meet so many remarkable people from the various CSUs and learn about their diverse professions,” said Brateil Aghasi ’05. “It was a great night with new relationships built. Great to see the CSU network in action and represent CSUF in particular – go Titans!” Emily Fragoso ’01, ’06 agreed. “This was a great evening to get to know my fellow Fullerton alumni and extend my network to include those from other California State universities,” Fragoso said. “Uniting with a wide range of diverse professionals of all ages throughout the state university system made it even more evident that the CSUF Alumni network is rich with valuable resources and opportunities.” With the success of the CSU Super Mega Mixers, the CSU Chancellor’s Office is looking to expand collaborative programming in other regions of California. Look for an all-CSU event in your area!
HAUNTED HOUSE AND FAMILY FESTIVAL REACHES COMMUNITY The third annual Haunted Alumni House and Family Festival on October 26 was a family-friendly evening, with more than 280 alumni, community and campus attendees. The family festival was a hit with children and parents alike. Kids had the chance to make spooky crafts and play games at several different stations after enjoying trick-or-treating through the decked-out Golleher Alumni House. A much-eerier atmosphere emerged after dark. Guests seeking more daring scares experienced reenactments of horror as the house became the frightening scene of a crazy professor bent on creating the perfect student. The event, orchestrated by the Student Alumni Ambassadors, raised more than $500 to benefit student scholarships.
For more information, please visit fullerton.edu/alumni. CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY, FULLERTON I
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DC Scholars alumna Eliza Ramirez ’12 worked in the Washington, D.C. office of Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-Florida) as a Congressional Hispanic Leadership Institute fellow during the fall ’12 semester. TITAN
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Titan Pride Stories about individuals or programs that characterize the proud Titan tradition.
STUDENTS GAIN EXPERIENCE IN WASHINGTON, D.C.
CAPITAL KNOWLEDGE Stories by Mimi Ko Cruz ’91 / Images by Matt Gush ’12
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liza Ramirez ’12 is an alumna of the Cal State DC program and a 2011 California State University Hearst Scholar. She credits her experiences in the
nation’s capital with furthering her future plans, which include applying for the AmeriCorp VISTA program. She wants to travel to New Mexico and work to help improve conditions for the poor, specifically through grassroots efforts and advocacy for better environmental conditions and laws. After a year, she plans to apply to law school and pursue a career in environmental law.
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Like Ramirez, other Cal State DC scholars have the chance to see firsthand how America’s government operates, how laws are passed, how Congress runs, and how lobbyists, advocates and nonprofit organizations work to ensure their voices are heard. Thirty-five Cal State Fullerton students participating in the Cal State DC program spent last summer interning in the nation’s capital and taking a political science class at the same time. Now in its seventh year, the program provides students with valuable educational and career development experience, said Stephen J. Stambough, professor of political science and director of the Cal State DC program. Over the summer months, students intern for elected officials, nonprofit groups, lobbying firms and other agencies. In addition to the experience they gather from their internships, students receive six units of class credit — three for the internship and three for the class.
Due to its success in jump-starting D.C. careers for the interns, the program will be offered this semester, as well as during the summer months, Stambough said. Since the spring program will be about twice as long as the summer program, interns will receive 12 units of course credit. Two courses will be taught by CSUF faculty members: Don Matthewson, lecturer in political science, and Patricia E. Literte, assistant professor of sociology. In addition, other CSU campuses have expressed an interest in having their students participate in the program. Including this year’s interns, a total of 216 students have participated in the program since it began. About 30 alumni of the Cal State DC program presently work in D.C. For example, Kelly Kim ’12 (B.A. public administration), who interned in the U.S. Department of the Interior’s Office of Surface Mining last summer, now is working there as a Kettering Public Administra-
“Sure, the study of the subject is important, but being surrounded by and practicing it is just as important.” - Jeff Vanderslice ’07 (B.A. political science), legislative director for Rep. Dana Rohrabacher (R-Huntington Beach)
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tion Fellow. Other alumni include Raisa Orleans ’08 (B.A. political science, American studies), who works as a legislative assistant for Rep. Henry A. Waxman (D-Los Angeles); Jeff Vanderslice ’07 (B.A. political science), who serves as legislative director for Rep. Dana Rohrabacher (R-Huntington Beach); and Ian Keller ’07 (B.A. political science), who works for the U.S. Department of Commerce. “The experience not only helped me network but also gave me a much better understanding of how Congress works,” Vanderslice said. “To me, the internship was the equivalent of a language immersion experience. Sure, the study of the subject is important, but being surrounded by and practicing it is just as important.” “The DC program has been so successful over the years because students get firsthand knowledge of how their academic studies can lead them in several different professional tracks,” said Stambough. “Whether the student is interning in Congress, with a consulting firm or an embassy, the experience helps focus career goals at a critical time in life.”
1.1 DC Scholars Program alumni include Jeff Vanderslice ’07 and Raisa Orleans ’08, outside their Congressional offices at the Rayburn Building. 2.2 Aissa Canchola now works in Sen. Barbara Boxer’s office, but plans to someday run for office herself.
LIFE ON THE HILL After several years of working at the U.S. Senate Environment Committee for Sen. Barbara Boxer in D.C., Javier Gamboa ’08 (B.A. political science) recently began a new job working in the D.C. office of Rep. Kathy Castor (D-Fla.). As a legislative assistant, he focuses on energy and environmental policy. “The Cal State DC program assisted me in my internship search process. Dr. Stambough was there to provide advice to me during my internship, and having dozens of my peers from Cal State Fullerton and the CSU system made the experience comfortable and memorable,” Gamboa said. “The combination of those factors helped me get my internship at the environment CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY, FULLERTON I
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committee which, in turn, led to a full-time job on the Hill ... and the rest is history.”
CONSTITUENT CONCERNS Aissa R. Canchola is gaining a better understanding of the national concerns of Californians through her work in Sen. Barbara Boxer’s (D-Calif.) office, addressing constituent concerns about a wide variety of issues. “I get to know the concerns of Californians not only from my hometown or surrounding areas but throughout the entire state,” she said. “I forward constituent messages to the senator by tallying their sentiments on legislative issues.” In addition, Canchola said she is taking part in a project on student loan debt, an issue “that is close to my heart, especially since I spent so much time advocating on behalf of students.”
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As part of the project, Canchola is compiling student testimonials on their experiences with student loan debt. She plans to make the stories public as a way to advocate for investment in higher education and for federal programs that make college education affordable. “This project has allowed me to take my passion to the federal level and help the senator collect stories that she can use to defend students and protect them from misleading lenders,” she said, adding that her internship experience “has provided new experiences and many opportunities to watch hearings and briefings of my choice, including a hearing on gender equity in education for the 40-year anniversary of Title IX in the Higher Education Act.” Canchola, 23, said she plans to pursue a master’s in public policy and a law degree. “I want to someday run my own nonprofit
“My ultimate goal is to eventually run for office and represent the new interests of my generation.” - Aissa R. Canchola, staff assistant in Sen. Barbara Boxer’s (D-Calif.) office
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A Donor’s Perspective ictoria Vasques ’76 (B.S. human services), a member of CSUF’s philanthropic foundation board and the owner of Tribal Tech, LLC – a firm that provides technical assistance and consulting services to federal, state, tribal and corporate clients – annually welcomes more than 100 guests to her Virginia home to welcome the Cal State DC interns. The guest list includes the interns, alumni of the Cal State DC program, CSUF alums who live in the area, representatives from the agencies and offices where the interns work, elected officials, donors, university faculty and administrators and various dignitaries. “It’s heart-warming to see how committed everyone is to this program,” she said. In times of budget cuts, Vasques said she believes programs such as Cal State DC are more important than ever. “This program provides an opportunity for students to see how the nation operates — even if only for a short while,” she said. “Sometimes the students don’t have their plans after graduation figured out and this helps clarify it for them. More and more alums of the program are ending up working in D.C. following graduation. They get a case of what I call ‘Potomac fever’ and want to pursue opportunities here. This program helps set many on that path.” To donate to the program, please As a donor, she added, “I love visit dcinterns.fullerton.edu or it when students come up to me contact Alina Mircea-Trotz, director and introduce themselves. They are of development, at 657-278-2559 so appreciative and motivated and or amircea-trotz@fullerton.edu. energetic. The Cal State DC program gives them the chance to get a little experience and holds their feet to the fire. They find out if their work in D.C. is really what they want to do or where they want to be. Since education has always been my passion, this is a wonderful way for me to give back.” n
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1.1 Professors Don Matthewson and Patricia E. Literte teach in the DC Scholars Program, and Stephen J. Stambough is its director. 2.2 Program alumnus Javier Gamboa ’08 is a legislative analyst focusing on energy and environmental policy on Capitol Hill.
organization aimed at raising awareness of educational inequalities in our country and the ways in which one’s location and income level determines the quality of one’s education and future prospects,” she said. “My ultimate goal is to eventually run for office and represent the new interests of my generation.” More information about the program is available online: dcinterns.fullerton.edu
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California State University Chancellor Timothy White, left, and Professor of Anthropology John Bock, 2011-12 Outstanding Professor and the ceremony’s mace bearer, congratulate President Mildred García during the inauguration. “When it came to selecting a new leader for Fullerton, it is clear that Dr. Mildred García was exactly the right kind of person for this task,” White said. “Dr. García has a deep reservoir of optimism and enthusiasm and a determination to succeed. Not for her, but for you. And that’s a key piece to being a leader.” TITAN
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Cover Story
President Pledges
‘Heart and Soul’ to Education
Inauguration of Fifth President Signals the Launch of a New Era for the University Images by Greg Andersen and Matt Gush ’12
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ledging her “heart and soul” to service before about 700 witnesses, Cal State Fullerton President Mildred García was inaugurated during a February 1 affair full of historical significance.
The inauguration took place during Homecoming Week, amid several days of celebration – including a Titan-gear fashion show, pep rally and carnival – culminating in the February 2 homecoming game against the University of Hawaii and a student dance. “Presidential inaugurations are a time of promise, a time to look forward and a time to acknowledge this president, this University and all that they mean to this diverse and vibrant community,” said Lou Monville, vice chair of the CSU Board of Trustees. García delivered her inaugural address center stage in Meng Concert Hall, inside the Clayes Performing Arts Center, as two former CSUF presidents – L. Donald Shields and Milton A. Gordon – watched from balcony box seats flanking the stage. u
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2 4
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“With this privilege comes also a challenge – not only for me, but for the entire University community – because now is the time for Cal State Fullerton to extend its greatness to become a model comprehensive university of the nation,” García said. “This is not just something we say, but something we can do. And we know it will happen, if we are brave enough to name what we care about; coherent and intentional in our goals; measuring, demonstrating and proclaiming what we have accomplished; and taking the risks that transformation always requires.” Her 30-minute speech was met with a standing ovation from the crowd, rallied to their feet by her insistence that ensuring student success, closing the achievement gap and producing educated leaders were not only the “right thing to do,” but an “economic and civic necessity” for the region and the nation. “When we educate our populace, we are lifting the country to uphold our national security; ensure economic
Heard at the
Inauguration Reception…
President Mildred García’s inauguration attracted a capacity crowd to Meng Hall’s foyer for the reception that followed the two-hour ceremony, where many attendees shared their impressions. TITAN
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stability; provide the needed leadership and workforce; and deliver to our communities an educated citizenry ready to participate in a just, democratic society.” At Garcia’s request, inauguration planners omitted having a keynote speaker in favor of three addresses by students and alumni. The featured speakers included Manuel Nieto, an Edison Scholar and mechanical engineering major; two-time graduate Ashley Cheri ’08, ’12 (B.S. health science, M.A. education), a program manager for the Orange County Asian and Pacific Islander Community Alliance; and Tam Nguyen’05 (MBA), president of Advance Beauty College. A father of four boys who has struggled to continue his quest to earn a college degree for more than a decade, Nieto credited García with giving him perspective on his journey. “Even before she was officially president, Dr. Mildred García had already taken an interest in me,” he said. “She convinced me that it is
Jo E. Bandy ’94,
Anil Puri Dean, Mihaylo College
Sr. director, corporate
of Business and Economics
communications,
“I think Dr. García laid out a
Ingram Micro
very effective case for the
“This is the dawn of a new era and I’m
challenges our University and education are
excited to be part of it. I feel like this
currently facing. She set a goal for Fullerton
is the right place at the right time.”
to be a model comprehensive institution in the nation. It is a call to action for our campus.”
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5
Cover Story
6
7
8
never too late to fulfill a dream.” Nguyen credited Cal State Fullerton and his family for his business success and pledged to help the University “fulfill its mission of accessibility and affordability to the students who will always thirst for knowledge and experience.” Cheri said she was inspired by García and “thrilled to see the success she will bring to this campus.” As a witness to all of Cal State Fullerton’s presidential inaugurations, Lawrence B. de Graaf, professor emeritus of history and a founding faculty member hired by the first president, William B. Langsdorf, said “students played a much more substantive role this time around than they did in prior years. It gave all of us a feeling of family in what can otherwise be a very ceremonial occasion.” Also watching the proceedings – from second-floor box seats – were James D. Young, professor emeritus and founding
1.1 President García addresses a capacity crowd during her inauguration. 2.2 García hugs Karen S. Haynes, president of Cal State San Marcos, left, and Jolene Koester, president emerita of Cal State Northridge, at the reception. 3.3 Berenecea Johnson Eanes, vice president for student affairs, and José Cruz, provost and vice president for academic affairs, prepare to proceed into Meng Hall. 44 Chancellor White and García meet after the ceremony. 5.5 García accepts the crowd’s congratulations. 6.6 García models Titan gear during the Homecoming Week fashion show. 7.7 Spirited Titans cheer during the Homecoming game, but the team ultimately lost to the University of Hawaii, 77-75. 8.8 García greets the Titan basketball team during Homecoming festivities.
chair of the Theatre and Dance Department, and entrepreneur Dan Black ’67 (B.S. physics), the namesake of Dan Black Hall. “President García truly cares about each and every student
Claire Cavallaro Dean,
Sharon Quirk-Silva Former
Lawrence B. de
College of Education
Fullerton mayor and newly
Graaf Professor emeritus
“Dr. García has a strong
elected State Assemblymember
of history “Everybody
commitment to students, to
“President García’s own life
is commenting about
the community, to leadership and to working
is a witness to the transformational power
the enthusiasm that President García
collaboratively. I am looking forward to her
of education and an inspiring example for
brings. Certainly, she has demonstrated
leading us into the future, and into a new
Cal State Fullerton students.”
to all of us that she means to be a
era for the University.”
passionate leader.”
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PROGRESS ON PRESIDENT GARCÍA’S THREE PILLARS
Reaching Toward hen President Mildred García outlined her plan to focus on three areas, or pillars, at her September 11 convocation address, she indicated Cal State Fullerton was beginning a new chapter. An update follows.
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n Setting future horizons: Completing the strategic plan. A pep rally attended by Tuffy Titan and President García was part of Homecoming Week festivities.
and is working hard to ensure that the quality and value of our educational experience not only meets, but exceeds the highest standards,” said Dwayne Mason Jr., president of CSUF’s Associated Students Inc., in his greeting from the students. Speaking for the faculty in his address, Jack Bedell, professor emeritus of sociology and chair of the Academic Senate, said: “This day gives us a chance to honor our past and to look with excitement to our future.” Twenty-seven of her family members attended the inauguration and heard García, a first-generation college student born in Brooklyn, whose family had immigrated with five of her seven siblings from Puerto Rico, credit her parents for instilling in her a love of education. “My parents had a dream for their children,” she said. “They came to New York from la isla del encanto, Puerto Rico, seeking a better life for their children. They toiled in the factories of New York City for us, and it is to them that I pay tribute for instilling in me the love of education, love of family, selflessness and love of humanity, regardless of race, sex, class, religion and sexual orientation. Yes, they were parents who were ahead of their times, and we as brothers and sisters are so much the better because of them. While they are no longer here with us, I know they are here in spirit.” n
“This strategic plan is about us, it is about ... who we are, how we are different, highlighting our priorities based on our mission and then determining how we measure our accomplishments and telling the world the great things that we do at Cal State Fullerton,” said President García at a planning session this past fall. Based on feedback from the town hall, the steering committee developed four goals: Develop and maintain a curricular and co-curricular environment that prepares students for participation in a global society and meets workforce needs; Improve student persistence, increase graduation rates, and narrow the achievement gap for under-represented students; Recruit and retain a high-quality and diverse faculty and staff; and Increase revenue through fundraising, entrepreneurial activities, grants and contracts. Co-chairing the Strategic Planning Steering Committee are Jennifer Faust, associate vice president of Academic Affairs, and Bob Mead, associate professor of economics. “The strategic plan is a statement of our values and identity,” said Faust. “It means we are making a kind of promise to our constituents, saying to students that our commitments are serious.” In early February, the Steering Committee held two town hall meetings to roll out the draft objectives. Working groups representing the four goals will develop strategies and propose a draft plan around April 1, Mead said, with a major town hall planned to unveil the revised plan in mid-April.
Diana Guerin ’80 (M.A. psychol-
Julie Espy ‘92 (B.A. communi-
Michael Perez Chair,
ogy) Professor, child and adolescent
cations and English), President,
sociology “What
studies and chair, CSU Academic
CSUF Alumni Association “I
she brings is a true
Senate “President García is
appreciated Dr. García’s
understanding of our
perfectly positioned to build on our strengths,
dedication to the idea that the University is
student population. It’s in her soul and
very inspiring, and an exciting example of the
poised on the brink of becoming a world-class
her spirit to embark on her presidency
accomplishments we are known for. Today
institution. That really resonates with alumni. And
by really serving the campus.”
made me proud to be a Titan.”
I think Dr. García has the ability to take us there.”
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n Promoting Titan Pride: Friend-raising and fundraising.
Gregory J. Saks, recently appointed vice president for University Advancement, emphasizes that private financial support is needed to take the stature of Cal State Fullerton from very good to outstanding. “There’s been a dramatic drop in state support, and accessibility to affordable education is incumbent upon all the stakeholders of our community,” Saks said. “Institutions like Cal State Fullerton will provide the workforce of the future.” Recent gifts to the UniversitySetting include our a $100,000 kickoffPromoting gift from Jeffrey van Harte ’80 (B.A. business administration-Titan Pride: Future Horizons: finance) to the President’s StrategicCompleting Fund; a $200,000 gift toFriend-raising Strategic and the CSU Edison Scholars Programthefrom Southern California Plan Fundraising Edison; and Boeing Company’s $70,000 gift for student scholarships in engineering. On the friend-raising side, García has kept the promise she made during her convocation address. As the institution’s Ensuring Student Success most prominent face, she is spreading the word about “the wonderful accomplishments of Cal State Fullerton.” In January, she was elected chair of the board of the prestigious Association of American Colleges and Universities. The Viet Foundation presented her with its first “Local Hero in Educational Excellence Award” in October, honoring her visionary leadership and support of underrepresented and minority students. And she was recently named to the Orange County Business Journal’s 2013 “OC 50.” n Promoting Titan Pride: Friend-raising and Fundraising
Setting our Future Horizons: Completing the Strategic Plan
issues related to student success: the Graduation Initiative Committee and the High-Impact Practices Committee. “The Graduation Initiative Committee is a vehicle that allows us to educate the campus community about who our students are, where they come from and the obstacles they face for graduation – and articulate strategies for success,” said José Cruz, newly appointed provost and vice president for Academic Affairs. “Fullerton is well-positioned to become a national model” for graduation rates, particularly among traditionally underserved students, he added. At present, the University has a six-year graduation rate of 50 percent. “It’s important for this work to be done,” echoed Berenecea Setting our Johnson Eanes, Future Promoting vice president for Horizons: Titan Pride: Completing FriendStudent Affairs, Ensuring the raising “to give people the Student Strategic and opportunity to Plan Fundraising Success understand all the different facets of this conversation.” On another front, high-impact practices – teaching and learning practices both inside and outside the classroom that go beyond the curriculum and provide experiences such as seminars; learning communities; student-faculty research; internships; writing-intensive courses or collaborative assignments; service
Ensuring Student Success
n Ensuring student success. Two committees are addressing
or community-based learning; and study abroad – are being chronicled by the High Impact Practices Committee. High-impact practices have been part of University culture for many years. “There’s a large body of evidence that suggests that high-impact practices lead to student success,” Cruz said. “The literature also says that students involved in two or more high-impact practices have a higher percentage of finishing their degrees.”
Cover Story
Higher Heights
Jim Case Director, Career Center “What
Tam Nguyen ’05 (MBA), President,
stood out for me was the fact that the
Advance Beauty College “What a
main speakers were students or recent
historic honor to be part of this
graduates. It signaled how student-centered
celebration and to be a member
the University is and how focused we are on student success.
of the Titan family today! Among the best aspects
It also reinforced why so many of us have come to Cal State
of today’s event is the community’s support. I was
Fullerton and stay here, and why we are so passionate about
already a proud Titan citizen, but today makes me
what we do.”
even prouder.”
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Thanks TITANS OWE
TO MEL FRANKS
Sports Information Director Retires After 32 Years
Story by Mimi Ko Cruz ’91 / Image by Matt Gush ’12
el Franks recalls the story like it was yesterday. After working in public relations for the thenCalifornia Angels, he was in real estate development. But he missed sports, and he was awaiting the phone call. It came in early August 1980 and was the beginning of a three-decadeslong career as Cal State Fullerton’s sports information director. “Mel Franks, you got the job,” the voice on the other end of the phone said. Now, the bad news: “You have a home football game in three weeks and you have no press box.” Franks did what came naturally. He used a little elbow grease and imagination. He erected a makeshift “press box,” complete with tables, chairs, telephone lines and hot-off-the-press media guides that he wrote himself so reporters could file their reports on the University’s then-NCAA Div. 1 football team. And so began a “no-frills, no-complaints” relationship between Franks and appreciative newspaper, TV and
M
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radio sports reporters. Franks, who retired in December, knew that he served the Titan fan base, so he made sure the university community was well-informed about its championship teams, standout athletes and dozens of eventual professional athletes. Reporters tell about how they have always been able to count on Franks and how they will miss him when he retires. “I’ve never known or worked with a better SID,” said Chris Foster, a longtime Los Angeles Times sports writer. “Mel’s the best, and the writers who won’t get a chance to deal with him in the future will be missing out.”
STANDOUT ATHLETE, TEAM PLAYER Franks, who was the 1966 Athlete of the Year at Kennedy High School where he played football, basketball and tennis, spent the 1966-67 academic year as a freshman at Cal State Fullerton. He
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Milestones Stories that highlight a landmark issue, program or individual in the life of the University.
played basketball for the University and had planned to play football, but CSUF delayed launching the program for two years. So he transferred to Cypress College, where he played football and basketball during his sophomore year, then transferred to Arizona State, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in journalism in 1970. He worked as a sports reporter for the Daily News Tribune in Fullerton in the early 1970s, covering the then-California Angels baseball team, as well as high school and college sports. The recipient of writing awards from the College Sports Information Directors of America and a “Good Guy Award” from the Orange County Sports Hall of Fame, Franks repeatedly acknowledges a long list of colleagues, past and present, in the University’s Athletics Department and says they’re “like family.” His extended family includes Julie Max, head Titan athletic trainer and kinesiology lecturer, who has worked with Franks
since he arrived on campus and calls him “the guy you can rely on to be honest and supportive and gentle. Everybody loves this guy.”
BASEBALL MEMORIES Mel Franks, who grew up idolizing Cubs’ shortstop Ernie Banks, counts watching the Titans win three of their four College World Series titles as some of his most memorable moments. “Each title was remarkable for different reasons,” he said. “In ’84, it was such a surprise and over such big-name schools — Michigan, Oklahoma State, Miami, Arizona State and Texas. In ’95, maybe the best college team ever beat USC. And, 2004 was such a comeback from a slow start to the season and, then, to beat Texas again. Remarkable.” For the last 32 years, Franks was there for it all. “I never got too high with wins or low with losses, believing that if you give your best effort, you are successful regardless of the score.” n CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY, FULLERTON I
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Jeff C. Senge ’93 was a fixture on the CSUF campus with his guide dog, Fodi.
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ACCESSIBILITY FOR STUDENTS During his tenure, Senge worked with a team he assembled over the years. Behind the scenes they have developed Cal State Fullerton into one of the most accessible campuses in the CSU system serving students, faculty and staff with permanent and
Access with Dignity Senge Considered a Leading Expert in Technology and Services For Those with Disabilities Story by Michael Mahi ’83 / Image by Matt Gush ’12 opportunities for people with disabilities, is the main reason he changed careers in the late 1980s. He returned to school and earned his master’s degree in special education from Cal State Fullerton in 1993. Today, he is a nationally recognized expert in access technology and services for people with disabilities in secondary education. He works closely with the California State University chancellor’s office, as well as the U.S. Department of Education and the Office for Civil Rights. He plans to continue working with these agencies and possibly consulting in the field. Senge, who was a fixture on campus with his guide dog, Fodi, joined a center that since the early 1970s has provided comprehensive services for CSUF students with disabilities. Its many programs, as well as the campus’s accessibility, place Cal State Fullerton among the nation’s best, according to state and national audits and annual reviews of disabled student services programs. Center Director Paul Miller, with the program since its inception in 1974 when it was called Handicapped Student Services, said that there are between 13,000 and 15,000 students with various disabilities enrolled in the CSU system and its 23 campuses. The rapid increase in enrollment in higher education among people with disabilities has been amazing, Miller said. Services are generally provided at no cost to qualified students and are designed to assist them with accommodation
temporary disabilities. The team is responsible for setting up and supporting accessible computers, as well as providing instructional materials in accessible formats, such as electronic text and Braille. Senge’s career emphasized making information accessible to students through adaptive computer technology. When he started as a graduate assistant, there were a handful of visually impaired students and only four accessible computers on campus. Today, his program serves dozens of blind and visually impaired students out of a student population of 37,600. His office is responsible for 50 accessible workstations throughout campus, including those in the Adaptive Technology Center.
LOOKING FORWARD For the past several years, Senge has been involved with Guide Dogs for the Blind, and was recently re-elected to a second term as chair of the organization’s Alumni Association Board of Directors. His retirement plan is to continue working with the organization, become more involved in adventure travel and pursue several deferred life interests. He plans to continue working to increase opportunities for people with disabilities through equal access to information technology. Senge said he misses the CSUF community, but knows that he has left the University in good hands. “I have all the confidence in this team of people... They are amazing.” n
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Stories that take a close look at an issue, trend or subject that affects the University and the community beyond.
and disability-related support, such as Braille transcription, accessible computer labs, temporary parking passes, note-taking and counseling. Miller said Senge’s contribution to the University was making the college experience for disabled students fulfilling and worthwhile. “Jeff has become a real asset in the system, as well as nationally,” Miller said. “He is considered to be one of the most knowledgeable technology guys and instructional materials accessibility people in the country.”
In Focus
eff C. Senge ’93 certainly has left his mark on Cal State Fullerton. Senge retired this past December as the coordinator of the Disabled Student Services Center’s Information and Computer Access Program. But Senge’s legacy lives on at the University in every lab equipped to accommodate people with disabilities and in the instructional materials in accessible formats that he helped innovate and improve. Looking back on his 22-year career, Senge, who is visually impaired, said there is much to be proud of and much more that needs to be done in the field of accessibility and accommodating students with disabilities. “I will always have a passion for this and will continue to contribute,” he said. Senge’s own visual impairment, along with his early awareness of the potential of technology to create educational
To submit news about yourself, please e-mail titanmagazine@fullerton.edu.
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Class Notes 70s
LOLA COXFORD BROWN ’76
(M.S. counseling) has written and published her third book, “Joyful Mondays: How to Find Passion and Joy in Your Work.” Brown was a counselor and professor at Fullerton College; she is now a psychologist in private practice. LUCY DUNN ’76 (B.A.
political science) was appointed to the newly formed Ontario International Airport Authority. Dunn is the president and CEO of the Orange County Business Council. TOM HOISINGTON ’73 (B.A. history) has been
named Chapter Member of the Year by the National Speakers Association of Central Florida. Hoisington is the president of Eagle One Resources LLC.
JEANINNE KATO ESCALLIER ’76 (B.S. human
services) has published her first children’s book, “Manuel’s Murals.” 3LPublishing.com; manuelsmurals.tumblr.com GLENNA R. SCHROEDER-LEIN ’75, ’78 (B.A.
history, M.A. history) recently released her latest book on President Abraham Lincoln, “Lincoln and Medicine,” published by Southern Illinois University Press and available in major retail, independent and online bookstores. Schroeder-Lein is manuscript librarian for the non-Lincoln manuscripts at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library in Springfield, Illinois.
80s
communications) is executive director of the Kiwanis International California-Nevada-Hawaii District. DAVID GROSSMAN ’87
(B.S. physical education) is the new dean of physical education and athletics director at Fullerton College. Grossman was previously dean of instruction at Barstow Community College.
RICHARD H. WATSON ’73 (B.M. music) was
inducted into the California Alliance for Jazz Hall of Fame. Watson was director of instrumental music at El Dorado High School for 36 years. He is retired, but continues to offer clinics throughout Southern California.
Thank you!
ERNEST AND DONNA SCHROEDER
I SPRING 2013
MARY KNAUP ’88 (B.A.
business administrationmarketing) was elected collegiate vice president of Gamma Phi Beta Sorority, overseeing a membership exceeding 180,000.
The University gratefully acknowledges the sponsors of President Mildred García’s recent inauguration:
PAUL AND SANDRA CARTER
TITAN
LORI J. BUTLER ’85 (B.A.
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Class Notes
LYNN PONCIN ’87, ’92 (B.A., M.A English) is
a superior court judge in Victorville and was recently featured in a San Francisco Daily Journal article that examined her career. REGGIE SADLER ’85 (B.A. communications-
public relations) is a business development manager responsible for property and casualty business insurance development for a large public entity client of Alliant Insurance Brokers. Sadler is a former vice president of the Alumni Association and has been working in the business insurance industry for more than 22 years.
“I’ve grown and changed and developed new skills as a result of being here. This is home.”
CHRISTOPHER SCHMIDT ’81 (B.A. business
administrationaccounting) is chairman and chief executive officer for the accounting and business consulting firm Moss Adams LLP. As chairman and CEO, he leads the firm’s more than 1,800 personnel serving clients from 22 offices in Washington, Oregon, California, Arizona, New Mexico and Kansas. DONALD L. STELLUTO ’86, ’88, ’93 (B.A.
music-music education and history, B.M. performance, M.A. history), associate director of Notre Dame’s Institute for Advanced Study, has received a $1.58 million grant from the John Templeton Foundation for a three-year program to promote dialog across academic disciplines.
Nurturing the Next Generation Sandra Sutphen and her late husband, Roger Albers, made a bequest to the University because Cal State Fullerton would put their money to the use that both of them valued, namely educating students. Now a professor emeritus of political science after 37 years of teaching, Dr. Sutphen believes everyone – students, faculty, staff and volunteers – deserves to learn and develop new skills and the opportunity to nurture the next generation of citizen leaders. Dr. Sutphen’s bequest makes her a member of the University’s Ontiveros Society, consisting of Cal State Fullerton supporters who have included the University in their estate plans for any form of planned gift. For more information about bequests and planned giving, contact Joan Rubio, Senior Director of Central Development, at 657-278-3947 or jrubio@fullerton.edu.
fullerton.edu/PlannedGiving CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY, FULLERTON I
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26 FRED TOMASELLI ’81 (B.A. art) is an
90s
CINDY ABBOTT ’93 ’96 (B.S.
accomplished artist best known for his highly detailed paintings on wood panels, combining an array of unorthodox materials suspended in a thick layer of clear, epoxy resin. “Organism,” a 2005 work of his, sold at a recent Christie’s auction for $1.1 million.
physical education, M.S. kinesiology) is seeking to become the first woman and second person to both summit Mt. Everest and complete the 1,150-mile Alaskan Iditarod. Abbott is helping raise awareness for an incurable disease she was diagnosed with in 2007, Wegner’s granulomatosis.
VIKKI VARGAS ’81 (B.A. communications)
indiegogo.com/Racing-for-Life
awarded the first Vikki Vargas Broadcast Journalism Scholarship to CSUF communications major Stephanie Mercado. Vargas, NBC-4’s Orange County bureau chief, and NBC Universal established a $25,000 endowment for the scholarship. JOE WOODY ’88 (B.A. communications-
public relations) is vice president and general manager of the newly established clinical therapies division of Smith & Nephew.
In Memoriam n BREENA CAMDEN ’85 (B.A. communications) former executive vice president of publicity and field marketing for 20th Century Fox domestic field marketing, died of breast cancer on Aug. 6. Camden was 49. She is survived by her two sons, as well as her father, mother and two sisters. Make donations at: Rayne and Trinity Camden, c/o Kimberly Parks (Executor), P.O. Box 52650, Knoxville, TN 37950. n JOYCE M. FLOCKEN , professor emeritus of speech communication, died Jan. 2 from lung cancer. Flocken was 73. She is survived by her younger brother and sister-in-law; nephew; nieces; and grandniece. Donations can be made to the Flocken Family Legacy Endowment; contact Michael Karg, University Advancement, at 657-278-3348. n KENNETH TITAN
I SPRING 2013
JOE B. JOHNSON ’90 (MBA finance) was
elected to the BDO USA, LLP, board of directors for a three-year term. Johnson is a partner and assurance business line leader for BDO’s Orange County office. MARK KLASCHKA ’90 (B.A. criminal justice)
was appointed vice president and managing director-Hawaii for Pleasant Holidays.
STEPHEN PIHL ’96 (B.A.
PHIL BOURDON ’93 (B.S. engineering-civil
engineering) was appointed interim Yavapai County administrator. Bourdon was previously the Arizona county’s public works director. BETH HOJNACKE ’97
(B.A. business administration) was named the 2012 Woman of the Year by state Assemblyman Curt Hagman for her accomplishments in the community.
L. GOODHUE-MCWILLIAMS, zoologist and
professor emeritus of biological science who served 33 years at CSUF and founded a scholarship for future physicians and others headed for careers in the health professions, died Aug. 8. Goodhue-McWilliams was 72 years old. He is survived by his wife, Nancy. n MONICA QUAN, an assistant women’s basketball coach, died over the February 2 weekend. Quan, 28, and her fiance, Keith Lawrence, were found in Irvine, the victims of a shooting that police are characterizing as a double homicide. “The loss of any member of the Titan family causes our community great grief, but the loss of one of our own under these circumstances is indeed tragic and heart wrenching,” stated President Mildred García. n IAN J. SCOFIELD, parttime lecturer in psychology, died Sept. 28. Scofield was 42. n DALLAS J. SMITH ’66 (M.S. education) died December 21, 2011
business administrationfinance) is executive vice president of the Orange County market for California United Bank. Pihl serves on the CSUF Executive Council and the St. Joseph Hospital Foundation Board. GREG SCHULZ ’92 (B.A.
business administrationaccounting) was appointed provost of the North Orange County Community College District’s School of Continuing Education.
at age 80. Smith was past president of California School Counselor’s Association. He is survived by his wife, Carolyn, and a daughter and son. n IMRE SUTTON, professor emeritus of geography who worked on campus for more than three decades, died of cancer Oct. 25. He was 84. He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Doris and a daughter. n PATRICK A. WEGNER, professor emeritus of chemistry and biochemistry and pioneer in online chemical education, died Dec. 17. He was 72. He is survived by his sister; his brother; his stepbrother; and seven nieces and nephews. To contribute to the Wegner Family Scholarship Fund, contact Camille Harper, University Advancement, at 657-278-2245 or charper@ fuller ton.edu . n BARBARA A. WEIGHTMAN, professor emeritus of geography, died unexpectedly Sept. 27. She was 73. She is survived by her partner of 30 years, Claudia Lowe.
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radio/TV/film) has his first starring role in the feature film “New Hope” released on DVD in October. “New Hope” is available at ChristianCinema.com, at Wal-Mart and through Amazon.com.
TODD W. TAYLOR ’90 (B.A. art-fine arts)
celebrated his 20th year teaching in the Rialto Unified School District. Taylor has been inducted into the Sons of the American Revolution, named in “Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers” and honored with the BRAVO Award for his work as an art teacher. He is also a master/mentor teacher. STEVE YOUNG ’98 (B.A. communications-
radio,TV, film) has joined activePDF Inc. as worldwide Channel Partner Manager. Prior to joining activePDF, Young held channel management positions at Paragon Software Group.
00s
KATIE AGUIRRE ’05 (B.A.
business administrationaccounting) was promoted to manager in the audit and business advisory services department at Haskell & White. JUSTIN MICHAEL DUVAL ’07 (B.F.A theatre
arts) worked with Garry Marshall on the first national tour of “Happy Days the Musical,” starring as Potsie Webber. CLIFFORD FREZ ’02 (B.S. chemistry) works as
a microdevices engineer at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena. JENNICA HAMPSON SCHWARTZMAN ’07
(B.A. theatre arts) is an independent filmmaker producing a family feature film called “Gordon Family Tree” along with her husband, actor Ryan Schwartzman.
Lisa Knows Tea Spotlight LISA BOALT RICHARDSON ’89 (B.A. business administration-marketing) is one of the
nation’s leading experts on tea. Richardson is writing her third book, “Modern Tea”; she was one of the first 15 individuals certified by the Specialty Tea Institute; and she has traveled the world tasting teas. The president and publisher of World Tea Expo and World Tea News, George Jage, said that Richardson is “on the front line of America’s new tea Renaissance.” Yet she still enjoys drinking tea throughout the day, favoring a strong black tea in the morning and more delicate varieties in the afternoon. “I have my favorites for my time of day and the time of year,” she noted. “The best tea to drink is the tea you love,” she said in a recent interview. “Like wine, tea can be overwhelming because there are so many varieties.” She notes that specialty teas are an inexpensive way to treat oneself to a fragrant, tasty getaway. And she adds that tea has health benefits – it can be good for the immune system and contains antioxidants. In her upcoming book, she will suggest tea and food pairings, new approaches and ancient tea ceremonies, and the health benefits of tea. Her previous books, “Tea With a Twist” and “The World in Your Teacup,” discuss entertaining and cooking with tea and celebrating tea traditions, respectively. Richardson is an expert in tea and etiquette, tea history and cooking with tea, among other specialties. She speaks, teaches and writes on tea at an international level and has been quoted in The New York Times, Women’s Health, Real Simple and the London Free Press, among many other publications. She said that she still refers to information included in binders that Professor Robert Zimmer, who taught Marketing 455, created for class. “It contains practical advice on marketing specific to sales, and helps me with selling myself, my books and my talks,” she noted. “I still apply his advice to not sell just the product but the benefits of the product.” Another professor she recalls is Scott Greene, who taught the first CSUF marketing course she took. “I loved it and knew I had picked the right major.” Her business opened in 2000. Learn more at lisaknowstea.com n
Story by Cathi Douglas ’80 /Image courtesy Lisa Boalt Richardson ’89 CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY, FULLERTON I
TITAN
Class Notes • Spotlight
WILLIAM SCHWAB ’91 (B.A. communications-
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ROBYN HARNEY ’06 (B.A. communications-public
relations) is manager of media and talent relations at Sony Pictures Television in Culver City. OMAR KHALID ’03 (B.S. biochemistry) is a postdoctoral
fellow at UCLA, where he is conducting stem cell research.
NICOLE M. MERINO ’02 (B.A. child
and adolescent studies) is director of performance assessment for California teachers at the Stanford Center for Assessment Learning and Equity.
NICK PAVLOVSKY ’04 (B.A. communications-radio/TV/
film) is a photographer at KOMO4-TV in Seattle. Pavlovsky recently won his third regional Emmy for “Promotion-News Promo – Single Spot and Campaign.” ALAN SHEN ’08 (MBA) is an insurance and financial
services specialist with Farmers Insurance.
TYLER TOPITS ’08 (B.A. communications-radio/TV/film)
works as an assistant for the NBC “Days of Our Lives” team that recently won the “Outstanding Drama Series Writing Team” Daytime Emmy. QUAN VUONG ’08 (B.A. business administration-
accounting) was promoted to senior accountant in the tax department at Haskell & White.
10s
MELISSA FAZLI ’12 (B.A. communications-
radio/TV/ film) recently won the CNN iReport Award for “Best Commentary” for a piece about the Borders Bookstore closings. ireport.cnn.com/docs/DOC-653646
RACHEL HAMMER ’11 (B.A. art-studio art) was appointed
product manager for rotary devices, including Roland milling and engraving machines, at Roland DGA.
AUSTIN LOCKE ’12 (B.A. business administration-finance)
is now full-time with Kana Pipeline as director of purchasing.
RICHARD SCHMIEG ’11 (B.A. religious studies) released his
debut EP “No Ordinary Life.” Schmieg leads worship at Messiah Lutheran Church in Downey, Calif. reverbnation.com/richardschmiegmusic
Family life is important to Kevin O’Grady ’90, ’93, left – a longtime civil rights advocate and a national expert in the area of gay and lesbian issues in education – who makes his home in Long Beach with his son, Asher Kain-O’Grady, and husband Craig Kain.
TITAN
I SPRING 2013
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Alumnus Kevin O’Grady’s Empowering Work
By Cathi Douglas ’80 / Image by Matt Gush ’12
Civil Rights
“It’s been a sprint since I got here in March 2012,” he said. “There is such a great need and capacity in the community.” O’Grady, who lives in Long Beach with his husband and son, is proud to lead one of the country’s oldest organizations dedicated to serving the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community. The center provides mental health counseling; community support groups; a cyber center; LGBT culturalcompetency training in schools and with medical providers and social agencies; the Rainbow Youth Program; and HIV prevention, education and counseling. The services O’Grady is most proud of are the center’s increasing outreach to gay seniors. “As they get older, tending not to have children, they become more isolated and there are issues with caregivers who have no training in LGBT issues,” he said. “While this generation fought for our civil rights, now they’re having to retreat back into the closet.”
He coordinated the region’s response to civil rights issues and hate crimes, monitored extremist groups, and spoke at public forums on issues of civil rights, diversity, anti-Semitism, LGBT civil rights and education. But before joining the Anti-Defamation League, O’Grady earned a doctorate in education at USC and worked as a teacher in Hawaii, considering teaching his calling. At 24 years old, he was the only “out” teacher in the state. He directed the Hawai’i Technology Project, a statewide project that introduced online technologies into small schools across the state’s five primary islands, and authored a study of gay and lesbian high school teachers. O’Grady later served as dean of students for Milken Community High School, the largest Jewish day school in the country. He is considered a national expert in the area of gay and lesbian issues in education. n
CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY, FULLERTON I
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Stories about interesting, prominent, successful or provocative faculty, students, alumni and friends of CSUF.
FIGHTING FOR
Social groups and cultural competency training for health care workers are part of the center’s outreach to seniors, and the center has just hired a full-time person dedicated to this issue. “It’s meeting a specific need,” he said. “We have an obligation to work to protect seniors.” Another important facet of the center’s work focuses on LGBT youth, who face an inordinate amount of pressure to fit in. “There’s a huge amount of prejudice, teachers making homophobic statements, and significant bullying in Orange County,” he noted. O’Grady is one of the instructors in CSUF’s online course, “Understanding and Addressing Bullying,” offered through University Extended Education in collaboration with faculty members from women and gender studies, psychology and education. Prior to coming the The Center OC, O’Grady was regional director of the Anti-Defamation League, Orange County/Long Beach region, where he oversaw all programming, including civil rights’ government affairs; community relations; education; and law enforcement relations.
Titan Profile
ivil rights have always been a passion for Kevin O’Grady ’90, ’93 (B.A., M.A. political science). As a student at Cal State Fullerton, O’Grady became involved in the anti-apartheid movement. “When I passionately believe something is wrong, I want to do something about it,” he said. Among others, O’Grady said, CSUF Professors Emeriti Bert Buzan, Karl Kahrs, Barbara Stone and Sandra Sutphen provided a personalized education and insight into social issues. His involvement in environmental and other advocacy groups helped shape and focus his beliefs. “I took every class available involving civil rights,” he recalled, including an independent study program. Although he said he never planned his career, his initial activism introduced him to a lifetime of social action, first as a teacher and mentor and later as a leader in the Anti-Defamation League. Today, he fights discrimination on a personal level as executive director of the Gay & Lesbian Center of Orange County.
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Calendar MAR
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fullerton.edu/calendar
CSUF Estate and Income Tax Workshop 5 P.M. NEWPORT BEACH MARRIOT T RESORT & SPA 900 Newpor t Center Drive, Newpor t Beach
Dennis Branconier, financial educator, consultant and speaker on family wealth succession planning, presents an informative workshop on estate tax elimination, wealth management and protecting your family’s finances. RSVP to Heather Morales at 657-278-4446 or hmorales @ fuller ton.edu .
MAY
FRI/
3
Night of the Pachyderm 5-6:45 P.M. TAILGATE AT GOLLEHER ALUMNI HOUSE 7 P.M. TITANS VS. LONG BEACH AT GOODWIN FIELD
Join the CSUF Alumni Association for food, drinks and prizes prior to watching the Titans take on the Dirtbags from Long Beach. For more information, call 657-CSU-ALUM or alumnirelations @ fuller ton.edu . n
fuller ton.edu /alumni
MAY
9-19
Spring Dance Theatre 8 P.M. MAY 9, 10, 11, 16, 17 AND 18 / 2 P.M. MAY 12 AND 19 AT THE LIT TLE THEATRE
Selected by audition, Cal State Fullerton’s top student choreographers and dancers create and perform all-new numbers to delight and excite. Tickets are $11 ($10 Titan discount with advance purchase).
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