CONTENTS FRESNO STATE NEWS 6 WHEN STARS ALIGN 10 TRADITIONS 20 COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT 22 DIFFERENCE MAKERS 26 IN THE KNOW | ACADEMICS 28 ALUMNI NEWS 30

Cover digital illustration by Todd Graves. Fresno State alumni Aaron Judge, Derek Carr and Paul George are among the biggest stars in professional sports, and they are inspiring Rising Rankings, the region. See story on Page 10. Inside photo by Cary Edmondson. Ananya Vinay, a Fugman Elementary student who won the 2017 Scripps National Spelling Bee, joined University President Joesph I. Castro, Paul George and TimeOut for an on-field National Spotlight ceremony at the football home opener.

hanks to our University and community working At Fresno State, we recognize that talent exists in every household Magazine is published by the office of University Communications at California State University, Fresno. together, we were elated this fall to learn that Fresno and in families of all income levels. Our University is a place of State moved up to No. 17 on Washington’s Monthly’s opportunity for people from all walks of life, and our successful FALL/WINTER 2017 list of the top 30 national universities. alumni represent what happens when one works hard and reaches Fresno State Magazine Senior Editor Vol. XXVI, Issue 2, Published Nov. 9, 2017. Fresno State serves the richly diverse region T for the stars. Eddie Hughes Fresno State Magazine publishes twice of Central California. We are proud to have the The work Fresno State does every day to support the social annually (spring and fall). Opinions expressed U.S. Department of Education designate our Senior Graphic Designer University as both a Hispanic-Serving Institution mobility of our students, their research and their service in Trailblazers like our star athletes and our 14 recently honored Todd Graves in this magazine do not necessarily reflect official University policy. Letters to the editor and an Asian American and Native American the community — the three pillars measured by Washington Top Dogs remind us that achieving excellence is a “Fresno State University Photographer and contributions to Class Notes are welcome; Pacific Islander-Serving Institution. Monthly — has been built on a foundation of our core campus of mind,” and our alumni know no limits. Cary Edmondson they may be edited for clarity and length. Unless values of discovery, diversity and distinction. otherwise noted, articles may be reprinted Illustrator as long as credit is given. Copyrighted photos Stay in touch! Enjoy the wonderful stories in this issue of Fresno State Magazine Joel Beery may not be reprinted without express written We welcome your comments about Fresno At the same time we celebrate these academic accomplishments, and thank you for helping the University continue its bold Videographers consent of the photographer or the office of State Magazine at [email protected]. we can all be proud of the way some of our most prominent upward trajectory. Randy Haar, Domenick Satterberg University Communications. Clippings and If you receive more than one copy, please Bulldogs have propelled themselves into the national spotlight. other editorial contributions are appreciated. pass it along to a friend of Fresno State. Contributing Writers All inquiries and comments, including requests Paul George, Derek Carr and Aaron Judge are showing the world If you would like to support the University, Kim Ruiz Beck, Lisa Maria Boyles, for faculty contact information, should be sent visit fresnostate.edu/giving to make your what people from Fresno State are capable of achieving, and Esra Hashem to Editor, Fresno State Magazine, 5200 contribution. Thank you. they’re inspiring thousands of young people to dream big. N. Barton Ave., ML49, Fresno, CA 93740-8023. Editorial Team Phone: 559.278.2795 Angel Langridge, Adriana MacDonald, These three athletes and our many other current professional Bruce Whitworth All Fresno State wordmarks and logos used herein Dr. Joseph I. Castro are trademarks of California State University, fresnostatemagazine.com athletes possess an extremely rare blend of talent and character, President, Fresno State Fresno. All rights reserved. Any other marks used and we celebrate them for that. At the same time, we realize herein are trademarks of their respective owners. twitter.com/FresnoState_Mag President almost all of our 25,000 students will go pro in something other Joseph I. Castro © 2017 California State University, Fresno than sports — and 80 percent of graduates will stay and work fresnostatenews.com Vice President for University Advancement in the Valley. Paula Castadio fresnostate.edu RED HOMECOMING EYE Photo by Cary Edmondson

A Crowd Pleaser

Homecoming Week was refreshed and reimagined this year, uniting Fresno State traditions with new ideas to ignite student pride while welcoming alumni back to campus.

The campus was chock full of activities throughout the week, including the new Homecoming Big Show, featuring comedians Adam Devine (Pitch Perfect and Workaholics), Fortune Feimster (The Mindy Project) and Adam Ray (Spy). DJ Kay Rich (pictured) fired up the crowd before the show.

“For years, students have expressed interest in having a large-scale performance on campus,” says Shawna Blair, program and events coordinator in Student Involvement and adviser of the homecoming committee. “We worked hard to make this year’s homecoming one of the biggest, boldest yet.”

The week also featured a viewing party for the movie “Spiderman” inside Bulldog Stadium, where students and community members could bring blankets and eat popcorn while relaxing on the football turf. The evening before the homecoming football game included a pep rally with a fire dancer and a magician show.

The week culminated with Fresno State’s 38-0 shutout win over New Mexico in front of nearly 30,000 fans in Bulldog Stadium.

2 FALL/WINTER 2017 » fresnostatemagazine.com 3 GET SOCIAL Adam Devine performs at the Students are entertained by DJ Kay Fresno State Homecoming Rich before the start of the Big Show Big Show Comedy Night. Comedy Night at the Save Mart Center.

Nyxy Nicole Imes Aimee Mitchell McFarland Richard A. Donati Fresno State is special to me because I grew up Fresno State is where I got I love homecoming because Igniting at Fresno State. It’s home, it’s familiar and it’s my 2 degrees, my confidence and as a player I loved looking in safe place. Since I was 6 years old I was part of found my passion for teaching. the stands and seeing all the the Fresno State family. My dad worked in the I am very thankful to the students roaring and showing mechanical engineering dept. for about 20 years. instructors, administrators support for their school. That

Sequoia Jennifer Dawn of He brought me to work, and I watched him work and students. Goooooo Dogs! made me realize that not Bulldog Spirit Sacred Fire Dance performs and I was inspired. All I want to do is serve students. only are Fresno State athletes during the finale of this year's All because of him. I am proud to say I am an Bulldog Born and Bred, but the Juan Alamilla Alumni and friends share their homecoming feelings homecoming pep rally. employee for over 12 years, an alumni and now students are Bulldog Born and Starting a new tradition with the finishing my grad degree! Thank you Fresno State! Bred! No Dogs Down! on social media family! I have a freshman attending Photos by Cary Edmondson Fresno [State]! Go Bulldogs! facebook.com/fresnostate | facebook.com/fresnostateathletics

Victor E. III with Iron Mike Munoz Mary Coveney Benotti Gabriela Vega won the hula hoop Nany Vang attempts to Man and Spider-Man Homecoming reminds me of at the outdoor movie This year homecoming is especially contest during National Student Day. throw a ball through the hole of a game board when my dad used to take me to at Bulldog Stadium. sweet; I'm moving back to Fresno during an activity at see football games back in the after many years. When I graduated, National Student Day. '80s when there used to be grass I always thought I'd like to come back at each end of the stadium bowl to the area and now we are. and kids would play football or sit and watch the games. Watched my Raisin Bowl from the grass. Bob Koury Homecoming is a family gathering! For the seniors, their family and Karen Fale friends and for the Fresno State When you travel over 10 hours fans! A celebration of Bulldog history, in one day to see the Fresno football over several years and all State Bulldogs hit the gridiron Bulldog followers, supporters, that's true love, that's spirit, that's players and coaches! GO DOGS! straight Bulldog Pride that's From a 1975 alumni. what homecoming means. To the HOUSE! 4 FALL/WINTER 2017 5 FRESNO STATE NEWS FRESNO STATE “The Fresno County Transportation The Future of Authority is excited about the research Transportation and educational opportunities that will be provided to students at Fresno State Fresno State announced the opening to explore the challenges that face our NEWS of its new Transportation Institute Valley, state and nation as new technology by Eddie Hughes one year after the Fresno Council of is introduced to change the way we move Governments Policy Board approved the people and goods throughout the world,” use of nearly $3 million in Measure C says Lynne Ashbeck, Fresno County New Technology Reserve funds. The Transportation Authority board member. Partnering for institute opened this fall in a temporary space adjacent to the Engineering East Dr. Aly Tawfik, assistant professor of City Planning building. civil engineering at Fresno State Fresno State students can now (pictured below), will serve as the earn a degree in city and regional The Fresno State Transportation Institute institute’s founding director. is a collaboration between the 15 cities planning thanks to a partnership with McCaffrey Homes to provide students within Fresno County and Fresno State’s Hundreds of research with hands-on experience in design projects are underway Lyles College of Engineering, Craig and infrastructure through a case study across campus, such School of Business and College of as the Alzheimer's class on the Tesoro Viejo development, Social Sciences. studies led by a 1,600-acre site at the foot of Little Dr. Santanu Maitra Table Mountain. and his chemistry Funding will support students and Cary Edmondson students. faculty researchers as they address topics Jointly owned by the McCaffrey and such as air pollution and greenhouse gas Lyles families, the new Tesoro Viejo Washington Monthly 2017 emissions, safety, energy, congestion and community is located off Highway 41 Fresno State was also the No. 1 school Top 30 National advanced transportation technologies, in Madera County’s designated growth Prestigious U in the national university category in Universities: and also will enable them to seek federal area, Rio Mesa. commitment to spending federal work- and state transportation grants. Fresno State’s approach to student 1. Stanford University study funds on public service. Students will learn broad planning 2. Harvard University success was again ranked among the skills and gain specialized knowledge nation’s best at combining academic Fresno State, as a University that enrolls 3. Massachusetts Institute of Technology 4. Texas A&M University pertaining to Valley issues such as excellence with economic opportunity. many first-generation college students transportation and water resource Washington Monthly, a D.C.-based 5. Georgetown University and helps them graduate, was cited for 6. University of California, San Diego planning. They will also have access magazine known for its annual rankings its “stellar graduation rate relative to 7. University of Pennsylvania to a wide range of internships and of colleges and universities, placed other colleges with a similar admissions 8. University of Washington experiences through on-site visits and Fresno State No. 17 on its list of the profile.” The magazine also says Fresno 9. University of California, Davis guest lectures that will make them top universities in the United States. State’s “net price of attendance (what 10. Yale University property, including buildings, athletic optimal candidates for jobs in our students pay after scholarships are 11. Princeton University venues, residence halls, parking lots, growing region. Fresno State was selected alongside six deducted from tuition) is among the 12. Duke University vehicles and grounds. Ivy League institutions, six University very lowest nationwide.” 13. Utah State University “We commend the efforts of Fresno of California campuses, MIT and top- 14. University of California, Berkeley 'Help Clear the Air’ “We are sensitive to what this change will State to deliver a city and regional ranked Stanford University on the list. “These national rankings are further 15. University of California, Los Angeles mean for our campus community, so we planning degree program that will go proof that Fresno State’s commitment 16. Columbia University Fresno State and the other 22 want to do as much as we can through far in serving the needs of our region,” Washington Monthly has been to boldly educate and empower our 17. California State University, Fresno California State University campuses educational programs, communication says Brent McCaffrey, president of 18. University of Florida ranking colleges and universities for students for success is taking the are now tobacco, smoke and vapor and resources,” says Debbie Adishian- McCaffrey Homes. “We are thrilled 19. Virginia Polytechnic Institute 12 years with what it calls “a different University’s academic profile to new free. The University’s “Help Clear the Astone, Fresno State’s vice president for to invest in the higher education of and State University students in an area that is of critical kind of college ranking,” focusing on heights,” University President Joseph I. 20. University of California, Irvine Air” campaign is educating students, administration. “To support this goal, importance for the future of our three pillars: social mobility, research Castro says. “Our faculty and staff are 21. University of California, Riverside employees and campus visitors about the the ‘Help Clear the Air’ educational community.” and service. The rankings measure supporting and engaging students in 22. University of Notre Dame new CSU systemwide policy. campaign will create awareness of the “what colleges do for their country,” exciting new ways, and the University 23. University of North Carolina change and invite cooperation as we The University received support recognizing universities that “produce 24. Washington State University State law already bans smoking from move toward creating a healthier campus is working as one with the community from corporations like PG&E, as research, train the next generation of 25. Purdue University workplaces and all buildings accessible to environment.” to develop partnerships that can be well as scholarship funds donated by scientists and Ph.D. [candidates] and 26. University of Wisconsin the general public throughout the state as transformational for our region, where McCaffrey Homes, Bonadelle Homes, instill graduates with an ethos of more than 80 percent of our alumni 27. Dartmouth College well as within 20 feet of buildings. For help with smoking and tobacco 28. Syracuse University Granville Homes, Penstar Group and public service.” choose to stay and work.” cessation, visit fresnostate.edu/ 29. Brigham Young University Silkwood Ventures. The new CSU policy, which will be in smokefree. 30. Illinois Institute of Technology 6 FALL/WINTER 2017 » fresnostatemagazine.com effect at all times, applies to all University 7 FRESNO STATE NEWS STUDENT SPOTLIGHT laboratory scientist at Community need financial assistance, "I think it is important A Legacy of Caring Medical Centers, she supported health and women continue to be and wellness in the Central Valley. underrepresented in STEM fields. to be good stewards Doris Sullenger cared for others her of the land and our whole life. “My wife loved to give back what “She wanted to make it easier for natural resources, which she got,” says Matt Sullenger, Doris’ One of seven children, and the daughter the next generation,” Matt says. husband. “I remember twice a year, is why I am passionate of Chinese immigrants, she became “You can’t take [the money] with she would give her whole paycheck a caretaker for her younger siblings you when you go, so why not give about learning about to charity.” at age 9. it back?” conservation biology." By the time she was college-aged, “She wanted to make Inspired by his wife’s caring nature, SHELBY PAIGE MOSHIER Mrs. Sullenger (pictured) helped at Matt, a retired contractor, also it easier for the next left funds in his will to support her parents’ restaurant, earning little The scholarship program was more than a dollar an hour to put vocational education in the CSU Outstanding generation.” Central Valley. established in 1984 by the herself through Fresno State. Though Student Scholar William Randolph Hearst her parents didn’t want her to pursue MATT SULLENGER “I’d give all my money back to Foundation, which partnered an education, she persevered, earning have another day with her,” Shelby Paige Moshier, a Fresno State with the CSU Board of Trustees bachelor’s degrees in both chemistry Now, even after her untimely death in Matt says tearfully. “But I can’t senior biology student from Tollhouse, to supplement the endowment and microbiology in 1976 March, Mrs. Sullenger continues her — and there are a lot of people was one of 23 students chosen by the with contributions from CSU — joining the small but legacy of caring. working, trying to get their California State University to receive Trustees, CSU Foundation Board increasing population of degrees. Our goal was to make the 2017 CSU Trustees’ Award for of Governors and private donors. women pursuing science, She left $200,000 in her will to provide each generation easier and better.” Outstanding Achievement. technology, engineering scholarships to students in the College The awardees, one from each and math (STEM) careers of Science and Mathematics at Fresno To leave a legacy and enhance Moshier (pictured) is a member of the of the 23 CSU campuses, receive at that time. State who are studying microbiology, the education of students for Smittcamp Family Honors College and donor-funded scholarships chemistry or mathematics. Such a gift generations to come, contact the Fresno State chapter of Phi Kappa for their superior academic For 39 years, Mrs. Sullenger is especially critical at a time when the office of Planned Giving Phi. She also works as a lab manager and performance, personal continued caring for those 80 percent of Fresno State students at 559.278.4038. conducts research on Californian birds in accomplishments, community around her. As a clinical a conservation biology lab. service and financial need.

AROUND THE FOUNTAIN Water, Ag, Energy National Trademark Bilingual Speech Clinic Start-ups Licensing Award

The Fresno State Speech, Language and Hearing Clinic launched a new bilingual The Valley Ventures Accelerator at The Fresno State Trademark Licensing clinic for clients age 3 and up who have difficulty in their primary and/or secondary Fresno State announced 11 start-up Program, under the leadership of language. With meetings twice a week throughout the academic year, clients companies will receive venture capital Clarence Chiong, was recognized as the will receive comprehensive evaluations and individual treatment designed to be Terry-ific direction and support in the water, national collegiate licensing program culturally and linguistically reliable. Graduate students facilitate the clinic, which agriculture and energy technology of the year, earning the 2017 Synergy Fresno State men’s basketball coach industries. The three-month program Award from the International Collegiate is under the supervision of a licensed speech-language pathologist and includes Rodney Terry (pictured above, center) 22 to 24 sessions (35 minutes each) for $250. will provide professional guidance Licensing Association. The Synergy is now the Mountain West representative on growing sales, company value Award is given annually to a university Call 559.278.2422 for more information. on the National Association of Basketball Quite the View and profitability for the emerging or other collegiate organization that Coaches Division I Congress. The position companies from primarily California, demonstrated extraordinary commitment Physics professor Dr. Frederick was previously held by San Diego State’s as well as Brazil, Chile and Malaysia. to collegiate licensing and contributed Ringwald traveled to Metolius, Steve Fisher, who retired in April. “I have Companies accepted into the program to the betterment of the industry and Oregon, to get the full experience so much respect for Coach Fisher, and I’ll demonstrated the potential to have an the institution or organization. Fresno of the total solar eclipse on Aug. 21. do my best to advocate for our coaches, economic impact in the region and the State receives royalties from the sale of The town was near the path of student-athletes and sport in this role.” ability to improve the efficient use of officially licensed merchandise produced totality for the eclipse, meaning the Terry, who has led the Bulldogs to back- scarce resources. by licensed vendors. The royalties from duration lasted more than 2 minutes. to-back postseason appearances, is in his about $12 million in retail sales of officially Ringwald snapped plenty of photos seventh season as Fresno State’s head licensed Fresno State merchandise last on his trip, including the above. coach. The congress meets monthly via year was used to support various student conference call in addition to an annual programs on campus. 8 FALL/WINTER 2017 » fresnostatemagazine.com in-person meeting. 9 A FRESNO STATE OF MIND KNOWS NO LIMITS

WHEN STARSALIGN

omewhere along the way, while pages fell off the calendar and Don’t tell Fresno State students or It’s the Fresno State of mind. It means not settling A trio of alumni rise hopes began anew, the little University that could became the alumni they’re not supposed to be great. to the highest levels major University that will. A blossoming community at the They’ve probably heard it all their lives for average but striving to measure yourself Sheart of the Central Valley grew in aspiration as quickly as it grew in while taking the brunt of jokes from against the best. of pro sports while size. And it didn’t take long for that University and that community to Hollywood or fighting to overcome the come together as one — producing an educated workforce to drive the true challenges that exist in the Central Feeling pride for the hometown school Right now, because of a handful of giving an entire economy while unifying residents behind the excitement of Fresno State. Valley. But overcoming those challenges yet? superstar alumni athletes, the Fresno region reason The Red Wave was born. makes the reward that much sweeter. State brand is flashing in front of As the New York Times said this past everyone, all the time, everywhere. A fan base with a game day wardrobe featuring only one color and This is what it means to be Fresno State September, Fresno has been described as to believe traveling from city to city to cheer on its Bulldogs soon spawned material. It’s a fabric that never fades the state’s truest college town. The Valley It’s nothing new for Fresno State to a new generation of believers and raised them to ask “why not us?” by Eddie Hughes under the scorching sun while working loves its University and it loves its stars. have alumni playing pro ball, but never while daring to dream instead of settling for average. in the fieldsor training on them. It’s They serve as points of pride for a region before in its history has Fresno State made of threads that bind together in long determined to get the chip off its had three stars who are this super all It’s the Fresno State of mind. It means not settling for average but good times and bad, each one relying shoulder and show the world it’s willing at once in each of the three most major striving to measure yourself against the best. It sounds like a bold on the other to prevent the whole thing to settle things on the field. Just give ’em professional sports. way of thinking, and that’s exactly the way University President from unraveling. And it’s a fabric that the opportunity. Remember the mantra Joseph I. Castro likes it. comes in many colors, shapes and sizes. “anyone, anytime, anywhere?” continued

10 FALL/WINTER 2017 11 A FRESNO STATE OF MIND

NFL quarterback Derek Carr KNOWS NO LIMITS is joined by his family and nearly 40,000 supporters as his jersey No. 4 is retired at Bulldog Stadium on Sept. 2. Other ’Dogs in the Pros Active

National Basketball Association Tyler Johnson (2010-14), guard, Miami Heat

National Football League Davante Adams (2011-13), wide receiver, Green Bay Packers Chris Carter (2007-10), linebacker, Washington Redskins Tyeler Davison (2010-14), defensive line, New Orleans Saints Bryce Harris (2007-11), offensive line, New Orleans Saints

Paul George Ben Jacobs (2006-10), linebacker, Carolina Panthers Curtis Riley (2013-14), cornerback, Tennessee Titans Derron Smith (2010-14), safety, Cincinnati Bengals New York Yankees. All rights reserved. Cary Edmondson Charles Washington (2011-15), safety, Cary Edmondson Detroit Lions Aaron Judge Kenny Wiggins (2006-10), offensive line, leading the Raiders to a 12-win season Los Angeles Chargers PAUL GEORGE. for the first time since 2000 and being DEREK CARR. featured with his brother, David, on “All three of them are National Pro Fastpitch ESPN’s E:60. At Fresno State’s 2017 really genuine people Jill Compton (2013-16), pitcher, AARON JUDGE. season opener, Carr’s jersey No. 4 was Texas Charge retired at a packed Bulldog Stadium. who had great parents, Brenna Moss (2012-15), outfield, and I don’t think that’s Chicago Bandits In the past year alone, Paul George, Then there’s Aaron Judge, 25, the New 27, won an Olympic gold medal with York Yankees’ 6-foot-7, 280-pound an accident.” Major League Baseball the USA basketball team, made his rookie outfielder who burst into stardom Doug Fister (2005-06), pitcher, fourth straight NBA all-star appearance, by hitting home runs at a pace only the PAUL LOEFFLER Boston Red Sox graced the cover of the NBA’s most greats like Babe Ruth and Roger Maris 940 ESPN RADIO popular video game and released his could contend with. Judge starred in a Matt Garza (2003-05), pitcher, own signature New Era Bulldogs cap viral skit on The Tonight Show Starring Milwaukee Brewers and Nike shoe (including the “PG1 Jimmy Fallon, landed on the cover of And making it even more special, Jordan Luplow (2012-14), outfielder, University” option in Bulldog red). Sports Illustrated, won his firstMajor according to popular opinion, they Pittsburgh Pirates This past offseason, George was traded League Home Run Derby en route to are all-around good people — exactly Justin Wilson (2006-08), pitcher, to the Oklahoma City Thunder in a breaking Mark McGwire’s all-time rookie the type of alumni who make a Chicago Cubs PG1 blockbuster deal with the Indiana Pacers. record for home runs and was named university proud. UNIVERSITY American League Rookie of the Year. Professional Golf Association RED At the same time, Derek Carr, 26, “All three of them are really genuine Nick Watney (2000-03) signed a five-year, $125 million deal There is likely not another university in people who had great parents, and with the Oakland Raiders, becoming America with three active superstars as I don’t think that’s an accident,” says the NFL’s highest-paid player ever at high profile as these in the three sports. Paul Loeffler, the voice of the Bulldogs the time while coming off his second for 940 ESPN radio. “All three had straight NFL Pro Bowl selection, people who were very involved in 12 FALL/WINTER 2017 their lives.” continued 13 A FRESNO STATE OF MIND KNOWS NO LIMITS

"He talks so openly about loving everybody Cary Edmondson and his faith, and he never has a critical Judge went on to an All-American career BY GEORGE, A FABULOUS word to say about ALL RISE FOR at Fresno State, helping the Bulldogs HE’S DONE IT "He’s working, he’s NEW CARR anyone. He shows THE HONORABLE to two conference championships. As a junior, he was drafted in the first round, trying to get better, When George signed with Fresno State The Carr family has been Fresno famous great leadership." JUDGE 32nd overall, by the New York Yankees. Known for his infectious smile and fierce in 2009 out of Knight High School since 2001, when David Carr led the he’s trying to continue Fresno State baseball coach Mike loyalty to his teammates while playing in Palmdale, his parents, Paul and Bulldogs as high as No. 8 in the national PAUL LOEFFLER Batesole grins as wide as the brim of his in the biggest media market in the world, Paulette, moved to Kingsburg so they’d to be one of the best rankings and became the No. 1 overall 940 ESPN RADIO cap when telling the story of how Judge, Judge appears almost shy when it comes be close enough to watch his games. pick in the 2002 NFL draft. players in the world.” a Linden High School product, ended to talking about his own accomplishments “You saw the kind of person he was, up on campus. Judge’s parents, recently — however historic they are. the perspective he had and how he Eight years later, along came the COACH RODNEY TERRY retired school teachers Wayne and Patty, treated other people,” Loeffler says. youngest Carr brother, Derek, one of In three years as the starter, including “His character off the field is as good as FRESNO STATE MEN'S BASKETBALL both Fresno State alumni themselves, the highest rated quarterback prospects his final two seasons under former it is on the field,” says former Yankees reached out to get him into Fresno By George's sophomore year, he had in the nation out of Bakersfield coach Tim DeRuyter, Carr became manager Joe Girardi. “He really State’s select prospect camp. Each year, grown to 6-foot-9, led the team in Christian High School. And he only an All-American, athletically and understands what you need to do when a few of the standouts at the camp scoring and was drafted 10th overall to the Thunder in the offseason with wanted to play for one school — the academically, and earned two straight you’re in the spotlight. You always know receive scholarship offers to join the by the Pacers — the highest a Bulldogs one year left on his contract. George, school he’d been rooting for since he Mountain West Offensive Player of the he’s going to act the right way and do the program. “It didn’t take 10 minutes, right thing. I give his family a lot of credit basketball player had ever been chosen. who has become known for his work was 5 years old watching his big brother Year honors. He set new records for and I said, ‘OK, let’s go into my office for the way he’s been raised. He just does The Bulldogs finished just 15-18 ethic and choosing one area of his game play alongside his parents, Rodger and the most passing yards (12,842) and and talk a little bit,’” Batesole says of his things the right way.” that season under former coach Steve to improve each offseason, has fans in Sheryl, and middle brother, Darren. touchdowns (113) in school history. first glimpse of Judge on the field. Cleveland, but the bevy of NBA scouts Oklahoma City so excited that hundreds He was drafted in the second round In April 1992, the day after he was born, showing up to the Save Mart Center showed up to greet him at the airport "You see that same enthusiasm and by the Oakland Raiders and earned Judge was adopted by Wayne and Patty. each game was a surefire sign that the day he joined the team. hopefulness now that he had as a kid," He credits them for putting him in the starting job before the opening George was a special prospect. It didn’t Loeffler says. "He talks so openly about position to be where he’s at now — and game of his rookie season, leading take long for Pacers general manager “Paul has always stayed humble, he’s loving everybody and his faith, and he after he broke the all-time Major League a franchise turnaround in the process. “His character off Larry Bird to find out he had made understood what it’s taken for him to never has a critical word to say about Baseball rookie home run record, he said a great pick. get to the point he’s at right now, and anyone. He shows great leadership." the field is as good he would give the game ball to his parents. he’s never forgotten that,” says Fresno “I’ve known him since he was 5 years old. He was built to be a quarterback,” State basketball coach Rodney Terry. Then-coach Pat Hill was ecstatic to as it is on the field.” “You could see physically how gifted George’s NBA scoring totals climbed Fresno State coach Jeff Tedford says. “I saw him early in the summer, and have this new Carr. But he didn’t start he was,” Loeffler says. “He was destined each year, except for 2014-15 when “He’s amazing, really. He’s got it all there were no days off for him. He’s Carr right away. Carr redshirted and JOE GIRARDI for greatness, and he had the discipline he was recovering from a broken leg, going for him. He can throw every to stay humble.” working, he’s trying to get better, he’s developed (just like David). And when FORMER YANKEES MANAGER and plateaued this past season when he ball on the field. He’s so prepared trying to continue to be one of the best his turn came, it was a full-time job for averaged 23.7 points before being traded and so smart about what he’s doing. players in the world.” someone to update the record books. continued He’s at a different level.” 14 FALL/WINTER 2017 » fresnostatemagazine.com 15 16 FALL/WINTER 20 signature teams.It changesthings.” in theprimeof theircareers playing for them. But thesethree are young players that doesn’t holdalotofweight with last championshipwasinthe 1980s, of kidsaren’t intohistory. If aschool’s Southern California.“I’ve noticedalot teaches journalismattheUniversity of reporter ArashMarkazi, whoalso parlay thatintorecruiting,” saysESPN be agamechangerifthey’re ableto State, havingthree guyslikethatcould “For likeFresno anathleticdepartment distinction inspiresthemtoreachforexcellence.” great leadersoutsideofsportsandthislevel Fresno State.Mostofourstudentsaregoingtobe sports, anditexemplifieswhat’spossiblehereat Bulldogs areplayingatthehighestlevelsintheir “This isaveryspecialtimewhenallthreeofthese others attheUniversity? into buildingtheirformerprograms and of celebrityalumnilikethesetranslate years —ishow thestature andvisibility that couldpaydividendsinthecoming forFresnoopportunity State —theone student applicationsaswell. But thereal generated by thesethree couldimpact day onthejob, believes theexcitement athletics risingtogethersincehisfirst has beenpreaching academicsand And University President Castro, who possible whentheyattendFresno State. — showing future Bulldogs what’s There are obvious recruiting benefits mater, Fresno State? what doesitallmeanfortheiralma Judge orGeorge willbefeatured. But aboutCarr,a strong chanceastory website, andthere’sclick onasports Turn onthe TV, or openanewspaper FRESNO STATE FUTURE OF 1 7

» fresnostatemagazine.com

the NFL. Raiders jerseyisoneofthetopsellersin wearing George’s Nike shoes.AndCarr’s 99 likeJudge. Terry isseeingyoungsters seeing youngsters wearing jerseyNo. and women’s. Batesole saidhe’s already recruiting. are Other sports too,men’s leveraging theirnotablealumniin Batesole, Terry and Tedford are all University andcommunity asawhole? beyond that,whatdoesitmeanforthe positioned five years from now? And So where willFresno State athletics be themselves.” terms ofthewaytheycarry it attheprofessional level aswell in their collegiatecareers, butthey’re doing a great jobofdoingthat,notonlyin yourself.you carry Those guyshave done you doandtheway you andeverything Terry says.“People are alwayswatching watching. You guysare role models,’” little ears,you have littleeyes always “I tellourplayers, ‘You alwayshave Fresno State coaches. providesand court teachingmaterialfor favorites forwhattheydooffthefield The factthesealumniare alsofan onthemainstage.” performing you cangetrightnow withthoseguys relevant —Fresno State isasrelevant as fields. You alwaystalkaboutstaying are current superstarsineachoftheir with theseguys,” Terry guys says.“These “We’re livinginthemomentrightnow PRESIDENT, FRESNOSTATE JOSEPH I.CASTRO

Bulldog born,Bulldog bred.” “All ofus,we’re just abigfamily. breaking intohis trademark smile. to beaformerBulldog,” Judge says, “It’s incredible, it’s anhonor, I’m proud these alumnileftbehind. inspiration isapieceofthelegacy Sometimes, thestarsalign. That working hard makeanythingpossible. reasons whydreaming bigdreams and But thatchildcanpointtoatleastthree are tellingthatkidtobemore realistic. Andmaybeothers playing pro sports. becoming anastronaut ordoctor now, there’s akiddreaming about perhaps, somewhere inthe Valley right of themandinspired by them.And, It’s aplacethatwillforever beproud from agreat place.” these are goodpeople,andtheycome We’re notjustallrightatwhatwe do, and Aaron Judge. They are goodpeople. myself canbesaidaboutPaul George things thatare saidaboutDavid and place withspecialpeople. The same know thatstat.Fresno State isaspecial ask anyofmyRaidersteammates,they off thosetalkingpointseachday. “If you this pastyear,” Carrsaysasifherattles an all-starinbasketballoneseason a Pro Bowler, anall-starinbaseballand “We were theonlyschooltohave have hisjerseyretired. campus Sept. 2tosee hisbuddyCarr fellow Bulldog. George alsoreturned to wearing aJudge jerseyandcheeringhis first row at Yankee Stadium thissummer, George postedaphotoofhimselfinthe inspires themtoreach forexcellence.” andthislevel ofdistinction of sports are goingtobegreat leadersoutside here atFresno State. Most ofourstudents anditexemplifiessports, what’s possible playing atthehighestlevels intheir when allthree oftheseBulldogs are specialtime isavery Castro says.“This women distinguishingthemselves,” in alldifferent forever, sports menand “We’ve hadtalentedstudent-athletes — Eddie Hughes is senior editor for for editor senior is Hughes Eddie — Fresno State Magazine. State Fresno

Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports from agreatplace.” do, thesearegoodpeople,andtheycome people. We’re not just all right at what we George andAaronJudge.Theyaregood David and myself can be said about Paul people. The same things that are said about “Fresno Stateisaspecialplacewith RAIDERS QUARTERBACK DEREK CARR KNOWS NOLIMITS A FRESNOSTATEOFMIND Warriors in2016. visited theGoldenState other whenGeorge'sPacers overlapped, greetedeach Carr, whoseBulldogcareers Paul GeorgeandDerek a photogallery. to seeanexclusivevideoand fresnostatemagazine.com ONLINE EXTRA — Visit 17 A FRESNO STATE OF MIND KNOWS NO LIMITS Pros In Something Other Than Sports

There are more than 480,000 NCAA student-athletes — and less than 1 percent go on to play professional sports. Many more move on to successful professional careers in other industries such as government, health care, education and public safety. In the NCAA, 86 percent of Division I student -athletes earn a degree. While Fresno State has many inspiring examples of successful alumni, here are just a few prime examples for young student-athletes to look up to.

Chantea (Fleming) Kerri Donis ’91 Dr. Juan Bautista ’03 Deborah A. “Debbie” McIntyre ’04, ’16 Poochigian ’74 Job: Fresno Fire Chief Job: Physician Job: Owner of McIntyre Model Job: Fresno County Supervisor (retired) Fresno State Degree: Fresno State Degree: Health Science Management; Advanced Placement and Physical Education Degree: Physical Education, elementary International Baccalaureate Manager Sport: Football and secondary teaching credentials for Fresno Unified School District Sport: Softball How did being a student-athlete Sport: Tennis Fresno State Degrees: How did being a student-athlete prepare you for a successful career? Business Administration, prepare you for a successful Being a student-athlete helped to teach Educational Leadership How did being a student-athlete career? Being a student-athlete the importance of both physical and prepare you for a successful career? Sport: Basketball provided a fantastic foundation of work mental health. Handling failure is also Participating in athletics during college ethic, discipline, organizational skills, important. During my career we lost helped me focus on my career goals How did being a student-athlete teamwork and mental toughness one games, I’ve been injured, etc. Learning to and gain confidence while developing prepare you for a successful career? needs in the business world. get up from defeat or adapt is a lesson appreciation for hard work, preparation, Still, nothing has been harder than that is constantly exemplified in sports. teamwork and competitiveness. being a student-athlete. Nothing! Best advice from a coach: People ask me how I balance being Don’t you quit! (Coach Margie Wright) Best advice from a coach: If you do Best advice from a coach: Coach a wife, a mom to four, a business everything you are supposed to do (go Elaine Mason emphasized hard work, owner and a full-time educator, to class, practice, lift weights and eat consistency and setting lofty goals. and my answer is that I was once well) you will just be average. It’s the I learned that success in the classroom a student-athlete. extra things you do that will make you can only be achieved with lots of great. (J.D. Williams) preparation and attention to every detail — big or small. 18 FALL/WINTER 2017 » fresnostatemagazine.com 19 TRADITIONS

You may know the Fresno State fan base is nicknamed How the the Red Wave, but do you know the name’s origin?

resno State supporters have fondly The men’s basketball team was thriving “And now there’s another been known as the Red Wave under then coach Boyd Grant. And the generation — including F for 35 years now. It’s an identity fans wouldn’t settle for watching their my grandchildren for the University’s fan base that is Bulldogs only at Selland Arena — they Benjamin and Alexandra both nostalgic and inspiring. And it’s followed them on the road in droves. — who are learning a tradition that Fresno State credits to about and joining the Red Wave Ron Orozco, a longtime journalist for On Jan. 17, 1981, Fresno State visited Red Wave,” Orozco says. Ron Orozco The Fresno Bee who now teaches in the San Jose State, and Orozco’s game story “It makes me happy for the community. Media, Communications and Journalism in The Bee focused on the hundreds of I am grateful that I was The Bee beat Department at Fresno State. Bulldogs fans who made the trip over writer for Fresno State sports at that Pacheco Pass in busses and cars, so many time. Journalists are trained to be the As Orozco recalls, there was a growing fan wearing red that he nicknamed them the eyes and ears for readers; it was easy for base for the athletics program just starting Red Wave. me to write about what I was seeing was Born to realize its potential in the late 1970s. and feeling.”

20 FALL/WINTER 2017 » fresnostatemagazine.com 21 COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

“Even when you control for things Learning like a student’s GPA, the number of units they’ve taken at the time they take a by Serving service-learning class, their socio-economic Research links service-learning to higher graduation rates status — even when by Lisa Maria Boyles you control for those variables, service- learning is shown resno State has cemented itself “What they have found, using statistical students’ likelihood of graduating, to be extremely as a service-oriented university analysis, is really the most powerful their research also found that taking influential in positively with students, faculty and staff testament to one pedagogical approach additional service-learning courses Fproviding more than 10 million hours having an impact on graduation rates,” increased the likelihood of graduation. impacting students’ of service to the community over Fiorentino says. “Even when you control Also, participation in service-learning graduation rates.” the past 10 years. The concept of for things like a student’s GPA, the coursework at the upper-division level volunteerism has become part of the number of units they’ve taken at the had larger correlations with graduation CHRIS FIORENTINO campus culture — and it’s not going time they take a service-learning class, than it did in lower-division courses. DIRECTOR OF THE unnoticed nationally. their socio-economic status — even RICHTER CENTER FOR when you control for those variables, Regarding the findings for upper- COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT Service, along with social mobility and service-learning is shown to be extremely division courses, Yue and Hart said it AND SERVICE-LEARNING research, was among the three pillars influential in positively impacting makes sense because upper-division factored in when Fresno State ranked students’ graduation rates.” courses are more aligned with students’ No. 17 on Washington Monthly’s list of majors, which increased motivation the top national universities in August. Yue, a research analyst in Fresno State’s and enhanced relevance. Office of Institutional Effectiveness, Now, a new study conducted by two has worked in the field for 10 years. “The results of this study suggest Fresno State researchers — Hongtao Hart is an associate professor in the that service-learning is a high-impact Yue and Steven Hart — is further Department of Literacy, Early, Bilingual practice that increased the likelihood SERVICE demonstrating the impact of service- and Special Education. He is coordinator of student graduation,” Yue says. LEARNING learning on campus. The research found of the urban civic education program, “The University should have strong COURSE students who took at least one service- and he teaches courses on literacy commitment to service-learning 1 learning course were 25 percent more foundations, literacy assessment and programs, including increased offerings likely to graduate than those who did service-learning pedagogy. of upper-division service-learning not take any service-learning courses. courses, increased training of faculty % Their study, published in the spring in service-learning and developing Service-learning courses enhance 2017 issue of the Michigan Journal of initiatives that promote student 25 students’ civic understanding through Community Service Learning, analyzed participation in service-learning courses MORE LIKELY participation in meaningful service 31,074 undergraduate students who across their academic experiences.” linked to academic study or coursework, enrolled at Fresno State from fall 2002 TO GRADUATE says Chris Fiorentino, the director of to fall 2009. Dr. Matthew Ari Jendian, chair of the

the University’s Jan and Bud Richter Department of Sociology and director of Student Magaly Aceuedo helped paint Center for Community Engagement and In addition to the finding that one the Humanics program at Fresno State, the Nature's Kid building at the Discovery Service-Learning. service-learning course increased has incorporated service-learning into his Center as part of the Alternative Spring Break program. courses for 20 years. Cary Edmondson continued 22 FALL/WINTER 2017 » FresnoStateMagazine.com 23 Student John Richardson volunteers to work with children at Stone Soup Fresno.

Fresno State students have engaged in various service-learning projects in recent years, including working with youth at Stone Soup Fresno, helping to revitalize the El Dorado Park neighborhood near campus and opting to serve others as part of the Alternative Spring Break program. During the 2016-17 academic year Visitation Day at CHSU College of Pharmacy alone, 14,565 Fresno State volunteers contributed more than 1.3 million hours Saturday, January 13, 2018 of service, valued at more than $40 million in time. Ready to Help People Live Healthier Lives? 10:00am - 12:00pm Bring your family and friends for a 2 hour visit at “Students find the hands-on experiences the CHSU Campus from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm invaluable,” says Kim Morin, a professor Cary Edmondson on Saturday, January 13th, to discover if the in the Department of Theatre Arts CHSU College of Pharmacy program is right who incorporates service-learning into her classes on children’s theatre and for you. “The findings of this study resonate with 2016-17 puppetry. “Most of my students are You’ll learn about our Curriculum, obtain my experience, and the positive impact ACADEMIC YEAR graduating seniors, and many comment of service-learning extends beyond that they want to incorporate the lessons important Admissions, Scholarship and Financial retention and graduation,” Jendian they have learned from their service- Aid information, meet our faculty, hear about says. “There are positive impacts on learning experiences directly into their student life from our students, and take a tour! students’ self-efficacy and sense of their future careers as teachers. Students own ability to act and make a difference, comment about service-learning helping CHSU College of Pharmacy Visitation Day Agenda: long-term positive impacts on the civic 14,565 them become better collaborators and • Welcome Refreshments engagement of alumni and positive making them more aware of the world impacts on faculty.” around them. Many say that they plan to • Curriculum Overview continue to volunteer in the community • Admissions Requirements Music composition and theory professor FRESNO STATE in some way.” • Financial Aid/Scholarships Available Dr. Benjamin Boone started teaching at VOLUNTEERS Fresno State in 2000, but didn’t discover Betsy A. Hays, a media, communications • Student Panel/Meet the Faculty what service-learning really meant until and journalism professor, was named • Campus Tour he attended a workshop on the subject the University’s Faculty Service-Learning five years later. Scholar for 2017-18. RSVP: Please arrive at 9:45 am for check in “I was shocked to learn that what . M “Service-learning makes everything 13 [email protected] or call (559) 573-8124 I had thought was service-learning better,” Hays says. “The students care was in fact community engagement, HOURS OF SERVICE more, work harder, find personal and Hope Lemons, Outreach & Admissions Advisor or volunteering,” Boone says. “What VALUED AT professional meaning, and we all get to distinguishes service-learning from make the world a better place to some volunteering and other types of service degree. By making assignments ‘real,’ is that it is intimately tied to the $ the standard is elevated — both from curriculum of a particular course. a faculty and student perspective.” A high-quality service-learning project 40M not only provides meaningful service, — Lisa Maria Boyles is a communications 120 N. Clovis Avenue • Clovis, CA 93612 but it enhances academic learning, and specialist for the College of Arts and (559) 325-3600 • CHSU.org it consciously teaches civic learning.” Humanities at Fresno State.

24 FALL/WINTER 2017 DIFFERENCE MAKERS

15 giving Challenge in 2007, which encouraged stand on our shoulders, and we have to people to rally their online networks to make sure that they have the opportunity opportunities make giving easier and a part of their daily to learn from the mistakes and successes lives. Giving days have since been used that we have experienced. The more that with notable success by higher education we as alumni are investing our time and institutions and community foundations, resources into Fresno State, the more we aniel Loera grew up knowing the meaning of hard work. sometimes raising millions of dollars in a are going to improve our local economy He spent his days laboring at a farm, out before the sun came up • Fresno State Central Funds 24-hour period. and, ultimately, our lives.” and only making his way back home after the sun went down. • College of Science and D Mathematics Fresno State Day of Giving aimed to As donations continued to pour in from The son of migrant farm workers, he was the first in his family to pursue • Kremen School of Education represent as many facets of the University across the world, students like Loera higher education. Now, Loera is in his final semester at Fresno State, and Human Development as possible, with options to donate expressed thanks. studying plant science and planning to use his knowledge to improve • Alumni Association to eight colleges, the Henry Madden California agriculture and to create a more sustainable environment. • Division of Research and Library, the Division of Student Affairs “There are people in life who help you Graduate Studies and Enrollment Management, athletics succeed,” he says. “These donors play Though Loera continues to • College of Arts and Humanities and dozens of additional programs. a big part in that success. It helps change work his way through school, • College of Social Sciences who you are.” his education is in part made Though the fundraising marathon • Jordan College of Agricultural possible through scholarships. existed primarily online, faculty, staff, — Esra Hashem is a marketing specialist Time to Sciences and Technology students and alumni gathered together at Fresno State. feed the “Getting help, even if it’s • Athletics to create an undeniably festive campus a little — it’s so much less • Henry Madden Library environment in support of a single stress on me and my family,” • College of Health and cause: student success. he says. “The students who Human Services apply for scholarships really “It’s critical that we as alumni stay ONLINE EXTRA How 25,000 • Craig School of Business Discover the final amount raised do need it.” connected to Fresno State,” says Jamin in support of student success at • Lyles College of Engineering Brazil, who earned his master’s in students were • Division of Continuing and dayofgiving.fresnostate.edu Loera is one of an all-time record 25,000 students at Fresno State, business administration from Fresno State Global Education supported in 80 percent of whom need financial assistance to pursue their education. in 2015. “The next generation is going to It took the support of donors who believed in Loera’s success to change • Student Affairs 24 hours the trajectory of his life.

by Esra Hashem That’s why hundreds of community members came together in support of students like Loera during Fresno State’s inaugural Day of Giving (D.O.G.) fundraiser. Starting at midnight on Nov. 2, and ending at Alumni and friends showed support, 11:59 p.m. that evening, Day of Giving rallied hundreds of Fresno State supporters from across the world. staff/faculty spread pride, students

The inaugural online fundraiser was a non-stop, 24-hour opportunity expressed gratitude for alumni, faculty, staff, parents, friends and students to make a gift to the campus program or activity for which they were most THANK YOU! passionate. Donors were encouraged by emails, matching challenges and social media posts, using hashtags like #FresnoStateDOG and #FeedTheDOG.

“We’re in this game together,” says Rod Coburn, a 1964 College of Science and Mathematics graduate and Fresno State supporter. “Universities are an intellectual component of the community and need to be acknowledged and supported in that way.”

This was the first year Fresno State conducted Day of Giving, though examples of giving days among universities across the nation are plentiful. The model can be traced back to the Case Foundation’s America’s Giving

26 FALL/WINTER 2017 » fresnostatemagazine.com 27 IN THE KNOW | ACADEMICS THIS IS ANSWER: QUESTION:

HE SPENT FOUR DAYS COMPETING ON A NATIONAL WHO IS TV TRIVIA SHOW AND WON “JEOPARDY!” WINNER ENOUGH MONEY TO TAKE A PETER GUEKGUEZIAN EUROPEAN VACATION AND OF FRESNO? GIVE BACK TO SEVERAL COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS. Fresno State alum wins big on popular TV game show by Lisa Maria Boyles

eter Guekguezian, 31, appeared Fresno State Magazine: to make a fool of yourself on national TV. DID YOU RECORD THE on four episodes of the popular HOW DID YOU PREPARE TO BE A I was able to do both at the same time. PROGRAMS YOU APPEARED ON P ABC game show in June, racking CONTESTANT ON “JEOPARDY!”? That [second show] was a train wreck. TO SHARE WITH YOUR SON up $46,800 in winnings. He was the WHEN HE IS OLDER? champion on June 16, 19 and 20, losing Guekguezian: It’s hard to prepare There was one where I got the answer on June 21 to challenger Lisa Evans of because the questions can literally be right, but I didn’t put it in the form of Yes, we did. I think it would be pretty Easthampton, Massachusetts. about anything. a question, and I realized it too late. cool for him to know that his dad was That’s the cardinal sin of “Jeopardy!” on “Jeopardy!” and I’d love to watch Since the episodes aired, Guekguezian, I decided the best strategy was to focus with him when he gets more interested. his wife and their 2-year-old son, on things that are easily memorized WHAT WAS THE HARDEST Zekiel, moved to New York, where he is and are over-represented in “Jeopardy!” QUESTION? WHAT DO YOU PLAN TO DO pursuing post-doctoral work. The couple categories like Nobel Peace Prize winners, WITH YOUR WINNINGS? met while they were both graduate Oscar winners, that sort of thing. That was the train wreck game. I missed students at Fresno State, and Marilyn all three Daily Doubles. But I was still I hope to take my family on a trip taught at Fresno State’s American English The most important thing was studying able to win because I answered Final to Europe. My son is obsessed with Institute. Guekguezian earned his how to wager. Most games are won or Jeopardy correctly. The question was, Disneyland, so I would love to take him master’s degree in linguistics in 2011 and lost in Final Jeopardy, and it comes down “On June 17, 1929, this airline’s first to Disneyland Paris, and then to see the was part of the first graduating class at to whether or not you wager correctly. passenger flight left Dallas, making stops rest of Paris and other parts of Europe. University High School, a charter school I have a friend, Jesse Thoren, also from at Shreveport, Monroe and Jackson.” on campus. University High, who is a complete math And you’re supposed to name the airline. I’d also like to do something related genius, and he broke down how I should That doesn’t give you a lot to work with. to Armenian causes. There are some “I really appreciated the support of my bet in every situation. foundations that are doing excellent community,” Guekguezian says. “People My first instinct was Southwest because work in that area, like the Armenian seemed really proud and supportive of WHAT WAS IT LIKE TO COMPETE they are based in Dallas, but then I Missionary Association of America. I’d me being on the show and representing ON THE SHOW? realized they weren’t around in the ’20s. really like to give some money to some Fresno. That made me happy. A lot of LGBT organizations in Fresno. I’d also times we can feel down on ourselves It’s a fun break from real life. To be living I thought about the cities, and they like to help out the Chukchansi language about Fresno, especially people my age. your real, everyday life knowing in a few are all around the Mississippi Delta preservation project at Fresno State. The There’s a lot of good stuff going on days you’re going to be transported to this region, near the border of Louisiana and Linguistics Department really does a lot there, a lot of potential.” completely different experience — you Mississippi. I thought maybe that’s the of good work on endangered languages. just can’t wait for it to start. clue, maybe they’re telling me it’s Delta. Fresno State Magazine asked Guekguezian That was right, and no one else was able about his experiences and how he reached But then you’re also a little nervous to figure it out. I wouldn’t have won if his potential on the show. Jeopardy! Productions, Inc. because you want to win, you don’t want I hadn’t gotten that question right.

28 FALL/WINTER 2017 » FresnoStateMagazine.com 29 ALUMNI NEWS

he Top Dog Alumni Awards Gala recognizes some of the A Proud T University’s most accomplished Bulldog Moment graduates with the highest honor presented by the Fresno State Alumni by Kim Ruiz Beck, Top Dog Distinguished Alumna Association. It is an incredible honor to receive the Top Dog Award, Each year one alumnus from each of the and I have never been prouder to be a Bulldog! University’s eight academic schools and colleges, as well as the Department of My years at Fresno State were, indeed, an important Athletics, the Henry Madden Library, part of my life and solidified my desire to be part of our the Division of Student Affairs and the family business. In fact, when I look back at my years at Division of Graduate Studies, is chosen Fresno State, I recall how much of my class work related to be honored with an Outstanding directly to some of the challenges we were facing at Alumni Award. Ruiz Foods. For example, I recall how my market research project was a taste test of our mini Celebrating On Oct. 13 at the Save Mart Center, chimichangas, and how our company philosophy during homecoming week, this year’s developed from one of my management classes. group of awardees gathered in front of a crowd of about 1,000 Fresno State After college, I joined our company’s marketing team, supporters for an inspirational evening spent time in sales, managed product development, filled with bold stories of achievement became the interim CEO and, now, chairman. But and service. I could not have accomplished any of this without the Successes love and support of my husband, Tom, and my sons Fresno State Alumni Association Kim Ruiz Beck, chairman of Ruiz Foods, Tyler, Travis and Trent. earned the Distinguished Alumna Award, honors 2017 Top Dogs the top honor of the night. Ruiz Foods’ Today, I am so very proud of all that our 3,600 team El Monterey brand is the No. 1 selling members have accomplished. Each team member frozen Mexican food in the U.S. and its is the story of an American dream come true, and Tornados brand is a leader on convenience I am honored they believe in the Ruiz family and store roller grills. Fresno State Magazine our leadership team. I also believe we have the best asked Ruiz Beck, a 1988 graduate, to management team in the food industry led by our CEO, write a first-hand account of her journey Rachel Cullen. Together, they inspire me every day. and what the award means to her. With the success of our family-owned business, we have the opportunity to invest back into our community. We are passionate about children and education, and I am pleased to say that our Ruiz 4 Kids scholarship program has helped to support many, many Bulldogs.

As I have become more involved with the University through the Board of Governors, I have developed a greater awareness and appreciation for the importance of Fresno State in our community’s future. After all, it is where our future leaders will come from, and I believe our recent gift to the Craig School of Business reflects our commitment.

Finally, I am excited to have the time to become more involved in what Fresno State brings to the community, The Top Dog Alumni Awards Gala recognized and I firmly believe in President Joseph Castro’s 14 of Fresno State's most ONLINE EXTRA — Visit leadership and vision for the University. accomplished alumni. fresnostatemagazine.com See page 32 for the to see videos and photos of — Kim Ruiz Beck, a 1988 graduate, earned Fresno State’s distinguished honorees. our Top Dogs. 2017 Top Dog Distinguished Alumna Award. Craig Kohlruss

30 FALL/WINTER 2017 » fresnostatemagazine.com 31 Distinguished Arthur Safstrom Alumna Service Award Kim Ruiz Beck William Lyles (1988) Ruiz Foods, (2001) Honorary Doctorate Chairperson Lyles Diversified Inc., President and CEO FRESNO STATE ALUMNI ASSOCIATION One Night. 14 Bold Stories. Endless Inspiration.

Jordan College of Kremen School of Education Henry Madden Library Agricultural Sciences and Human Development and Technology Paul E. Pierce (1970) Janet Young Paul E. Pierce: Organizational Lynne Ashbeck (1977, ‘88) former Clovis Design and Development (1976, ‘77) Valley Children’s Unified Superintendent Healthcare, SVP of Community Engagement and Population Wellness

College of Arts Lyles College of Engineering College of Science and Humanities and Mathematics Mike Leonardo Warren R. (1981) Fresno County Rauden (Rod) Paboojian (1980) Transportation Authority, Coburn III DDS Executive Director Baradat & Paboojian, Inc., (1964) Retired Dentist Attorney

Department of Athletics Division of Research College of Social Sciences and Graduate Studies David Carr Lee Ann Eager (2002) NFL Network Analyst, Jamin Brazil (2015) Fresno County Economic former NFL Quarterback Vine Venture Capital, Development Corporation, Managing Partner President and CEO

Craig School of Business College of Health and Division of Student Affairs Human Services Katherine Chris Roggenstein We cared for children from one end of the Valley to the other–and from the Central Coast to the Sierra and Nancy Grosz Sager (1984) Forward Advantage, Horstmann beyond–420,000 times last year alone. The trust placed in us by children and their families inspires us Huebert (1984) (1977) California Department Inc. and Physician Network Horstmann Financial of Education, Deaf and Hard of Advantage, President and CEO to set higher standards, break barriers and exceed expectations. and Insurance Services, Hearing Program Consultant VP of Employee Benefits We are honored to be recognized as one of the best children’s hospitals in the nation by U.S. News & World Report in orthopaedics, gastroenterology & gastrointestinal surgery, and diabetes & endocrinology.

Thank you to our generous 2017 Top Dog sponsors And while awards are nice, getting kids back to being kids - that’s what we live for. valleychildrens.org/USNews PLATINUM PREMIER ON-CAMPUS GOLD MEDIA

Thank you to those who have donated to the scholarship endowment! The Fresno State Alumni Association honored the 2017-18 student scholarship recipients at the Top Dog Alumni Awards Gala. This year, the Alumni Association awarded more than $146,000 in scholarships, a leading figure amongst the 23 alumni associations in the California State University system. 32 FALL/WINTER 2017 » fresnostatemagazine.com ’ A DOG HOUSES CLASS NOTES

1960s 1980s Paulette Janian (1968) received the Bernard Stan Adams (1985) is now vice president Witkin Lifetime Achievement Award presented and chief financial officer for Dignity Health June 23 by the Fresno County Bar Association. Mercy Hospitals of Bakersfield after 17 years in health care. Michael Lingo (1967), who served the Bakersfield City School District for 41 years and Douglas Britton (1982), owner of Britton retired as superintendent in 2011, was inducted Trucking Co. Inc., became president of the into the East Bakersfield High School Hall of Fame. California Trucking Association.

Bob Cabral (1984), director of winemaking at Three Sticks Winery in Sonoma, made three official “Game of Thrones” wines in partnership 1970s with HBO.

Shirley Melikian Armbruster (1973) retired Miguel A. Castellanos (1988), who works at the Emily + Steven Photography Mogadishu International Airport compound, was as associate vice president for University B C Communications after 17 years at Fresno State. promoted to brigadier general in the U.S. Army.

Lynne Ashbeck (1977) has been reappointed Michael Coburn, a retired educator, is now as a Board Member to the San Joaquin Valley a volunteer in policing for the Selma Police California Partnership. Department.

David Ayers (1979) started his second term Rick Haydon (1984) announced his retirement serving on the Hanford City Council. as Santa Maria city manager after 20 years Diving in with the city and more than 30 years in local Anne (Richards) Da Vigo (1972) published her government. debut novel, “Thread of Gold,” with launch parties in Davis and Sacramento. She was a panelist at George Hernandez (1987) is retiring after D for the ’Dogs the Other Words Literary Conference in Tampa, 29 years with the Hanford Police Department. Florida, on the topic, “Fact To Fiction: Making Story from Real Events.” Nicole Linder (1988), executive director for Gary Castro came up with a the Marjaree Mason Center, was appointed to fun idea a few years ago when Rick Elkins (1975) retired as editor and Fresno State’s University Advisory Board. publisher of the Porterville Recorder after a 40- he and his wife, Sue (a 1986 year journalism career. Monica Nadon (1982) served as director for Fresno State alumna), decided Tehachapi Community Theatre’s Drama Day Thomas Montgomery (1979) is the new Camp Fun in July. to resurface their back yard winemaker for the Fresno State Winery. swimming pool. “I said, 'Hey, Don Parreira (1980), co-owner of Ultra Gro “For my family and our business, Bulldog spirit is totally Douglas Sloan (1979) is now director of waste Plant Food based in Madera, was appointed we’ve got to put the Bulldog in management and recycling in Sacramento County. president of the Ag One Foundation at about the Fresno State students. It’s about seeing them Fresno State. there,'” Gary recalls. The family E F graduate and cheering for the spectacular athletics teams. Maxine Madden Spencer (1970) is performing already had a pickup truck with the Friday Philharmonic Orchestra as well as Richard Sepulveda (1982, ’00), retired as chief decked out with Bulldog décor, The students give us the spirit. We have students from the the Tulare County Symphony. operations officer after 30 years in the Sanger Unified School District. and they are ardent supporters Craig School of Business tour our company every year, of everything Fresno State, we go to all the games and we tailgate. We feel like so why not? The pool has been we’re participating in it.” the centerpiece for plenty of summer family memories GARY CASTRO A Briana Aaronian (2013) married D Ryan Jacobsen (2002, ‘04) and Ashley

Domenick Satterberg ever since. PRESIDENT OF KRC SAFETY CO., INC. IN VISALIA Do you have Haeden Schneider (2017) on June 2 Jacobsen (2003) welcomed their third in Fresno. child, Trooper.

news to share? B Lindsay (Neal) Huang (2007, ‘09) and E Kasandra Martinson (2011, ‘13) Andrew Huang (2008) welcomed their married Adam Brooks (staff) on May 27 Do you have that Show us how you keep Fresno State pride alive at first child, Harper Quinn on Sept. 1. in Ukiah. Larsen’s Photography your home or business and you might be featured Submit an alumni Class Note and high-resolution photo to: C Daniel Silva (1983) released his new F Jason Mayfield (2009) and David Reitz Bulldog spirit? in a future issue of Fresno State Magazine! book, “House of Spies.” (2011) were married on March 17 in Seattle. [email protected] [email protected] 34 FALL/WINTER 2017 » FresnoStateMagazine.com 35 ALUMNI NEWS 1990s 2000s G H Fred Cogan (1995), former principal at Kingsburg John M. Alcorn (2005) joined Suncrest Bank to High School, is now with the Madera County lead its Agribusiness Division in Fresno. Office of Education. Daniela Benavidez (2004, ’07) earned her Alma Colado (1998) is now city finance director doctorate in education in sports management for Kingsburg. and a minor in health and fitness from the United States Sports Academy. Todd Henderson (1993), director of CBRE commercial real estate Valuation and Advisory Linda Carvalho Cooley (2004) earned her I Services, received the Management Team of the doctorate in organizational leadership from Year on behalf of his team and was also named Brandman University. Her dissertation was titled Volunteer of Distinction in June by the Appraisal “The role of communication in strategic planning Institute. at California Community Colleges.”

Scott Howell (1995) is now chief medical officer Marianna (Santos) Gentert (2006) is now for Tenet Diagnostics, a provider of laboratory Tulare County deputy agricultural commissioner. and genomic testing and evidence-based research to direct patient care. Sraeya Crowder-George (2005) is now assistant general manager at Gwinnett County Transit/ (1996) is now superintendent for Xpress Commuter Services, Transdev Inc.

Todd Lile Crystal Lee Photography Madera Unified School District. in Georgia. J K Good news for anyone who can’t stand waiting Don Lopez (1994) is now vice president Chris Giles (2004), the former vice president of instruction for Fresno City College after of sales and strategy for the San Francisco previously serving in the interim role. 49ers, is now chief operating officer of the Oakland Athletics. Emil Milevoj (1998) is now director of the Lyles Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship at Brenna Hughes (2006) organized the third Fresno State as well as assistant professor of bi-annual Central Valley Concussion Symposium When you’re injured or ill, a month can seem management in the Craig School of Business. in downtown Fresno and presented on brain injury at the American Speech-Language-Hearing like an eternity to wait for an appointment. Marshall D. Moushigian (1993) is in his sixth Association Convention in Los Angeles. year (fifth as chairman) on the board of the L Saint Agnes Care locations to meet Charlie Keyan Armenian Community School in Mike Jansen (2000) is now head PGA golf Fortunately, we offer same- or next-day appointments, your primary care needs: Fresno. He previously was commander of the professional at San Juan Oaks Golf Club extended hours and a range of services to address your needs. Knights of Vartan, an Armenian social and service in Hollister. fraternity, and he sat on the Armenian Genocide LQMG Centennial Committee. Tomas Mundarain (2006) earned an alternate Need a physical? We’ll get you one within the week. 1221 E. Spruce Ave., Fresno 93720 spot on the U.S. Olympic track cycling team. It’s primary care on your schedule – available right here Bob Nelson (1992) is now superintendent for Fresno Unified School District. Ryan Phelan (2001) is now principal at in Fresno and Clovis. Northwest Kingsburg High School. 4770 W. Herndon Ave., Fresno 93722 Frank M. Nunez (1996) celebrates the 10th Call (559) 450-7267 to schedule an appointment anniversary of his law office, which focuses on Matt Rogers (2009), of Selma, is the Central Avecinia personal injury, agriculture and business law. Valley district director for California Senator with a physician at one of our Saint Agnes Care sites. Kamala Harris’ office. G 2006 Shaw Ave., Clovis 93611 Michael McGuire (1999) and Rich Parducci (1992) crafted the McNab 2013 Stacy (Sanchez) McGuire (2003) Family Reserve Mendocino Old Vine Zinfandel Matt Tobin is now special day class teacher at welcomed their first child, Greyson that won the Wine of the Week from The Press John Sutter Middle School and head varsity girls Michael, on July 6. Democrat newspaper in Santa Rosa. basketball coach at Fowler High School. And for those unexpected illnesses and accidents that Saint Agnes Urgent Care H Stephen Provost (1986) published happen after-hours and on weekends, we offer urgent care Tim Ryan (1998) was one of 60 selected for the Miles Gaston Villanueva (2008) portrayed the “Highway 99: The History of (559) 450-CARE (2273) Coro Fellows Program in Public Affairs leadership eldest Menendez brother on the TV series “Law California’s Main Street.” at two convenient locations. program that trains the next generation of & Order True Crime: The Menendez Murders.” change makers. Northwest I Mark Niehoff (2012) and Carey For more information, visit samc.com/urgent-care. (Wholaver) Niehoff welcomed their 4770 W. Herndon Ave., Fresno 93722 Ricky L. White (1997) is now strength and second child, Derek John Anthony, conditioning coach for the Pittsburgh Pirates. on July 24. Medical care has never been more convenient. Main Campus Jeffrey Wurm (1994) is now assistant director 1245 E. Herndon Ave., Fresno 93720 J Kyle Sweeney (2006) and Anneka of the Investment Division of the California State (Schuil) Sweeney (2012) welcomed Treasurer’s Office. their first child, Kellan James Sweeney, on April 18, 2017. Most insurance plans accepted Paul Venosdel (1992) published baseball fiction K Nikko Motta (2014) married book “Anger Throws a Taylor Thompson (2013) on July 29. Curveball” about young Saint Agnes Care baseball players challenged L Fresno State staff Allison (Slater) to live up to sometimes Thurner and Geoff Thurner welcome unrealistic expectations their first child, Waylon Cecil, on of coaches and parents. May 5. 37 IN MEMORIAM 2010s ‘For thee, our hopes and memories’ Michael Anderson (2015) graduated from Barbara Allison (1976), Bud Alan Jones (1974), Beverly Helen Cartwright undergraduate combat systems officer training June 10. June 10 in Fresno. Ruxton (1951), July 12 at the Naval Air Station in Pensacola, Florida. in Vallejo. Betty M. Anthony (1974), Curtis Charles Jones (1976), Miguel A. Gastelum (2016) was in the July 3 in Visalia. May 20 in San Jose. Joe Sandoval (1920), June 29 in Fresno. production “The Curious Incident of the Dog Robert Andrew Azzaro Elmer Kaprielian (1942), in the Night Time” to raise funds for the Selma (1958), in Fresno. May 27 in Walnut Creek. Harold “Brooks” Schaffer Arts Center. (1954), July 9. Guy Badasci (1993), Ronald L. Kucheran (1969), Tyquwan Glass, defensive back, signed with June 18 in Fresno. May 12 in Seattle. Roseann (Burkart) Serrano the Los Angeles Rams. (1944), June 25 in Le Grand. Grady V. Berry (1963, ’67), Daniel H. Langpaap (1953), Aug. 29 in Visalia. June 28. Wanda Jean Sortor (1954), Mitchell Lam Hau (2015) was in the June 10 in Fresno. production “The Curious Incident of the Dog Herbert F. Bolz Jr. (1966), Mark W. Lawsen (1973), in the Night Time” to raise funds for the Selma June 28 in Woodland. Aug. 8 in Aptos. Phill Tong (1989), Sept. 25, Arts Center. 2016, in Santa Clara. Brant Keeley Bramer (1979), Dan J. Leonardo (1950), Lehong Hong is now athletic trainer at Sept. 28 in Fresno. May 29 in San Diego. Andrew Knight Vanderford (1986), July 21. Kingsburg High School. Jennings Brown (1958), Elizabeth K. Mallory (1951), in Fresno. June 27 in Monterey. David J. Viancourt (1976), Matt Jones opened Oak Strength Academy in June 19. Hanford to train high school student-athletes. Clariss Cassin (1952), Jack Emerson Mann (1969), Feb. 5 in Fresno. Sept. 5 in Visalia. John Weidinger Jr. (1971), Navkiran Kaur Khalra and the Aug. 10. Barbara Jean Coddington Elliot Castro Martinez Sikh community moved Fresno City councilmembers to rename Victoria West Park (1961), June 13 in Dinuba. (1980), June 15 in Fresno. Ada Lum Wool (1944), May 30 in Fresno. in honor of her father, Jaswant Singh Khalra. Michelle Kay Daniels (2000, Dale E. McNeil (1954), ’02), June 28 in Fresno. July 9 in Peoria, Arizona. Emily Violet Wright, Aug. 27. Melissa (Mata) Mendes (2011) now works for Fresno Regional Workforce Development James Charles (Jim) Dirlam Jeffery Lynn Meeks (1963), Martha Doonan Christine Board as a career technical education (1971), Aug. 21 in Fresno. Aug. 28 in Salinas. York (1960), July 1. coordinator. Willard Ray Engvall (1947), Mattie Douglas Burton July 3 in Fresno. Esteban Miranda (2013), owner of Miranda’s Meyers (1965), Aug. 16 FACULTY/STAFF Buy and Sell, has opened a Modesto location. Souren Sam Farsakian in Fresno. Lester Pincu, Sept. 3 (1950), July 28. in Long Beach. Karen Nielsen (1984), Lauren Oakley (2014) is now school psychologist in the Sonoma Valley School Edward Hammon (1972), June 23 in Point Richmond. Ethel Luella Wessman, Aug. 30 in Hanford. June 27 in Napa. District. Pauline F. Patterson (1964), Jack Hergenrader (1974), July 6. Kathleen Muccigrosso- Aaron Ordaz created Pops Emporium, a cart Aug. 8. White (1977), May 19. business that sells gourmet ice pops around Anna Pieper (1960), Fresno and is available for special events. Theresa Marie (Bingle) July 14 in Fresno. Higgins, Aug. 5 in York, Maine. Geoffrey J. Pluto (1969), FRIENDS Madeline Pedro (2016) is now stadium June 14. William Robert Appleby, operations assistant for the Denver Broncos. Troy Gene Huckabay (1961), June 13 in Visalia. July 9 in Kingsburg. George “Bud” William Pope Ruth Rangel (2016) became a Volunteer in (1952), July 14 in Fresno. Delmar L. Ault, June 5 Loreen Lee Coulter , Policing for the Selma Police Department and Where BOLD begins in Visalia. Geri (Blanken) Prys (1985), is serving as adviser for the Explorer Program. Huddleston (1972), June 30. Sept. 1 in Lemoore. Donald (Doc) Casperson, Richard Sutter Hull III June 23 in Bellingham, Chad Saechao produced a short film titled Michael Emmett Purl (1967), (1977), in Fresno. Washington. “The Chase” that will premiere at Maya Aug. 16. and your legacy continues. Cinemas. Jack Jensen (1978), June 5. Julian Cerda Chapa, Aug. 5. Helen Esther Rasenti (1958), Kathleen Rhodes Schock (2017), who earned Matthew R. Jimenez (2014), Sept. 11 in Tulare. Michael Lee McGarvin, her doctoral degree in education in May, July 4 in Fresno. July 1 in Fresno. Gordon Douglass Riddle Did you know that leaving a future gift could pay you income? is now adjunct faculty at Fresno City College. (1976), July 1 in Las Vegas. Make a bold statement by remembering Fresno State through your will, trust, retirement plans or life income gift. The office of Planned Giving can help you identify creative giving strategies that provide for you and your loved ones, while also leaving a legacy that will

David Vartanian (2007) authored impact the next generation of leaders in our community. "The Adventures of Mr. Murphy," illustrated by Joel Beery (2008). The children's book was created to help support pre-veterinary scholarships at Fresno State in memoriam of David’s bulldog, Mr. Murphy. www.fresnostate.giftlegacy.com

38 FALL/WINTER 2017 A Lasting Bond

n her third year as a volunteer counselor at Camp Kesem, a free, week- long camp for kids who have a parent affected by cancer, Hailee Ramont I says the experience is indescribable. “Kesem actually means magic, and that’s what I tell people right away. Camp Kesem is a place where I can go with my campers and they can open up and tell stories that they might not be able to share at home.”

Ramont’s father was diagnosed with cancer when she was young, and she didn’t have a support system like Camp Kesem. So when she learned about the camp as a Fresno State student, she jumped at the chance to volunteer. “In that moment I decided this is my chance to give back and be that person for a little kid when I didn’t have that person. So I joined Camp Kesem and was able to be that inspirational person — so I thought. But then in coming every year, I’m the one who is inspired.”

Campers are able to share stories and relate to each other in a safe environment, while playing games, singing and bonding with people who understand their challenges.

It takes about $500 per camper to fund the week-long activities, and counselors work year-round to raise money so kids ages 6 to 16 can attend for free.

Ramont, who’s now pursuing her master’s in speech-language pathology at Fresno State, says the bonds created at camp are lasting. “This isn’t just a one-week experience. Camp Kesem, once you’re involved, it is a family.” ONLINE EXTRA — Visit fresnostatemagazine.com to see a special video and photo gallery. Cary Edmondson

40 FALL/WINTER 2017 NONPROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE California State University, Fresno PAID 5200 N. Barton Ave. M/S ML49 FRESNO, CA Fresno, CA 93740-8023 PERMIT NO. 262 CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED

4 awards. 3 years. Endless possibilities.

Fresno State is first in the nation to receive four American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU) awards, which recognize institutions for excellent and innovative approaches to student success. The University most recently earned the 2017 AASCU award for Student Success and College Completion. Cary Edmondson