Two Cal State San Marcos alumni have been selected for the CSU Chancellor’s Doctoral Incentive Program, also known as CDIP, for the incoming 2025-26 cohort.
The CSUSM fellows are:
- Hugo Peralta-Ramírez is studying history and is sponsored by history professor Alan Malfavon.
- Karissa Tran is studying psychology and is sponsored by kinesiology professor Richard Armenta.
Seven CSUSM alumni were selected in the previous 2024-25 cohort.
CDIP aims to increase the number of faculty with the qualifications and skills needed to teach the diverse students of the CSU. The largest program of its kind in the United States, CDIP has supported more than 2,500 fellows pursuing doctoral degrees since 1987. CDIP also prepares promising doctoral students for CSU faculty positions by providing financial support, mentorship from CSU faculty and professional development with grant resources.
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- CSUSM Breaks Ground on Integrated Science and Engineering BuildingCal State San Marcos on Thursday broke ground on its future Integrated Science and Engineering (ISE) Building, which will allow the university to respond to the critical need for STEM programs, including new engineering majors and enrollment growth. Among the speakers at the groundbreaking ceremony were CSUSM President Ellen Neufeldt; San Marcos Mayor Rebecca Jones; Assemblymember Darshana Patel, who represents the district that includes CSUSM; Jackie Trischman, dean of CSUSM’s College of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics; and representatives from C.W. Driver Companies and HGA, the general contractor and designer of the building, respectively. The emcee was Leon Wyden, CSUSM's vice president of Finance and Administrative Services and chief financial officer. “It wasn’t too long ago when the idea of the Integrated Science and Engineering Building was but a hope and a dream,” Neufeldt said. “So it seems a little surreal that we have finally come to this day, about to break ground on the first state-supported academic building at CSUSM in more than a decade. I am filled with so much gratitude – this milestone reflects the dedication of our faculty, staff, students and partners who work tirelessly to support CSUSM’s mission of student success and social mobility.” The ISE building is estimated to cost $110 million and will be funded through commitments from California State University and private support. It will cover more than 70,000 square feet over three stories. The first publicly funded academic structure on campus since 2014, it’s expected to open in fall 2027. The ISE building will be constructed at the top of CSUSM’s campus, between Markstein Hall (which houses the business college) and the Arts Building. It will feature teaching and research labs, additional classrooms, student support areas, staff offices, a café and outdoor gathering spaces. “It’s an incredible honor to stand here with you today as we break ground on a building that represents not just bricks and mortar, but also a beacon of opportunity, innovation and the future of engineering and technology in our region,” Trischman said. “As dean, I’ve had the privilege of working closely with our remarkable faculty and staff, many of whom met tight deadlines with determination and tremendous creativity. Your dedication to this vision has been nothing short of inspiring.” CSUSM established its engineering program in 2018 with software and electrical engineering; computer engineering followed five years later. The ISE building will house those programs as well as computer science, computer information systems and cybersecurity, while also supporting the addition of industrial and systems engineering. The industrial and systems engineering program will be the only one at a public institution in San Diego County. The new facility will enable CSUSM to expand its enrollment of students in engineering disciplines from 500 to nearly 2,000. It also will advance diversity in a field where fewer than 10% of workers nationally are of Latino descent. By contrast, more than half of CSUSM’s engineering students are Latino. “This groundbreaking marks more than the start of construction – it marks the beginning of a new era for CSUSM,” said Elaine Pollard, president of Associated Students, Inc. “It's an era where student potential is maximized, social mobility is accelerated and the future of science and engineering becomes more diverse, innovative and impactful than ever before.” With eight out of 10 of CSUSM alumni staying in the region, the influx of more engineering graduates will help fill workforce needs in an area that boasts the nation’s largest cluster of technology, life science, defense and communications companies. Data shows that, in San Diego County, there are four software engineering jobs for every one graduate and three industrial/systems engineering jobs per graduate. While state-funded plans call for a one-wing building, CSUSM is seeking private philanthropic donations that will be critical for long-term growth and sustainability, as well as expanding the square footage with a second wing. Learn more about the ISE building at https://www.csusm.edu/iseb/index.html.
- CSUSM Adds New Master's in Clinical Counseling PsychologyCal State San Marcos has a new master’s degree program in clinical counseling psychology that has been approved by the CSU Chancellor’s Office to accept applications this fall. The first cohort is set to start in fall 2026 with 25-30 students, said Aleksandria Perez Grabow, an assistant professor of psychological science. The clinical counseling psychology program becomes the sixth master’s degree offered by the College of Humanities, Arts, Behavioral and Social Sciences, though at the outset it will be housed in Extended Learning. The program was approved by the Chancellor’s Office and CSUSM’s Academic Senate this summer based on curriculum developed by a steering committee composed of Grabow and fellow assistant psychology professors Alli Jobin and Lisa Graves. The initial work toward establishing the program began more than a decade ago under the guidance of psychology professor Gerardo Gonzalez. Jobin will serve as program director, and Grabow will be the practicum coordinator. The clinical counseling degree is designed to address a significant shortage of qualified and diverse workers in the behavioral and mental health fields in San Diego and the surrounding regions. According to the San Diego Behavioral Health Workforce Report, the region needs almost 20,000 more professionals in the field over the next five years. “This program will address critical needs in several areas, including for our students interested in becoming therapists and counselors, for our campus in offering a program that directly leads to a specific career, and for our community in supporting the shortage of mental health practitioners and training therapists in areas specific to our unique population here in San Diego and bordering counties.” Grabow said. “CSUSM has a wonderful social work program, and I think our students will welcome the option of attending another local, affordable graduate program and working in an applied field related to psychology.” Media Contact Brian Hiro, Communications Specialist bhiro@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7306
- CSUSM to Host Summer Scholars Showcase on Aug. 8Students in Cal State San Marcos’ Summer Scholars Program will present their work during the Summer Scholars Showcase from 9 a.m. to noon on Aug. 8 in the USU Ballroom, followed by an awards ceremony from noon to 2 p.m. The event is open to the public and free parking is available on the sixth floor of Parking Structure 1. The College of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics hosts the Summer Scholars Program each year to actively engage undergraduates in STEM research. Working closely with faculty mentors, students gain hands-on experience in highly interdisciplinary projects and learn to apply new instrumental techniques and analytical methods. The 10-week program concludes each year with the Summer Scholars Showcase in which participants share the methods, results and interpretation of the work they have done over the summer. Students will present research conducted across a wide range of disciplines, including biological sciences, biotechnology, biochemistry/chemistry, mathematics, physics, computer science, engineering and electrical and computer engineering. What: Summer Scholars Poster Showcase, hosted by CSUSM’s College of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics When: 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Friday, Aug. 8 Where: USU Ballroom Media Contact Eric Breier, Interim assistant director of editorial and external affairs ebreier@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7314
- CSUSM's Chief Financial Officer Receives Top National AwardLeon Wyden, Cal State San Marcos' vice president of Finance and Administrative Services and chief financial officer, has received the highest annual honor from the National Association of College and University Business Officers (NACUBO). Wyden was named the winner of the 2025 Distinguished Business Officer Award as NACUBO recognized six business and finance leaders and one university during its annual meeting, which started Saturday in Washington, D.C. “This recognition holds profound meaning for me – not only as a personal milestone, but as a testament to the collective efforts, encouragement and wisdom I have been fortunate to receive throughout my career,” Wyden said at the awards ceremony. “This award is more than a professional achievement; it is a reflection of the values and community that NACUBO represents. To be recognized by peers and leaders whom I so deeply respect is both inspiring and humbling. It reaffirms my belief in the transformative power of collaboration and service in higher education.” Wyden was honored for his significant positive impact on advancing business and finance administration in higher education and on the association. Since joining CSUSM in 2021, he has had wide-ranging impacts on campus, from expanded student housing and dining facilities to sustainable energy practices and streamlined business operations. Wyden is active in NACUBO, has served as a board member for regional affiliate EACUBO and has been a peer evaluator for the Middle States Commission for Higher Education, among many other volunteer engagements. “Throughout his four-year tenure at CSUSM, Leon has accomplished what would take many others decades to achieve,” CSUSM President Ellen Neufeldt said. “He exemplifies the very essence of strategic leadership, fiscal stewardship and innovative thinking, significantly advancing the financial and administrative excellence of our institution and the broader higher education landscape. Leon has been instrumental in transforming CSUSM’s financial operations, leading with integrity, vision and a steadfast commitment to student success.” CSUSM is the latest stop for Wyden in a distinguished career spanning institutions such as Howard University, Upper Iowa University, Tiffin University, the University of Findlay and Frostburg State University. NACUBO, founded in 1962, is a nonprofit professional organization representing chief administrative and financial officers at more than 1,700 colleges and universities across the country. Media Contact Brian Hiro, Communications Specialist bhiro@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7306
- CSUSM Names New Interim Chief Enrollment OfficerCal State San Marcos has announced the appointment of Edward Mills as interim chief enrollment officer. Mills’ first day on the job is July 28. He is replacing Kathryn McFarland, who in August will conclude her one-year term as CSUSM’s interim associate vice president of Enrollment Management Services. The interim chief enrollment officer position will report to the office of President Ellen Neufeldt. “I’m excited to join President Neufeldt and the team at CSUSM,” Mills said. “I’m honored for the opportunity to build upon the institution’s track record of success.” Mills brings to CSUSM nearly 40 years of experience in enrollment management and student affairs. His career includes serving as vice president for student affairs and chief enrollment officer at Sacramento State, where he led transformative initiatives to enhance student success and institutional growth. Most recently, he was brought on at Sonoma State on a special two-year assignment to support the university with its enrollment turnaround. Under his leadership, enrollment grew for the first time in a decade. Before his time at Sacramento State, he served as the vice provost for enrollment and student services at Cleveland State University. “We are excited to welcome Dr. Mills, a national expert in enrollment, to our team,” Neufeldt said. “As a first-generation college graduate, Dr. Mills embodies a deep commitment to access and student achievement, values that resonate with our mission at CSUSM. His extensive experience and leadership will be instrumental as we continue to advance our enrollment objectives and support student success.” Mills will serve in an interim role only. A national search will be conducted for any permanent enrollment leadership position at CSUSM. Mills holds a bachelor’s degree in health science from Kansas State, a master’s in counselor education and student personnel from Penn State and a Ph.D. in educational leadership and human resources studies from Colorado State.
- 'Foos,' UCLA Medical Students, Highlight Fall Arts & LecturesAn event showcasing two first-generation UCLA students who share their struggles in navigating medical school highlights the fall lineup of the longstanding Arts & Lectures series at Cal State San Marcos. This season boasts a diverse selection of five events as the university hosts renowned guest speakers and performances. Attendees can reserve tickets online via the Arts & Lectures website now. Mestizaje: Interwoven Identities Among Mexico, Philippines and Spain Sept. 19, 7-9 p.m., Arts 111 This riveting 90-minute dance performance will delve deep into the heart of cultural convergence, narrating a story of unity, diversity and shared history. The spectacle is an homage to the intricate tapestry of identities that emerged from nearly four centuries of Spanish colonization, weaving together the distinct but interconnected cultures of Mexico, the Philippines and Spain. At the core of "Mestizaje" is the celebration of mestizaje itself – a term that historically signifies the process of cultural and racial mixing between Indigenous peoples of the Americas and Europeans. This performance, however, expands the concept to encapsulate the rich exchange among the three regions, highlighting how each culture has been indelibly shaped by the others. CSUSM students: Free Faculty/staff/alumni: $5 Community: $10 Nuestro Camino: First-Gen Success Beyond Imposter Syndrome Oct. 1, 6-8 p.m., USU Ballroom (faculty and staff session, noon-1 p.m.) This powerful and affirming event will honor the resilience, wisdom and lived experiences of first-generation students, staff and faculty. Led by Yanira Hernandez – a first-gen Latina therapist, educator and advocate – the two-part experience invites the CSUSM community into courageous conversations about the imposter phenomenon and how it impacts those who are navigating intersectional identities. The event includes a working session for faculty and staff, a student panel, and an interactive workshop that will guide participants in reclaiming their stories and identities as sources of strength. Food and refreshments will be provided. CSUSM students: Free Faculty/staff/alumni: $5 Community: $10 Foos in Medicine Oct. 8, 7-9 p.m., USU Ballroom Join us for an evening with Irvin Garcia Real and Alexis Aleman, two UCLA medical students who founded Foos in Medicine, a social media community with more than half a million followers and mission of inspiring people from disadvantaged backgrounds to pursue their dreams. Real and Aleman have faced their share of obstacles on the path to medicine, from growing up in low-income, immigrant households to struggling with institutional barriers that underrepresented minorities often face in higher education. Through their signature humor and their advocacy work, these “foos” (short for “fools”) are committed to inspiring others and increasing representation in medicine, STEM and health care. CSUSM students: Free Faculty/staff/alumni: $5 Community: $10 Valley to Coast Speaker Series: Protecting and Restoring Regional Waterways Oct. 28, 5:30-7:30 p.m., USU Ballroom This public panel discussion is aimed at educating and connecting the campus and North County communities around the protection and restoration of local water bodies. Co-hosted by CSUSM's new Climate Action and Sustainability Center, the event reflects the center’s mission to foster climate action and sustainability through community partnerships and student engagement. San Diego Coastkeeper, a key partner in this effort, will contribute regional expertise in water quality and climate resilience, with Executive Director Phillip Musegaas joining faculty experts to explore collaborative solutions. CSUSM students: Free Faculty/staff/alumni: $5 Community: $10 ‘The Cigarette Surfboard’: An Environmental Surf Documentary Nov. 19, 5:30-8 p.m., USU Ballroom In this film, Taylor Lane, an impassioned surfer, creates a functional surfboard with 10,000 littered cigarette butts collected from California beaches. “The Cigarette Surfboard” takes Lane around the world to learn from professional surfers who are working to protect and restore the health of the oceans through science, education, art, business and political activism. Inspired by this global cast of characters, Lane returns home to California and uses the board to generate uproar on the environmental, human health and economic impacts of cigarette butts. This immersive documentary gives viewers an up-close experience of the ocean through surfers' eyes to amplify a message of urgency and possibility regarding the well-being of our oceans. A moderated Q&A with Lane and filmmaker Ben Judkins will follow the screening. CSUSM students: Free Faculty/staff/alumni: Free Community: Free Media Contact Brian Hiro, Communications Specialist bhiro@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7306
