San Jose State University SJSU ScholarWorks

Chicano Commencement Associated Students

5-28-2017

47th Chicano Commencement, 2017

San Jose State University, Associated Students

Follow this and additional works at: https://scholarworks.sjsu.edu/chicanograd

Part of the Chicana/o Studies Commons

Recommended Citation San Jose State University, Associated Students, "47th Chicano Commencement, 2017" (2017). Chicano Commencement. 21. https://scholarworks.sjsu.edu/chicanograd/21

This Program is brought to you for free and open access by the Associated Students at SJSU ScholarWorks. It has been accepted for inclusion in Chicano Commencement by an authorized administrator of SJSU ScholarWorks. For more information, please contact [email protected].

A MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT

Congratulations, Class of 2017! Chicano Commencement is a wonderful opportunity for all of you to acknowledge the importance of your heritage while celebrating your achievements with family, friends and mentors. You should be proud of your accomplishments and the contributions you have made during your time at San Jose State University. While you are graduating, you will remain part of the Spartan family as alumni and I hope you stay actively involved with your alma mater. I wish you the best as you begin the next part of our journey. I know that you will become leaders in your fields and will shape the futur_e of our society. On behalf of the entire San Jose State University community, felicidades!

Mary A. Papazian President San Jose State University MENCE GRADUATION AGENDA

2:00PM Doors Open - Guest Registration 3:00 - 6:00 PM Dinner & performances by: Calpulli Tonalehqueh Aztec Dancers Grupo Folklorico Luna y Sol de SJSU Mariachi Sonora 5:30PM Doors Open to the General Public 6:00PM Graduation Ceremony 7:00PM Keynote Speaker & Speeches 8PM - 12AM La Ultima Pachanga Reception Banda La Conquistadora DJ Sonido Politecnico

DR MAGDALENA BARRERA KEYNOTE SPEAKER

Dr. Magdalena Barrera is an Associate Professor of Mexican American Studies, the Acting Chair of African American Studies at San Jose State University, and a member of the jAdelante! ChicanxjLatinx Student Success Task Force. Born and raised outside of Chicago, Illinois, she is proud of her Mexican heritage and to have been a first-generation college student. Dr. Barrera received a Bachelor's degree in English Literature and Latin American Studies from the University of Chicago, and a Ph.D. in Modern Thought in Literature from Stanford University. She joined SJSU after a teaching fellowship at Stanford University. In MAS, she teaches courses on Chicanajo history, literature, and film, as well as comparative ethnic studies. In her research, Dr. Barrera writes about Mexican Americans in early twentieth-century literature, music, and photography, with a particular focus on issues of gender and cultural adaptation. She also writes about the mentoring and retention of first-gen­ eration students and students of color in higher education. Dr. Barrera credits the resilient and hardworking students whom she teaches at SJSU for inspiring her to bring her very best to the classroom; every day she sees them, she is reminded of how blessed she is to be in this meaningful career.

47TH ANNUAL CHICANO COMMENCEMENT I 3 CLAUDIA TERCERO MASTER OF CEREMONY

Claudia Tercero is a former graduate of San Jose State University where she double majored in Spanish and Sociology with a concentration in Criminology. While at SJSU she and group of students reactivated the Circulo Hispanico which had been inactive for the past fifteen years. She served as the secretary for two years and led efforts to create the first Spanish Department graduation. She pledged Sigma Gamma Rho and joined the Iota Beta Sigma Chapter. She was also a previous member of Chicano Commencement during her last year at San Jose State. She currently works in the University Advancement Department directly working with the Development team where she has discovered her passion for philanthropy. She's involved with the Latino Faculty and Staff Association, ChicanxjLatinx Task Force, and African American Task Force. She is a Union Steward, Unit 7 representative for Chapter 307 and serves on the Classification Committee. In her quest to learn more about Chicano Com­ mencement she has met some of the first CC originators, and a group La Raza Heritage Society who is trying to preserve the Chicano history of this Valley. She hopes to to continue to create an organization where students feel a sense of pride in their identity and most of all to continue the legacy of those who started Chicano Commencement.

47TH ANNUAL CHICANO COMMENCEMENT I 4

WELCOME FROM THE CO-CHAIRS

Buenas tardes a todos Good evening everyone,

"La educaci6n viene de dentro, se consigues con La "Education comes from within; you get it by Lucha, el esfuerzo y el pensamiento ·: struggle, effort, and thought".

Y el resultado to estamos viendo hoy aqui, at cumpLir This represents the struggle of our graduates el ana numero 47 de La CLase de Chicano here today, on behalf of the 47th annual San Jose Commencement de La Universidad Estatat de San State University Chicano Commencement Class Jose. Estamos muy honrados y contentos de dartes a of 2017 we are honored to welcome all of you. todos ustedes La mas cordiaL bienvenida. Muchos de ustedes han anticipado este dia, algunos con Many of you have long anticipated this day, some ansiedad, otros con una mezcLa compticada de with eagerness, some with anxiety, some with a emociones, pero to que estamos sintiendo hoy. complicated mix of emotions but whatever you ;Nosotros to hemos hecho! are feeling here today. You've finally made it! To Nos hemos reunido en este Lugar para cetebrar, the Families, friends, and loved ones of the tanto nuestros togros academicos de los que nos graduates, today we are gathered to honor both estamos graduando hoy, como et esfuerzo de the academic achievements of the graduates, but nuestros famitiares que nos ayudaron a atcanzar also those who have helped them reach this esta etapa tan importante en nuestras vidas. important milestone in their lives. This student Esta organizaci6n estudiantit fue fundada en 1970, organization was founded in 1970, on the sabre Los principios de La cultura, Los togros principles of culture, academic achievements academicos y La comunidad. Hoy tambien honramos and community. Our students today also honor los sacrificios y et trabajo rudo de todos nuestros familiares y amigos que han participado para estar the sacrifices and hard work that all of their hoy aqui cetebrando de nuestra graduaci6n. Se loved ones have made in order for them to be on invirtieron innumerabtes horas en La recaudaci6n this stage today, celebrating their graduation. de fondos y ayudando a nuestra comunidad, Our graduates have worked countless hours, mientras continuabamos asistiendo a nuestras working fundraisers and giving back to their responsabitidades como estudiantes y como community, all while still attending to their individuos. Muchos de estos estudiantes son los responsibilities as students and individuals. primeros en su familia en asistir a una universidad. Many of these students are also the first in their No ha sido facit. En muchas ocasiones los obstaculos family to attend a four year institution. Although y adversidades cruzaron nuestro camino. Sin it hasn't been easy and at many times obstacles embargo, todos nosotros derrotamos las and adversities were in our way, these students probabiLidades y demostramos que nada es defeated the odds and proved that nothing is imposible, porque cuando hay una voluntad, hay una o varias maneras de Lograr el exito. impossible, because when there is a will, there is ;Una vez mas, Bienvenidos a nuestra ceremonia de a way to achieve success. Chicano Commencement! Once again, Welcome !

47TH ANNUAL CHICANO COMMENCEMENT I 7

C 0 N G RAT U LA T I 0 N S CLASS a/2017

.. ../ I t / ,. ( .1. " / / " / .... /" / ""' 4,. / ..- ..-- · --- 2017 E-BOARD TOP ROW: Sophia Acala-Cabrera, Co-Social Media and Marketing I Ricardo Magana, Co-Publicity and Recruitment Zuly Flores Quevedo, Co-Social Media and Marketing I Norely Alcantara, Co-Treasurer I Valeria Rodriguez, Co-Secretary Abigail Palomares, Co-Program Director I Roxana Franco, Co-Fundraiser I David De Ia Cruz Garcia, Co-Secretary Adriana Andrade Diaz, Co-Facility

BOTTOM ROW: Andrea Loza, Co-Program Director I Andrea Rico, Co-Treasurer 1 Elizabeth Fernandez Duarte, Co-Facility Damian Valencia, Co-Entertainment I Ana Rivas, Co-Chair I Nancy Barahona, Co-Chair 1Karen Camacho, Co-Fundraiser ~ Ill NOT PICTURED: Daisy Gonzalez, Co-Entertainment I Jessica Gomez, Co-Publicity and Recruitment

ALEXANDRA ALLISON ANAYARITZA VIRAMONTES MERELYN SOLIS RIVAS PORTILLO

Major: Business Administration with a Maj or : Environmental Studies Major: Libera[ Studies- Teacher Preparation concentration in Management Minor: Mexican American Studies

Thank you parents for being the A quote that has always stuck with I would like to give thanks to all of real ones; for always motivatingj­ me since I did the May Day March my friends and family who have believing in me throughout every one year, which advocates for supported me throughout my decision I have made. For pushing worker's rights, was "Si se puede." college experience. Shoutout to me to be the strongest and I love the slogan Cesar Chavez and my pledge sisters Lambda Epsilon, confident and best version of Dolores Huerta created, and what y'all the best, thanks for being myself. You are the strongest, they stood for. Also, I want to there through the bad and good. most hardworking , bravest, and thank my parents for all their Lastly, all of my hard work is most courageous people I know. I support and their loving words of dedicated to my parents Marta honestly don't know where I advice these past four years, and Manuel. I finally did it!! would be today without you. Our there's not enough words to family has been through so much describe my gratitude, I owe it all - The future belongs to those who throughout past few years. I'm to them. believe in the beauty of their blessed and thankful for having dreams. my guardian angel by our side. I also want to thank my sorority sisters for being motivating by pushing me to pursue my goals and aspirations.

47TH ANNUAL CHICANO COMMENCEMENT I 14 ANAHI ANDREA ANDREA OJEDA ALMANZA AMADOR ELIZABET LOZA

Major: Psychology Major: Communication Disorders Major: Libera! Studies Teaching Prep. Minor. Human Rights & Sciences Minor: Education

Mis logros no son nada mas mios "The foundation stones for a "Many smaH peopLe, in smaH pero tambien son de mis padres. baLanced success are honesty, pLaces, doing sman things can El apoyo incondicional de mis character, integrity, faith, Love and change the worLd." padres me han dado la fortaleza, LoyaLty." seguridad, y ganas de seguir -Zig ZigLar "Muchas personas pequeiias, en adelante. Mi familia y yo hemos Lugares pequeiios, hacienda logrado salir adelante apesar de Being able to reach my goals has pequeiias casas pueden cambiar eL las dificultades que se nos han always been my priority, but I mundo." presentado. Le quiero dar las would never be able to accomplish -Eduardo Galeano gracias a mis padres, hermana y them without the help of my hermanos por ser tan pacientes family. Having their support has Ma y Pa, gracias a ustedes aprendi conmigo. Al igualle quiero dar las helped me get through all the que es ser valiente. Que cada no, gracias al resto de mi familia por tough moments and to always es un si que viene bacia mi. Que darme buenos consejos y moti­ believe in my self. nunca me tengo que dar por varme dia tras dia. vencida porque al final de el dia siempre tendre su apoyo. Los sacrificios que se hicieron para mi, nunca podre pagarlos, pero puedo y pasare el resto de mi vida haciendolos orgullosos. Soy fuerte porque soy producto de inmigrantes."

47TH ANNUAL CHICANO COMMENCEMENT I 15 ANDREA ANDREA ANDRES IBARRA RlCO VILLASENOR

Major: Psychology Major: Business Administration with a Major: Psychology concentration in Accounting

Andrea Ibarra is an immigrant Mom y Dad, no hay palabras para Hola, mi nombre es Andres DACA student who is the first one expresar Ia gratitud que tengo Villasenor. I'm Mexican-American in her family to be graduation para ustedes por darme esta and a San Jose native, born and from an University. Being born in oportunidad increible. Gracias a raised. Graduating from San Jose a different country, she has faced ustedes, hoy cruzo esta etapa State University has got to be one many obstacles that could have orgullosamente representando a of my greatest accomplishments prevented her from continuing mi familia, mi cultura, y todas las to date. But more so, an even her education. She is proud to be Latinas educadas. Hoy, no somos greater achievement is being able a role model to her two younger una minoria sino mas bien seres to make my parents proud, to be brothers and she is extremely humanos tratando de hacer una able to show them that all their thankful to her parents for diferencia en este mundo. jDicho struggles of immigrating to this pushing her to get a higher eso, mis logros no terminan aqui! country were worthwhile. I'm not education and receive her degree Con su eterno apoyo y con Ia finished, but this is a stepping in psychology. guianza de Dios, se que voy a stone to fulfilling that. Gracias a seguir siendo exitosa en este mis papas, mi familia y amigos, nuevo capitulo en mi vida. this one's for you.

"Todo lo puedo en Cristo que me fortalece." Filipenses 4:13

47TH ANNUAL CHICANO COMMENCEMENT I 16 BRENDA CARLOS CARLOS AGUILAR HERNANDEZ CORTEZ LONA

Majar: Communicative Disorders & Sciences Major: Business Administration Major: Aerospace Engineering Concentration in Management Info Systems

"Take pride in how far you have I grew up in a town called Hollister Everybody has the responsibility come & have faith in how far you to parents who left everything to make life better. Some people can go" they had and came here to give try to discover cures for diseases, their children a better future. I'm others try to make life fair in glad I can now say their sacrifices societies, and some people help weren't in vain. As an educated by simply fighting fires. I on the member of the Latino community, other hand want to stray the it is important to lead by example people from remaining stagnant to all the other Latinoja students on Earth. To some people it may who may have doubts about their seem like a waste of time, but to potential. I'm grateful to attend a the people of the future they will school with such a diversity of thank the ones that saw the people and cultures. greater picture.

"Education is the most powerful Un saludo especial para toda Mi weapon we can use to change the Familia Adorada incluiendo a toda world" - Nelson Mandela Ia bola de NAKos.

SAN JOSE STATE UNIVERSilY I 17 CHRYSTOFER CORlNA CRYSTAL GARCIA MORA LEMUS

Major: Civil Engineering Major: Liberal Studies Teacher Prep Major: Sociology-Community Change Minor: Mathematics

Este momento importante de mi "Prefiero morir de pie que vivir de Mis padres han sido mi mas vida se lo quiero dedicar a mis rodillas." grande inspiracion. Dios me padres porque sin Ia ayuda y el -Emiliano Zapata bendijo con padres maravillosos, apoyo de ellos no tuviera el gracias a ellos nunca me hico falta privilegio de estar apunto de ser nada y siempre me apoyaron en el primero en mi familia en todo. De mis padres aprendi Ia graduarme de una Universidad. importancia de trabajar duro, Ser el primero en graduarme se tener ambicion, permanecer significa mucho para mi porque humilde, nunca olvidar mis raices, sirvo como un ejemplo para mi y siempre tener fe en Dios. Estoy hermana y hermano para que ellos muy agradecida con mis padres tambien persigan una carrera. por todos los sacrificios que han Este camino no a sido nada facil hecho por mi, es algo que nunca pero con esfuerso y dedicacion en les padre repagar. Thank you to all podido llegar aqui. of the friends, faculty, staff, family and my boyfriend who provided me with support and wonderful memories throughout my college experience. Si se pudo!

47TH ANNUAL CHICANO COMMENCEMENT I 18 DAISY DAMIAN DAVID DE LA CRUZ GONZALEZ VALENCIA GARCIA

Major: Chi!d and Adolescent Development Major: Civil & Environmental Engineering Major: Business Administration with (preparation for teaching) Minor: Business Concentration in Management Information System

Gracias Mama y Papa por todo lo Be brave, take risks, never give up, Primeramente, quiero darle las que han hecho por mi. Siempre les keep your head up high and serve gracias a mis padres por todo lo estare agradecida. Todos mis as a role model for those who are han echo por mi y por todo el esfuerzos y logros se los dedico a looking up to you. This one is for apoyo que me an brindado a pesar ustedes. jLos quiero con todo mi mi abuelo Raffa, my two lovely de los errores que eh cometido. coraz6n! grandmas, mis papas trabajadores En especial, le quiero dar las and the rest of my family. Esto gracias a mi mama por ensefiarme todavia no se acaba, apenas va a siempre seguir adelante y nunca rendirme. No ay palabras sufici­ comenzando; entes que puedan describir lo agredecido que estoy con ella y cuanto Ia quiero. Sin ella, ninguno de mis logros serian posible. Gracias por siempre apoyarme, guiarme y ayudarme en todo y ensenarme a ser fuerte. Cada vez que me quize rendir, pensaba en ti y en todos tus sacrificios para sacarme adelante. Mama, eres mi motivacion. Se que me tarde un poco pero lo !ogre! Todo esto es por ti. Espero que estes orgullosa de mi como yo lo estoy de ti. Te amo!

47TH ANNUAL CHICANO COMMENCEMENT 1 19 DAYSY JACQ!JELINE EDUARDO ELIZABETH GONZALEZ MAGDALENO FERNANDEZ DUARTE

Major: Behavioral Scienc Major: Business - Human Resources Major: BA Socio logyjSociallnteraction Minor: Child and Adolescent Development Minor: Mexican American Studies & Psychology

I will never forget and ALWAYS The Pain That You've Been Hoy celebro uno de los dias mas cherish my college experience. It Feeling, Can't Compare to The Joy felices de mi vida. Primero que has been a long and difficult road, Thats Coming. nada le quiero dar gracias a dios but having my parents and sisters -Romans 8:18 por permitirme vivir este momen­ support has been essential to my to. A mis padres les dedico este university success. Quisiera darle triunfo, les agradezco todos los las gracias a mis padres por todos sacrificios que hicieron para que los sacrificios y esfuerzo que han yo tuviera Ia oportunidad de enfocado en mi; por siempre recibirme. Ustedes y mis tratando de darnos Ia mejor vida hermanos han sido mi mas grande posible y por darnos lo que motivaci6n. A mis abuelitos y mi ustedes nunca tuvieron. To my older sisters & younger brothers tios por siempre creer en mi. A mi who always have supported me profesora y mentora, Magdalena and been present when I've Barrera for always supporting me needed you. Aurelia & Jessica, unconditionally. y por ultimo, a thank you for being great role mis hermanas de Sigma Pi Alpha models;I truly appreciate you and Sorority por hacer esta experien­ what you do for me. A special cia universitaria unica. Los Amo! thanks to the ladies of Sigma Sigma!!! Alpha Zeta, with your help I have developed the necessary skills to succeed in and out of college, you ladies will always hold a special place in my heart.

47TH ANNUAL CHICANO COMMENCEMENT I 20

FABIO LA GLADYS HERNANDEZ IVAN GARCIA CISNEROS ABREGO

Major: Sociology concentration in Major: Political Science Majors: Spanish, Radio, Television, & Film Race and Ethnic Studies Minor: Mexican American Studies & Spanish My bachelor's degree is the "No vayas a donde te Heve el "The Most Dangerous Weapon is greatest, most rewarding achieve­ camino, sino a donde no hay uno an Educated Chicana" ment so far in my life. As a first para que dejes tu huella" - Ralph generation college student, Waldo Emerson obtaining a higher education degree seemed like an insur­ Quiero agradecer a mis padres y mountable goal. The journey has hermana por el apoyo incondicio­ been long, hard, but oh so worth nal que siempre me brindaron a lo it! Today, I graduate. But so do my largo de esta travesfa. A cada uno parents, my siblings, and my de mis compaii.eros y amigos que ancestors who were there hicieron de esta experiencia cheering me on along the way- lo inolvidable. Gracias Nancy por logramos. My advice for future estos dos aii.os y medio, por tu students is: keep your priorities comprensi6n y cariii.o. straight, be diligent with your school work, and keep the end goal in sight. Echenle ganas! Congrats class of 2017!

47TH ANNUAL CHICANO COMMENCEMENT I 22 JESSICA JOSIE JULIO CESAR GOMEZ PELAYO RODRIGUEZ

Major: Child and adolescent development Major: Business Admnistration with a Major: Political Science with the concentration in community concentration in Management Minor: Spanish

I am where I am because of my First I would like to thank god for My name is Julio Cesar Rodriguez parents, siblings, uncles, cousins, giving me the opportunity to from Sun Valley, California. I am grandmother and friends. I feel make it this far, as well as my senior majoring in Political extremely fortunate to say that I family and friends for giving me all science with a Spanish minor. My had unconditional love and their support and guiding me parents are from small town in support from every single one of towards this path. Being the first Zacatecas, Mexico. To me being them. As a first generation, in my family to graduate from an educated chixano means Mexican-American female I want college has been a challenge but knowing and taking pride in your to be a role model to my 23 and nothing ever made it impossible. culture. "Preservation of one's counting first cousins and After graduation I hope to own culture does not require reciprocate the support they gave continue pursuing all my future contempt or disrespect for other me. No matter where I end up, aspirations. I know there will be cultures" -Cesar Chavez who I become, I will never forget many challenges in the long run from where I came from or the but I am confident I will achieve struggles I went through because my goals. Like many say, life is full those are what made me who I am of many surprises and I can't wait today. to see what's ahead of me. Congrats Class of 2017, We did It!

47TH ANNUAL CHICANO COMMENCEMENT J 23 KAREN KARINA KARLA PAOLA ALEJANDRA CAMACHO JIMENEZ RUIZ

Major: Sociology & MAS Major: Recreation Management Major: Sociology Minor: Psychology

My mission in life is not merely to Each decision I have taken has led "De los tropiezos aprendez a saber survive but to thrive. And to do so me here. In the moment, moving donde pizar." Esto no fue facil with passion, compassion, style, eight hours away was one of the pero Gracias a Ia ayuda de mis and humor. most frightening decisions ever; padres y dios pude lograrlo, los yet look at me know. I have quiero mucho learned to take a leap of faith and put one foot in front of the other. My college experience has shaped who I am and I am not the same person I was four years. I am Chicana, I am a leader, I am independent, I am resilient, I am determined, I am thankful, I am humble, and much more. A mis padres, todo lo que hice siempre fue por ustedes.

47TH ANNUAL CHICANO COMMENCEMENT I 24 LAURA LAURA LIZVEITE ROJAS VAZQ!JEZ ESPINOZA

Major: Sociology: Social Interaction Major: Psychology Major: Sociology and Spanish Minor: Child and Adolescent Development Minor: Kin esiology

"Soy el tipo de mujer que si quiero "What you get by achieving your I dedicate my success to my Ia luna, me Ia bajo yo so!ita" goal is not as important as what parents without their support -Frida Kahlo you become by achieving your nothing would have been possible. goals" "To make a great dream come true, the first requirement is a -Zig Ziglar great capacity to dream; the second requirement is persever­ My college years have been the ance" best years of my life. I am forever thankful with my parents for -Cesar E. Chavez teaching me to persevere. I appreciate all of the experiences and memories that college provided me with. I am thankful to have met the greatest people and will truly never forget my college experience. The laughter, the stress, the late nights, they were all worth it and a part of my growth. I embrace all of it and loved it all.

SAN JOSE STATE UNIVERSITY J 25 LUISA MARLEN MAGDALENA MARCO ANTONIO SALAS-MACIEL CRUZ SANDOVAL

Major: Communication Studies Major: Child Development Major: Computer Science and Spanish Minor: Mathematics

I dream of the day when undevel­ "Time to get in my Mustang and I want to thank my family, my oped regions that are at war can drive until! find what I'm looking mother who is the strongest/ rejoice the way we are today, for. Maybe it's a purpose or courageous/smartest/humblest because the health of humanity maybe it's a new start or maybe person I've ever met. Thank you was put first and peace was it's just a sky with unclouded mom. I also want to thank my restored. This ceremony is a stars." older brothers for building the luxury, this achievement is a foundation my sister and I privilege and peace is a right. followed. And I want to thank my younger sister for building a balanced and humble brother. Thank you all.

As a minority let's build a stronger future and help each other succeed.

"Ahi que avanzar Ia RAZA!"

47TH ANNUAL CHICANO COMMENCEMENT I 26 MARIA MARISOL ESPINO MARIZA ELIZABETH BARRERA FIGUEROA MENDOZA MAGANA

Major: Health Science Major: History Major: Social Work Minor: Spanish Minor: Humanities

Proud of who I am and what I have Gracias a mis padres por su Every Day is a Second Chance accomplished. I couldn't have valentia y sacrificios a! emigrar a done it without my parents este pais. Ustedes me han dado Ia supporting me the entire way. oportunidad de tener una vida This is for them! llena de felicidad y conocimientos. I would also like to thank my family for their unconditional support. I have been blessed with a wonderful community both at San Jose State and at home. As a Mexican-American, I have been able to experience two cultures that foster values I cherish: freedom, perseverance, and humildad. I would not be where and who I am today without these values. Congratulations to my fellow graduates, may post-grad life be kind to you.

47TH ANNUAL CHICANO COMMENCEMENT 1 27 NANCY JEANETH NANCY NATHALY BARAHONA MACiAS CiSNEROS

Major: Liberal Studies Major: History Maj or: Sociology Preperation for Teaching Minor: Mexican American Studies Minor: Spanish Minor: Spanish I transferred from Gavilan Thus far this is one of my greatest "Guirra Vieja dale Gracias a Dios Community College in Gilroy and accomplishments, and from here que ya terminastes" - Mama am proud of now receiving my on it will just keep getting better. undergraduate degree from San This one's for my parents who Jose State University. My family is from a small rancho near Fresnil­ have worked extremely hard to lo, Zacatecas, Mexico and I get me where I am today. I thank recognize that I could not have them for everything they've done, completed this chapter in my life for who I am today and what I've without their unyielding love, yet to become. Congratulations help, and support. class of 2017! Mi familia es de un rancho pequefio cerca de Fresnillo, Zacatecas, Mexico. Estoy orgullo­ sa de terminar este capitulo y se que no se hubiera echo sin el amor, apoyo, y Ia ayuda de mi familia. Afortunadamente, he tenido el gran ejemplo de mi madre, Josefina, y de mi hermana, Juana. Viendo a elias, se lo que es ser una mujer fuerte, carifiosa, y inteligente. Las amo con todo mi coraz6n y les dedico esto a elias.

"Quiero morir siendo esclavo de los principios, no de los hombres" --Emiliano Zapata

47TH ANNUAL CHICANO COMMENCEMENT I 28

RICARDO RODOLFO ROXANA MAGANA MEDA FRANCO

Major: Justice Studies Major: Political Science Major: Business Mministration Minor: Mexican American Studies Minor: History Concentration in Entrepreneurship

"La (mica persona de Ia que tienes Politics is the art of the possible, "My mother was a dominant force que ser mejor, es Ia persona que the attainable-the art of the best. in our family. And I always saw her fuiste ayer." as the leader. And that was great for me as a young woman, because I never saw that women had to be dominated by men." --­ Dolores Huerta

47TH ANNUAL CHICANO COMMENCEMENT I 30 SONIA SOPHIA STEFFAN IE URlBE ALCALA-CABRERA JIMENEZ

Major: Psychology Major: Psychology Major: Sociology concentration in Race and Ethnic Studies

I wouldn't be graduating if it To my family, Yo vengo de manos trabajadoras. wasn't for the unconditional love Yo vengo de gente luchona. Yo and support my parents have Thank you for your everlasting vengo de sangre valiente. Yo provided me. Thank you for never love and endless support. I vengo de dos corazones. Yo vengo losing hope in me even when I had dedicate all of the glory of my de ensenansas y lecciones. Yo lost hope in myself. All your achievements to you. vengo de abrazos y chingadazos. sacrifices have been worth it Por que, ama ... apa .. .ya se come which is why my diploma is dice El dicho " cuando tu vas yo dedicated to my family. ya vengo". Yo vengo con palabra y honor. Y En este dia yo vengo a dar honor. Yo vengo a dar gracias, Por todo lo que me han dado. Por sus esfuerzos y su apoyo. Y gracias a ustedes yo soy quien soy.. .Una mujer educada.

47TH ANNUAL CHICANO COMMENCEMENT I 31 STEVEN VALERIA VNIANA LEMUS RODRIGUEZ CASIAS RUIZ

Major: Kinesiology Major: Anthropology Major: BA in Psychology Minor: Movement Science Minor: Mexican American Studies Minor: Child Development & Mexican American Studies Originally from Soledad, CA I I am a first generation college Quiero tomar este espacio para decided that SJSU was the place student, who strives to be a agradecer a mis papas, Maria y for me. Becoming the first positive example for my family. Iraide, y hermanas, Chi a y Tere member of my family to obtain a Interesting facts about me are por el apoyo incondicional que me degree from a four-year institute that I love food and taking han brindado a lo largo de mi gives me more than bragging adventures. experiencia en Ia Universidad. rights, it sets the tone for the next Llegar a graduarme de Ia Univer­ generations of dream chasers. A mis padres increibles que me an sidad no solo es un triunfo para With that being said to the Lemus, echo Ia persona que soy hoy, les mi, si no para toda mi familia. El Sanchez, and Haro families I owe debo todo. Sin ustedes nada de lo camino no fue facil, pero fue you all a huge thank you for que he logrado hubiera sido posible gracias a ellos. Esta supporting me through my posible. Todo lo que hago es para licenciatura es para ayudar a college endeavor. I plan on hacer a mi familia orgullosa de mi. honrar el esfuerzo y sacrificio que continuing my education in order mis padres han superado. Ojala to become a licensed physical Class of 2017 An adventure beyond este logro pueda motivar a mis therapist. our wildest dreams is coming to sobrinajos: Yvette, Destiny, y los an end, the doors open for us are que faltan. I Love You! endless lets take advantage and create a better world.

47TH ANNUAL CHICANO COMMENCEMENT I 32 YADIRAMEJIA YARELI ZULY FLORES MARTINEZ BANDA Q!JEVEDO

Major: International Business Management Major: Spanis h & Linguistics Maj or: Socia[ Wori'i Minor: Spanish

Mi educaci6n es !a herencia mas Gracias mom and dad por darme "The future comes one day at a grande que mis padres me Ia oportunidad de estar aqui hoy, time" pudieron haber regalado. Mi cumpliendo uno de mis sueiios. inteligencia es algo que nunca Gracias por apoyarme en todo y nadie me podra quitar, algo que por enseiiarme a luchar y nunca rendirme. Les debo Ia vida y este tiene un valor unico y !a arma mas diploma es para ustedes. Estoy poderosa para cambiar el mundo orgullosa de ser !a prim era en de forma positiva. nuestra familia en recibirme. Brother this is for you too. Thank you for being my partner in life and for being here with me today, I love you forever! Sister, without your guidance I would have never made it this far. Thank you for being my guardian angel. I'm finally keeping the promise I made to you ten years ago and I hope I've made you proud. You're forever in my heart baby sister!

Gracias a mi familia por su apoyo! Los quiero mucho!

SAN JOSE STATE UNIVERSITY I 33 •• ••

' ' JARA SEBASTIAN JUDAIAAVILA MANUEL CORREA

Major: Justice Studies Major: Justice Studies Minor: Music & Mexican American Studies Minor: Psychology

I am Judaia a first generation Time at SJSU: Mexican-American college RA for 3 years, Sigma Lambda student. As the oldest sibling in Beta International Fraternity Inc, my family I was left on my own to internship with Justice Corps seek opportunities for my family to have a brighter future. Certain­ After College: ly my college experience provided Full time job as a Crisis Counselor me with many achievements . It Contracted to be a 2nd Lieutenant also brought a lot of amazing and in the Army National Guard caring people into my life. My degree has allowed me to peruse Career goal: my passion for teaching violin and Become a Police Officer and my desire to counsel youth at better community and police Juvenile Hall for the Santa Clara interactions and perceptions County. For me my Bachelors is just the beginning of many many more great things to come in my life. "POR QUE TODO SE PUEDE CON ESFUERZO Y DEDICACION"

47TH ANNUAL CHICANO COMMENCEMENT \ 34

Proud to have transferred more students to S]SU than any other community college in the state. ' Felicidades graduates! SJCC.EDU/BRILLIANT , ~ DeveLOPinG amazinG creat:.1ve For CHICANO COMMENCEMENT ---- For over --- 20YEARS

MILAGRO MARKETING cultural communication in advertising

1141 Ringwood Court Suite 20, San Jose, CA 95131 408.324.01 06 I www.milagromarketing.com Chiavari Chairs j' Garden Chairs I Folding Chairs Tables l Specialty Linen I Chair Covers I Table Settings ~ Claudia Castaneda 408-841-2849 LINEN RENT ...... claudta. [email protected] timelesslinenrentats.com ,,!J slart TECHNOLOGY

IT WIZARDS "Saving the world one network at a time" iJ !l:~{IT~I~Q A Berkshire Hathaway Affiliate

518 North Santa Cruz Ave. Los Gatos, CA 95030 (408) 772-2897 [email protected] Yvonne Villalba Ca\BRE# 01971083 Realtor

,., I San Jose ._ r-AJ Learning Center ~ ...... ,~iiii~~... =a&~ Construction Co. POLIZAS DE SEGURO

ViaRapidaServices.com 888.606.4785

Lie .. #1024272

Cuarzos • Charms • ••• y IIllis!

904 E Market 3 . S:!linas, CA 94538 ALFREDO (831) 758-6358 408.836·3541 ARTISTIC _I..A1'.'DSCAPJ [email protected]

God~ Family~ Passion~ Traditions

1410 SOUTH MAIN ST. SALINAS CA. 93908 (831)422-1814

20700 Spence Rd, Salinas, CA 93908 Phone: (831) 757-4171 ENOE VALENCIA Vestidos Exclusivos

QUINCEANOS - BODAS PROMS- ALTERACIONES 2078 Sunset View PI San Jose, CA 95116 (408) 512-8266 [email protected] 11050 PRAIRIE AVE, INGLEWOOD, CA 90303 PHONE: (310) 330·8200 facebook.com/enoe. valencia

ASEGURA 2 CARROS 0 2 CONDUCTORES POR EL PRECIO DE 1

.dA~ i PACIFIC WEST INSURANCE AUTO· CASA • MOTOCICLETA • COMERCIAL

817 East Alosal Street Salinas k~~~~ 831-7 54-1 02 7

I GRACIAS!

Artistic Landscaping Familia Lemus Joyeria y Botania Associated Students, SJSU Familia Lona Jump Start Technology, Inc. Banda La Conquistadora Familia Loza Makeup by Issa Calpulli Tonalehqueh Aztec Dancers Familia Magana Milagro Marketing Chacho's Familia Martinez Mystery Spot OJ Sonido Politecnico Familia Meda National Compadres Network Dr. Magdalena Barrera Familia Mendez Pacific West Insurance Enoe Valencia de Vestidos Exclusivos Familia Mora Pizza 8 Estrada Photos R & R Construction Company Familia Abregot Restaurante y Taqueria El Oaxagueno Familia Aguilar Rising Farmworker Dream Fund Familia Amador San Jose City College Familia Arreola San Jose Learning Center Familia Avila San Jose State University Familia Camacho Tacos El Dragon Familia Cisneros Familia Correa Via Rapido Familia Cruz Familia De La Cruz Familia Figueroa Familia Flores Familia Vetitquez Familia Garcia Familia Zelaya . Familia Gomez Familias Salas Familia Gonzalez Fanciful Familia Hernandez Fernandez Painting ~ ..,,-,;;;;;;..c; · Familia Ibarra Gino's Familia Jimenez Grupo Folklorico Luna y Sol de SJSU Familia Jimenez Intero Real Estate

PROGRAM DESIGN I Milagro Marketing PHOTOGRAPHY I Estrada Photos