Cal State San Bernardino hosted the 2025 ExCELS Scholarship Celebration, recognizing student achievements and the growth of the Experiential Computing and Engaged Learning Scholarships (ExCELS) Program, a National Science Foundation-funded initiative supporting computer science majors.

The program aims to build inclusive, sustainable pathways to computational science careers in the Inland Empire, awarding scholarships to support CSUSB students in achieving their academic goals.

The event, held at the Coyote Commons, brought together university leaders, scholarship recipients, and community advocates to recognize the impact of the Experiential Computing and Engaged Learning Scholarships (ExCELS) Program.

This year, thirty-eight scholarships were awarded through the program, including twenty-five renewed awards for returning scholars. The students’ accomplishments in 2024 were nothing short of inspiring:

  • Four ExCELS scholars were selected for the DS-PATH Summer Fellowship, completing eight weeks of guided research at UC Riverside.
  • Two students earned competitive scholarships from the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU).
  • Thirteen scholars made the dean’s list in spring 2024, a testament to their academic dedication.
  • More than twenty students participated in professional and regional conferences. A student team won the CSUSB Student Research Competition and represented the university at the CSU system-wide competition at Cal Poly Humboldt.

“Our ExCELS students continue to raise the bar,” said Yunfei Hou, principal investigator of the ExCELS Program and professor of computer science and engineering, in his welcoming remarks. “They are not only thriving academically but are actively contributing to the future of computing in our region.”

The celebration featured keynote addresses from university and community leaders who reinforced the value of supporting underserved students in computer science.

“One of the most enjoyable parts of my work is hearing about the success of our students,” said Rafik Mohamed, university provost and vice president of Academic Affairs. “In times of uncertainty, programs like ExCELS play an essential role in ensuring that opportunity and support remain within reach for those who need it most.”

Sastry Pantula, dean of the College of Natural Sciences, echoed Mohamed’s sentiments.

“This program is about more than scholarships — it's about building a pathway into fields like computer science and data science where our students can make lasting impacts,” said Pantula.

Pantula’s comments were followed by words of support from Biridiana Aguilar, district director for U.S. Rep. Pete Aguilar (CA-33), who emphasized the broader community’s commitment to the program and its students.

“We’re proud to support the ExCELS Program and the opportunities it creates,” said Biridiana, who congratulated the scholars on their achievements and shared that Aguilar’s office welcomes opportunities to stay engaged with impactful initiatives like ExCELS.

A highlight of the reception was the Scholar Spotlights segment, during which ExCELS recipients Alexis Luevanos, Karen Nguyen and Ana Sordo shared how the program has shaped their academic journeys and career aspirations.

Following closing remarks by Khail Dajani, chair of the School of Computer Science and Engineering, guests enjoyed lunch and networking, providing an opportunity for students, faculty and community leaders to connect, share experiences and envision the future.

Now in its second year, the ExCELS Program continues to be a catalyst for growth, achievement and transformation. With continued investment and support, its impact on student success and regional innovation is only beginning to unfold.