After almost a decade studying and researching the evolution of snakes, CSUDH Biology Professor Sonal Singhal has come to one undeniable conclusion. “Snakes are so cool!” Since 2014, Singhal has been one of the leaders of a project attempting to discover why snakes have been so successful in evolving traits that allow them to survive and thrive almost anywhere in the world. Their findings were published as the cover story of the February 24 issue of Science magazine. “Snakes are actually lizards if you use a technical definition,” says Singhal. “But if you look at them from an evolutionary perspective and how aspects of their biology are changing —what they eat, what they look like, ... Read More
University Library Unveils New Mural
On Monday, March 18, the Leo F. Cain University Library introduced a striking new addition to the CSUDH campus: a huge mural created by Presidential Artist in Residence Cristina Martinez. The mural, titled “Women in Bloom,” will provide a lasting legacy of Martinez’ collaboration with the campus. “I like to take these opportunities to have as many people as possible see themselves in my work, especially when it’s going to be on the side of a building like this,” said Martinez. “In thinking about the students, I wanted to incorporate many different skin tones. “Plus, with this being Women’s History Month, I wanted to create something that would let the women of CSUDH feel empowered, ... Read More
Toro Softball Off and Running
The CSUDH softball team has their sights set on a third straight trip to the NCAA Tournament, and have come roaring out of the gate this season. After a four-game sweep of Stanislaus State at Toro Diamond over the weekend, the Toros can boast a 11-3 record and stand in first place in the California Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) conference standings. How does the team maintain consistency year-to-year, despite losing key players to graduation? “It always starts with continuing to develop good people,” says head coach Jim Maier. “We focus on moving them forward academically, and then we focus on trying to win games.” This season saw the Toros lose several outstanding players, ... Read More
Men’s Basketball Squad Clinches Share of CCAA Title
With an impressive 80-67 road win against Cal Poly Humboldt, the CSUDH Toros men’s basketball team clinched at least a share of the 2023-24 California Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) regular season title. It is the fourth time in school history that the team has taken home the CCAA crown. With an overall record of 22-5, and a conference record of 17-4, the Toros have proven themselves to be one of the best Division II teams on the West Coast. They will have a chance to clinch sole possession of the CCAA title with a win on Thursday against Cal State LA. For the complete story, please visit ... Read More
Frequent Flyer: Toro Commutes From DC to Complete His Degree
CSUDH graduate student Esmond Epuna isn’t someone who lets obstacles or challenges stand in his way – whether it’s a school abruptly closing its doors or the daunting task of a cross-country commute. Currently pursuing a master’s in cybersecurity, Epuna hasn’t let anything distract him from his dreams. Epuna graduated from high school in 2013, then started taking courses at El Camino College. He soon transferred to the for-profit technical college ITT Technical Institute. Within a few years, his studies were almost complete – but then ITT went out of business with no warning in 2016. “Right before I finished, I lost all my credits,” recalls Epuna. “ITT had to close down. I ended up ... Read More
