Meet Our Scholars - 2021

Scholar: Christian Fischer

Year awarded: 2021

Working towards degree: Master of Science in Communicative Disorders

About the scholarship recipient: Christian Fischer is from Redlands, California and enjoys coaching water polo, reading, running and appreciates a good vegan taco. He received a degree in communication sciences and disorders from The University of Redlands. After graduating, he moved around in different careers until he realized he wanted to work permanently in the field of communication disorders and sciences. Christian decided on CSUN for his graduate degree because it best suited his academic and personal interests with location and flexibility. He said receiving this scholarship is not only helping financially, but is reaffirming to him that he is on the right path. After Christian graduates, he plans to pursue a career in the field of communication disorders and sciences in a pediatric hospital setting.

Scholar: Jamey Fitzpatrick

Year awarded: 2021

Working towards degree: Master of Science in Communicative Disorders

About scholarship recipient: Jamey grew up in the Midwest but has resided in California since 1998. She received her bachelor’s degree in writing and theatre from Eastern Michigan University. She then obtained a Master of Fine Arts degree from DePaul University in theatre. After seeing many social justice issues in her work and having dealt with family and her own recovery from long-term injuries, Jamey was drawn to speech therapy. She completed CSUN’s pre-speech language pathology program and interned with teens and young adults in Van Nuys. This experience surprised, inspired, and challenged her to bring her best to the therapy sessions with them. Due to such positive experiences with the distance learning program, Jamey decided to pursue CSUN’s residential program. While working full-time and transitioning completely into the field of speech pathology, she has had some setbacks, especially because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The scholarship has been a huge help and she is very grateful to Helen Wade and her contributions to the field of speech language pathology, as well as her mentorship within the speech therapy community. Jamey said that Helen’s love of languages inspires her and reminders her of the lifelong journey to become more compassionate and culturally responsive therapists.

Jamey has enjoyed working with teens with autism, individuals with pragmatic and fluency issues, and adults with motor speech issues. She is fascinated by the brain and its capacity to heal and adapt. Wherever she ends up serving clients, she wants to help support and advocate for cultural and linguistically diverse communities and clients. She hopes to find ways to build bridges as a monolingual speech language pathologist for greater sensitivity and responsiveness in her own work as well as in the field.

About the scholarship: An instructor at CSUN for over 25 years, Helen Sherman-Wade remains active within the university through activities with the Department of Communication Disorders and Sciences, the Language, Speech and Hearing Center and the alumni chapter.  She established this scholarship to support graduate students who have decided to further their education after already serving as speech-pathologists. It is also available to students who can clearly describe how a future as a speech-pathologist would impact their lives.

Scholar: Alisa Mejia

Year awarded: 2021

Working towards degree: Master of Science in Communicative Disorders

About the scholarship recipient: Alisa is a second-generation graduate student and eldest of three sisters to immigrant parents from Guatemala and El Salvador. She was born and raised in the San Fernando Valley and is bilingual in English and Spanish. Alisa received her bachelor’s degree from CSUN in communication disorders and sciences and is grateful to continue in the master’s program. She is thankful to the Forman’s for their generosity and support of graduate students like her; the scholarship allows her to invest in the future and have confidence as she continues striving for her goals. After graduation, Alisa plans to work with children or adults as a Spanish-Bilingual speech language pathologist.

About the scholarship: Ruth Lindeck Forman is a Speech Language Pathologist and Speech Communication Specialist who received her master's degree from CSUN. She works to improve personal and cross-cultural communication and race relations through consulting, lecturing and writing. A desire to help students complete their degree programs in the department of Communication Disorders and Sciences led Ruth and her husband Lee to establish this scholarship endowment. They consider the gift a tribute to the department and to the education Ruth received at CSUN.

Scholar: Gillian Vista

Year awarded: 2021

Working towards degree: Master of Science in Communicative Disorders

About the scholarship recipient: Gillian was born in Manila, Philippines and migrates to Los Angeles at the age of six. She attended Pasadena City College before transferring to CSUN to study communications disorders and sciences. She appreciates the flexibility within the field’s clinical settings and enjoys the challenge of a tough but rewarding program.

Gillian would like to increase awareness of the field of speech language pathology through community outreach and service programs in underserved communities and through research studies. She would also like to learn about speech services that are offered in other countries and non-profit organizations. Gillian is grateful to the late Ruth Rothman and her family for providing the scholarship to aspiring speech language pathologists. This aid will help her to achieve her personal and professional goals of conducting research, attending conferences, and obtaining her master’s degree.

Scholar: Heidi Sasaki 

Year awarded: 2021

Working towards degree: Master of Science in Communicative Disorders

About the scholarship: The late Ruth Rothman came from Russia with her family and learned from her parents at a young age the importance of helping others. At age 46, she began her education at CSUN, earning her bachelors in 1973 and then her masters in 1977, both in speech and communication disorders. Ruth created this scholarship for hardworking students who want to become teachers or therapists dedicated to helping children with communication difficulties. 

Scholar: Elizabeth Espinoza

Year awarded: 2021

Working towards degree: Master of Science in Communicative Disorders

Scholar: Robin Kohanteb

Year awarded: 2021

Working towards degree: Master of Science in Communicative Disorders

About the scholarship: Ruth Harris was the first full-time coordinator of the Language, Speech, and Hearing Center. Her career in the Department of Communication Disorders and Sciences spanned nearly 30 years, and although she is now retired, she engages with the university as a volunteer and donor. Ruth established this award to help support a graduate student who has demonstrated strength in collaboration with fellow students, supervisors and other professionals.  Award recipients are exemplar of effective and culturally sensitive communication and treatment–the hallmark of the field of speech pathology and audiology. 

Scholar: Maria Huanosta

Year awarded: 2021

Working towards degree: Bachelor of Science in Environmental and Occupational Health

About the scholarship recipient: Maria grew up in Santa Clarita with her parents and five siblings. She currently lives in Huntington Beach and transferred to CSUN from Moorpark College. During her free time when she is not working, she enjoys going on hikes, reading, playing with her two cats and spending time with friends and family. Maria chose to study environmental and occupational health after she took an environmental course at Moorpark College. The class aligned with her interests, and she felt it was a way for her to help preserve nature for both animals and humans to enjoy. This includes cleaning hazardous land and helping to prevent the future disposal of hazardous waste on land and water. Maria is grateful to Amgen for this scholarship; it has given her the confidence and means to keep pursuing her career goals and help enforce regulations around pollution prevention.

Scholar: Irene Oliveros

Year awarded: 2021

Working towards degree: Bachelor of Science in Environmental and Occupational Health

About the scholarship: The Matt Winn Environmental, Health, Safety and Sustainability Memorial Scholarship is made possible due to a generous donation from biotech company, Amgen, Inc. in memory of the late Matt Winn. Matt was a CSUN alum who studied environmental and occupational health. He graduated in 1995 and worked with a variety of clients, providing industrial hygiene expertise across a wide range of industries. Ultimately, he took a job at Amgen working in the Environmental Health Safety Sustainability Department. In Matt’s career, he solved problems, protected workers, and helped make many workplaces safe and healthy. When Matt passed, his colleagues at Amgen wanted to dedicate this scholarship in his memory knowing he would be happy helping students seeking to educate themselves and improve the world. This scholarship is designed to further environmental health, safety, and sustainability as a discipline, increase diversity in the profession, and assist students in need studying in the EOH department.

Scholar: Diane Ajiatas

Year awarded: 2021

Working towards degree: Bachelor of Science in Family and Consumer Sciences (Nutrition and Dietetics) 

About the scholarship recipient: Diane was born and raised in the San Fernando Valley and still lives there today. She is an only child with a single immigrant mother. Her family is from Guatemala and she loves connecting the culture by listening to music, watching YouTube videos and cooking traditional foods. During her free time, she enjoys watching television and movies, especially classic horror movies. Diane is part of CSUN's program called Bridge to the Future!, is studying nutrition and dietetics, and minoring in human lactation. Receiving this scholarship helped her financial situation that became difficult due to the pandemic. She thanks Dr. Besnilian and says she will always appreciate the scholarship. In the future, she aspires to become a registered dietician and work with children and mothers. Diane would also like to give back to her community, especially in the black and Hispanic communities by educating the importance of health and nutrition.

About the scholarship: For over 27 years, Dr. Annette Besnilian has considered CSUN a second home for her and her family. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS), from the Nutrition, Dietetics and Food Science program in 1994. She is currently the Executive Director of the Marilyn Magaram Center for Food Science, Nutrition and Dietetics and a faculty member in the Nutrition and Dietetics program in the FCS Department. This scholarship will be given annually to an undergraduate or graduate student enrolled in the FCS Department and will support and provide leadership opportunities for those students who intend to apply to local or national conferences and/or annual professional symposia to present their research.

Scholar: Gabriela Brocca 

Year awarded: 2021

Working towards degree: Bachelor of Science in Family and Consumer Sciences (Nutrition and Dietetics) 

Scholar: Je Young Lee

Year awarded: 2021  

Working towards degree: Bachelor of Science Family and Consumer Sciences (Food Science)

About the scholarship recipient: Je Lee grew up in Los Angeles and began at CSUN in 2019. He said it has not been an easy journey being a first-generation, working student and having to navigate resources and support that he never knew about. CSUN’s food science program has helped him acquire knowledge and skills needed for his future career path. The scholarship boosted Je Lee’s confidence and his belief that hard work can be recognized and rewarded. In the future he would like to work with the research and development department of a beverage company to create new flavors and products for customers.

Scholar: Lori Minaskanian

Year awarded: 2021

Working towards degree: Bachelor of Science in Family and Consumer Sciences (Nutrition and Dietetics) 

About the scholarship recipient: Born and raised in Southern California, Lori Minaskanian has always been passionate about topics relating to an individual’s health. At an early age, she knew she wanted to approach health holistically by combining her education of proper nutrition and physical activities to help people achieve their health and fitness goals. She obtained her Certification in personal Training through the National Academy of Sports Medicine, while also holding positions of Fundraising Chair for the Student Dietetic and Food Science Association, as well as the Social Director/Events Coordinator for the Armenian Students Association. Lori was cross-trained through the Marilyn Magaram Center for the Child Nutrition and Health Assessment Internships. She worked with the children attending the Lab School by preparing them a snack menu with consideration to dietary restrictions. At the Fueling Stations on campus, Lori worked with the CSUN athletic teams to ensure proper athletic performance and recovery. After completing her Bachelor of Science degree, Lori plans to become a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist. She is honored and grateful to be the recipient of the Christine H. Smith Scholarship and is excited to expand her horizons and benefit her greater community.

About the scholarship: The late Dr. Christine “Chris” Smith was a beloved professor in the Family and Consumer Sciences Department for almost 30 years. She was a co-advisor for the department’s Student Dietetic and Food Science Association for over 20 years and served as the director of the Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD). Chris was instrumental in guiding students into becoming registered dietitians and she remained a large part of the DPD program after her retirement. Chris and her husband, Owen ’65 (Theatre), M.A. ’67 (Drama) met at CSUN, had a fairytale romance, and both were influential members of the CSUN community. In 2013, they passed away just 81 days apart — Owen after battling cancer and Chris after an accident at her home. Prior to their passing, the Smiths decided to leave a gift from their estate to CSUN, their second home. In their will, the Smiths directed funds in the form of a planned gift to five different areas at CSUN, including this endowed scholarship for a student in the Department of Family and Consumer Sciences with an emphasis in Nutrition, Dietetics and Food Science.

Scholar: Citlaly Padilla 

Year awarded: 2021

Working towards degree: Bachelor of Science in Family and Consumer Sciences (Family Studies) 

Scholar: Sahar Tamari

Year awarded: 2021

Working towards degree: Master of Science in Family and Consumer Sciences (Nutrition and Dietetics)

About the scholarship: This scholarship was made possible by a generous gift from Ernest Hilger, on behalf of the Hilger Family Trust, and in honor of Ernest’s most beloved wife, Rosalie Hilger. Ernest established this scholarship to carry on Rosalie’s legacy, her caring and gentle spirit, and to benefit future generations of students, something that Rosalie was passionate about.

Rosalie Hilger was an alumna of CSUN’s Family and Consumer Sciences program and served as an adjunct professor at East Los Angeles Community College and Los Angeles Mission College. This scholarship is awarded to students who have demonstrated a positive life path for themselves and their family and who utilize their own positive energy and education as a way to help them succeed in their chosen profession.  

Scholar:  Alondra Valdez

Year awarded: 2021

Working towards degree: Bachelor of Science Family and Consumer Sciences (Nutrition and Dietetics)

About the scholarship recipient: Alondra grew up in Wasco, California where she currently lives. She is majoring in nutrition and dietetics and chose to transfer to CSU Northridge because of the relatively close geographical location to family and the positive experiences she heard about the school from a number of community college professors. To Alondra, this scholarship is an opportunity--it means she can focus more of her time on extracurricular activities and academic achievements. She is forever grateful to Nancy and Joseph Owens, who have generously provided this scholarship opportunity to Kappa Omicron Nu Honor Society members. She plans to obtain a master's degree and complete a dietetic internship to become a registered dietitian with a focus on working with patients suffering from eating disorders.

Scholar: Sahar Tamari

Year awarded: 2021

Working towards degree: Master of Science in Family and Consumer Sciences (Nutrition and Dietetics)

About the scholarship: Nancy Owens taught in the Department of Family and Consumer Sciences for 36 years, specializing in apparel design and merchandising. She was highly involved at CSUN and has continued volunteering at the university since her retirement. Nancy served as the university’s chapter advisor for Kappa Omicron Nu, the leading honor society for students in the human sciences. Nancy and her husband Joe have continued to support the society by creating this scholarship for an undergraduate and/or graduate student in the department who meets the academic requirements for membership in Kappa Omicron Nu.

Scholar: Lauryn Haines

Year awarded: 2021

Working towards degree: Bachelor of Science in Family and Consumer Sciences (Apparel Merchandising) 

About the scholarship recipient: Lauryn was born and raised in Oakland, California. She decided on attending CSUN because of the awesome fashion program. She is majoring in apparel merchandising and minoring in marketing. Receiving this scholarship means a lot to Lauryn because she has worked hard applying for scholarships and was proud to be awarded this scholarship opportunity. She is thankful to Nancy J. and Joseph N. Owens and the Family and Consumer Sciences Department. In the future, she aspires to have her dream career of becoming a celebrity wardrobe stylist, styling in a variety of settings such as for movies, music videos, photo shoots and more.

Scholar: Erik Talavera 

Year awarded: 2021

Working towards degree: Bachelor of Science in Family and Consumer Sciences (Apparel Merchandising/Production)

About the scholarship: Nancy Owens taught in the Department of Family and Consumer Sciences for 36 years, specializing in apparel design and merchandising. She was highly involved at CSUN and has continued volunteering at the university since her retirement. Nancy and her husband Joe continue to support the university through their scholarship endowments that help students achieve their academic and career goals. This scholarship provides support to a student in the apparel design and merchandising program.

Scholar: Gabriela Brocca 

Year awarded: 2021

Working towards degree: Bachelor of Science in Family and Consumer Sciences (Nutrition and Dietetics)

About the scholarship: Dr. Tungshan “Tom” Chen was a professor in the Family and Consumer Sciences Department and the founding director of the Marilyn Magaram Center for Food Science, Nutrition and Dietetics. Marilyn Magaram met Dr. Chen while she was a master’s student and considered him a great mentor and friend. Unfortunately, Marilyn’s life was cut too short. As a tribute to her, Philip Magaram, Marilyn’s husband, and his family dedicated the Center as an honor to her memory. Tom was a large influence in seeing the Center transform from a concept to a reality after it opened in 1991. This scholarship is awarded to a full-time student and member of the Student Dietetic and Food Science Association (SDFSA) who is actively involved in programs and services hosted by the Center.

Scholar: Naire Aghajani

Year awarded: 2021

Working towards degree: Bachelor of Science in Health Administration  

About the scholarship recipient: Naire is born and raised in Los Angeles and a first-generation student. Her parents migrated to the United States from Iran to ensure she and her sisters would have a successful future. Naire has always been interested in the medical field and helping others and believes a career in health administration can help change the healthcare community for the better. Her passion for the field has deepened due to her work experience as a billing representative and in her current position as a medical receptionist at Joseph S. Luk Physical Therapy.

Naire is also a member and will be upcoming president for the Health Administration Student Association at CSUN. She is honored to receive this scholarship and is motivated to be even more active in the health administration community. After completing her degree, she would like to gain more knowledge in the field and continue her education to pursue a master’s degree in health administration. In the future, Naire would like to manage her own healthcare facility. She plans to explore several categories of healthcare before choosing what kind of clinic she would like to manage specifically, but she is confident that she will be happy and successful in whatever she sets her mind to.

Scholar: Daniel Mullings

Year awarded: 2021

Working towards degree: Bachelor of Science in Health Administration  

About the scholarship recipient: Daniel was born in Honduras and immigrated to the United States in 1995. He grew up in the San Fernando Valley and went into the military after graduating high school. After he served for three years, he moved to Lancaster, CA where he currently resides. Daniel is very excited to be invested in a career in health administration because he believes the industry has a big future. He will be the first in his family to earn a bachelor’s degree when he completes his studies at CSUN. Daniel said that receiving the scholarship gives him hope and strengthens his faith that he will finish his degree. He aspires to further his education as a healthcare provider and invest himself in nursing because he believes that nursing is relevant to what he will one day practice, thus making his skills even that much more marketable.

About the scholarship: The Health Administration Scholarship Program was initiated through a generous donation from alumnus, Ronald “Ron” Sorensen, and further supported by alumna, Dori Holnagel. The scholarship is awarded to undergraduate students who are majoring in health administration and have successfully completed the first two introductory courses. Recipients are selected based on evidence of financial need, being among the first in their family to attend college, and have a proven commitment to the community.

Scholar: Sarah Benyamin

Year awarded: 2021

Working towards degree: Bachelor of Science in Health Administration (graduated Spring 2021)

Scholar: Emma Reyes

Year awarded: 2021

Working towards degree: Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Sciences   

About the scholarship recipient: Emma was born and raised in Los Angeles and is the first in her family to receive a bachelor’s degree. She is dedicated to her studies, making her family proud, and helping others within her community. Throughout high school and college, she passionately demonstrated her interest in the field of healthcare by volunteering her free time in the emergency room and radiology department at her local hospital. Outside of the hospital and classroom settings, she also mentors transfer and first-generation college students as a member of CSUN’s MentorConnect program. Her goal is to help support incoming peers and help them feel more comfortable adjusting to the college environment.

After Emma graduates with her bachelor’s degree in radiologic sciences with a minor in biology, she plans to obtain x-ray, CT, and MRI certifications to work as a radiologic technologist in a hospital. In the future, she would like to further her education by obtaining a master’s degree in physician assistant studies. She is proud of herself for maintaining a high grade-point average throughout college and is honored to receive this scholarship.

Scholar: Eric Shanazari

Year awarded: 2021

Working towards degree: Bachelor of Science in Public Health (graduated spring 2021)

About the scholarship recipient: Eric is a second-generation Armenian American student who grew up in Glendale, California. He says that when he was younger, he lacked the discipline to focus in classes that were not of interest to him. After graduating high school, he spent about five years working before he decided to continue his education. From the day he started college, he made it a goal to get through every class with an “A”, which is something he achieved throughout his undergraduate studies. Eric says he plans to continue with this goal in the future.

Eric graduated with his Bachelor of Science in Public Health in spring 2021 and is now enrolled in the Master of Public Health – Applied Epidemiology program at CSUN. He said he chose to continue at CSUN because he enjoys it, likes how he is treated as a student at the university, the way they respond to world events, and that the faculty and staff seem to genuinely care about everyone on campus. He said the scholarship was a big surprise to him and every cent he earns is money that he puts into funding his education. He appreciates the support of the scholarship and promises to put it to good use. Eric plans to find a job in the public health field, continue working on his master’s degree, and if possible, then pursuing a doctorate.

About the scholarship: The Health Sciences Department Scholarship was made possible by a generous donation from alumnus, Myron Lieberman. The scholarship is awarded to students studying fields in the health sciences department. 

Scholar: Renee Medina

Year awarded: 2021

Working towards degree: Bachelor of Science in Public Health

Scholar: Caroline Plaza

Year awarded: 2021

Working towards degree: Bachelor of Science in Public Health

About the scholarship recipient: Caroline was born in Hermosillo, Sonora and moved to the United States when she was four years old. She enrolled in kindergarten, and it was there she began learning the English language. Her elementary school was bilingual, so she was able to learn to read, write, and speak English and Spanish at the same time. Although at the time it was difficult, she is happy that she went through the experience. Caroline grew up in the Culver City area and has lived in several places since, including Kailua, O’ahu where she has been living due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Caroline said receiving this scholarship is very rewarding to her and has proven to her that she made the right decision by majoring and pursuing a career in public health. She is studying public health because the field will allow her to help several people at once and find the root causes to health issues. In the future, she will be applying to graduate programs in global health. She would like to participate in research that studies the health disparities of immigrant women in the United States and abroad. She is interested in bringing about positive change to the experiences that immigrants who do not speak the native language face when seeking healthcare.

About the scholarship: Holly Hunt graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Public Health Education at CSUN in 1979, was admitted to the Master of Public Health in Health Education graduate program and worked with children as a teacher. While Holly was a graduate student at CSUN she tragically passed away. In 2006, her siblings, Beryl Loughlin and Ronald Hunt, along with his wife Joyce, established this scholarship in memory of Holly. This scholarship is awarded to an undergraduate public health student who contributes to the community and is committed to public health.

Scholar: Detrich Galloway

Year awarded: 2021

Working towards degree: Bachelor of Science in Public Health (graduated Spring 2021) 

About the scholarship recipient: Detrich is a non-traditional, first-generation African American college student from Northern California. The value of higher education was planted in her early in her life. She decided to study public health after the loss of her brother who received negligent and dispassionate healthcare before passing. The reputation for preparing their graduates for real-life experiences in healthcare made CSUN the most logical place for her to begin her journey of learning.

Detrich graduated with her bachelor’s degree in public health and a minor in Africana Studies. She plans to earn a doctoral degree and eventually plant some of her own zeal for knowledge of health disparities among African Americans in other student populations. The scholarship has helped her to facilitate her Ph.D. goals. She is honored to receive the scholarship and humbly thanks the family of Judge Julian Beck and the donors for their generosity.

About the scholarship: Julian Beck was a teacher, politician and judge in Los Angeles and was instrumental in the establishment of San Fernando Valley State College (now CSUN). Two of Julian Beck's greatest achievements were carrying out the legislation that created CSUN, as well as, creating the Superior Court in San Fernando. He served on CSUN's Advisory Board for 16 years and always felt that education and hard work gave a person more options in life. To him, education was a gift to improve a person's life. He also felt strongly about sharing and giving to those who struggle to pay for their higher education. He left several endowments to CSUN for the purpose of helping others. As a man from humble beginnings, he served as a prime example of where hard work and an education can help fulfill one's own dreams and the dreams of others.This scholarship is made possible by a generous contribution from the Judge Julian Beck Health Sciences Endowment established in 1984. The scholarship provides financial assistance to an outstanding senior each year. Recipients should demonstrate a commitment to professional growth and service, leadership, have a positive and professional attitude, and, where applicable, outstanding clinical potential.

Scholar: Idania Brown

Year awarded: 2021

Working towards degree: Master of Science in Public Health

About the scholarship: The late Dr. Lennin H. Glass was a professor of health sciences and served as the Dean of the School of Communication and Professional Studies (now Health and Human Development) from 1979-1987. The scholarship was dedicated to Dr. Glass by his wife Rosalee before her passing. The scholarship is made possible due to a generous contribution from the Lennin H. Glass Scholarship Endowment. It is the intention of the donor to provide financial assistance to a returning adult student who can demonstrate a commitment to professional growth and service, leadership and has a positive and professional attitude within the health sciences field.

Scholar: Noor Basma

Year awarded: 2021

Working towards degree: Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Sciences

Scholar: Elizabeth Garcia

Year awarded: 2021

Working towards degree: Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Sciences

Scholar: Mayra Jimenez

Year awarded: 2021

Working towards degree: Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Sciences

Scholar: Daniela Montano 

Year awarded: 2021

Working towards degree: Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Sciences

Scholar: Emma Reyes

Year awarded: 2021

Working towards degree: Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Sciences

About the scholarship recipient: Emma was born and raised in Los Angeles and is the first in her family to receive a bachelor’s degree. She is dedicated to her studies, making her family proud, and helping others within her community. Throughout high school and college, she passionately demonstrated her interest in the field of healthcare by volunteering her free time in the emergency room and radiology department at her local hospital. Outside of the hospital and classroom settings, she also mentors transfer and first-generation college students as a member of CSUN’s MentorConnect program. Her goal is to help support incoming peers and help them feel more comfortable adjusting to the college environment.

After Emma graduates with her bachelor’s degree in radiologic sciences with a minor in biology, she plans to obtain X-ray, CT, and MRI certifications to work as a radiologic technologist in a hospital. In the future, she would like to further her education by obtaining a master’s degree in physician assistant studies. She is proud of herself for maintaining a high grade-point average throughout college and is honored to receive this scholarship.

Scholar: Lisa Rodriguez

Year awarded: 2021

Working towards degree: Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Sciences

Scholar: Wesley Southerland

Year awarded: 2021

Working towards degree: Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Sciences

About the scholarship recipient: Wesley grew up in the San Fernando Valley and says his family is his main motivation. He chose to study radiologic sciences because he wants to help people using medical imaging as it has helped some of his family members. He enjoys the field because it is challenging and offers many opportunities of growth within the medical field. During his time in the program at CSUN, Wesley has become involved within CSUN and the surrounding community. He became the president of the Radiologic Sciences Student Association and was the class representative for the radiologic sciences alumni chapter. Wesley said that he would like to continue advancing his education and this scholarship has helped in doing so.

Scholar: Melissa Zepeda Ruiz

Year awarded: 2021

Working towards degree: Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Sciences

About the scholarship: This scholarship is the result of a generous contribution from Southern California Kaiser Permanente. The scholarship is for baccalaureate students studying Radiologic Sciences and intends to encourage them to excel in their education and reward such outstanding students. The intent is to lessen the financial burden of the students who are studying to gain professional imaging skills, training, and the experience necessary to join the professional field of Radiologic Technology. Students are chosen based on a combination of financial need, commitment to the community, dedication to the institution, scholastic achievement and devotion to the imaging profession as described by references. Award funds are designated for summer clinical registration fees.

Scholar: Kristina Burch 

Year awarded: 2021

Working towards degree: Master of Science in Kinesiology (graduated Spring 2021)

About the scholarship: The Glenn W. Arnett Scholarship was made possible due to a generous contribution from Mr. and Mrs. Elwood C. Davis in honor of Dr. Glenn Arnett, who was a faculty member and department chair in kinesiology. He served as CSUN’s first athletic director in 1958 and taught at CSUN until his retirement. The purpose of the scholarship is to provide support to a student in the kinesiology program who aspires to have a career in the area of kinesiology and physical activity. 

Scholar: Elsy Jermanos

Year awarded: 2021

Working toward degrees: Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology; Exercise Science

About the scholarship recipient: Elsy was born in the heart of Beirut, Lebanon in 1997 just as the rates of bombings had begun to decline. Despite living through bombings and assassinations in an unstable country, she and her parents’ saw Lebanon as a beautiful haven. Elsy and her family spent their summers in the United States. In 2005 her mother chose for Elsy and her brother to stay in America for them to have a safer future; a decision Elsy says laid the foundation for who she is today.

Elsy is now pursuing exercise science in kinesiology and chose to study at CSUN because of the positive reputation of the program and the professors. Receiving the scholarship was exciting and uplifting for Elsy. Between juggling the workload of full-time school and two jobs in the absence of her parents, she finds little time to reflect upon her hard-work and achievements. She is thankful to Laurence and Ethel Young for their investment in students like her. In the future, Elsy be working toward her Doctor of Physical Therapy and building a team of passionate and dedicated colleagues to help her open her own clinic.

About the scholarship: The late Dr. Laurence Young was a professor of Kinesiology in the physical education option at CSUN for many years. He and his wife Ethel established a planned gift that will enable many students in the future, to be rewarded for their time, leadership and the hard work they put into their academic major.

Scholar: Jessica Harrison 

Year awarded: 2021

Working towards degree: Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology; Exercise Science (graduated Spring 2021)

About the scholarship: Leslie “Les” and Terry Cutler are long time contributors to CSUN and this scholarship expands their giving to the university in their area of interest in healthcare. Les attended CSUN in 1963, although he did not graduate from the university, he went on to become a dentist, receive a PhD and become the Chancellor and Provost of Health Affairs at the University of Connecticut. It is the intention of the donors that this scholarship be awarded to Kinesiology students with outstanding potential to become a leader in the field of health, fitness and rehabilitation as they proceed through the adapted physical activity graduate program. The student must also be working in the Center of Achievement.

Scholar: Ryan Drantch 

Year awarded: 2021

Working towards degree: Master of Science in Kinesiology

About the scholarship: Leslie “Les” and Terry Cutler are long time contributors to CSUN. This award expands their giving to the university and it is in their area of interest, healthcare. Les attended CSUN in 1963, although he did not graduate from the university, he went on to become a dentist, receive a PhD and become the chancellor and provost of health affairs at the University of Connecticut. Les and Terry created this outstanding graduate research award in honor of their mothers, Marian Cutler and Lucille Grubman. It is the intention of the donors that this award be given to kinesiology students with outstanding clinical potential as they proceed through the adapted physical activity program. The student must also be working in the Center of Achievement through Adapted Physical Activity.

Scholar: Ngozichukwu Nnoli (Deborah) 

Year awarded: 2021

Working towards degree: Master of Science in Kinesiology; Adapted Physical Activity

About the scholarship: Leslie “Les” and Terry Cutler are long time contributors to CSUN and this award expands their giving to the university. This gift is in their area of interest, healthcare. Les attended CSUN in 1963, although he did not graduate from the university, he went on to become a dentist, receive a PhD and become the chancellor and provost of health affairs at the University of Connecticut. Les and Terry created this outstanding graduate leadership award in honor of Les’ father Norman Cutler, who was a champion of excellence and showed a strong commitment to helping others achieve greatness in their career and calling.

Scholar: Melisa Olmos

Year awarded: 2021

Working towards degree: Master of Science in Kinesiology; Adapted Physical Activity

About the scholarship recipient: Melisa received her bachelor’s degree from California State University, San Marcos in kinesiology with an emphasis in physical education. She went on to teach physical education when unfortunately, the program was cut. She then decided to pursue her graduate degree and landed on CSUN’s program in adapted physical activity. Melisa is grateful for the scholarship and feels it is a privilege to be recognized. After graduating with her master’s degree, she would like to teach people living with disabilities, either in a school or clinical setting. She wants to make a positive impact on people and feels the most rewarding thing she can do is teach individuals with disabilities a skill or technique to better their everyday lives.

About the scholarship: This scholarship was made possible by a generous gift from Dr. Margaret Shiffrar, a professor of psychology and the former assistant vice president of graduate studies at CSUN, in memory of her mother, Ruth Shiffrar. Ruth was a CSU graduate and champion of physical education for school children. She was a proud fourth generation Californian whose childhood was happily spent playing in the outdoors of the Central Coast. Ruth was a high school physical education teacher in Northern California for many years. When California public schools began to systematically de-fund physical education courses, her concern for the future health of Californians grew. The goal of this scholarship is to help right the health related wrongs that resulted from de-funding programs by supporting a CSUN student with outstanding potential to become a leader in the field of physical education. 

Scholar: Diego Rodriguez 

Year awarded: 2021

Working towards degree: Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology

About the scholarship: Susan Tartakoff ‘71 and her husband, Raymond, are members of the community with a long-history and devotion to CSUN. Susan is an alum and has been a client and volunteer at the Center of Achievement for over 15 years. She became a client at the Center after she was involved in a horrific car accident that left her paralyzed from the chest down. When Susan started using the Center, only the land-based programs existed. She helped raise funds for the Brown Center for Adaptive Aquatic Therapeutic Exercise through the volunteer group, “FOCAS” (Friends of the Center of Achievement and Sponsors). Susan and Raymond created this scholarship to further their support of the Center. The scholarship is for Kinesiology graduate students that work in the Center and aspire to have a career in adapted physical activity or physical rehabilitation.

Scholar: Annette Elizaldi

Year awarded: 2021

Working towards degree: Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Scholar: Stacy In

Year awarded: 2021

Working towards degree: Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Scholar: Ju Youn Lee

Year awarded: 2021

Working towards degree: Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Scholar: Danny Lopez

Year awarded: 2021

Working towards degree: Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Scholar: Julian Macias

Year awarded: 2021

Working towards degree: Bachelor of Science in Nursing

About the scholarship recipient: Julian grew up in a small town called Valley Springs in Northern California with his mother, father, and sister. Both of his parents are naturalized citizens that immigrated from different areas of Mexico. Julian moved to Southern California in 2003 to attend Vanguard University in Costa Mesa. He now lives in the Redondo Beach area.

Julian is a nursing major who was drawn to the accelerated program at CSUN. He is thankful to Mr. Sipma and the opportunity to have his aspirations validated by a panel of experienced healthcare professionals and instructors. He said this validation has given him a boost in his resolve to move through the rigorous nursing program. He is very grateful for Mr. Sipma’s generosity and interest in helping future nurses. After graduating, Julian would like to own and operate his own clinic as a mental health nurse practitioner and be able to offer therapy, medication, and support to those afflicted with common mental health disorders.

Scholar: Jessica Mo

Year awarded: 2021

Working towards degree: Bachelor of Science in Nursing

About the scholarship recipient: Jessica’s mother and father immigrated to the United States from China in 2001 and 2003, respectively. She grew up in San Gabriel Valley; Jessica currently resides with her parents, three younger siblings, and two German Shepherds.

In 2019, she received her Bachelor of Science Degree in Public Health Sciences from University of California, Irvine, graduating Summa Cum Laude. After she graduated, Jessica researched nursing programs and was drawn to CSUN’s accelerated program and outstanding NCLEX exam pass rates. She also plans to move back to Los Angeles after she completes her Bachelor of Science Nursing and Registered Nursing license, therefore the location of CSUN and the nearby hospitals that she is performing her clinical rotations is extremely favorable. She also appreciates the mentorship she receives at CSUN that helped her navigate through her first semester.

Jessica said the gratitude that she has for Mr. Dale Sipma for creating this scholarship is beyond words. She comes from a low-income household and is a first-generation college student. Her extremely hard-working parents have sacrificed so much to put her through higher education not once, but twice. Being a recipient of this scholarship allows her to be less dependent on her parents’ financial sacrifices and allows her to channel her focus more into her academics.

In the future, Jessica hopes to specialize in pediatrics because she has found value and satisfaction in watching her three younger siblings overcome obstacles while growing into healthy individuals. She would like to work as a nurse practitioner and clinical preceptor in the pediatrics department of a teaching hospital.

Scholar: Michelle Park

Year awarded: 2021

Working towards degree: Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Scholar: Siqi Shao

Year awarded: 2021

Working towards degree: Bachelor of Science in Nursing

About the scholarship recipient: Siqi was born in China and moved to California with her family during middle school. She said she chose to study nursing at CSUN because she had heard of many amazing accomplishments by the students and faculty. She said the confidence she feels in the program continues to inspire her to reach her highest level of proficiency and work ethic and she is extremely grateful for her entire experience. Siqi said this feeling has been reinforced by the generosity of Mr. Dale Sipma and the scholarship that assists students in reaching their educational goals. She said the scholarship will help her achieve her goals and mitigate stress. After graduating, she would like to continue working on her end goal of becoming a nurse practitioner and being a contributing member of the healthcare community. 

Scholar: Tova Tomasi

Year awarded: 2021

Working towards degree: Bachelor of Science in Nursing

About the scholarship: The Sipma Family Scholarship is made possible due to a generous contribution from friend of the university, Dale Sipma. Mr. Sipma sees the importance of nurses and therefore donated scholarships to students studying in the Nursing program at CSUN.

Scholar: Shelby Barnes

Year awarded: 2021

Working towards degree: Doctor of Physical Therapy (Class 63)

About the scholarship recipient: Shelby says she is grateful for her Latina mother whom always emphasized the importance of education. Her mother was the first in her family to receive a bachelor’s degree and then went on to earn a master’s degree. Shelby knew she was going to study and pursue a career in physical therapy after she was first exposed to the field due to a soccer-related ankle injury she suffered in high school. Shelby went on to San Diego State University and obtained her Bachelor of Science degree in Kinesiology with an emphasis in Pre-Physical Therapy; she was eager to continue in graduate school. She was drawn to CSUN’s Physical Therapy program because of the warmth and diversity of campus. During her time at CSUN, she has been involved in many volunteer and mentoring opportunities. She said she is honored to receive the scholarship and deeply values diversity and has a true admiration for those who attain excellence in sports. She is grateful to the Campanellas and the Dodgers for their generosity and will strive for excellence in the field of physical therapy to provide the highest quality of care while being an advocate for each of her patients. Shelby said she also takes great pride in following in her mother’s footsteps and becoming the first in her family to obtain a doctorate degree.

Scholar: Jacob Melgar

Year awarded: 2021

Working towards degree: Doctor of Physical Therapy (Class 63)

About the scholarship recipient: Jacob said that as a Latino student he is proud and honored to be the first in his family to graduate from a university. In middle and high school, Jacob participated in the C5 Youth Foundation where he was able to develop his leadership skills. These skills rolled over into his role at CSUN as part of the student leadership team for the Physical Therapy Pro Bono Clinic. He was also able to connect with the Filipino American Services Group to render pro bono telehealth physical therapy services during the COVID-19 pandemic. He and the team presented their telehealth clinical model at the Pro Bono Network Conference on behalf of CSUN.

Jacob said that receiving this scholarship is a tremendous honor for him and his family and he has been a Dodger fan since he was a child. He wants to be able to give back to the community and help people improve and maintain a greater quality of life in the future.

Scholar: Braxton Shapiro

Year awarded: 2021

Working towards degree: Doctor of Physical Therapy (Class 63)

About the scholarship recipient: Braxton’s journey to physical therapy school did not follow a traditional path. After graduating high school, he struggled academically and emotionally. He medically withdrew from college and entered rehabilitation where he was able to gain active recovery. He then enrolled at CSUN and pursued an undergraduate degree in psychology, hoping to help individuals struggling like he had been. While working at a substance abuse rehab, he saw many clients struggling with opioid addiction to manage chronic pain. Witnessing how physical and emotional traumas intersect, he wanted to be on the frontlines of pain management and healthy coping strategies. This led to his pursuit of physical therapy; the field allows Braxton to provide tools and guidance to those navigating the difficulties of physical recovery.

Braxton is grateful to receive this scholarship and hopes to promote the values of diversity and inclusion that it represents. He is thankful to the Dodgers and the Campanellas for their generosity and he feels honored to be a part of an organization that recognizes the importance of family and diversity.

Scholar: Sabrina Berger

Year awarded: 2021

Working towards degree: Doctor of Physical Therapy (Class 64)

About the scholarship recipient: Sabrina always knew that she wanted a career in a field focused on helping people. After attending physical therapy herself, she discovered it was erfect for her and she continued to become involved in the field. Prior to CSUN, she obtained her undergraduate degree from Fresno State University where she was involved in several volunteer opportunities and clubs. Sabrina is honored to be part of the Dodger family. She developed an appreciation for baseball at a young age because of playing softball and attending baseball games with her family. She is grateful to the Campanella and Dodgers Foundations for their generosity in helping her pursue her passion of helping others heal.

Scholar: Nicole Dubreuil

Year awarded: 2021

Working towards degree: Doctor of Physical Therapy (Class 64)

About the scholarship recipient: Nicole is a first-generation graduate student and she is honored to be part of a program that supports the community. As a second year student during a pandemic, she was unable to participate in her clinical rotations during the summer, but she was able to get in touch with her previous employer and work as an aide for their physical therapists.

Nicole enjoys working with children and recently became a mother. She has worked with children in the Northridge community with cerebral palsy by assisting them in advancing their motor skills through play therapy. She also enjoys volunteering with children and for organizations on-campus.

Witnessing her Greek family marginalized by healthcare providers was the experience that made Nicole passionate about serving individuals mistreated in the healthcare system. She is thankful to the Campanellas and the Dodgers for extending their generosity and helping her become a great healthcare provider in the community. The scholarship means so much to Nicole and her growing family.

Scholar: Billie He

Year awarded: 2021

Working towards degree: Doctor of Physical Therapy (Class 64)

About the scholarship recipient: Billie is a Chinese-American student and she is very proud to be the first in her family to attend graduate school. She has always enjoyed helping others. In high school, she volunteered for several different organizations and continued to do so when she joined CSUN’s Physical Therapy program. In the near future, she hopes to be even more involved in the CSUN community and be able to volunteer in additional outreach programs.

Billie said it is an honor to receive this scholarship and that she and her family are deeply humbled. She said that her parents have sacrificed a lot for her to be where she is today and she understands what a privilege it is to have all the experiences and support her parents afforded her throughout the years. She would like nothing more than to make them proud and repay them for all the years of love and support. She is sincerely thankful to the Campanella family and the Dodgers for their generosity and she will do her best to pay it forward.

Scholar: Taylor Johnson

Year awarded: 2021

Working towards degree: Doctor of Physical Therapy (Class 65)

About the scholarship recipient: Taylor is a first generation college student who has spent several years involved in different clubs, internships, and volunteer opportunities. In his undergraduate program, he was involved in two internships that worked with providing fitness for the CSUN community through exercise. One was the Commit to be Fit program, where Taylor assisted in coaching staff, faculty, friends and family. In the iFit program he was paired with other CSUN students on the autism spectrum to help them engage in exercise and to increase their social interactions by building a sense of community.

Taylor said receiving this scholarship is a huge honor to him and his family. He has been a Dodger fan for as long as he can remember and has fond memories of attending games with his grandfather and uncle. He said the scholarship means so much to him in continuing his journey and making his family proud. Helping people is his biggest passion in life, he is grateful to the Campanellas, and the Dodgers for providing him with the opportunity to continue his dream and for making him part of the Dodger family.

Scholar: Mingyoung Lee

Year awarded: 2021

Working towards degree: Doctor of Physical Therapy (Class 65)

About the scholarship recipient: Mingyoung is a Taiwanese American student who is the first in his family to attend graduate school. During his first semester in the Physical Therapy program at CSUN, he created a server as a safe space for students to mingle during the pandemic. Mingyoung said he wants to serve to bridge the gap for minorities such as the Chinese speaking community. He said receiving the scholarship has been a tremendous honor for him and that Roy Campanella’s story is inspiring and he is grateful to the Dodgers for carrying on Roy’s legacy.

Scholar: Roland Ramirez

Year awarded: 2021

Working towards degree: Doctor of Physical Therapy (Class 65)

About the scholarship recipient: Roland is a first-generation Latino student and the first in his family to attend graduate school. He said that after graduating high school, he had one goal in mind, to become a physical therapist. Since then, he has taken on mentorship roles in youth programs to help guide young runners through their first marathon and has worked in both outpatient and inpatient physical therapy roles, helping many clients and gaining valuable experience. Roland said that despite the pandemic and distancing from fellow students, he and his peers have managed to form strong relationships in an online environment. He is grateful for this opportunity and knows that without the support of family, friends, peers, and professors he would not be where he is today.

Roland said it is a great honor to receive this scholarship and it is a tremendous help in achieving his dreams of becoming a physical therapist. He grew up in a LA sports centered household and that makes this scholarship that much better. He said no words can describe his level of appreciation for the award and is thankful to the Campanellas and the Dodgers.

Scholar: Nicholas Taylor

Year awarded: 2021

Working towards degree: Doctor of Physical Therapy (Class 65)

About the scholarship recipient: Nicholas said he was raised in a low-income family household of new Americans, is a first-generation college graduate, and is the first in his family to pursue graduate studies. During his undergraduate studies, he was committed to learning as much as he could both academically and experientially. This led him to volunteer in hospital settings, work as a physical therapy aide, and study abroad in several countries. Nicholas’ passion for health science corresponds with his desire to serve others. He hopes to place service and patient-centered physical therapy at the forefront of his future sports rehabilitation clinic. He is wholeheartedly grateful to receive this scholarship and understands the significance of this support in his future accomplishments of becoming an agent of change in the lives of others.

About the scholarship: Roy “Campy” Campanella was a catcher for the Brooklyn Dodgers and one of the first African Americans to play Major League Baseball; he was also a three-time National League MVP. In 1958, he was involved in a car accident that left him paralyzed from the neck down, ending his baseball career. He started physical therapy which helped him gain enough mobility to become a guest instructor at the Dodgers’ spring training camp, offering lectures to young catchers. Roy passed away in 1993, a year later his wife Roxie began donating money to physical therapy programs and she continued to do so until her passing in 2004.

The scholarships at CSUN are made possible due to a generous contribution from the Campanella Family. In 2005, the Roy and Roxie Campanella Foundation and the Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation partnered to dedicate scholarships to CSUN physical therapy students. Roy and Roxie’s daughter, Joni Campanella-Roan, has enhanced the partnership with the Los Angeles Dodgers and continues to be actively involved with the College. The partnership has grown to add more scholarships, and since 2010, each year the Dodgers have invited a CSUN physical therapy student to intern with the team’s medical staff.

Scholar: Thompson Pang

Year awarded: 2021

Working towards degree: Master of Science in Tourism, Hospitality and, Recreation Management (Recreational Sport Management)

About the scholarship recipient: Thompson grew up in Southern California and transferred to CSUN from College of the Canyons. He discovered the Recreation and Tourism Management Department at CSUN after researching and talking to faculty members who gave him a better understanding of the major. Thompson graduated with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Tourism, Hospitality, and Recreation Management in 2018. Thompson

After Thompson graduated with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Tourism, Hospitality, and Recreation Management in 2018. He moved to various states and worked for professional ice hockey teams in the different community relations and game operations departments. Thompson loves the game of ice hockey and played for CSUN’s team from 2016-2018. He also loves giving back to communities and teaching children about the game because the sport has taught him many life lessons. After working in the sports industry for some time, Thompson decided to move back to Southern California at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic because he thought it presented the perfect opportunity to pursue his Master of Science degree in Tourism, Hospitality, and Recreation Management and specialize in Recreational Sport Management.

Thompson says that the scholarship means a lot to him and helps his future in academics and his career. He hopes to get back into the sports world and reach his career dream of working in a collegiate athletic department with an ice hockey program after he completes his master’s degree.

About the scholarship: This scholarship is awarded to a graduate student in the Department of Recreation and Tourism Management who can show evidence of involvement in activities of professional concern. The student must possess academic areas of achievement and be involved in professional and/or community service organizations. The student must also have worked either in a paid or voluntary role in the profession of recreation.

Scholar: Isabel Ayala

Year awarded: 2021

Working towards degree: Master of Science in Tourism, Hospitality and, Recreation Management (Recreational Sport Management)

About the scholarship recipient: Isabel was born in Oxnard, California and grew up playing soccer, swimming, and traveling. After graduating as a second-generation student at CSUN, she pursued her career in sports and recreation at the Student Recreation Center and Associated Student’s Camp Matador on campus. Inspired by colleagues, mentors, and family, she decided to pursue a master’s degree through the Recreation and Tourism Department.

Isabel moved back to her hometown during her studies and reconnected with her roots by hiking, cycling, skate boarding, and surfing while also applying her ingenuity and resourcefulness at Ventura County Special Olympics. She also applied her creative spirit through social media to kick start a community environmental justice group called Coastal Keepers with childhood sports friends. She currently continues her passion for sports as a Street Team member for Angel City Football Club, the newest women’s professional soccer team in Southern California.  Through her love for music, the outdoors, and staying active Isabel hopes to inspire and motivate others to do the same.

About the scholarship: Dr. Lola Sadlo was a founding faculty member in the Recreation and Tourism Management Department who was interested in crafts and dance. She wanted students to get creatively involved in the community and have high academic standards in academics. This award is given to one student for proven creativity in a RTM program and/or project, on or off the CSUN campus.

Scholar: Brenda Galvan

Year awarded: 2021

Working towards degree: Bachelor of Science in Tourism, Hospitality and, Recreation Management

About the scholarship recipient: Brenda grew up in West Covina and is working to complete her undergraduate degree in tourism, hospitality, and recreation management (RTM). She said finding the program was not easy for her at first, as she went through different majors before she found RTM. When she found the program she knew it was for her because it allowed her to share her people skills and work with others who shared similar values that include the importance of recreation. 

Brenda said that receiving this award showed her that her dream career had real importance and it gave her the reassurance she needed to proceed. Her goal includes working with Disney's Youth Education Series, more specifically, the leadership series. She understands that many under-resourced schools lack the privileges of being involved in such a series, and that is something she hopes to change and build out in her future.

About the scholarship: This award is dedicated to the late professor of leisure studies and recreation, Dr. John "Jack" Foley. Dr. Foley graduated from California State University, Long Beach with a degree in Recreation Administration and later earned a doctorate from Brigham Young University. He worked for the City of Culver City and later became a professor at CSUN where he worked for over two decades. He was a beloved mentor to students and a devoted contributor to the CSUN baseball team. He had a tremendous desire to give back to his community. He led the charge for a renovated Matador field and some of his hard work paid off when the Matador clubhouse was constructed in 2002. More recently, a significant donation was made to help bring Dr. Foley's vision for a redesigned Matador Field to fruition. The gift supports the renovating of the entrance and is the first of multiple projects. The Jack Foley Award is given to a student in the Department of Recreation and Tourism Management in honor of Dr. Foley's dedication to CSUN.

Scholar: Rhianna Orton

Year awarded: 2021

Working towards degree: Master of Science in Tourism, Hospitality and, Recreation Management (Recreational Sport Management)

About the scholarship recipient: Rhianna is from Corona, California and has been rock climbing since she was 8 years old, which made her quite the outdoor enthusiast. She competed a lot in her youth and developed a climbing club with friends while at Cal Poly Pomona for undergrad. The time spent at Cal Poly Pomona inspired her to pursue a master’s degree at CSUN in recreational sport management. She chose CSUN’s program because of the many hands-on experiences. The scholarship is significant to Rhianna because it will aid in financing her aspirations to make a career in outdoor recreation. Such a career aligns with her passion to bring more people into the folds of the great outdoors. She also looks forward to a potential career in campus recreation where she can dedicate time to lowering entry barriers so more individuals can enjoy outdoor sports.

About the scholarship: Tal Morash was a faculty member in the Recreation and Leisure Studies Department for many years (now Recreation and Tourism Management). He also founded the Outdoor Adventures program in the department. This scholarship is awarded to an undergraduate student who can show evidence of involvement in activities of professional concern in outdoor recreation. The student must also have volunteered or worked in the field and can show evidence of involvement with community service organizations.