Fresno State is proud to announce the 2025 Staff Recognition Award winners — honoring five remarkable individuals who embody our campus values through their outstanding contributions, innovation and spirit.

Launched in 2020 as part of a Bold Idea developed by a CAIFE team, the Staff Awards Program recognizes staff who go above and beyond in service to students, colleagues and the broader community. Congratulations to this year’s winners!

Bulldog Spirit Award

The Bulldog Spirit award recognizes a staff member who displays exceptional Fresno State pride and spirit.

James Woolsey, Athletics – The Bulldog Foundation
If you’ve spent time at Fresno State, you’ve probably seen James Woolsey leading a chant at a game, co-hosting a Red Friday event or spreading cheer in his signature Bulldog gear. Known affectionately as “The Red Jacket Guy” or “The Mayor of Fresno State,” James embodies the spirit of Bulldog pride.

A two-time graduate and current master's student, James channels his passion into every aspect of campus life from mentoring students and volunteering with nonprofits to hosting the Red Friday video series that’s reached over 250,000 views. His ability to uplift and connect others has made him a beloved figure on and off campus.

“James doesn’t just represent Fresno State — he helps define what it means to be a Bulldog,” said one colleague.

Lifelong Learner Award

The Lifelong Learner Award recognizes the staff member who attends the most professional development classes in person and online offered through the Office of Organizational Excellence in an academic year.

Mindy Kates, Student Health and Counseling Center
In her role as survivor advocate, Mindy Kates provides compassionate support to students, staff and faculty facing difficult experiences. This year, she also exemplified a deep commitment to her own growth by participating in 41 professional development and wellness events through the Office of Organizational Development.

From book clubs and paint nights to wellness classes, Mindy’s consistent engagement has inspired others to prioritize well-being. A standout in the Red Wave Wellness Challenge, she shared snapshots of her walks, mindfulness breaks, and even her pet turtle, Donatello, making self-care feel approachable and fun. Mindy’s story is a powerful reminder that learning isn’t limited to a classroom and that investing in wellness benefits everyone around us.

Principles of Community – Outstanding Staff Award

The Principles of Community Outstanding Staff Award acknowledges a staff member who upholds Fresno State's Principles of Community and consistently excels in their work.

Marlene Miyasaki, Plant Science
Whether supporting students in crisis, coordinating department logistics, or organizing major events, Marlene Miyasaki leads with humility, grace and unwavering integrity. Her everyday actions reflect Fresno State’s Principles of Community — Respect, Kindness, Collaboration and Accountability.

“She treats everyone with the same respect as if they were her closest friends,” one colleague shared.

Often the first person students turn to, Marlene listens with empathy and responds with practical care — connecting students to food, employment, and academic resources. She uplifts colleagues by championing their achievements and consistently brings clarity and warmth to every room she enters.

From campus events to cross-department collaborations, Marlene is the steady presence behind the scenes who ensures the work gets done — and done with heart.

Spirit of Innovation Award

The Innovation Award recognizes a staff member who has made exceptional contributions and improvements to their department or division through creativity and innovative thinking.

Sarah Chaffins, Research and Sponsored Programs
This year’s Innovation Award honors Sarah Chaffins, whose creativity and tech-savvy approach have transformed her department’s workflows. Faced with an outdated FileMaker Pro database, Sarah taught herself new tools — like ChatGPT, Canva and Google Looker — and built an entirely new awards database, improving accuracy and reducing manual work.

More than a systems expert, Sarah fosters a culture of curiosity and collaboration, empowering colleagues across disciplines to embrace new technologies. “Because of her, I built my first AI-powered form — something I never thought I could do,” said one teammate.

Sarah is equally known for her joy, generosity and willingness to step in wherever needed. Her innovations have streamlined processes and sparked a renewed sense of possibility within her team.

“Innovation is more than building something new — it’s about helping others believe they can too,” a colleague reflected.

Student Success Award

The Student Success Award acknowledges a staff member who has gone above and beyond to contribute to the success of our students.

Mazie Moua, Learning Center
For more than a decade, Mazie Moua has led Fresno State’s efforts to support students in academic difficulty with quiet determination and transformative impact. As the coordinator of Academic Success Coaching (ASC), she helps students on probation or disqualification reclaim their academic journey through skill-building, mentorship and support.

Under her leadership, ASC underwent a complete rebrand from SupportNet ensuring continuity of services despite staffing shortages and budget challenges. Mazie’s initiatives, like the Learning Locker (providing free school supplies), reflect her student-centered approach.

The results are powerful: Nearly 85% of students who met with a coach three times moved from probation to good academic standing. Retention, GPA, and satisfaction rates improved significantly, especially among underserved students.

Mazie also mentors 16 graduate interns, serves on the CARE Team, and never seeks credit for her long hours or quiet leadership. “She works with heart and purpose,” one colleague shared. “And her impact is lasting.”

Honoring Excellence Across Campus

These five staff members represent the best of Fresno State, demonstrating daily what it means to serve students, support colleagues, and strengthen our campus community. Their dedication, creativity and heart make a lasting difference.

Congratulations to James Woolsey, Mindy Kates, Marlene Miyasaki, Sarah Chaffins, and Mazie Moua — our 2025 Staff Recognition Award winners!