In 1970, an interdisciplinary program called Mexican American studies was offered at California State University, Dominguez Hills. In 1994, it was designated as a stand-alone program and the Chicana/Chicano studies department was established. On Sept. 1, Irene Vasquez, chair and professor of Chicana/Chicano studies was recognized with her students at a meeting of the Carson City Council in celebration of the 40th anniversary of the discipline at CSU Dominguez Hills and in conjunction with Hispanic Heritage Month. Vasquez, who arrived at the university in 2005, said that she was attracted to teaching Chicana/Chicano studies at CSU Dominguez Hills because of the student demographics and ... Read More
Political Science
Monika Martinez: Life’s Work is a Sustainable Journey
As Lomita's assistant city clerk, Monika Martinez (Class of '00, B.A., public administration) is proud to be part of a local government that has always operated lean enough to ensure that getting through the state's economic crisis would not be as dire as the circumstances other communities are facing. As a fiber artist whose knitted and felted creations will be featured in the prestigious Contemporary Crafts Market in November, her personal philosophies of green living and sustainable practices are interwoven through both her personal and professional life. “I'm very much into the green lifestyle,” she says. “When I wash my dishes, I'll use the [leftover] water to water my garden. ... Read More