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.
“Anybody who knows Lua, it's an understatement to say that Lua is full of energy, passionate about our students, active on the Faculty Senate, and a terrific human being who values diversity and works to enhance a sense of belonging and harmony,” said Sastry Pantula, dean of the College of Natural Sciences.
Yan Zhang, associate professor in the School of Computer Science and Engineering, is the recipient of Cal State San Bernardino’s 2024-25 Outstanding Service Award for her extensive, sustained service to students, the university and the broader academic and professional community.
Associate Professor of Geography and Environmental Studies Jennifer Alford was named the winner of Cal State San Bernardino’s 2024-25 Golden Apple Award for her exceptional and vast teaching record. This is the second year in a row that a professor in the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences has achieved this prestigious honor.
The recognition was based on Estrada’s “exceptional instruction, capacity to engage students, and just extremely positive feedback she received from those she has taught,” said university President Tomás D. Morales as he made the surprise announcement in front her class on Thursday morning.
The 12th annual Pioneer Breakfast celebrated community members, campus partners and student scholarship recipients on Feb. 28. Organized by the Black Faculty, Staff and Student Association, the event remains a key highlight of CSUSB’s Black History Month festivities.
Gisela Bichler’s "steadfast, multi-faceted contributions to our campus and community have helped to transform the lives of countless students, further advancing CSUSB and Cal State University’s excellence in teaching, research, student support and community contributions,” said university President Tomás D. Morales.
This fall brings a new initiative to CSUSB’s Affordable Learning Solutions, an initiative which supports student success through participation in cost-saving programs for textbooks and course materials.
“I’m overwhelmed and humbled,” said Manijeh Badiee, professor of psychology. “This is the one award that means so much to me. I love teaching. I love our students. They’re why I do what I do.”