Celeste Martinez (History) Among the Winners of the 40th Annual Student Research Competition

Celeste Martinez won first prize in her session of the 40th annual CSUSB Student Research Competition. Her research presentation was titled, “Resistance in Death: Nubian Women and Burial Practices under Egyptian Imperialism."

Ms. Martinez's description of the project highlighted that it "examines Nubian encounters with Egyptian imperial rule during the New Kingdom, focusing on the sites of Tombos and Amara West. By analyzing funerary practices and burial customs, the project explores how the preservation and expression of identity in burial contexts can be understood as a valid form of resistance within ancient colonial settings."

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Martinez noted, "I’m incredibly honored to have won the research competition! This project would not have been possible without the support of the Mellon Mays Undergraduate Fellowship and the mentorship of Dr. Kate Liszka, whose guidance has been instrumental in developing this research."

The Mellon Mays Undergraduate Fellowship Program is a competitive two-year program at CSUSB that provides financial support, research mentorship, and assistance with graduate school applications. "Celeste has been a pleasure to have in the program. She's bright and diligent; and I can't wait to see where her research takes her," said Dr. Alicia Gutierrez-Romine, associate professor of history and MMUF Faculty Coordinator.

Dr. Liszka noted, “We are very proud of Celeste Martinez and her unique research. It is detailed, cross-disciplinary, and will make a difference in understanding and interpreting history. She is bound to go far as a future historian.”

Congratulations to Celeste Martinez!