Colleagues, Students and Friends
As we all try to cope with the tragic passing of President Emeritus Al Karnig, I want to share with you the latest information regarding upcoming services. In accordance with the family’s wishes, a Memorial Service will be held this Thursday at 2 p.m. in Coussoulis Arena here at CSUSB.
The extended campus community and public are invited to attend this special tribute, with free parking available in Lot N on the north side of campus. Directions to CSUSB and a campus map are available online www.csusb.edu/maps-directions.
The family has also arranged for a visitation on Wednesday at Bobbitt Memorial Chapel, 1299 E. Highland Ave., San Bernardino. More information and directions are available online www.bobbittchapel.com or by calling the Chapel (909) 882-3761.
Dr. Karnig was a central figure in the history of our university and remains a vital part its legacy of academic excellence and community outreach. His 15 years of leadership as CSUSB’s third president helped this institution grow in size, scope and direction, all while making a concerted effort to maintain the close, cordial environment of a smaller school.
One thing I will always remember about Al was his passion for the students. He created the President's Academic Excellence Scholars program, which provided scholarships for local high school graduates who ranked in the top one percent of their class. He was committed to diversity, making sure this university not only attracted students of color but also helped them stay in school and graduate, many becoming the first in their families to earn a college degree.
Al was at the heart of so much here at Cal State San Bernardino, and I know this campus always held a very special place in his heart. None of us who knew or were influenced by Al will ever forget him, and his passion for this university, its students and this community will continue to inspire us.
Tomás D. Morales President
News coverage since Monday, May 8, includes:
The Sun: “Late Cal State San Bernardino president Al Karnig remembered” on May 8;
KVCR: ““Former CSUSB President Al Karnig dies at age 75” on May 8;
The Sun: “Former CSUSB president Al Karnig’s memorial to be held Thursday” on May 9;
The Sun: “Al Karnig: An educational leader who transformed lives” on May 10;
The Press-Enterprise: “Letters: Al Karnig cared” on May 10; and
The Sun: “Celebrating the life of Dr. Albert Karnig: Guest commentary” on May 11.