Alan Llavore | Office of Marketing and Communications | (909) 537-5007 | allavore@csusb.edu
CSUSB’s Department of Geological Sciences marked its 35th anniversary with a special evening of reflection and celebration, bringing together students, alumni, faculty and community partners at the Santos Manuel Student Union North.
The milestone event highlighted the department’s growth into a leader in hands-on, field-based education and its role in preparing students for careers in environmental, geotechnical and natural resource fields. Alumni and current students shared personal stories underscoring the program’s lasting impact.
Geology seniors also presented research posters, sharing findings on a range of topics, including regional seismic hazards, mountain-building processes that shaped the landscape surrounding campus, and how natural systems respond to climate change.
During the event, Prince Ogidikpe, CSUSB alumnus and senior district representative for state Sen. Eloise Gomez Reyes, presented department chair and professor Claire Todd with a State of California Senate Certificate of Recognition, honoring the department’s contributions to education, environmental stewardship and workforce development in the Inland Empire and across California.
A highlight of the celebration was the recognition of Austin Marshall, a 2007 CSUSB graduate and president of Mitsubishi Cement Corp., as the department’s Outstanding Alumni. The event, held on April 9, also honored retiring faculty members Kerry Cato and Sally McGill for their years of teaching, mentorship and contributions to the discipline.
“Our alumni are inspiring evidence of the impact CSUSB geology degrees have on public safety, resource management and earth science education across Southern California,” said Todd. “It was a privilege to bring our alums, faculty, current students and their families together to celebrate the accomplishments of the past 35 years and to plan for an even bigger impact in the future.”
Founded by Britt Leatham, the geological sciences department has spent over three decades building a reputation for hands-on learning and impactful research, with alumni emerging as leaders across the region and beyond.
The anniversary gathering reflected CSUSB’s continued commitment to student success, community engagement and academic excellence in the Earth sciences.
