Dean’s Award 2024 – Civil Engineering and Mathematics graduate Anna Babchanik found a formula for success through community

Posted on May 13, 2024 by Daniel Wilson

Originally published May 13, 2024, by Sacramento State University Communications

Solving equations and exploring dams may not sound like fun activities for some, but they bring Anna Babchanik a world of joy.

As early as grade school, she knew she wanted a career where she could utilize her love for mathematics.

“I was doing math problems for fun when I didn’t even need to,” she said. “My homework was done, and I didn’t need to study for exams. I was just solving problems in my spare time.”

Babchanik, who graduated cum laude from Sac State in December as a double-major with bachelor’s degrees in Civil Engineering and Mathematics, is this year’s Dean’s Award recipient from the College of Engineering and Computer Science (ECS). Deans’ Awards are given at Commencement to the top graduating student from each of Sac State’s seven academic colleges.

Born in Sacramento, Babchanik is one of nine children. Her parents immigrated to the United States from Ukraine in the late 1990s following the fall of the Soviet Union. The nine siblings – six of whom have Sac State degrees in STEM fields – were raised with emphasis on their Slavic heritage, including a heavy focus on language, family and faith.

“I think the way I grew up helped me build my independence and determination for my passions,” Babchanik said. “The way I was raised definitely influenced the way I see the world and the people in it, and the way I treat people with respect and kindness and empathy.”

Babchanik originally planned to pursue medicine, but quickly realized she most enjoyed the math aspects. After some heavy nudging from her brother, she switched majors from Biochemistry to Civil Engineering and added Mathematics as a second major.

While participating in the Natural Hazards Engineering Research Infrastructure program at UC Davis, she fell in love with geotechnical engineering, a sub-field of Civil Engineering dealing with the behavior of earthly materials, such as soil. Her research focused on examining erosion and cracking of land that can lead to dam failures and structural issues.

“I think dams or embankments are the most interesting geotechnical structure,” she said. “They’re carefully designed and critical in providing flood control, hydroelectric power and irrigation for agricultural purposes, among other things.”

Babchanik has also served as an instructional assistant in undergraduate courses, sharpened her skills in the University of Southern California Viterbi Summer Undergraduate Research Experience, interned at the Department of Water Resources in the Division of Safety of Dams, contributed to publications and presented research at multiple events.

In addition to participating in several clubs and professional affiliations, she received several scholarships and awards and made the ECS Dean’s Honor List multiple times. At Sac State, she co-organized the Change Makers Series and served as president of the Math Club.

“A lot of my successes may have been because of my ambition and my determination to succeed and want to do better and be better, but I think a bigger part was the people that I was surrounded by. I’m very thankful to my mentors and advisors and supervisors.” — Anna Babchanik

“Beyond her academic achievements, Anna has demonstrated a strong commitment to serving her community and inspiring future generations of civil engineers,” said Kevan Shafizadeh, ECS dean. “Through her volunteer work, mentorship and participation in outreach events, she has sought to share her experiences and encourages others to pursue their academic and professional aspirations in STEM.”

Cultural expectations initially caused her family to push back against Babchanik’s switch from medicine to engineering, but support from professors and fellow Civil Engineering students helped her persevere. Through her accomplishments, she earned the support of her family.

“I just came to realize the importance that community had for me, and having that support system,” she said. “My peers and professors were very encouraging and supportive in (that) no matter how rigorous something got, they were always there, and they also celebrated my achievements with me.”

Ultimately, her passion for helping others drives her success.

“As a woman in traditionally male-dominated fields, I see and understand the value of inclusivity, and I recognize barriers and challenges that underrepresented students are going through,” said Babchanik, who will begin a master’s program at Stanford University focusing on mechanics and computation. She wants to be the first in her family to earn a doctorate.

“A lot of my successes may have been because of my ambition and my determination to succeed and want to do better and be better, but I think a bigger part was the people that I was surrounded by. I’m very thankful to my mentors and advisors and supervisors.”

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College of Engineering and Computer Science receives national award for diversity efforts

Posted on April 23, 2024 by Daniel Wilson

Originally published April 23, 2024, by Sacramento State University Communications

Sacramento State’s College of Engineering and Computer Science (ECS) recently achieved a major diversity milestone.

The college received a Bronze award from the American Society for Engineering Education (ASEE) Diversity Recognition Program (DRP).

The designation from the national, Washington D.C.-based organization recognizes engineering colleges making “significant, measurable progress in increasing the diversity, inclusion and degree attainment outcomes of their programs.”

To qualify for the recognition, a committee submitted a diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) action plan, a narrative explaining the college’s promise to do this work, and a pledge signed by the college dean.

“It is a validation of our ongoing commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion within our academic community,” said Atefeh Mohammadpour, professor of Construction Management and the committee’s chair.

The committee collaborated with Michael Nguyen, associate vice president of Inclusive Excellence and executive director of the Office for Cultural Transformation, and Jennifer Wagelie, interim director of Cultural Initiatives and Employee Resource Groups, to help focus its efforts and ensure the action plan was in line with Sac State’s goals.

“We were able to add that additional lens of supporting the college and not only getting this certification but setting (the college) up to really do things beyond it,” Nguyen said.

Wagelie said the plan allows the college to have tangible goals and a way to track progress more realistically.

“It’s an important punctuation mark for the college to be able to say that they have this recognition and that they are going forward to really think through what all of it means,” she said.

Rounding out the committee are Sarvenaz Sobhan, professor of Mechanical Engineering; Danny Zavala, graduation and retention coordinator; Tongren Zhu, professor of Civil Engineering; and Anna Baynes, professor of Computer Science.

“This is an important key recognition that aligns with individual department and college priorities as well as our institution. But where we feel it’s important is now it’s a documented commitment to actually being able to deliver.” — Michael Nguyen, Inclusive Excellence

The college’s efforts already include community welcome events, outreach to local K-12 schools and more. As the college works to implement the DEI plan, the committee, which began as a diversity taskforce about two years ago, will continue to assess needs in more areas to create a sense of belonging and attract a wider group of faculty, staff and students.

“We saw the importance of this committee to support culture and community in our college,” said Baynes, who was the original chair of the committee. “It is important because there are a lot of challenging problems to solve, and everyone should have the opportunity and support to be included in this work.”

While not officially a part of the committee, ECS Dean Kevan Shafizadeh and Behnam Arad, ECS associate dean for students, provided administrative support.

“It just further helps to let students, faculty and staff know that diversity is a priority for us, and it’s aligned with our campus mission so it’s helpful for everybody to literally be on the same page,” Shafizadeh said. “This committee is almost entirely new this year and I was pretty impressed that they were able to mobilize and apply for this recognition to meet a short deadline.”

Several California State University campuses have achieved the relatively new, three-year designation, but Sacramento State is the only one honored for 2024-2026. ASEE has not yet awarded gold level recognition awards. Silver recognition, which has been awarded only to four institutions across its two iterations, can be achieved by “institutions that have made substantive, measurable strides towards their original commitment” outlined in the Bronze level proposal, an ASEE representative said.

Nguyen said the committee would like to achieve higher levels of recognition, but finding ways to help ECS implement its plans is the top priority.

“It’s a great starting point,” said Nguyen, who recently agreed to serve as acting chief diversity officer, overseeing Inclusive Excellence. “This is an important key recognition that aligns with individual department and college priorities as well as our institution. But where we feel it’s important is now it’s a documented commitment to actually being able to deliver.”

Though the designation highlights the college’s progress toward its DEI goals and served as motivation to create a comprehensive action plan, it is also a testament as to why the importance of this type of work cannot be understated, Mohammadpour said.

“This recognition highlights the importance of diversity and inclusion in higher education, emphasizing the value of creating an environment where individuals from diverse backgrounds feel welcomed, supported and empowered to succeed,” she said.

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Bright, colorful murals highlight Sac State’s progress toward ‘Becoming’ an antiracism and inclusive campus

Posted on April 11, 2024 by Daniel Wilson

Originally published April 11, 2024, by Sacramento State University Communications

Art created by a new group of muralists now brightens the southern walls of the Ernest E. Tschannen Engineering Teaching and Research Building.

The multiyear “Place of Belonging” murals project that supports Sacramento State’s Antiracism and Inclusive Campus Plan (AICP) highlights “Believing,” “Becoming” and “Being,” the University’s drive to be a diverse, equitable and just campus that welcomes everyone.

The “Becoming” phase of the project is a visual representation of the progress the University is making toward its goals, said Mia Settles-Tidwell, vice president for Inclusive Excellence and University diversity officer. The current murals replace the original “Believing” art created on the same walls in fall 2022.

“I think of antiracism and inclusive work as a journey and it doesn’t really have a final destination,” Settles-Tidwell said. “Different issues will emerge, but at different points in time we need to chronicle and memorialize where we’re at.”

For the current work, Sac State teamed with Roseville-based nonprofit art education center and gallery Blue Line Arts. Carol Nicknig, marketing and communications specialist in University Communications and mural project manager, said it is a partnership that could evolve as the University inches closer to opening its Placer Center.

“Blue Line Arts has been a great partner,” Nicknig said. “Their commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion was something that was very important to us.”

The murals were celebrated at an April 10 reveal event. Speakers included College of Arts and Letters Dean Sheree Meyer, Martinique Baker from the Black Honors College, and Inclusive Excellence Communications and Programs Specialist Leha Hawkins.

“We want to make sure that we aspire to be that kind of campus that creates the conditions so people can be successful,” Settles-Tidwell said during the event. “Belonging is very important, but also setting people up for success is important.”

Attendees had a chance to view the murals and meet the artists, who sold artwork and merchandise.

Seven muralists were chosen from a pool of 23 applicants by a diverse committee of University faculty and staff. Applicants submitted proposals and short essays explaining how their mural would represent the theme.

Muralists received a $1,000 stipend for their time and supplies. Each was assigned a 7-by-30-foot wall panel. The AICP Showcase kicked off the project on March 25, and painting took place March 26-April 8.

Artists Wood “Tsumnu” Farguheson and Eddie Palacios, who is also Blue Line Arts’ marketing coordinator, served as site managers and assisted the muralists during painting.

“It really gives people not only a way to showcase what they’re capable of, but to speak on the behalf of belonging,” Palacios said. “We have a driving force of bringing a vibrant community to life through the arts. I just think we need more of it, and I’m happy that Sac State was the one to want to partner with us to do it.”

Julie Crumb, who graduated from Sac State in December and will participate in Commencement in May, integrated into her mural Assembly Bill 1460, which was signed in 2020 and mandates ethnic studies courses for California State University students.

“I hope that (my mural) incites enough curiosity for people to look up, what is Assembly Bill 1460?” Crumb said. “My goal was for it to look like a poster, so the text is very bold and graphic in that sense. I just want people to be curious enough to understand how valuable this legislation is for all of us.”

Alumnus and Sac State Media Production Specialist Phillip Altstatt, whose mural is a continuation of the 2022 “Believing” work, said he was honored to participate again.

“I always feel so lucky and so blessed to be selected for projects like this,” he said. “Last time, I got the opportunity to mentor a lot of younger artists, and this year everybody’s working very independently, but it’s still just really wonderful to be out here again.”

Student Jaci Zemenchik said that, as someone who has a disability that only “allows her to whisper,” her mural represents her passion for empowering women and ensuring they have a voice.

“I want people to know that they’re included,” Zemenchik said. “I want people to understand that your race is important and you are heard.”

Local artist and Sac State Art alumnus Jose Martinez said, as a Chicano artist, he wanted to participate to emphasize Latino and gay art because his work speaks on behalf of the issues those communities face.

“I like the fact that everybody could kind of see themselves in a story or maybe include themselves, but I want them to understand that there’s a possibility of change and then to become something new, to become something different,” Martinez said.

Muralist Heather Hogan, a former Sac State staff member, teamed with a group of McClatchy High School students, including her daughter, using a paint-by-number system to keep everyone organized.

“Art can make you feel, and you can have joyful art that makes you happy and then makes you think about something,” Hogan said. “Hopefully, it will brighten someone’s day.”

Other muralists included Psychology major Giselle Lacap, student Nicole Sena and student Alejandra Ruiz, who partnered with Crumb.

Nicknig said the murals have become a campus destination for the entire community.

“It’s become an iconic fixture on campus where people really connect with the whole theme,” Nicknig said. “I think there’s a really good understanding of what the project is about, and sincere enthusiasm.”

The “Becoming” murals will adorn the building’s walls for a year and a half before they’re replaced by “Being” murals.

Settles-Tidwell said the artwork helps start essential conversations and emphasizes the importance of diversity, equity and inclusion.

“By using art as a medium, it gives us a safe place to explore questions and talk about how the artists came to this place of ‘Becoming’ with the goal of becoming an antiracism and inclusive campus,” Settles-Tidwell said.

“It provides hope, too, that we can work together to practice a different future and to increase our ability to have inclusive language and inclusive traditions, and that, hopefully, no one feels left out of that story.”

Learn more about the “Place of Belonging” murals project, the artists and Blue Line Arts on the University website.

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Honorary degrees, President’s medals recognize five outstanding individuals for excellence

Posted on April 3, 2024 by Daniel Wilson

Originally published April 3, 2024, by Sacramento State University Communications

Sacramento State annually recognizes individuals for their contributions to the campus community, the CSU system, the region and beyond.

Since 1963, CSU has awarded honorary degrees to individuals who have demonstrated excellence in areas that benefit humanity, CSU campuses, the state, the nation and/or the world.

The President’s Medal for Distinguished Service is awarded to community members who provide outstanding service to Sacramento State, higher education, the public and/or the common good. This year marks President Luke Wood’s first time bestowing the medals.

Honorary Degrees:  

  • Russ Buettner, an investigative reporter for The New York Times, is the recipient of an Honorary Doctor of Letters.
  • Roger G.F. Fong, a retired Sacramento County assessor and the founding chair of the board for Five Star Bank, is the recipient of an Honorary Doctor of Laws.

President’s Medal for Distinguished Service:

  • Rhonda Ríos Kravitz, Sacramento State alumna and dean emerita of Sacramento City College.
  • Vivian “Vicki” Pleau, Sacramento State alumna, philanthropist, and advocate.
  • Otis L. Scott, Sacramento State dean emeritus.

Receptions on April 3 and 12 at the historic Julia Morgan House will honor the recipients, who will also be recognized May 17-19 during Commencement ceremonies.

Visit the Honorary Degrees webpage to learn more about the this year’s recipients and to see a list of past honorees.

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Artificial intelligence experts share insights on the technology’s effects on education and society

Posted on March 14, 2024 by Daniel Wilson

Originally published March 14, 2024, by Sacramento State University Communications

A panel of artificial intelligence experts explored the impacts of generative AI on the economy, education and society during a recent event at Sacramento State aimed at highlighting the emerging technology’s transformative power.

The Carlsen Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship hosted the panel discussion on March 13 in partnership with the University’s National Institute on AI in Society (NIAIS).

The event was part of Sac State’s ongoing work to be a leader in advancing the use and ethical application of AI.

NIAIS head Alexander “Sasha” Sidorkin kicked off the discussion with a presentation on issues such as AI myths and how the emerging technology will impact the education system.

“Some people call to stop developing AI, but it’s really a risky position because if we stop, other countries won’t,” Sidorkin said. “I think it’s important to understand that with more powerful computers, artificial intelligence in our hands is better than the same thing somewhere else.”

Although some have expressed concerns that AI could pose a threat to humanity, Sidorkin said the technology isn’t able to be inherently evil, since it lacks human emotion and thought. However, he said, its actions could lead to destruction if not properly managed.

“I just want to remind people that you can unplug any computer and it will stop working,” Sidorkin said. “There has not been a single case documented where a computer has done something on its own volition, something humans didn’t want it to do.”

Sidorkin also said that although there isn’t enough data to know AI’s full impact, certain job sectors undoubtedly will be affected. However, AI will create new jobs and enable people to accomplish tasks we currently cannot do, he said.

“I’ll give you a little tip here: If there’s anything you don’t like doing because it’s boring, AI is going to do it for you,” Sidorkin said. “It’s really good at boring stuff, writing letters of recommendation, drafting memos, and all of this bureaucratic stuff. Anything creative that you like to do, AI is not probably going to help you because it just doesn’t have that ability.”  

A panel of AI experts shared their thoughts and answered questions from the audience.

Sac State Philosophy Professor Matthew McCormick addressed the challenges of AI in education directly, explaining that AI has made traditional class assignments difficult because AI chatbots can do a lot of the students’ work. Argumentative reasoning is critical in philosophical essay writing, he said, but assignments are less effective and more difficult to assess when chatbots can form the arguments.

“That process of paper writing, that’s gone now, at least the old school way,” McCormick said. “I can bring them to the classroom and have them sit down by hand and write an essay, but that is not like the good old-fashioned college essay where you get to go home, write it and come back. So, I am worried about that, and I’m trying to deal with that, and I want to come up with some good, new clever ideas.”

The panel also included Heather Gold, executive director of educational programs at Gateway Community Charters, and Rich Foreman, chief technology officer at MarketingHero and chief operations officer at IGH Naturals.

Attendees asked panelists about a range of topics, including the evolution of NIAIS, how AI works, legal issues when using AI-generated content, fact-checking and accuracy of AI outputs, how to save money while increasing service when using AI, and workforce competition among those who adapt to using AI and those who don’t.

One woman, who said she works in the environmental field, wanted to know how to approach learning how to use AI, as its rapid evolution can render online classes and certifications outdated within weeks. Panel members agreed the best approach is just to use it and get comfortable with it, but also offered ideas on how to keep up to date.

“What I’ve actually been finding that’s amazing to keep on top of things is YouTube,” Foreman said. “It really is almost daily, it’s like there’s something new and you know with all these different companies coming out, and there’s just so much.”

Don Button, a professor at Sacramento City College, asked how education might evolve if students aren’t learning the basics of writing and other disciplines efficiently because they’re utilizing AI chatbots. Many students, he said, already struggle due in part to the passage of legislation that has made changes to remedial math and English coursework.

“Policies and everything are going to have to change, but it’s about how do we start to have conversations to find that balance?” Gold responded. “There is a level of skill that they need to be able to have, but there are technologies we use for students with (disabilities), and they’re allowed to have that on their assessments. So I do think that technology can aid and provide access for English-language learners and students with special needs.”

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University funding supports purchase of important equipment for Art Department’s new building

Posted on February 22, 2024 by Daniel Wilson

Originally published Feb. 22, 2024, by Sacramento State University Communications

As Sacramento State’s new art building nears completion, the University is ensuring that students and faculty will have the necessary resources to learn and teach.

Approximately $300,000 in funding will allow the Department of Art to purchase furniture, supplies and equipment for the new facility, which is being built to replace the existing 53-year-old Art Sculpture Lab (ASL).

President Luke Wood announced the funding – which will allow the purchase of a gas kiln, durable student lockers, a furnace for casting metals, audio/visual tools, woodshop equipment such as a table saw and tool storage cabinets, furniture, and more – in his recent Spring Address.

“The arts provide an incredible opportunity for students to learn, grow, develop, and be successful,” Wood said. “While many universities across the country are decentering their focus on the arts, Sacramento State is leaning in, because we believe that artistic expression is one of the most powerful forms of education and public service. The new arts building will help us to build and develop the next generation of artists who will transform Sacramento, our region and the world.”

Art department Chair Rachel Clarke said the funding is vital to the department’s mission.

“We’re the only university in Northern California that has a bachelor of fine arts and a masters of fine arts program,” Clarke said. “We’re really leading in the region as far as preparing students for careers in the arts. Now, as we’re doing this, we’re going to be able to provide them with equitable access to the kinds of equipment and experiences that they need to have. We’re going to be able to provide them with the best.”

The funding means the new building will have modern equipment to match, College of Arts and Letters Dean Sheree Meyer said.

“We couldn’t have done this without the CSU investing in the building,” Meyer said. “But part of what President Wood recognized was that the building is only as good as what we are able to provide in terms of equipment. We have to evolve with the arts, we have to evolve with what students’ needs are, we have to evolve with the curriculum and with the faculty.”

The 20,377-square-foot, $17 million building, between the existing ASL and the ASI Children’s Center, will meet energy efficiency standards and features several large windows, multiple studios and shops, an outdoor sculpture yard, a gallery/lobby and more.

The University opted to build a new facility when it found that the existing ASL would need major renovations and still wouldn’t meet the needs of the department.

Designed by HGA Architects and built by Otto Construction, the new building broke ground in June. The basic structure consisting of steel support beams is installed, and the next phase is the addition of the roof and walls.

Clarke, who recently visited the construction site, was impressed by the progress. “You can see every room now. It was possible to go in and see this is the boundary of the painting studios, this is the common area, these are the sculpture studios,” she said. “You could get a good sense of each of the studio areas and the relative scale of everything. So, it’s pretty exciting to see it all come together.”

The facility is on track to open for use and some classes in early September. It will begin welcoming students for a full schedule of classes beginning in spring 2025.

“That’s why the University’s and the president’s support of these purchases is so important to us,” said Meyer. “Otherwise, the building opening would be delayed even further because we would need to somehow fund the equipment.”

In November, members of the campus community had the opportunity to sign and paint a steel beam that is visible above one of the building’s entrances.

“Otto Construction said when they do buildings, they always do a beam signing event, but we managed to pull off a beam painting event as well,” Clarke said. “It’s an expression of a moment in time. It was actually a fantastic event.”

To further support its programs going forward, the Art department is seeking donors and the creation of an endowment, which will include naming opportunities for the building and its rooms.

The department will also commemorate the existing ASL’s five-decade history of serving students with a book that will be published for the new ASL’s ribbon cutting, featuring photos and written memories from campus alumni. Proceeds from the book sales will help raise funds for the department. Anyone interested in submitting photos or memories to be included may email Clarke for more details.

“We’re getting to that level now where we have something on par with what you can get at any arts institution,” Clarke said. “We’re becoming a major leader in arts education. We were already important but all of the changes we’ve made to our curriculum, and now the new building, it’s really game-changing for us.

“We’ve got a tremendous past, but now we can really look to the 21st century. What do our students need? Now we can provide it.”

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Sacramento State partners with MMA great to create new pathway to education and athletic competition through Combat U

Posted on January 19, 2024 by Daniel Wilson

Originally published Jan. 19, 2024, by Sacramento State University Communications

Sacramento State and UFC Hall of Famer Urijah Faber have teamed up to offer a new program that will give students opportunities for education and competition in combat sports.

Combat Sports and Martial Arts University – Combat U – is a first-of-its-kind program offered through a partnership with Faber’s nearby Ultimate Fitness gym, one of the top mixed martial arts (MMA) training facilities in the country.

President Luke Wood and Faber announced creation of Combat U during a Jan. 18 news conference on campus.

Students will train under world-champion athletes and current and former MMA professionals in wrestling, Muay Thai, jiu-jitsu, and boxing.

“We’re doing this because we’re creating a pathway to professional sports for those who are interested in combat sports,” Wood said. “We’re using this as an opportunity to create access to college for people who would never go to college, first-generation, low-income students. We want them to know they are college material. We’ll fight for you to make sure you create a better life for yourself and your family.”

Faber will serve as executive coach for Combat U. The program is open to all Sac State students, women and men, and designed for participants of all backgrounds and various experience and competition levels.

“This is something I feel has needed to happen for a long time,” Faber said. “We’re going to be offering (this to) the whole student body, and we’re calling for fighters from across the nation and across the globe to come here and get an education and get the aid and structure to pursue a real career in fighting. For me, I think that’s the coolest thing.”

Combat U was developed because of students who train at Faber’s gym while taking classes at Sac State. Freshman Aranjot Kaur, who is from India and holds an amateur MMA record of 3-0, enrolled because of the University’s proximity to Ultimate Fitness and was hoping for training opportunities at Sac State. When she learned that Wood, an avid amateur boxer, would be the new president of Sac State, she pushed for the program.

“Now that it’s official, the main thing that I’m happy about is all the resources they’re going to offer us, and the scholarships,” Kaur said. “This is going to provide an opportunity for all the athletes around the globe who want to follow their passion and … also want to pursue their education. It’s going to change the game of MMA combat sports all around the globe.”

Ethan Krieger, a fourth-year Kinesiology major, says he got involved in MMA at Faber’s gym to make friends and gain confidence.

“It’s a great thing for students,” Krieger said. “It’s kind of hard to get into martial arts if you’re unfamiliar with it. If it’s already on campus, that will be so cool.”

Combat U will launch in the Fall 2024 semester, but training begins this February. An information session for anyone interested will be at 3:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 23, at Faber’s Ultimate Fitness gym on Folsom Boulevard, just blocks from campus.

Combat U will be managed through Sacramento State’s Athletics department in collaboration with Ultimate Fitness, giving participants the same safety and sports medicine support as other competitive athletes at the University.

Combat U will offer students who participate scholarships and access to other resources they would not otherwise have if training in MMA outside the CSU system. Because participants must be enrolled at Sac State, it also provides a pathway to an education many may not otherwise have, including those from underserved communities.

“I’m so excited for students and our prospective students and our community to be able to offer Combat U and combat sports to so many,” said Athletics Director Mark Orr. “To be able to offer a program that can attract prospective students from across the world is very unique to Sacramento.”

Professional MMA fighter Hector Fajardo will direct Combat U.

“I have a lot of excitement because I was one of the students,” said Fajardo, who graduated from San Jose State. “There was nothing like this when I was coming up. It’s never been done before. There’s never been a college resource like this before, especially in MMA. I’m excited to lead it and make MMA a little bit more mainstream on the college campus and help the campus grow.”

More about Combat U is available on the website and via email at CombatU@csus.edu.

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New special education teacher residency program aims to better prepare, support future educators

Posted on January 10, 2024 by Daniel Wilson

Originally published Jan. 10, 2024, by Sacramento State University Communications

On a cool December day at Vineland Preschool in Rio Linda, special education teacher Sher Thao gathered her six students around a table to take roll.

“Look who came to school today,” Thao sang, adding each child’s name into the song, followed by the words “came to school today.”

As she sang, Sacramento State Teaching Credential student Jasmine Howard sat nearby, observing.

Thao and Howard are one of 13 student-mentor pairs in the first cohort of Sac State College of Education’s (COE) new Sacramento Metro Special Education Teacher Residency (SMSTR) scholarship program.

The program, which guarantees residents a job after graduation, gives Sac State special education credential students a more meaningful and supportive training experience while helping the participating districts combat turnover and hire highly qualified and motivated teachers.

Vineland is part of the Twin Rivers Unified School District, one of 10 participating Sacramento-area pre-K-12 school districts.

For many students, residencies are better than paid internships because they provide added support both financially and in the classroom, said Cindy Collado, a Sac State associate professor of Education and SMSTR program coordinator.

In recent years, districts have seen an increase in burnout and turnover among new teachers who complete internships, she added.

“Interns are left alone typically, and are often overwhelmed by all of their responsibilities,” Collado said. “I believe the stress they experience is also from doing a job they’re not yet prepared to do with all the expectations of a veteran teacher, and less support.”

The SMSTR program is primarily funded by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing, which recently increased the program’s scholarship from $23,000 to $38,000 per resident.

“Hopefully this will also help us to recruit more residents in the future as well because they’ll receive more compensation for doing the work,” said COE Interim Associate Dean Aaminah Norris, who oversees Sac State’s residency programs.

Residents complete two intense summer courses before being placed into classrooms to learn under a full-time teacher for the fall and spring semesters. Upon completion of the program, they are hired as teachers for the following school year, ideally in the same district.

“The students are connected with their colleagues and the other mentor teachers as well, so even if (the job is) not in the district that they’re in, at least they know someone in the district,” said Collado.

The residents aren’t the only ones who benefit from the program. SMSTR mentors get to shore up their coaching and training skills.

“It’s going pretty well,” said Thao, who has taught at Vineland for six years. “I’m kind of stepping into this mentorship thing, it’s kind of really new for me.”

Mentors attend training sessions to learn how to work with their residents, and program leadership works to ensure residents are paired with like-minded mentors.

“The mentor seminar gives insight on how to work with our mentees and how to coach through certain things and just taking a step back to be more reflective about myself as a mentor and how I can guide Jasmine,” Thao said. SMSTR’s structure sets it apart from other programs, she added.

“You get a taste of (what you’re going to do) before you really get put out there in the real world,” she said.

Howard said working with Thao has been a fairly seamless process and praised Sac State’s teaching program.

“I feel like they’re doing an awesome job, especially with the SMSTR program and partnering up with the residents, of just making sure that we’re supported,” Howard said. “It’s a great opportunity, especially for people of color.

“That was another reason I wanted to go into this field,” added Howard, who is Black. “So I could be a representative for children who look like me.” That’s a goal she shares with Thao, who is Hmong and said she became a teacher to help underserved communities.

Howard has already accepted a post-graduation, full-time teaching job with Vineland, an offer that Principal and Special Education Coordinator Johana Scott said was a direct result of her success in the SMSTR program.

“I can see her passion in the classroom,” she said. “I know that she’s highly qualified and she really is taking what she’s learning in the classroom at Sac State into our actual classroom.”

That pipeline to the workforce makes the SMSTR program invaluable for participating districts.

“It reinforces our district’s mission and what we want to do for our children by really putting our words into action,” said Scott. “It means a lot for me as a school leader because I’m getting in on ground zero with one of my future teachers and leaders.”

Amid ongoing teacher shortages, Joy Davis, special education director for the Twin Rivers district, said she hopes to see Howard and Thao’s success replicated throughout the program.

“Twin Rivers’ goal is always to build the best possible teams and achieve the best outcomes for students,” she said.

Collado said Howard and Thao are a perfect example of why the SMSTR program will continue to succeed going forward.

“We want them to have those skills, but also have a community that helps them find joy in teaching and stay in the field for a long time,” Collado said. “This is an investment in them and the future of our career.”

Back in the Vineland Preschool classroom, roll call had finished and the kids excitedly engaged in a holiday-themed counting activity, one of many learning experiences during the nearly three-hour afternoon class.

Sitting amidst construction paper artwork, and myriad educational toys, Howard was excited about her future.

“This site is wonderful. I love it here. I love the environment,” she said. “Everybody is so helpful, so (Vineland) is going to be my home.”

To learn more about the SMSTR program, which is currently accepting applications for its second cohort, visit its official webpage.

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Sac State President Wood announces formation of new artificial intelligence institute and its ‘czar’ as University moves to take lead in AI education

Posted on December 14, 2023 by Daniel Wilson

Originally published Dec. 14, 2023, by Sacramento State University Communications

President Luke Wood announced today that Sacramento State intends to become a leader in advancing the use and ethical application of artificial intelligence (AI). He said to attain that goal, the University is launching the National Institution on Artificial Intelligence in Society (NIAIS).

Wood said that Dr. Alexander “Sasha” Sidorkin will serve as the University’s AI “czar” as chief artificial intelligence officer. Sidorkin will lead NIAIS in its mission at the University and reaching out to schools, colleges, and universities across the nation.

Ramp-up work for Sacramento State’s enhanced focus on AI already has begun, and the University is conducting a cluster-hiring of computer scientists in the areas of AI and quantum computing.

“Sacramento State is the one and only public university in the capital of the state with the fifth-largest economy in the world, and we are acting like it,” Wood said.

The NIAIS will be the first of its kind in the California State University system and one of the first organized efforts among colleges and universities nationwide to advance the technology’s ethical, equitable, and accessible uses in education.

“Artificial intelligence technology will transform every part of our society, so it’s paramount that we’re considering its implications,” Wood said. “Every futuristic movie – like ‘The Terminator’ and ‘The Matrix’ – focuses on what happens when AI goes bad. The only way to ensure the fast-developing technology is properly harnessed for good is to be hands-on in the building of new policy, curriculum, and ethically incorporating AI into the classroom.

“Where other universities are shying away, we are embracing the future so that we can have better control of our destiny.”

Sidorkin will lead the University’s integration of AI into the teaching and learning, advising, business practices, and support services for students. The institute will use the power of AI to train Sacramento State students on how to use generative AI and the ethical application of these tools.

The NIAIS will encourage reimagining coursework utilizing AI to boost the success of underserved students and establish programs to share resources, ethical guidelines, and research on AI with other educators in K-12 and higher education.

The University is focused on graduating students who can advance the development of AI, and is completing the hiring of seven new faculty members in the Department of Computer Science with a focus on faculty who have expertise in AI and quantum computing.

“We have a strong team of educators, and our focus on teaching equips us well to explore AI’s role in enhancing student achievement and equity,” Sidorkin said, adding that Wood’s goal is to boost Sac State’s standing as an innovative institution that adapts to change and meets state needs.

“If we don’t teach our students to use AI for good, society will train the masses to use it for bad. We must be proactive and intentional about using AI to solve humanity’s problems, not to exacerbate them,” said Wood. “Our alumni have asked for us to lean in on AI, and that’s what we are doing.”

Sidorkin’s interest in chatbots began shortly after their public release in late 2022. Generative AI tools such as ChatGPT can use data input to create new content. Sidorkin uses the technology for everything from completing daily tasks to editing his writing. Next year, he will share his knowledge in a new book, Embracing Chatbots in Higher Education: The Use of Artificial Intelligence in Teaching, Administration, and Scholarship.

“I am thankful for the chance to contribute to the University in this role, and we are committed to involving all University divisions in integrating new technology for our students’ advantage,” Sidorkin said. “I anticipate collaborating with various allies both within and outside the campus.”

Ahead of the AI institute’s launch, Sidorkin is researching how to effectively implement AI into coursework.

“Artificial intelligence is a new technology, and of course, when we think about using it in higher education teaching, we don’t have enough of a research base,” Sidorkin said. “The only way it could be built is by some sort of collective effort. We’re working to think through possible problems and find the best solutions.”

For Sidorkin’s “Writing Assignment with AI” (WAWA) project, about 15 faculty members from various departments are developing assignments using AI and will assign them to students in the spring.

Students will learn to use chatbots by inputting and refining various prompts and assessing the output via written response. WAWA faculty will then assess the work to determine if students’ written essays show the same command of the subject matter.

That scrutiny is necessary because chatbots can produce essays that are indistinguishable from student work, making traditional essays no longer viable, Sidorkin said.

Chia-Jung Chung, a Teaching Credentials professor and WAWA project participant, recently assigned a similar exercise to 223 of her teacher candidates, many of whom had never used chatbots.

“They found the outcome (the chatbot’s output) was much better than they expected,” Chung said.

Several others are exploring AI at Sacramento State, each recently offering workshops on using the technology. The Center for Teaching and Learning and Communication Studies Professor Diego Bonilla are among them.

Bonilla, who recently led a faculty learning course in partnership with the Center on Race, Immigration and Social Justice, said it is relatively simple to address the more obvious issues with AI – its effect on the workforce, its implications on education, and issues like plagiarism – but that some concerns are not being widely discussed.

“There are many invisible parts that nobody is addressing, and they are just as damaging, but they’re invisible,” he said. “For example, the biases that AI brings are very real.”

Because AI is pulling from existing information and content, it can easily exacerbate racism, ethical matters, and more, he said.

“It contains all the biases against women, biases against minorities, all sorts of biases that have existed throughout history – all of that is being spilled out again.”

President Biden recently signed an executive order meant to address AI concerns such as privacy, security, and other key issues. Meanwhile, challenges and opportunities around AI are global, and the emphasis should be on finding solutions algorithmically by continuing innovation, said Computer Science Professor Haiquan “Victor” Chen.

“AI is undoubtedly changing and going to change every aspect of our society, including education, so we should bravely face, study, and solve the problems, rather than shying away from them,” he said. “You can’t solve a problem without fully understanding where the problem comes from, which is partly why we are updating our curriculum extensively to make sure our graduates are career-ready in the era of AI.”

Ultimately, Sidorkin said, acceptance of all technology must start somewhere.

“I think we have an ethical obligation to teach students how to use the tool,” Sidorkin said. “That makes them more competitive in the workplace.”

Wood said the NIAIS will position the University as an AI education leader while preparing students to make an impact beyond the classroom.

“Our students and faculty should be on the cutting edge of technology that is having a tremendous impact and will continue to affect their lives,” Wood said. “Our commitment to this initiative will help ensure that and will ensure that some of the country’s best minds will be part of us fulfilling that commitment.”

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Homecoming Week is packed with festivities leading up to the big game

Posted on October 25, 2023 by Daniel Wilson

Originally published Oct. 25, 2023, by Sacramento State University Communications

Every fall, the Sacramento State campus community comes together to celebrate Homecoming.

The weeklong celebration includes activities for students, staff, faculty, alumni, and the community, culminating in one of the most anticipated Hornet football games of the year.

Homecoming Week, which ends Saturday, Oct. 28, with the Hornets playing Idaho State, is an opportunity for the Hornet Family to join and celebrate the University, said Jennifer Barber, assistant vice president for Alumni Relations and the Sac State Alumni Association.

“It’s an easily accessible way for people to come back to the University, in the case of alums, or to engage with the University for the first time as a community member,” Barber said. “The goal with Homecoming is really just to amplify all the campus has to offer while eliminating barriers or fear of participation.”

• See photographs from Sac State’s 2022 Homecoming

The Hornets, No. 7 in FCS national rankings, look to rebound against Idaho State after losing a Big Sky Conference game to No. 2-ranked Montana State on Oct. 21. The Hornets, who are now 5-2 overall and 2-2 in the Big Sky, last played Idaho State in 2021, defeating the Bengals 23-21. Last year, the Hornets defeated Idaho 31-28 in the Homecoming game.

“The football team having the success that we’ve experienced over the last four years has made a significant impact on all of our home games, especially Homecoming, and to see so many alumni return to campus has just been phenomenal,” Athletic Director Mark Orr said.

“Saturday’s game is going to be a terrific game. Idaho State is 3-1 in the conference. They’re a formidable opponent. I look forward to seeing everyone there.”

The game begins at 6 p.m. and will be preceded 3-6 p.m. by the Homecoming Festival and followed by a post-game fireworks display. The festival features games, various booths, and more, including the popular Golf Cart Parade and Hornet Walk before the game. Carts, which are decorated by various campus departments and programs, also will loop the track surrounding the football field at halftime. Winner of the grand prize for best-decorated cart will be announced following that display.

The festival and game are part of what makes Homecoming welcoming for the community, Barber said.

“It serves as such a good entry point to the University,” Barber said. “You can come with family, you can come with friends, you can come alone, and it’s still going to be fun and engaging. And we’ve kind of expanded that into community members to come back to campus and celebrate that day, celebrate everything that makes the Hornet community, the Hornet community.”

Sacramento State President Luke Wood, who will be participating in his first Sac State Homecoming, encouraged the community to attend.

“I look forward to cheering on our Hornets at Saturday’s Homecoming game, and hope everyone joins us as we pack Hornet Stadium and show our Hornet Pride,” he said.

Some of Homecoming Week’s other festivities include:

  • Homecoming Food Drive – Monetary and select food donations are being accepted to benefit the ASI Food Pantry, 8 a.m. -5 p.m. through Friday, Oct. 27, at the Harper Alumni Center. Donations will also be accepted during the Homecoming Festival.
  • Olivia O’Brien concert – The singer-songwriter will perform 7:30-9:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 26, in the University Union Ballroom. Tickets are $23 for students or $30 for the public.
  • Launch and reception for the University Union Gallery’s “The Seen Iranian Woman.”
  • Student events, including Future Hornet Day and a Halloween-themed dance marathon.
  • Other sports games, including women’s basketball and men’s soccer.
  • Tailgating has become part of Sac State football tradition. Approved locations and guidelines for tailgating are on the Athletics website.

Information about how to purchase tickets and for additional details about all the Homecoming Week events can be found online.

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