Celebrating Excellence: Annual Breakfast Recognizes 30-Year CSUMB Veterans and More!

By Mark Muckenfuss

Cal State Monterey Bay recently celebrated its 31st anniversary, marking a journey filled with growth and achievement. On January 15, faculty and staff members were honored for their dedication over the years.

Jeffrey Froshman, a business lecturer since the university’s founding, reflected on the early days. “There were more administrators than faculty back then,” he shared. He has witnessed significant changes, including a surge in student enrollment and new programs. “Now it feels like a real campus, not just repurposed Army barracks,” he added.

Froshman also takes pride in seeing former students thrive. “Henry Simpson, who’s now the interim deputy chief information officer, was in my first class,” he noted. Connections like these bring him joy.

Susan Alexander, a professor of ecology, echoed these sentiments. “The growth of this university has been remarkable,” she said. “It’s a privilege to be a part of its evolution.”

Other honorees included:

• Stephanie Johnson, a Visual and Public Art professor with national and international experience in set design.
• Paoze Thao, an expert in linguistics and Southeast Asian culture, who has authored multiple books.
• Qun Wang, who has contributed significantly to Humanities and Communication through his writing and lectures worldwide.
• Priscilla Angulo, a graduation counselor dedicated to supporting students during their academic journeys.
• Michelle Hill, who plays a key role in records management and mentoring student assistants.

The awards were part of the annual Employee Appreciation Breakfast, which takes place before the spring semester begins. The event also recognized those who earned degrees and new faculty members achieving tenure. CSUMB President Vanya Quiñones emphasized that these awards celebrate outstanding work and commitment to the university’s mission.

Among the honored were individuals like Josh Goin, whose strategic leadership in housing has addressed the growing demand for residential space. Tritia Moneypenny received recognition for her stability during a leadership transition at the Service Learning Institute, breathing new life into community partnerships.

Professor JP Dundore-Arias was awarded for securing over $10 million in research grants and publishing research that benefits local agriculture. The OtterCare team, supporting students’ basic needs, received a group award, highlighting the importance of community support.

In a world where universities constantly evolve, these stories remind us of the dedication behind the scenes that creates success. The focus isn’t just on academic achievements, but also on building a sense of community and support for students and staff alike.

For more insights on university growth and community engagement, check out resources from the [National Center for Education Statistics](https://nces.ed.gov). This site offers data and reports that illustrate the expanding role of universities in American society.

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