CSUDH News

The primary source of news and information about California State University, Dominguez Hills, its students, faculty, and staff.

Political Science

CSUDH Alumna Brings Toro Pride to DC Politics

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CSUDH alumna Ruby Robles

Ruby Robles loves being where the action is. That’s one big reason that the CSUDH alumna’s current job, working in Washington, D.C., as the press secretary for Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren, suits her to a T.

“I’m right here where the laws are made,” says Robles. “Washington, D.C., is at the center of the news all the time. I’m really drawn to that–the excitement and the atmosphere.”

As press secretary, Robles is part of Warren’s communications team and is responsible for everything from writing press releases and coordinating interviews to pitching stories to reporters or providing the public with background information on pending legislation. Robles also helps manage Warren’s social media platforms, so is deeply involved with both traditional and digital communications for the senator.

Robles is also proud to be the current president of the Congressional Hispanic Staff Association (CHSA), an official, bipartisan, bicameral Congressional Staff Organization, whose mission is to recruit, retain, and advance Hispanic staffers in the Senate and House of Representatives. CHSA supports its members by providing professional development, networking opportunities, job placement, and mentorship for Latinx individuals working in Congress. The group has over 400 members in Washington DC and across the country.

“I think the best part of my job is that my work can make a difference in the lives of lots of people,” says Robles. “I’m just one person, but I work for a senator that is always fighting for the right things.”

As an example of the work she takes so much pride in, Robles points to the Inflation Reduction Act, passed in August 2022. “That bill included the biggest investment to fight climate change ever. It also included provisions to lower the cost of prescription drugs. A lot of work went into that–a whole year of negotiations between lawmakers.”

“The staff played a really critical role in making it happen,” says Robles. “On my end, I drafted tweets about the difference this bill would make, and now that it’s passed, I continue to highlight the ways that people are benefiting from it. That’s one of my favorite things about my job. I’m able to fight for what I stand for and help make a difference.”

Born in Culiacán, Sinaloa, Mexico, Robles’ family moved to Southern California when she was five years old, eventually settling in Pomona. She learned English while attending elementary school, showing the determination and hard work that have guided her ever since.

Robles didn’t always have her sights set on a career in politics. Upon graduating from high school in Pomona, she was accepted into CSUDH as a first-generation college student, majoring in international business. She soon discovered that business courses weren’t her thing and switched her major to a subject she had long had a passion for–art.

Robles’ mother was active in politics, having served as a local councilwoman for the National Action Party when the family was still living in Mexico. At her mother’s urging, Robles added a second major in political science to her art courses. “She wanted me to study something else as well, so I could get a good job after college,” she laughs. “I was like, ‘Okay, fine, Mom, I will study politics, too.’ It’s a subject that I also really enjoyed.”

While studying at CSUDH, Robles grew more and more involved with the campus community. She volunteered in the Associated Students, Inc. office and found student government interesting and exciting. Robles also served as the president of the CSUDH Political Science Club and co-founded the CSUDH Arts Collective, the first art club on campus.

Robles got her feet wet in national politics while still a Toro undergraduate. She interned at the San Pedro district office of Rep. Nanette Díaz Barragán and found herself drawn to the work and the atmosphere. “I really enjoyed that experience. I thought this was something I could really see myself doing.”

After spending a year abroad studying international relations in London, England, Robles wanted to resume her work in politics. She landed a summer internship in Rep. Barragán’s Washington office and found that she felt right at home. “It felt like I was living a dream,” says Robles.

In 2018, following her internship in Washington, she returned to Southern California to finish her last semester at CSUDH. While attending school as a full-time student, she interned on the congressional campaign of Gilbert R. Cisneros, Jr., who was running for a recently vacated seat in a battleground district covering Los Angeles, Orange, and San Bernardino counties.

When Cisneros won the election, Robles stayed with his team, moving back to DC to serve as a staff/press assistant. She worked with him for a year before joining Sen. Warren’s presidential campaign in 2019.

“I really wanted to work on a presidential campaign for a candidate that I believed in,” says Robles. “So I applied to work for Senator Warren’s presidential campaign. I didn’t think I would, but I got the job and joined her social media team.” Robles moved up to Boston to work at the campaign headquarters.

A couple of months after Sen. Warren’s presidential campaign ended, Robles saw that a job in the senator’s office had opened up. She applied and got the job as a press assistant. Robles was promoted to deputy press secretary a year later, then into her current role as press secretary.

Going forward, Robles plans to continue on her current path and see where it takes her. “I can’t really see myself not working in politics. There are just so many different levels to explore.”

For Robles, the most important lesson to be learned from her success is, “Don’t be afraid to dream too big! You can do it. I never thought that a person like me, an immigrant from Mexico, would end up in a place like this, working in Congress. You’ve just got to dream big and go for it!”

Class of 2021 Scholars Reflect on the Toro Experience

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Class of 2021: Isabel Munoz, a Psychology major and McNair Scholar.
Class of 2021: Isabel Munoz, a Psychology major and McNair Scholar.

Graduates from the Presidential Scholars Program, the McNair Scholarship Program, and the Mellon Mays Undergraduate Fellowship share their Toro experiences, inspirational faculty mentors, future plans, and more.

Raquel Serrano, Women’s Studies: Mellon Mays Scholar

Inspirational Mentor(s): Associate Professor of Women’s Studies Jenn Brandt. See below.

Scholarship Takeaways: Through the Mellon Mays program Raquel has traveled, networked, and advanced her skills as a scholar. She calls the experience “one of the best things to happen in my life.”

Campus Life: Raquel enjoyed many opportunities at CSUDH that helped “sky-rocket” her success.

Next Move: Raquel has been accepted into and is fully funded for the Women’s and Gender Studies master’s program at the University of South Florida.

Who has been your most inspiring CSUDH faculty mentor(s) and why?

Dr. Jenn Brandt has been my absolute favorite professor, mentor, and guiding light throughout my undergraduate journey. She has trained me to reach far beyond my academic potential and did not let me give up even though I wanted to many times. Dr. Brandt is someone who will always be in my life and I really appreciate her going above and beyond.

Brent LegaspiBrent Legaspi, Clinical Science, Medical Technology Option: Presidential Scholar

Inspirational Mentor(s): Assistant Professor of Chemistry Patrick Still.

Scholarship Takeaways: See below.

Campus Life: Participating in community service activities was one of the most rewarding aspects of Brent’s CSUDH education, during which he experienced firsthand the family atmosphere on campus, and the belonging that comes with being a Toro.

The DH Effect: One of the most important skills Brent learned at CSUDH was adaptability, which has helped him to communicate more effectively, and enables him to tackle problems better in a laboratory setting.

Next Move: Brent will begin an internship in the Clinical Training Program for Clinical Laboratory Scientists at the Ronald Reagan UCLA Health Medical Center.

In what ways did the Presidential Scholars Program help prepare you for the future?

It taught me to take pride in my achievements while also maintaining humility and gratitude. As a result of my participation in the program, I gained the confidence and motivation to face the challenges of becoming a clinical laboratory scientist.

Denise AguiluzDenise Aguiluz, Psychology: McNair Scholar

Inspirational Mentor(s): Professors of Psychology Silvia Santos and Maria Hurtado-Ortiz, and Assistant Professor of Psychology Kevin Montes.

Scholarship Takaways: The McNair program enabled Denise to become an “excellent researcher and student,” and provided her assistance with graduate school applications and documentation.

Campus Life: Denise enjoyed being a research assistant for two labs, learned a lot from her mentors and fellow lab members, and liked learning and enhancing her research skills.

The DH Effect: see below.

Next Move: Denise will pursue a master’s in Clinical Psychology at CSUDH.

What is the most useful skill that you acquired during your time at CSUDH?

Attention to detail. This skill will help me as a graduate student and in my profession because it’s essential to be precise when conducting research and being a counseling psychologist.

Natalya CardonaNatalya Cardona, Cell and Molecular Biology/Biochemistry minor: Presidential Scholar

Inspirational Mentor(s): Adjunct Biology Professor Begona De Velasco.

Scholarship Takaways: See below.

Campus Life: Natalya enjoyed being a mentor and STEM tutor, which enabled her to help K-12 and undergraduate students succeed academically.

The DH Effect: Skill as a researcher is what Natalya has acquired as Toro that will guide her best throughout her career.

Next Move: This fall, Natalya will begin a Ph.D. program in Translational Genomics at The Lundquist Institute, and will continue working as a mentor and STEM tutor for undergraduate students.

In what ways did the Presidential Scholars program help prepare you for the future?

As a non-traditional, first-generation Latina pursuing higher education in a STEM field, one of my fears was being unable to complete my degree due to the lack of financial support because I am a self-supported student. It is because of the support from the Presidential Scholars Program that I have a future now.

Miriam WeinbergMiriam Weinberg, Clinical Science: Medical Technology: Presidential Scholar

Inspirational Mentor(s): Assistant Professor of Chemistry Erin McCauley, and full-time Lecturer of Chemistry Barbara Belmont. See below.

Scholarship Takeaways: Miriam gained the confidence to be a leader, enhanced academic abilities, and the vigor to exceed expectations. She will use these skills to curb self-imposed limits and maximize her capabilities.

Campus Life: The closeness and the overall friendly atmosphere on campus, and the lasting relationships with faculty and classmates are what Miriam has cherished the most about her time at CSUDH.

The DH Effect: Adaptability is one of the most valuable skills Miriam gained at CSUDH, which she will use abundantly to enhance her career and life experiences.

Next Move: Miriam will be interning at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center as part of the CSUDH Clinical Laboratory Science post-baccalaureate certificate program, which will make her eligible to become a licensed Clinical Laboratory Scientist.

Who has been your most inspiring CSUDH faculty mentor(s) and why?

Something that I love about CSUDH is how much the faculty members care about their students, and how much time they’re willing to put in to ensure that their students are successful. I had several professors that I have so much respect for, but Barbara Belmont and Dr. Erin McCauley were two who I found to be very inspiring for their readiness to continually help students in matters that go beyond their respective classes.

Tania LugoTania Lugo, Psychology: McNair Scholar

Inspirational Mentor(s): Associate Professor of Psychology Philip Vieira.

Scholarship Takeaways: For Tania, it was the financial support the McNair Scholars program offered that made her DH experience exceptional and helped her grow as a researcher and scholar.

Campus Life: see below.

The DH Effect: Tania learned how to perform several immunohistochemistry techniques, a valuable skill in neuroscience that enables scientists to measure protein expression in the brain.

Next Move: Tania will be enrolled in a Ph.D. in Psychology program at UCLA with an emphasis in Behavioral Neuroscience.

What did you enjoy the most about your CSUDH experience?

I enjoyed making friends at Dominguez Hills, and it was quite easy to make friends here. I was able to relate to many students who were also first-generation minority students. The sense of community at Dominguez Hills made it easier for me to navigate academia as I was able to ask for help from my peers. I will always remember the times I spent studying with my friends at the library.

Elijah ArzateElijah Arzate, Psychology: Presidential Scholar

Inspirational Mentor(s): Heather Butler, associate professor and chair of the Department of Psychology.

Scholarship Takeaways: Through rich experiences, mentors, and the emotional support of Gayle Ball-Parker, Elijah learned perseverance and gained the tenacity to work through mental, physical, developmental, and learning disabilities, and to not view them as barriers to achievement.

Campus Life: See below.

The DH Effect: Among his many accomplishments, Elijah spent a summer attending a fieldwork and research program at Columbia University in conjunction with the Centers for Disease Control and the Summer Public Health Scholars Program. He was also accepted into the National Science Foundation’s Graduate Research Fellowship Program.

Next Move: Elijah launched his Masters in Library and Information Science at San Jose State this spring.

What did you enjoy the most about your CSUDH experience?

I chose to go to Dominguez Hills over other institutions due to its small size. Socially, I appreciated the familiarity I was able to build with the people I saw most often, such as those who also frequented the Queer Cultural and Resource Center. Academically, I enjoyed being able to get to know my class professors, as opposed to larger institutions where there is a level of anonymity. As simple as it sounds, I also looked forward to the little things, like being able to see and hear the professor even if the seats in the front of the classroom were taken.

Joseline GonzálezJoseline González, English Literature/Chicana and Chicano Studies Minor: Mellon Mays scholar

Inspirational Mentor(s): Associate Professor of English Roderick Hernandez and Assistant Professor of Chicana and Chicano Studies Alfredo González.

Scholarship Takeaways: See below.

Campus Life: For Joseline, working and being with students, faculty, and staff was the most enjoyable part of her CSUDH experience. She was also deeply impacted while collaborating with the Toros Guardian Scholars program.

Next Move: Joseline will be entering the English Literature Ph.D. program at Texas A&M.

In what ways did the Mellon Mays program help prepare you for the future?

The program has become my main motivator for attending graduate school. The Mellon Mays faculty and resources have improved both my research and understanding of academia, and the summer programs and conferences I attended were instrumental to my undergraduate experience and successes.

Isabel MunozIsabel Munoz, Psychology/Spanish minor: McNair Scholar

Inspirational Mentor(s): Psychology Lecturer Aimee Miller and Professor of Psychology Maria Hurtado-Ortiz.

Scholarship Takeaways: Isabel had always wanted to go to graduate school but didn’t have a clear vision of how to get there. Through the McNair Scholars Program, she received the resources to help her prepare and prosper in higher education and develop as a scholar and researcher.

Campus Life: Faculty and staff engagement, and student support are among the most valuable experiences Isabel gained during her time as a CSUDH student, which made a significant impact on her academic and personal life.

The DH Effect: See below

Next Move: The next step in Isabel’s academic journey will take place at CSU Northridge, where she will earn a master’s degree in Clinical Psychology and continue to conduct research with an emphasis in neuropsychology.

What is the most useful skill that you acquired during your time at CSUDH?

Dominguez Hills helped me develop confidence as a student and leader. This skill will help me persevere in my future academic and personal goals. I became a confident student who is not afraid to communicate and ask questions. I will use this skill to guide and remind myself that my goals are possible.

Karlee RiveraKarlee Rivera, Earth Science: McNair Scholar

Inspirational Mentor(s): Assistant Professor of Earth Science and Geography Parveen Chhetri.

Scholarship Takeaways: One of the many benefits Karlee received through the McNair Scholars Program was comprehensive assistance through the graduate school application process.

Campus Life: See below.

The DH Effect: Karlee says that learning to conduct diligent research is the most important skill that developed at CSUDH.

Next Move: This fall, Karlee will attend UC Riverside in the Ph.D. Geological Sciences Program.

What did you enjoy the most about your CSUDH experience?

One of the most enjoyable things at CSUDH was the small community that provided me with constant support. It allowed me to make important relationships with my mentors and classmates, which made me feel supported and helped me succeed.

Daisha CampbellDaisha Campbell, Political Science: McNair Scholar

Inspirational Mentor(s): Assistant Professor of  Political Science Yea Ji Kim. See below.

Scholarship Takeaways: Daisha appreciated the good advice she received from Michelle Martinez, director of the McNair Scholars Program, and the check-ins she received to make sure her academic plans and applications were moving forward.

Campus Life: Daisha enjoyed working as a peer mentor for the Encounter to Excellence program, which helped shape her character and prepare her professionally.

The DH Effect: Confidence was among the most important skills Daisha learned at CSUDH, which she says helps “mold my character.”

Next Move: Daisha has been accepted into the Ph.D. program for Political Science at UC Davis.

Who has been your most inspiring CSUDH faculty mentor(s) and why?

Dr. Yea Ji Kim has been the most wonderful mentor. While taking POL 340: Political Change First and in Third World Countries, I became more engaged in politics. Dr. Kim challenged me to be better and get the best opportunities. I was able to participate in the USC Summer Institute for Political Science because of her recommendation. She also encouraged me to pursue a Ph.D. I am grateful for her support.

Gabriel AnguloGabriel Angulo, Earth Science: McNair Scholar

Inspirational Mentor(s): Assistant Professor of Earth Science and Geography Parveen Chhetri.

Scholarship Takeaways: The McNair Scholars Program helped Gabriel with developing documents that he will need for future endeavors, and provided him the funding for conferences in his field and the experience to excel at them.

Campus Life: see below.

The DH Effect: At CSUDH, Gabriel gained the ability to find resources and the confidence in his abilities to tackle the obstacles ahead.

Next Move: Gabriel is considering applying for the Masters in Environmental Science program at CSUDH.

What did you enjoy the most about your CSUDH experience?

I made friends and had a home away from home in the Earth Science and Geography lab. I did all my assignments there and ate most of my meals during the week in that room. It was nice to be surrounded by people who were passionate about similar things.

Julissa MaganaJulissa Magana, Criminal Justice Administration and Psychology/Women’s Studies minor: Presidential Scholar

Inspirational Mentor(s): Chris Waters, adjunct professor of Public Administration, and a faculty adviser for the Southern California Collegiate Chapter of the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives.

Campus Life: See below.

The DH Effect: At CSUDH, Julissa learned to step out of her comfort zone. Many of the risks she took resulted in leadership opportunities, professional development experiences, and amazing friendships.

Next Move: Julissa will take a gap year from her studies, during which she will be researching institutions to enroll in a Ph.D. program for Forensic Psychology. She will also work to save money for graduate school.

What did you enjoy the most about your CSUDH experience?

Dominguez Hills is such a vibrant community, and everyone is always so friendly. …I really enjoyed getting to meet amazing people from my fellow Presidential Scholars and the people involved in the student organizations, to classmates, faculty, and those who you just happen to share a table with at lunch. It was easy for me to build my community on campus and feel like I truly belonged.

Michelle MohrMichelle Mohr, Earth Science/Geography minor, with a certificate in Geospatial Techniques: McNair Scholar

Inspirational Mentor(s): Assistant Professor of Earth Science and Geography Parveen Chhetri. See below.

Scholarship Takeaways: The McNair program helped Michelle to prepare for the future in many ways. From hosting workshops and providing winter retreat “check ins,” to offering financial support to complete and present research.

Campus Life: Michelle enjoyed the close community she formed with others in her department, and attending campus events with fellow students while creating life long memories.

The DH Effect: Research and presentation skills are among the skills that Michelle honed while at CSUDH. She plans to use these skills to continue working in climate change research and to present her findings to the public on as many platforms as possible.

Next Move: Michelle has been accepted into CSUDH’s Masters of Environmental Science Program. Her long-term goals are to obtain a Ph.D. and continue research in paleoclimate studies using dendrochronology.

Who has been your most inspiring CSUDH faculty mentor(s) and why?

Dr. Parveen Chhetri. Since my first day on campus Dr. Chhetri has encouraged me to participate in research, present my work at as many academic conferences/platforms as possible, as well as apply for all the grants, scholarships and internship opportunities I could get. Without him, I know my time at Dominguez Hills would have been drastically different.

Bailey CampbellBailey Campbell, Criminal Justice Administration: Presidential Scholar

Inspirational Mentor(s): Cailin K. White, University Outreach and School Relations.

Scholarship Takeaways: Through the Presidential Scholarship Program Bailey had the opportunity to interact with many intellectuals and inspiring indivduals, and she developed connections that will last a lifetime.

Campus Life: Bailey enjoyed making connections with other students at CSUDH. By working in multiple departments on campus, she formed many relationships and friendships with peers that were academically supportive. She says they would “never let each other fail,” particularly after those “sleepless nights together.”

The DH Effect: See below. 

Next Move: Bailey plans to continue working as a restaurant server while searching for a professional career.

What is the most useful skill that you acquired during your time at CSUDH?

By being a tour guide and speaker at many DH events, I have become confident in my public speaking skills. I also learned how to be an efficient communicator through teaching prospective students about our amazing campus. My public speaking skills will help guide me in my future career because I plan to work in the law enforcement field. In this field, I must be able to speak up in front of others and be an effective leader. 

Introducing: New Faculty for Fall 2020

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CSUDH sign

California State University, Dominguez Hills welcomed 29 faculty members this fall semester. Join the CSUDH Campus News Center in congratulating them on their new appointments!

College of Arts and Humanities

Fernando Severino

Fernando Severino, Assistant Professor, Communications

Academic Background:
Ph.D., Mass Communication, University of Minnesota
Master of International Affairs, Columbia University
B.S., Journalism, Pontificia Universidad Catolica de Chile

Research Interests/Current Projects:
Severino’s research areas and interests are in the intersection between mass media and international affairs, political communication, and journalism studies.

Prior to CSUDH:
Severino served as marketing communications specialist at 3M headquarters in St. Paul, Minnesota.

What is he looking forward to at CSUDH?
“I want to engage students in meaningful conversations and learning experiences about the role of media in our lives. Also, I want to build a strong relationship with my colleagues in the Communications department and across the university to produce interdisciplinary research.”

Interesting/Fun Fact:
“I like spending time with my family (I am a dad of two). I love playing futbol (soccer), tennis, and biking!”

 

Tahereh AghdasifarTahereh Aghdasifar, Assistant Professor, Women’s Studies

Academic Background:
Ph.D., Cultural Studies, Women’s, Gender and Sexuality Studies certificate, Emory University
M.A., Women’s Studies, Georgia State University
B.A., Middle Eastern Studies, Georgia State University

Research Interests/Current Projects:
Aghdasifar specializes in transnational feminism, queer theory and queer of color critique, cultural studies of space, and affect theory. Her work focuses on questions of sociality, opacity, and the economy. Her current book project, “Queering the Quotidian: Everyday Homosociality in Iranian Bra Shops,” is a large scale rhythmanalysis of bra shops in Iran, exploring how neoliberal encroachment on such spaces impacts women’s sociality. She is also conducting research for a new project exploring how queer of color installations and performances which refuse audience legibility facilitate modes of relationality outside of identity politics, and completing an article developing a transnational framework for understanding race and and regionality in the U.S. Iranian diaspora.

Prior to CSUDH:
Aghdasifar was a visiting assistant professor of Women’s and Gender Studies at Loyola Marymount University. She has previously taught at Sonoma State University and Georgia State University.

What is she looking forward to at CSUDH?
“I am most looking forward to meeting all of the amazing DH students in person once it’s safe to be back on campus.”

Interesting/Fun Fact:
“Outside of teaching, I love cooking and hosting dinner parties. I’m looking forward to being able to do it again!”

 

Stephen McFarlandStephen McFarland, Associate Professor of Labor Studies

Academic background:
Ph.D., Earth and Environmental Science, The Graduate Center, City University of New York
M.R.P., City and Regional Planning, Cornell University
B.A., English, Trinity College, Hartford

Research Interests/Current Projects:
Labor Geography, Space and Urban Social Movements, Labor-Community Partnerships, GIS and Cartography. His dissertation was a spatial history of union halls in the U.S labor movement, 1880-1970. Has published recently on landscape, memory, and Confederate monument removal. Currently researching the role of organized labor in urban climate justice coalitions, and the use of GIS, mapping, and spatial analysis by labor organizations.

Prior to CSUDH:
McFarland served as an assistant professor of geography at the University of Tampa. He has also served as a visiting assistant professor of urban studies at Queens College, and guest faculty in geography at Sarah Lawrence College.

What he is looking forward to at CSUDH?
“I’m looking forward to being a part of a vibrant and growing urban public university with a strong commitment to social and racial justice – and a top-notch archive of labor and social movement materials in the Holt Labor Library Collection!”

Interesting/fun fact about him:
“While in Florida, I took an interest in community gardening, permaculture, and urban ‘food forests.’ It will be interesting seeing what grows in a very different climate!”

 

Katie DowseKatie Dowse, Assistant Professor, Theatre Arts

Academic background:
M.F.A., Theatre Design, Temple University
B.A., Theatre Design, Environment & Ecology, Pitzer College

Research Interests/Current Projects:
Professor Dowse is interested in the relationship in theatrical costume design between historical accuracy of a time period and audience expectations. Her most recent projects have been set in time periods that the majority of the audience was alive for, or of which film footage and photography of that time period is readily available. There is a delicate balance between what is factually correct and what the human mind remembers. This is all within the context of the script, subject matter, and what best serves the production. She has several upcoming productions that explore this phenomena of nostalgia.

Prior to CSUDH:
Dowse served as an assistant professor at Illinois Wesleyan University, and as an instructor at Temple University. She continues to be engaged in freelance costume design.

What she is looking forward to at CSUDH?
“I am looking forward to working with CSUDH students. I’m really excited to encourage their passions, and expand their technical and design opportunities in the Theatre and Dance department.”

Interesting/fun fact about her:
“I work as a freelance costume designer outside of CSUDH, so I typically have at least one project going for that. Outside of work, I love to bake and decorate cakes!”

 

Maleda BelilgneMaleda Belilgne, Assistant Professor of Global Africana Literature

Academic Background:
Ph.D., English, Duke University
M.A., English, Duke University
B.A., Hunter College

Research interests and current projects:
Belilgne’s research centers on 20th and 21st century African American and African Diaspora literature, spatial theory, and sound studies. She is working on a book that explores the connection between spatial imagining and the aesthetics of unreality in African American narrative. The book looks at representations of non-speech sound that alter the experience of space and introduce elements of the fantastic.

Prior to CSUDH:
Belilgne served as assistant professor of Africana Studies and English at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County.

What is she looking forward to at CSUDH?
“I am excited to teach and research in a diverse community of students and scholars. The DH student body has a wealth of life and cultural experience, and I feel privileged to share my research and learn in this environment. I also look forward to getting acclimated to L.A. I’m a lifelong New Yorker, so my experience of urban living is all about density, height, and spatial organization. L.A. has a fantastical and chaotic quality that is intriguing.”

Interesting/fun fact about her:
“I love to bike ride! I also love reading mysteries. I am especially partial to Walter Mosley’s Easy Rawlins series, which got me interested in Los Angeles.”

 

Kerry ShannonKerry Shannon, Assistant Professor, History

Academic background:
Ph.D, History, University of California, Berkeley
M.A., History, University of California, Berkeley
M.A., Asian Studies, University of California, Berkeley
B.A., History & Asian Studies, Whitman College

Research Interests/Current Projects:
Shannon is a historian of modern East Asia. His current research examines the advent of public health systems in Japan and Korea at the turn of the twentieth century.

Prior to CSUDH:
Shannon was a visiting lecturer at UC Berkeley, and an adjunct lecturer at the University of San Francisco.

What he is looking forward to at CSUDH?
“I am excited to work with students and colleagues in order to better understand how the investigation of the past can lead to a deeper and more nuanced understanding of the present.”

Interesting/fun fact about him:
“Before entering graduate school, I taught English in Japan. I have also worked for the Boys and Girls Clubs of America. If you’re interested in similar professional opportunities, let’s talk!”

 

Iara MantenutoIara Mantenuto, Assistant Professor, English

Academic Background:
Ph.D., Linguistics, UCLA
M.A., Linguistics, Syracuse University
M.A., Teaching Italian as a Second Language, Università per Stranieri di Siena, Italy
B.A., Italian Language and Culture, ICoN Università di Pisa, Italy

Research Interests/Current Projects:
Mantenuto’s research focuses on documenting and revitalizing undescribed languages and offering theoretical analyses based on novel data deriving from fieldwork. Her interests lie in morphology, syntax, fieldwork, typology, variation and syntax/semantics interface. She enjoys every facet of the work, from creating a relationship with a community, to learning about the speakers with whom she works, including their culture and customs, to learning the language and presenting it to others. She also cherishes the contributions she can make to linguistic theory in general.

Prior to CSUDH:
During graduate school, Mantenuto was a teaching assistant for Spanish and linguistics courses, and was the coordinator for the Test of Oral Proficiency at UCLA. She also served as a teaching mentor for T.A. training at the UCLA Center for the Advancement of Teaching, for the T.A. Program at Syracuse University, and for the Fulbright Foreign Language Teaching Assistants (FLTA) Summer Program at Syracuse University. Before graduate school. She has also worked as a language instructor in Japan for the Italian Cultural Institute and Berlitz.

What she is looking forward to at CSUDH?
“I look forward to shaping future generations of professionals, teachers, and academics. I look forward to showing our students how linguistics offers a foundation for a wide variety of exciting career opportunities, which include, but are not limited to, teaching, computer science, forensics, social justice, data analysis, and more.”

Interesting/fun fact about her:
“In my free time I cook Italian food, I enjoy spending time with my infant son, and I am involved in activist work in L.A.”

College of Health, Human Services and Nursing

Samira MoughrabiSamira Moughrabi, Associate Professor, Nursing

Academic Background:
Ph.D., Nursing-Biobehavioral, UCLA
M.S., Nursing, Cardioplumonary specialty, UCLA

Post-master’s Certification, CSU Los Angeles
B.S., Nursing, American University of Beirut, Lebanon

Research Interests/Current Projects:
Moughrabi’s research interest centers on the biopsychological determinants of cardiovascular health risks and behaviors among minority and underserved population. More specifically, her research examines the relationship between psychological distress and enhanced production of inflammatory markers, and adherence to prescribed therapy. She is also interested in enhancing academic success, leadership, and professional advancement in underrepresented students. Through multiple grants, she helped numerous students advance to graduate education and attain leadership careers. In addition, Moughrabi has been very involved in promoting evidence-based practice in nursing through her mentorship of students to design, implement, and publish projects that have improved the quality of patient care.

Prior to CSUDH:
Moughrabi was an associate professor and graduate program lead faculty at California State University, Northridge. She has also served as assistant professor at Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan.

What she is looking forward to at CSUDH?
“I am excited about the high diversity among students and employees. I plan to pursue funding opportunities to help underserved students succeed and advance their education. I also look forward to serving and making contributions at the department, college, and campus levels.”  

Interesting/fun fact about her:
“I love nature and enjoy planting, hiking, and going on scenic road trips.”

 

John Spruill IIIJohn Spruill III, Communication Sciences and Disorders Program Coordinator

Academic background:
Dual-title Ph.D., Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences-Gerontology, Purdue University
M.A., Communicative Sciences and Disorders, Hampton University
B.A., Political Science, Hampton University

Research Interests/Current Projects:
Spruill’s research interests lie in all aspects of diversity and its importance in the Speech Language Pathology. He does not have any projects currently active, but is looking forward to new collaborations, especially while being presented with the most recent societal challenges.

Prior to CSUDH:
Before coming to CSUDH full-time, Spruill served as a faculty instructor at California State University, Los Angeles, as well as a part-time CSUDH instructor.

What he is looking forward to at CSUDH?
“I am looking forward to new experiences with the students and faculty, and learning new things that will assist me in being as effective as I can possibly be”

Interesting/fun fact about him:
“Outside of teaching, I am a husband and father who deeply cherishes time with my family, as well as a creative with active projects in the music and television worlds.”

 

Angélica López-FraireAngélica López-Fraire, Assistant Professor, Department of Child Development

Academic Background:
Ph.D. Developmental Psychology, University of California, Santa Cruz
M.A. Psychology, California State University, Los Angeles
B.A. Ethnic Studies, Psychology and Language, University of California, Riverside

Research Interests/Current Projects:
López Fraire is interested in how children learn in informal settings, such as participating in everyday activities of their home and families (tending to younger siblings, helping with household chores, translating for adults, etc.). She studies how those values are related to cognitive skills that children bring with them to the classroom. Currently, she is working on a manuscript for a study that examines cultural differences in children helping in school-like settings and in values related to helping at home.

Prior to CSUDH:
Prior to joining the faculty at CSUDH, López Fraire was an associate professor of psychology at Marymount California University.

What she is looking forward to at CSUDH?
“I am very excited to become part of a growing university and department. Having grown up in the South Bay, I am also very excited to be working with a diverse group of students and community in a region that I consider home.”

Interesting/fun fact about her:
“I enjoy being outdoors very much. I am a new mom and am always looking for new activities/adventures to engage in as a family.”

 

Jeremy GreenJeremy Green, Assistant Professor, Health Sciences

Academic Background:
Ph.D., Health Policy and Management, Yale University
B.A., Economics, University of Chicago

Academic Focus:
Green is interested in the application and extension of case teaching methods to contemporary topics, and quantitative methods in health policy, economics, and management. He is currently working on integrating the COVID-19 pandemic into the health administration curriculum.

Research Interests/Current Projects:
Green’s recent research interests have related to immigrant health, in relation to variation in pre-migration environments, globally. For example, he has estimated the long-term, transnational effects of peace agreements and political violence, on immigrant health and social outcomes.

Prior to CSUDH:
Green has held research and teaching positions at Princeton University and Saint Louis University.

What he is looking forward to at CSUDH?
“I’m excited about the university’s focus on undergraduate teaching and the opportunity to develop new graduate programs.”

 

Tracy Ann Becerra-CulquiTracy Ann Becerra-Culqui, Assistant Professor, Occupational Therapy

Academic Background:
Ph.D, Epidemiology, UCLA
M.S., Public Health, UCLA
B.S., Occupational Therapy, USC

Research Interests/Current Projects:
Becerra-Culqui’s research interests are in the area of maternal and child population health, etiology of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and access to services and treatment by people with ASD. Current projects include finishing manuscripts in access to prenatal vaccines, the prenatal influenza vaccine and ASD, and perceived gender and outness in the workplace among gender non-conforming adults. In the future, she hopes to be involved in research on early childhood life experiences, disparities and its impact on altering the trajectory of health from a life course perspective.

Prior to CSUDH:
Becerra-Culqui served as a postdoctoral research fellow, epidemiology/health services researcher at Kaiser Permanente Southern California

What she is looking forward to at CSUDH?
“I already love that DH embraces diversity and communicates it in so many ways, for the benefit of students and society. I am looking forward to contributing to that mission of providing accessible education to students and preparing them to serve diverse communities.”

Interesting/fun fact about her:
“I like to exercise and cook nutritious meals for my family. I love to spend my time outdoors exploring with my 2-year-old son.”

Margarita Villagrana, Associate Professor, Master of Social Work

Carolyn Oudiz, Assistant Professor, Kinesiology

 College of Business Administration and Public Policy

Sarah BrittoSarah Britto, Assistant Professor, Public Administration

Academic background:
Ph.D., Criminology & Criminal Justice, Florida State University
M.S., Criminology & Criminal Justice, Florida State University
M.L.I.S., Library & Information Science, University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee
B.A., Criminal Justice, Louisiana State University

Research Interests/Current Projects:
Professor Britto’s research focuses on the forces that shape crime-related public perceptions, with an emphasis on the role of radicalized and gendered media representations. In addition to public-perception research, she has also studied gender inequality and violent criime, and the use of restorative justice with violent crimes. She is currently working on a project on the portrayal of offenders, victims, and criminal justice professionals in Canadian crime dramas, and on a project exploring public attitudes toward guns and gun laws.

Prior to CSUDH:
Britto was a professor of justice studies at the University of Regina in Saskatchewan, Canada.

What she is looking forward to at CSUDH?
“We are in the midst of a national movement to address racial injustice in our criminal justice system, and I look forward to working with CSUDH students, the criminal justice professionals of the future, to explore ways that they can be part of a more just society.”

Diego AvalosDiego Avalos, Assistant Professor, Criminal Justice Administration

Academic background:
Ph.D., Justice Studies, Arizona State University
M.A., Sociological Practice, California State University, San Marcos
B.A., Criminology and Justice Studies, California State University, San Marcos

Academic Focus:
U.S. Borderlands and Social Movements, Border Policing and Criminalization, Social Justice, Critical Race Theory, and Activist Research Methods.

Research Interests/Current Projects:
Avalos is currently finishing a project that examines migrant workers’ organizing strategies to navigate the emergence of internal borders and border policing measures – many miles inland from the designated international border across the U.S./Mexico borderlands.

What he is looking forward to at CSUDH?
“As a community-based scholar with years of experience organizing with construction workers, incarcerated women, and youth of color across San Diego County youth centers, I am most looking forward to collaborating with CSUDH student activist and community members in the area.”

Interesting/fun fact about him:
“During the summer of 2019, my friends and I would get together on Wednesdays for ‘Wu-Tang Wednesdays’ to watch new episodes of the series Wu-Tang: An American Saga and nerd out on Wu-Tang trivia.”

College of Education

Amina AmXn HumphreyAmina AmXn Humphrey, Assistant Professor, Liberal Arts

Academic Background:
Ph.D., Race and Ethnic Studies/Qualitative Research, UCLA
M.A., African American Studies/Children’s Literature, UCLA
B.S.E., English and Special Education, Henderson State University

Research Interests/Current Projects:
Humphrey is passionate about curriculum and instruction. Her research and teaching interests are framed in social justice, including the following areas: African American studies; children’s literature; literacy; the social and cultural contexts of education; culturally responsive teaching and learning; critical race theory; critical race feminism; qualitative research; and action research. Her latest book is titled “Reading Black Girls’ Hair: Race and Empowerment in African American Children’s Picture Books.” (DIO Press, 2021).

Humphrey’s photography (artist’s name Amina AmXn) was featured in the 2020 African American Heritage Month Calendar and Cultural Guide, presented by the City of Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs.

Prior to CSUDH:
Humphrey was an assistant professor of education and child development at Whittier College.

 

Susan PorterSusan Porter, Associate Professor, Special Education Department

Academic Background:
Ph.D., Education, UC Davis
M.A., Special education, University of the Pacific
B.A., Psychology, UC Davis

Research Interests/Current Projects:
Porter’s current work includes investigation of technological tools (including bud-in-ear and video feedback) to increase student-teachers’ inclusive practices in clinical practice settings. She is also investigating district and schools’ policies and challenges related to Response-to-Intervention (RTI) and Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) implementation, especially at the secondary level. Porter’s dissertation research investigated the effects of Tier 3 interventions for English Language Learners who were also struggling readers.

Prior to CSUDH:
Prior to joining the faculty at CSUDH, Porter served as department chair/associate professor for National University, San Diego, as department chair/tenured associate professor at the University of Redlands, and as an assistant professor at CSU Chico.

Prior to her higher education experience, Porter served as a consultant at the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC). During this time, she recommended state policy on standards for bilingual teacher preparation and for teachers of English Language Learners, convened and facilitated advisory panels for the purpose of developing teacher preparation standards and test specifications, oversaw accreditation visits, and represented CTC at state legislative hearings on issues pertaining to teacher preparation policies. She has more than 15 years of K-12 special teaching experience in public and non-public school settings and over 10 years of experience working with struggling readers in private practice settings.

Interesting/fun facts about her: 
“When I had more time, I was an avid rower and competed in national and international master’s competitions. Currently, I ride Elliptigo to satisfy my need for speed and exercise!”

 

Nallely ArteagaNallely Arteaga, Assistant Professor, Teacher Education

Academic Background:
Ph.D., Education, UC Riverside
M.A., Education, USC
B.A., Sociology, UC Santa Barbara
B.A., Chicanx Studies, UC Santa Barbara

Research Interests/Current Projects:
As a critical race scholar, Arteaga’s research examines the racialized pushout of Black and Latinx students into alternative schools. Her work unpacks inequitable policies and practices in the K-12 school system that result in school pushout that are supported by deficit framed ideologies that often result in internalized racism, anti-black racism, and linguistic racism.

Prior to CSUDH:
Before arriving at CSUDH, Arteaga was a lecturer at UC Riverside, and a high school teacher

What she is looking forward to at CSUDH?
“I am formerly from Huntington Park, just a few miles from campus, and I’m excited to return to work with students from my own community. As a first-generation Latina and daughter of immigrant parents, I see myself in the amazing students at CSUDH.”

Interesting/fun fact about her:
“I enjoy swimming and running with my dog, Marvo.”

College of Natural and Behavioral Sciences

Justin ValliereJustin Valliere, Assistant Professor, Biology

Academic Background:
Ph.D, Plant Biology, UC Riverside
B.A., Biology, Green Mountain College

Research Interests/Current Projects:
Valliere is a plant ecologist whose research is motivated by a lifelong fascination in plants and a passion for conservation. The goal of his research is to explore the impacts of human-caused global change on native plant communities, identify mechanisms of change, and inform land management and ecological restoration. Valliere’s research approach integrates bio-geochemistry, community ecology, ecophysiology and soil ecology, and he utilizes observational studies, manipulative field experiments, and greenhouse studies. This allows him to address hypotheses at multiple scales, from plant traits to community- and landscape-level patterns. More recently, Valliere researched how a physiological approach can inform ecological restoration in the highly biodiverse and threatened plant communities of Western Australia.

Valliere’s past research has explored how different drivers of global change (air pollution, drought, invasive species) impact native plant communities of California. He has also studied how we can best restore native ecosystems in the face of global change.

Prior to CSUDH:
Valliere has served as a research fellow at the University of Western Australia, and as a postdoctoral fellow for the La Kretz Center for California Conservation Science at UCLA.

What he is looking forward to at CSUDH?
“I’m really looking forward to working with students at Dominguez Hills and guiding them in research. I really enjoy introducing students to concepts in ecology and getting them excited about exploring the ecosystems and plants in their own communities.”

Interesting/fun fact about him:
“I’m an avid hiker and amateur photographer of plants/flowers. I also enjoy tending my ever-growing cactus and succulent collection.”

 

Kaylie Amanda CarbineKaylie Amanda Carbine, Assistant Professor, Psychology

Academic Background:
Ph.D., Psychology, Behavioral and Cognitive Neuroscience and Health Psychology, Brigham Young University
B.S., Psychology, Cognition, Brigham Young University

Research Interests/Current Projects:
Carbine uses electroencephalography (EEG) to examine brain/neural responses to food. Her research is mainly focused on testing how neural responses to food are affected by nutritional properties of food, are affected by individual characteristics, such as weight and eating tendencies); are affected by external health behaviors, such as exercise, sleep, and diet; and how they predict food intake and eating behaviors.

Prior to CSUDH:
Carbine was a graduate student and Instructor at Brigham Young University.

What she is looking forward to at CSUDH?
“I am really excited to get to know the students at CSUDH- I’ve heard so many wonderful things about them. I am most excited to interact with them in my research lab. I think EEG is an amazing tool that is uniquely positioned to answer a wide variety of research questions and I look forward to being able to introduce and teach students this new skill so they can answer their own research questions and expand on their research and academic skills.

Interesting/fun facts about her:
“I am a tap dancer and danced with a tap dance company throughout my undergraduate career. I am also a certified scuba diver and love it!”

 

Jessalyn BolkemaJessalyn Bolkema, Assistant Professor, Mathematics

Academic Background:
Ph.D., Mathematics, University of Nebraska – Lincoln
M.A., Mathematics, University of Nebraska – Lincoln
B.A., Italian Language and Culture, ICoN Università di Pisa, Mathematics, Hope College Italy

Research Interests/Current Projects:
Bolkema’s research is in coding theory: the mathematics of reliable transmission or storage of information. This work involves a broad spectrum of tools and techniques, drawn from graph theory, algebra, combinatorics, information theory, topology, and beyond, and the research questions she works to address live at the interface of theory and practice. Bolkema is enthusiastic about collaborations with students and colleagues in mathematics, computer science, and engineering. Her current topics of interest range from quantum error correction to iterative algorithms on graphs to combinatorial properties of path algebras.

Prior to CSUDH:
Bolkema served as a visiting assistant professor at Harvey Mudd College.

What she is looking forward to at CSUDH?
“I am so happy to be joining the amazing CSUDH community. I’m really looking forward to getting to know my colleagues and students, and I can’t wait to get some student research projects going.”

Interesting/fun fact about her:
“My not-strictly-mathematical interests include hiking and biking, sewing and crafting, playing cello, and hanging out with my cats.”

 

Amy SewartAmy Sewart, Assistant Professor of Psychology

Academic Background:
Ph.D. and M.A. in Psychology (clinical), UCLA
B.S., Psychology and Sociology, Florida State University

Research Interests:
Sewart’s research interests include anxiety disorders, exposure therapy, reward and threat learning, translational clinical psychology, and evidence-based psychotherapy.

Prior to CSUDH:
Sewart served as a doctoral student at UCLA, and as a clinical psychology intern for the VA San Diego Healthcare System.

What she is looking forward to at CSUDH?
“Fostering the next generation of psychological scientists and clinicians.”

 

Ali JalooliAli Jalooli, Assistant Professor, Computer Science

Academic Background:
Ph.D., Michigan Technological University
M.S., University of Malaya
B.S., Staffordshire University

Research Interests/Current Projects:
Jalooli’s research interests are in the areas of “Internet of Things” and cyber-physical systems, mobile computing and cybersecurity, and ad-hoc and heterogeneous wireless networks. In the past several years, he has focused on the optimization of vehicular networks, which are the backbone technology to implement emerging connected and autonomous vehicles in smart cities.

Prior to CSUDH:
Before joining CSUDH, Jalooli was a researcher and instructor in the Department of Computer Science at Michigan Technological University.

What he is looking forward to at CSUDH?
“I am looking forward to working with talented students on interesting projects to solve real-world problems.”

 

Sanaz Rahim MoosaviSanaz Rahim Moosavi, Assistant Professor, Computer Science

Academic Background:
Ph.D., Information and Communication Technology, University of Turku, Finland
M.Sc.: Information Technology – Networked Systems Security, University of Turku, Finland

Research Interests/Current Projects:
Rahimi Moosavi’s research interests include lightweight cryptographic techniques, information security, security and privacy Issues in Edge Computing, IoT systems, e-Health, biometrics, and Blockchain. Her technical abilities have been in the field of scalable and lightweight security solutions for IoT systems. Rahimi Moosavi has been extensively working on peer authentication and authorization, ley management systems, and secure end-to-end Communication on which she has received several research excellence awards, including two from Nokia Foundation.

Prior to CSUDH:
Rahimi Moosavi served as a post-doctoral researcher at UC Irvine in the Department of Computer Science.

What she is looking forward to at CSUDH?
“I look forward to joining a diverse community of students and faculties at CSUDH. True reward comes from watching students learn, inspiring them to believe in their capabilities, and engaging students in research projects.”

Interesting/fun fact about her:
“I cannot imagine my life without working out!”

 

Cynthia H. Sanchez TapiaCynthia H. Sanchez Tapia, Assistant Professor, Mathematics

Academic Background:
Ph.D., Mathematics, UC Irvine
M.Sc., Applied Mathematics, UC Irvine
M.Sc. Pure Mathematics, Research Center in Mathematics (CIMAT), Mexico
B.Sc. Mathematics, Universidad de Colima, Mexico

Research Interests/Current Projects
Sanchez Tapia’s research is focused primarily on modeling phenomena in the biological and medical sciences. She is interested in a diverse number of biological disciplines. During the last few years, she has focused her research on the evolution and dynamics of cancer, the emergence of drug resistance in cancer chemotherapy and immunotherapy, as well as to discover optimal treatment protocols. More recently, Sanchez Tapia has been involved in the analysis of enzymatic biological circuits.

Prior to CSUDH:
Sanchez Tapia served as hill assistant professor at Rutgers University, and as lecturer and math CEO coordinator at UC Irvine.

What she is looking forward to at CSUDH?
“I look forward to building new collaborations with faculty and students to contribute ideas and projects, such as the creation of seminars, new courses, and outreach programs for the benefit of the CSUDH family.”

Interesting/fun fact about her:
“I love cooking and baking. I started creating my own recipes a few years ago. My goal is to create many delicious recipes so I could have my own recipe book.”

 

Tianjun (Luke) LuTianjun (Luke) Lu, Assistant Professor, Earth Science and Geography

Academic Background:
Ph.D., Planning, Governance, and Globalization, Virginia Tech
MURP., Master of Urban and Regional Planning, Virginia Tech
B.E., Urban Planning, Guilin University of Technology

Research Interests:
Lu’s research interests center on using geospatial analysis, data science, and sensor technologies to develop health-promoting cities and communities. To date, his scholarly contribution falls into three areas: quantifying spatial patterns of air quality for exposure assessment; assessing urban form’s impact on air quality; and measuring and modeling non-motorized traffic. Lu is currently working on developing next-generation urban air quality models with crowd-sourced and new data sources for the U.S., and exploring active transportation amid COVID-19. His overarching research goal is to ensure the work can improve neighborhood sustainability, inform urban policies, and engage communities.

Prior to CSUDH:
Lu served as a research Scientist for the Department of Civil Engineering and Environment at the University of Washington.

What he is looking forward to at CSUDH?
“I am looking forward to learning from the fantastic colleagues and students at CSUDH and working to develop healthy and clean neighborhoods through partnerships with local communities, non-government organizations, tech-companies, and research institutions.”

Interesting/fun fact about him:
“I can draw water/color painting of architectures and landscapes. I tried multiple ways to be able to come to the US including winning a lottery ticket (~$800) right after I got my offer from the graduate school.”

 

Samantha LeighSamantha Leigh, Assistant Professor, Animal Physiology

Academic Background:
Ph.D., Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, UC Irvine
M.S., Physiology, UC Irvine
B.S., Marine Science, Coastal Carolina University

Research Interests/Current Projects:
Leigh is an animal physiologist interested in how organisms acquire energy based on their specified feeding mechanisms and digestive strategies. Her research uses a blend of anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, and molecular biology to answer questions about digestive performance in response to varying ecosystem fluxes, mainly in marine organisms.

Leigh’s current projects include: understanding the mechanisms involved with the digestion and assimilation of seagrass in the bonnethead shark; investigating how the ingestion of microplastics by important marine food web foundation species impacts their physiological processes; and phylogenetic and functional analysis of the morphology of the spiral intestine in sharks.

Prior to CSUDH:
Leigh served as a postdoctoral researcher at CSU Fullerton.

What she is looking forward to at CSUDH?
“I am looking forward to working with the students, both in the classroom as well as the lab. The incredible students are what drew me to CSUDH in the first place!”

Interesting/fun fact about her:
“I love communicating about science and have worked as a writer for the radio show the Loh Down on Science on NPR and served as a science mentor on the PBS Kids television show “SciGirls.”

University Library

Hannah LeeHannah Lee, Discovery and Systems Librarian

Academic Background:
MLIS, UCLA
MHOD, Fielding Graduate University
B.A., English, UCLA

Research Interests/Current Projects:
Lee is working on exploring the intersection of information (particularly digital information), technology, and accessibility with a focus on social inequalities and justice.

What she is looking forward to at CSUDH?
“The population at CSUDH is so diverse that I’m looking forward to helping as many people as possible. The library is such a key component in the life of a university. I want to use my skills and knowledge to make sure that the students and faculty of CSUDH know that libraries and librarians are here to help.”

Interesting/fun fact about her:
“I enjoy playing video games, cooking and baking, binge watching Netflix, and watching cat videos.”

 

Panetta Intern Oscar Mancilla Experiences History in the Making in D.C.

By

Northwestern facade of the United States Capitol Building.
Northwestern facade of the United States Capitol Building.

For Oscar Mancilla, living through history can be a lot more exciting than just reading about it.

The California State University, Dominguez (CSUDH) history major learned this firsthand during his recent participation in the Panetta Institute for Public Policy’s Congressional Internship Program in Washington D.C., where he spent three months as an intern for California Representative Jimmy Gomez (CA-34th District).

Panetta Institute intern Oscar Mancilla at the White House.
Panetta Institute intern Oscar Mancilla at the White House.

Mancilla had only been living and working in the nation’s capital for six weeks when the impeachment inquiry of President Donald J. Trump was announced on Sept. 24.

“I was very fortunate. For a history major, there is no better place in the world to be right now than Washington D.C.,” he said. “I also had the opportunity to get out of California and experience something that I had only seen on TV.”

Founded in 1997 by former Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta and his wife, CEO Sylvia Panetta, the Panetta internship serves the entire 23-campus CSU system, along with Dominican University of California, Santa Clara University, and St. Mary’s College of California. The internship provides students with a variety of educational opportunities in government, politics, and public policy, and to experience the legislative process firsthand.

“Secretary Panetta and his wife were strong and charismatic figures throughout our internship. The secretary was very intelligent, wise, and at times comical, which was great,” he said. “When you think of those in government, you think of serious-minded people – he is that, too – but it made me feel at ease when he cracked a joke or two once in a while.”

Mancilla, a Compton resident, applied for the Panetta Institute for Public Policy’s Congressional Internship Program because he wanted to experience how Congress functions from the inside. He first learned about the opportunity from CSUDH History Department Coordinator Raúl Rubio, and faculty members who explained to him what an unforgettable experience it would be.

“As the deadline to apply for the internship came close, I began to learn more and more about what a great learning opportunity it would be,” said Mancilla, who spoke with 2017 Panetta intern and CSUDH alumna Cambria Rodriguez about what to expect. “I love history, and important U.S. history was being made every day while I was there. I didn’t directly participate in it, but I like to think I helped it along in a small way.”

Panetta-Institute-Congressional-Internship-Cohort-in-front-of-the-U.S.-Capito
2019 Panetta Institute Congressional internship cohort.

After an intensive two weeks of preparation for the internship in mid-August at the Panetta Institute for Public Policy, located on the campus of CSU, Monterey Bay, Mancilla and 25 other interns set out for D.C.

Mancilla’s role in Gomez’s office consisted of monitoring calls at the front desk, welcoming guests, and putting the research skills he had acquired through his history education to good use.

“I did some complicated projects, such as researching the history of specific congressional bills – some related to immigration – and preparing binders for the congressman to use during committee meetings,” he explained. “I also sent emails to different congressional offices to communicate with them about the work we were doing.”

Mancilla also spent time with Representative Gomez and his staff discussing the 34th District, such as Downtown Los Angeles, where he likes to spend some of his free time. “A good chunk of the Congressman’s staff were from the district, so a huge smile grew on my face every time we discussed familiarities back in Los Angeles, like the Metro A Line, and the diverse food options.”

Mancilla didn’t get the opportunity to directly connect with other members of Congress during his internship, but he did see several leaders in the hallowed halls of the U.S. Capitol Building, such as Speaker of the House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi; Representatives Maxine Waters; all members of “The Squad” (Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Ilhan Omar, Ayanna Pressley, and Rashida Tlaib); and President Trump at the White House.

To conclude his internship, all of the Panetta interns submitted an 18- to 20-page journal reflecting on their experiences working in Congress, and a policy research paper.

Mancilla chose “Promoting Civics Curricula for a More Politically Educated and Engaged American Public” as his topic for the paper. He believes a more civically-educated and civically-engaged public would eventually stem the deep division that has haunted the current state of politics and social affairs in the nation.

“I experienced so much during my time there. I met 26 amazing individuals who I can now call my close friends. They helped me grow a sense of confidence that I did not possess before this experience. I still keep in touch with them and plan to continue doing so for a very long time.” said Mancilla, who also reaffirmed the importance of remaining humble while in D.C.

“I’ve been telling myself that ever since I was in elementary school,” he said. “Now, I always tell my friends to be humble, but competitive.”

CSUDH Students Take Center Stage at 2019 Presidential Forum

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2019 Democratic Presidential ForumEight California State University, Dominguez Hills (CSUDH) students got a center stage seat at the California Democratic Party’s nationally televised 2019 Presidential Forum on Nov. 16.

Hosted by Univision, the forum was part of the party’s Fall Endorsing Convention that took place November 15-17 at the Long Beach Convention and Entertainment Center. Among the presidential hopefuls who participated in the two-hour event were U.S. Senators Kamala Harris, Bernie Sanders, Amy Klobuchar, and Cory Booker; South Bend, Indiana, Mayor Pete Buttigieg; former U.S. Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Julián Castro; billionaire activist Tom Steyer; and lawyer and philanthropist Andrew Yang. Each candidate field questioned from Univision journalists and audience members.

CSUDH theatre arts major Jonny Martinez
CSUDH theatre arts major Jonny Martinez

Univision approached CSUDH Government and Community Relations Office with an invitation for students to be among the few dozen people seated on stage during the forum. Along with experiencing a part of the campaigning process first-hand and representing CSUDH on a national level, the students were able to have personal interactions with the presidential candidates before the forum began.

“Being on that stage made me realize the unique opportunities that are available for CSUDH students,” said theatre arts major Jonny Martinez. “The most rewarding thing about the forum was being able to interact with each candidate as they walked off stage. I was able to experience their true personalities off camera.”