San Diego State University

Kobe Sanders’ connection to SDSU started long before the NBA. 🏀

More than two decades ago, Kobe Sanders of the L.A. Clippers sat inside the Pandas classroom at the SDSU Children's Center. Viewing the familiar classroom from his current 6’8” perspective, he returned to the Center to give back to the community that helped shape him.

Through his mentorship work with Los Angeles teens during 2026 NBA All-Star Weekend, Sanders helped secure support from NBA 2K and 2K Foundations for the SDSU Children’s Center. The funding will help enhance classroom experiences, outdoor play spaces and learning opportunities for SDSU families.

Sanders also donated LA Clippers tickets and memorabilia to the Center’s annual A is for Art Exhibition fundraiser, which raised more than $23,000 for the program. During the event, he reunited with his first teacher, creating a meaningful full-circle moment for the SDSU community.

SDSU’s Hansen Peace Chair is bringing communities together through art, skateboarding and storytelling. This summer and fall, Boarder Crossings: Patineta, Paz y DIY Democracy will connect San Diego and Tijuana through skateboard art exhibitions, skate sessions, artist talks and community events that celebrate creativity and cross-border connection. 🛹

Featuring work by more than 25 artworks created by artists from across the border region, the initiative explores identity, resilience, family and cultural exchange through skateboard-inspired art and public programming. Led by SDSU in partnership with organizations on both sides of the border, the series highlights the power of community and creative expression to transcend borders and build understanding.

All events are free and open to the public. Learn more and explore the full event lineup at https://bit.ly/49wVEdk.

📸: Andrea Buchetti

As California communities continue to face growing wildfire risk, SDSU researchers and research partners at NASA - National Aeronautics and Space Administration's Jet Propulsion Laboratory and Caltech are helping uncover what shapes wildfire severity.

A new study published in AGU Advances analyzed three January 2025 Los Angeles County wildfires using data from NASA’s Ecosystem Spaceborne Thermal Radiometer on Space Station (ECOSTRESS) and Earth Surface Mineral Dust Source Investigation (EMIT) instruments.

The research found that pre-fire fuel conditions, including vegetation dryness and landscape conditions before ignition, were major drivers of burn severity. The findings suggest satellite data could help strengthen wildfire hazard assessments and support more informed, proactive land management decisions across fire-prone regions.

Led by SDSU Geography doctoral student Megan Ward-Baranyay and reflects a collaborative team effort that included Associate Professor Daniel Sousa, Christine M. Lee, Madeleine Pascolini-Campbell, Alicia M. Kinosh*ta. Congratulations to the full research team on this timely contribution to wildfire resilience and public safety.

College of Arts and Letters at San Diego State University--The Official Page

PHOTO CREDIT: “Palisades Fire” by CAL FIRE_Official, CC BY-NC 2.0
https://bit.ly/4wVhyRF, https://bit.ly/4feHSzO, https://bit.ly/4wXCh78

SDSU celebrated the second VISTA Commencement at Centinela State Prison this month, honoring 29 graduates who earned their bachelor’s degrees in Journalism while incarcerated. Among them, 19 graduates earned academic honors, including four Summa Cum Laude graduates.

The ceremony reflected the power of education to transform lives and create new possibilities. SDSU alum and guest speaker Vu Huynh, who was formerly incarcerated at Centinela, shared a message of hope and perseverance with graduates and their families: “Transformation is possible, and today, each of you is proof of that.”

Through SDSU’s VISTA program, students complete their degrees while receiving holistic academic and personal support from faculty and staff committed to student success. As graduate speaker Martin Melendrez shared, “We are the answer, and we are the future of a new generation of incarcerated persons who create their own destiny.”

We are proud to celebrate these graduates, their resilience, and SDSU’s commitment to education and transformation. ❤️🖤

📸 Photos by Peter Merts

SDSU Global Campus SDSU School of Journalism & Media Studies (JMS)

San Diego’s culture is woven into every detail of the new San Diego Padres City Connect uniforms.

In an interview with NewsCenter, SDSU’s Ramona Perez, a professor of anthropology, directora of the SDSU Center for Latin American Studies and Chair of the Aztec Identity Initiative, explored the rich history behind the City Connect themes and their links to precolonial Aztec and Mexican culture. Her insights highlight the deeper meaning behind symbols like La Catrina, marigolds, and papel picado, and how they reflect identity, remembrance, and community across generations.

What stands out to you?

San Diego State University Imperial Valley alumnus Alvaro Medina discovered his passion for public health through a desire to support the community around him.

As part of the first graduating cohort in SDSU Imperial Valley’s public health bachelor’s degree program, he conducted cross-border health research, mentored fellow students and built a strong foundation for a future in community care and research.

Inspired by personal experiences with a family member’s cancer diagnosis, Alvaro saw firsthand how access to care and emotional support can make a lasting impact. Those experiences motivated him to continue his education and pursue work that helps others navigate similar challenges. This fall, he will continue his academic path in SDSU’s Master of Public Health program. ❤️🖤

“This is my way to pay it forward and continue pushing myself for me and my family.”

On this Memorial Day, we honor the brave who gave their lives in service to our country. 🇺🇸

For Alexa Berry, transferring to SDSU meant more than starting at a new school. It meant rediscovering who she was beyond the game she had played for years.

After stepping away from volleyball, Alexa found community, confidence and a new creative path at SDSU through the Gus & Emma Thompson Black Resource Center, student organizations and her passion for media production. Now an SDSU journalism alumna, she’s pursuing opportunities in sports and music entertainment while building her own media company. ❤️🖤

“To transfer students, put yourself out there. You have nothing to lose.”

Billy Carter’s path to graduation wasn’t linear, but it was driven by resilience.

Once told he might not succeed, he’s now the 2026 Zahn Spirit of Innovation Award winner and founder of a concierge business creating custom travel experiences for high-profile clients.

After stepping away from SDSU, Billy built his business from the ground up, then returned to finish his degree with a renewed sense of purpose. Along the way, he found support through the SDSU community and programs like the ZIP Launchpad, helping him grow both personally and professionally. His story is a reminder that persistence, community and self-belief can change everything.

Three transfer students. Three inspiring futures. One shared foundation at SDSU. ❤️

Isaac Torres, Cesar Daniel Edeza and Melissa Sicairos Bobadilla are graduating with biology degrees after making the most of SDSU’s STEM Pathways program, which supports community college students pursuing STEM careers.

Isaac is heading to the Monterey Bay Aquarium as a research diver focused on conservation projects. Cesar discovered a passion for wildlife research and science education through fieldwork and conservation experiences. Melissa is preparing for medical school with plans to serve Spanish-speaking communities in San Diego through pediatrics or family medicine.

Their stories reflect the power of mentorship, hands-on learning and community support at SDSU.

SDSU College of Sciences

That’s a wrap on commencement weekend at SDSU. 🎓

This past weekend, thousands of Aztecs celebrated years of hard work, unforgettable memories and the beginning of an exciting new chapter. Surrounded by family, friends, faculty and the SDSU community, the Class of 2026 crossed the stage ready to lead, innovate and make an impact around the world.

Congratulations to our newest alumni. Once an Aztec, always an Aztec. ❤️🖤

Before graduation, SDSU seniors Gavin Bartow and Daniel Self are already making a lasting impact. 🍎📱

The pair created Second Course, an app that connects students to free surplus food from campus events, helping reduce waste while expanding access to meals.

Since launching this spring, the app has quickly gained traction, with hundreds of students signing up and meals claimed within minutes. Inspired by personal experience and designed to be inclusive for all students, Second Course is helping strengthen community while addressing food access in a meaningful way. As they take their next steps after graduation, the founders are focused on growing their impact beyond SDSU 🍽️

SDSU proudly awarded an honorary Doctor of Science degree to Gregory T. Lucier at the SDSU College of Sciences commencement ceremony, recognizing his leadership in the biotech and health care industries and his lasting impact on the SDSU community.

Through his support of programs like Guardian Scholars and his commitment to building industry partnerships, Lucier has helped expand opportunities for students and advance innovation in the region. His recognition reflects the strong connection between SDSU, its alumni, and San Diego’s thriving life sciences community.

Please join us in congratulating Gregory T. Lucier and celebrating the College of Sciences. 🎓

More than 13,600 members of the SDSU Class of 2026 are preparing to join a global alumni network more than 500,000 strong. 🎓 What are the most popular degrees among SDSU’s Class of 2026?

Here are the top 10 programs among this year’s graduating class:
• Business Administration
• Psychology
• Kinesiology
• Criminal Justice
• Computer Science
• Art
• Communication
• Biology
• Liberal Studies
• Political Science

These programs highlight the wide range of passions and career paths shaping the next generation of Aztec alumni. Congratulations to the Class of 2026 as they prepare to make their mark across industries, communities and beyond.

Chelsea Investment Corporation is breaking ground on Addison, the first affordable housing development at SDSU Mission Valley. 🏗️

This milestone reflects SDSU’s continued commitment to expanding access, supporting regional needs, and creating a more inclusive community through thoughtful, sustainable development.

As part of the broader Mission Valley vision, Addison will help shape a vibrant, transit-oriented community that connects people, opportunity, and innovation while strengthening SDSU’s impact across the region.

Today is the start of an amazing commencement weekend at SDSU! 🎓

A total of 13,649 candidates for graduation are being recognized, including 11,477 undergraduates and 2,172 graduate students. This class has a 3.44 cumulative GPA, with graduates ranging in age from 18 to 74 and representing communities from around the world.

This is a moment of pride, celebration, and possibility. Join us in congratulating the Class of 2026 and cheering them on as they take their next steps.

More than 5,000 military-connected students, faculty, and staff are part of the SDSU community. We were proud to celebrate our veteran graduates at this year’s Veterans Commencement aboard the USS Midway Museum. 🇺🇸

To the Class of 2026, your leadership and commitment make a lasting impact. Join us in honoring these outstanding Aztecs.

Class of 2026, your moment is almost here 🎓

Add your personal touch before that cap hits the sky. Here’s a little inspiration to get you started.

Commencement 2026 is almost here! 🎓

From May 14–17, San Diego State University will celebrate more than 13,600 graduates across ceremonies at Viejas Arena and SDSU Imperial Valley, marking the largest graduating class in university history.

Here’s what you need to know:
• Ceremonies take place over four days by college, with doors opening one hour prior
• All ceremonies will be livestreamed, including on Facebook Live
• Graduates must bring a valid RedID or government-issued ID to participate
• Guest tickets should be transferred in advance and saved to a mobile wallet
• Parking is available on campus, with prepaid and day-of options
• Viejas Arena has a clear bag policy and specific prohibited items
• Graduates should arrive at least 45 minutes early and assemble in Parking Lot 13

Guests are encouraged to arrive early, allow time for parking, and plan a meeting spot after the ceremony. Out of respect for all graduates, please remain for the full ceremony and help keep pathways clear around the arena.

This is a milestone moment for our Aztec community. Plan ahead, celebrate safely, and make it unforgettable. ❤️🖤

Get full details, schedules, and updates here: https://bit.ly/4d2Qc46

To the moms behind every Aztec, today we celebrate you ❤️🎓

Thank you for the support, the sacrifices, and the endless encouragement every step of the way. Happy Mother’s Day from SDSU!

SDSU College of Engineering is defined by hands-on learning, collaboration and purpose.

At this year’s Senior Design Day, nearly 100 student teams presented projects they designed, built and tested to address real-world challenges. Alongside innovations like wildfire detection UAVs and adaptive mobility solutions, students developed projects focused on public safety, environmental conservation and emerging technologies that support healthier, more connected communities.

Senior Design Day is a powerful opportunity for students to apply their skills in real-world settings, working with industry mentors, managing timelines and delivering solutions that extend beyond the classroom. Each project reflects the impact of experiential learning and the drive to create meaningful change.

Canvas access is being restored, guidance provided

Canvas access is being restored this morning, May 8, following a global Canvas outage. Instructure confirmed this morning that there is no evidence showing compromised accounts. SDSU has re-enabled single sign-on for students, faculty and staff and all at SDSU should have full access to the portal todyay. Students should continue planning for final assignments and final exams and connect with their faculty members; SDSU is not canceling finals. Faculty should download and preserve any important course materials, including grade books. Be attentive and do not ignore anything that looks unfamiliar or suspicious. Change your password if anything appears suspicious and always report suspicious emails by forwarding them to [email protected]. More information: Urgent.sdsu.edu

Info: https://sdsu.apparmor.com/Notifications/CAP/?id=261334&t=686216999

Update on Canvas Outage: Forward any suspicious emails [email protected]

As of 3:10 p.m. today, reports are being received from other universities that students are being contacted directly with ransomware offers. If anyone receives information to this effect, do not respond and forward such messages to [email protected]. Do not attempt to open any links, do not download any attachments and do not reply to the message.

As a reminder: We are aware of reports that millions of users are currently impacted globally. Given this situation, university has disabled single sign-on as an additional precaution as we await further information from Instructure. Students, faculty and staff should not attempt to access the Canvas portal at this time and until receiving a notification from the university that access is cleared. Information: Urgent.sdsu.edu

Info: https://sdsu.apparmor.com/Notifications/CAP/?id=261287&t=684060589

As an update, we are continuing to monitor the Canvas security incident, which is reported to be impacting millions of people worldwide. At this time, there is no evidence within the SDSU environment indicating that Social Security numbers and banking information is compromised, and we continue to actively gather information from Instructure to confirm details.

Faculty are encouraged to stay in close communication with students and extend flexibility with any immediate assignment and final exam deadlines and to rely on alternate communications channels, such as SDSU email accounts, Zoom and the full Google Workspace (such as Google Docs). Using these resources for course communication can help minimize disruption as we approach the end of the academic term.

For those faculty members who may have an exam scheduled for today that was disrupted by the outage, please work with your department chair to determine makeup or alternative options.

More information: Urgent.sdsu.edu

Info: https://sdsu.apparmor.com/Notifications/CAP/?id=261282&t=683915627

SDSU Alert: Instructure update from the California State University system indicates that Canvas is experiencing an outage. Reports indicate that the outage is worldwide. SDSU is working closely with the CO and our third-party partner to understand more about the impact and an estimate for restoration.

More information is online: https://lts.calstate.edu/csu-canvas-incident-reports and at Urgent.sdsu.edu