Congratulations to the staff and faculty earning degrees this year.

Name: Jessica Piffero
Department: University Marketing and Communications
Current job title: Social Media Specialist
New degree earned this year: Master of Public Administration

I am thrilled to say that I will be graduating with my master's degree this semester. In addition to maintaining a 4.0 and working full time, I also gave birth to my two children during this academic journey. I am grateful to Fresno State for the opportunity to pursue my higher education goals, and I am thankful for my team's support throughout this process. I am proud to continue my family's multi-generational tradition of graduating from Fresno State. Go 'Dogs!

Name: April Cardiel
Department: Division of Graduate Studies
Current job title: Graduate Admissions Coordinator
New degree earned this year: M.S. in Counseling, option in Student Affairs and College Counseling

Pursuing my master’s degree has been an incredibly rewarding journey, one that has fostered personal and professional growth in so many ways. This experience has helped me realize the meaningful difference I’m capable of making, as well as the importance of listening with intention to those in my life. I’m sincerely grateful for the journey and for everyone who has contributed to my growth and learning throughout the program.

Name: Angelica Lopez
Department: Office of the Provost-University Initiatives & IDEAS
Current job title: Administrative Analyst Specialist
New degree earned this year: Masters of Public Administration, CSU, San Bernardino

My journey to completing this degree has been supported by a collaborative academic environment that values professional growth. The encouragement from both past and present administrators has been instrumental in helping me achieve this milestone. The guidance and support from Dr. Luz Gonzalez, Dr. Gil Harootunian, Dr. Bryan Berrett and Dr. Natalie Munoz have been particularly significant in my academic journey, demonstrating how mentorship can make a meaningful difference in educational achievement.

Name: Itzel Montoya Sanchez
Department: Doctoral Program in Educational Leadership
Current Job Title: Program Advisor
New Degree Earned This Year: Master of Arts in Higher Education Administration and Leadership

Pursuing my Master of Arts in Higher Education Administration and Leadership has been a transformative journey marked by resilience, growth, and a deep commitment to serving students. As a first-generation student, balancing full-time work and graduate studies came with unique challenges, but also fueled my determination. With the support of mentors, family, and community, I reached this milestone. This achievement reflects my dedication to personal growth and the unwavering support of my community.

Name: Etisha Wilbon
Department: Student Health and Counseling Center
Current job title: Director
New degree earned this year: Ph.D. in Industrial and Organizational Psychology

This Ph.D. journey in Industrial and Organizational Psychology challenged me in ways I never expected. I found my voice in places I once felt tiny and discovered purpose in the data, passion in the process, and strength in the growth.

Campus News is celebrating our employee graduates over the next several weeks. There's still time to submit. Follow the format below and send to campusnews@csufresno.edu with a high-resolution photo.

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New degree earned this year:
Include a few sentences about the journey to this degree.