2025 Sac State CSU Student Research Center Winners

"Most students typically wait for my explanation, but Jacob Young was different. He took the initiative to ask questions, reflect deeply, and seek answers in the textbook. I recognized his curiosity and ability to explore complex topics, qualities essential for research. As a result, I invited him to join my research project and present our findings at various on-campus symposiums...I am immensely proud of Jacob’s expertise and professionalism. His dedication and hard work were clearly reflected in each of his outstanding presentations. Congrats, Jacob!" - Dr. Kenichiro Chinen, Dept of Strategy & Entrepreneurship

"Jason Hansen is graduating this semester with a Master’s Degree in Public Policy and Administration, a 4.0 GPA, and the honor of Graduation with Distinction. I recognized Jason’s skills at thinking through an economic lens. I helped expand this approach with the additional considerations of politics, institutions, equity, and justice. He did this favorably in group projects, focusing on retrospective and prospective policy analyses. When asked by the Rural County Representatives of California to recommend an MPPA for an internship there, Jason was an easy choice. This experience led to him being hired full-time as an Economic Development officer for the RCRC." - Dr. Robert Wassmer, Dept. Public Policy & Administration

"Participating in the 39th Annual CSU Student Research Competition was a valuable opportunity for Neel to present his research at a highly regarded and competitive event involving students from across the California State University system. His work was not only showcased at this prestigious forum but also recognized at that level, which gave him a strong sense of validation and confidence in the research he’s conducting." - Dr. Garima Bhandari, Department of Mechanical Engineering

"Mentoring Josue has been a true privilege. He approaches each project with depth and dedication. His drive, curiosity, and thoughtfulness made him stand out from the very beginning, and his achievements at the Sacramento State and CSU research competition are a testament to his hard work and passion. His awards are well deserved." - Dr. Rohollah Moghadam, Dept of Electrical & Electronic Engineering

"Sydney has one of the most important, and hardest to instill, qualities that is necessary for any research student, and scientist: energy and passion for her project and the larger scientific enterprise. Sydney shows tremendous initiative and is constantly striving to generate better data and work on new approaches to understand her findings. It has been a pleasure to watch Sydney develop into such a capable scientist and I am so excited to work with her to finish up her thesis work and see what the next chapter is in her career." - Dr. Justin Miller-Shulze, Dept of Chemistry

"Kater is a critical and compassionate student scholar who designed an original archival research study, focused on the Pride Center at Sacramento State. Through a careful analysis of institutional records and community narratives, they showed how Pride Center leaders developed strategies and tactics to address spatial marginalization and foster a sense of critical hope. This work highlights both the resilience of LGBTQ+ campus communities and the importance of space in shaping inclusive educational environments. Dr. Ruby Mendoza and I have had the privilege of teaching and mentoring Kater. Like us, they are a first-generation college student, and we are deeply proud of their growth and accomplishments. - Dr. Angela Clark-Oates, Dept of English