Program that serves former foster youth now fastest growing in State

SACRAMENTO, CA – Sacramento State has the fastest growing program serving former foster youth in the State. With a record enrollment of over 230 former foster youth registered in the Guardian Scholars Program, Sacramento State is dedicated to advancing student success and career growth for former foster youth. The milestone underscores the University’s long-term commitment to equity, belonging, and opportunity for students who’ve overcome extraordinary challenges.

New data released today show that enrollment among foster youth at Sacramento State has grown rapidly in recent years:

• 2025 (current) 234 students
• 2024/2025: 212 students
• 2023/2024: 142 students
• 2022/2023: 105 students
• 2021/2022: 101 students
• 2020/2021: 112 students

The rise is driven by the University’s nationally recognized Guardian Scholars Program, which provides former foster youth with comprehensive academic, financial, and personal support. The program offers year-round housing, priority registration, financial aid counseling, mentoring, and career development resources, ensuring that students are not only admitted, but equipped to thrive.

The rise is also attributed to the President’s 2024 Guardian Scholars Promise, which provides guaranteed admission into undergraduate programs for all foster students who meet minimum CSU eligibility requirements.

“Sacramento State’s commitment to former foster youth is a reflection of who we are as a university,” said Luke Wood, President of Sacramento State and former foster child. “Our Guardian Scholars are some of the most resilient and inspiring students on our campus. They’ve faced barriers most people can’t imagine and they’re succeeding at rates that make this University proud.”

The Guardian Scholars Program, housed within the Division of Student Affairs, partners with state and local agencies, as well as community organizations, to identify and support foster youth as they transition into higher education. Its comprehensive services from emergency grants and mental health support to leadership opportunities and internships — have made Sacramento State a model for other universities nationwide.

“The Guardian Scholars Promise, guaranteeing admission to Sacramento State to students who meet the qualifications for admission to the CSU, has not only provided foster youth with access to higher education but also given many of them hope. Foster youth who were not considering attending college are now considering Sacramento State” said Aniesha Mitchell, Vice President for Student Affairs at Sacramento State.

This growth reflects Sacramento State’s broader mission as California’s capital university: to remove barriers, close equity gaps, and ensure that every student, regardless of background, has a real path to graduation and career success.

“We have built more than a program; we have built a community where every student feels welcome. The growth of the Guardian Scholars Program reflects not only increased enrollment but a deep commitment to care, connection, and excellence. Our students leave as graduates who are confident, capable and ready to lead. Each success story is a reminder that when students are truly seen, supported, and valued, they do not just persist, they thrive,” said Dr. Linda Ram, Guardian Scholars Director.

“The Guardian Scholars Program has been essential to my growth, connecting me with community, resources, and opportunities during my academic journey. From attending statewide retreats and conferences to advocating for foster youth through public speaking, GSP has empowered me to use my voice. Thanks to their support, I know I’m not alone and my past does not define my future,” said Bailey, Guardian Scholars Program Student.

New AI concentration gives Sac State students a career advantage

SACRAMENTO, CA — Sacramento State’s College of Business has launched a new concentration, AI Management, which focuses on the practical application of artificial intelligence (AI).

AI is being embraced in every industry, and the state of California has been an advocate for “safe, secure, and trustworthy use of artificial intelligence” through the passing of new legislation. Sac State is equipping students with the knowledge and skills to keep them a step above their peers when they graduate.

"Now is the time for us to teach our students how to utilize AI ethically and responsibly,” President Luke Wood said. “Having this specialized knowledge will make them more marketable post-graduation and better prepared for the realities of our global community.”

This concentration is one of the first of its kind in the CSU. More than 50 students are registered for the two courses being offered through the College of Business this fall: Responsible Use of AI and Cloud and AI Infrastructure. Students also will get hands-on experience working with small businesses and organizations — designing and implementing applications and learning about the evolving regulations.

“Our amazing faculty are always looking for ways to advance our curriculum to keep up with the evolving workforce. In this case, our students will be graduating with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively navigate and apply AI within their various respective fields of study,” said Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs Erika Cameron.

New companies and organizations are using AI in ways that will “knock the socks off traditional companies,” College of Business Dean Jean-Francois Coget said. “The revolution is happening. Speed is of the essence if we want to catch the wave.”

In addition to the new AI Management concentration, Sacramento State’s Faculty Senate recently approved an AI Management minor in the College of Business, which will be open to all undergraduate students. Classes will officially be offered in January.

Sacramento State’s College of Business is one of the most highly recognized programs of its kind in the country. The College has been accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) since 1963, one of just 5% of the world's 16,000 higher education institutions to have earned this designation.

Sacramento State sees 256% rise in graduation rates over 10 years

SACRAMENTO, CA – Sacramento State is one of the top five California State University institutions to achieve monumental progress in reducing equity gaps in graduation rates.

Numbers presented by the CSU, which culminated its historic Graduation Initiative 2025 (GI2025) earlier this month, show Sacramento State has grown the four-year graduation rate from 8.5% to 30.3% in just 10 years. Graduation rates for two-year transfer students also increased significantly, from 25.6% in 2015 to 44.4% this year.

“Kudos to our amazing faculty for leading efforts that allow more students to transform their lives,” said Sacramento State President Luke Wood. “These numbers represent countless students who are now better positioned to create a better life for themselves and their families. There are now far more stories of triumph, resilience, and perseverance. That's what makes a Sacramento State grad special.”

As a Hispanic-Serving Institution, Sacramento State has increased four-year graduation rates for Latine students by 363%. As an Asian American and Pacific Islander-Serving Institution, the university has boosted rates for students who identify as Asian by 446%. And as California’s only recognized Black-Serving Institution, Sac State has achieved a 304% increase in graduation rates for students who identify as Black — reflecting the university’s deep commitment to equity and student success.

The initial framework for GI2025 was started with President Emeritus Robert S. Nelsen. In 2015, Nelsen appointed the late James Dragna to prioritize this initiative. Dragna in turn launched the “Finish in Four” campaign. He implemented also programs and policies that reduced barriers for administrators and helped students graduate in a timely manner.

“Sacramento State believes in our students, and they believe in themselves,” President Emeritus Robert S. Nelsen said. “Every student who graduates is seeing a dream come true, a dream that will transform their lives and the lives of those surrounding them.”

“At Sac State, when you graduate, you don’t walk the stage alone. Your mentors, friends, and community walk with you. It’s a home away from home, and our rising graduation rates reflect what it truly means to be a Hornet, because once you’re here, we are one and we celebrate every milestone together” said Student Body President Aranjot Kaur.

Sacramento State’s enrollment continues to climb with record numbers

SACRAMENTO, CA — Sacramento State enrollment continues to climb with record numbers despite significant challenges at the state and federal levels.

In March, Sac State announced it had reached its highest enrollment in the University's history for spring, at 30,164, exceeding enrollment goals set out by the California State University system. With a just-concluded enrollment census this fall, Sacramento State set another record with the largest fall enrollment post-COVID, at 31,307.

"These numbers mean we are offering an outstanding, world-class education,” said President Luke Wood. “We continue to grow our hive, our home.”

Over the last 10 years, Sacramento State has seen an enrollment increase of 6.7%. University officials attribute these increases to innovative and collaborative recruitment efforts that include:

• New academic programs, including the Bachelor of Fine Arts in Architecture Studies, a new concentration on practical applications of artificial intelligence, and one of the largest Criminal Justice programs in the country.
• Partnerships with high schools, community colleges, and community organizations offering guaranteed admissions.
• Historic initiatives like the Black Honors College, Combat U, Wileety Native American College, Guardian Scholars Promise, and more.
• Programming that reaffirms the University’s designations as a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI), Asian American Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institution (ANNAPISI), and Black-Serving Institution (BSI).
• Providing pathways for academic revival and adult learners to complete their degrees.

With strong industry ties and hands on opportunities, students are choosing Sacramento State to access opportunities that will shape their future well after graduation.

Capital Fellows Programs to add new fellowships for former foster youth

SACRAMENTO, CA – Sacramento State’s nationally recognized Center for California Studies is expanding its Capital Fellows Programs through a new partnership with John Burton Advocates for Youth (JBAY). This collaboration allows the creation of three additional John Burton fellowship placements, specifically for all students who have experienced foster care.

JBAY is a nonprofit organization founded by the late John Burton, the longtime Democratic leader who was dedicated to improving the quality of life for foster youth. As someone who’s experienced foster care, Sacramento State President Luke Wood said Sac State is always looking for ways to create pathways for student success, particularly for those who have faced barriers to opportunity.

“By welcoming former foster youth into the state’s most respected policy fellowship program, we ensure their voices and experiences are included at the highest levels of decision-making,” Wood said. “This partnership is a powerful statement about the value of equity, representation, and lived experience in shaping California’s future.”

Capital Fellows operate as full-time paid employees working in a Legislative, Executive or Judicial Branch office for 10-11 months. The Fellows engage in public service, are provided a mentor, and receive a graduate certificate in Applied Policy and Government as well as student loan deferment. The Fellows program continues to garner national attention for offering the country’s premier public policy fellowships.

In a stated letter of intent, Governor Gavin Newsom said, “As my office knows firsthand, the Fellows program offers talented college graduates the opportunity to pursue public policy at the highest level, while enhancing the quality of service we deliver to our constituents.”

For Sarah Pauter, Executive Director of JBAY, the fellowship initiative is personal. “As a former foster youth myself, I know how transformative it is to be given a seat at the table where policy decisions are made.

“These new fellowship opportunities don’t just open doors, they equip young people with the skills, networks, and confidence to influence the systems that impacted their lives. It’s about rewriting what’s possible for foster youth across California,” Pauter said.

“We have had former foster youth among our Fellows cohorts, and they always bring important insight to policymaking,” said Leonor Ehling, executive director of the Center for California Studies. “We look forward to working with all parties to ensure that this important population is at the table.”

Applications for the next Fellows program cohort are due by Dec. 8, 2025.

Sac State approved to explore Cal Expo Grandstands for new stadium site

Sept. 3, 2025 - The Cal Expo Board of Directors on Thursday, Aug. 28, approved granting Sacramento State exclusive rights to explore building a new football stadium at the Grandstands.

Last year, Sacramento State announced plans to rebuild Hornet Stadium and improve the game-day experience for students and the community, but Cal Expo proposed a new opportunity to university leadership.

"In addition to being two state agencies, Sac State is our neighbor, just over two miles down the road," said Tom Martinez, CEO of California Exposition & State Fair. “We are excited to collaborate on a project that benefits the broader Sacramento community by bringing Hornet football to Cal Expo.”

Sacramento State has seen a significant boost in enrollment following initiatives launched by President Luke Wood, including the nation’s first Black Honors College, the first Native American College in the California State University system, and Combat U — a public-private partnership providing a pathway to a degree and career in combat sports.

In addition, there’s been a growing interest in the Hornet football program since the hiring of head coach Brennan Marion. Marion has brought a new vision and excitement to the program that’s increasing Sac State’s visibility across the country.

“We have been ambitious about trying to elevate the brand recognition of Sacramento State from a regional institution to a national institution with a regional commitment,” explained Dr. Luke Wood, president of Sacramento State. “We have the largest enrollment now that we’ve ever had face-to-face. We’re in a really healthy position.”

The University aims to transform the Grandstand into a football stadium with seating for 25,000 — expandable to 40,000 in the future — along with modular locker rooms and dedicated space to enhance the game-day experience.

At the board meeting, Wood outlined the benefits of a partnership:

• Sacramento State and Cal Expo are both state agencies with the ability to bond.
• Existing infrastructure will cut construction costs nearly in half.
• The University is approximately 2 miles from Cal Expo, with a bike path connecting the two locations for a 14-minute bike ride.
• Game-day parking will be eased by the nearly 15,000 available parking spaces at Cal Expo.

“There’s no reason that we can’t have big time college football here in Sacramento,” said Sacramento State Athletics Director Mark Orr. “What we need is a facility that can support the aspirations we have for football. The students and community deserve it.”

Cal Expo and Sac State will continue conducting independent and joint environmental and seismic evaluations to determine necessary improvements to the 9.25 acres of land. While the University continues to explore the potential for moving the football program to the Cal Expo Grandstand, investments have recently been made to the on-campus Hornet Stadium with new lights, seating, and video boards among other game day experience enhancements."

CONTACT: Lanaya Lewis, lanaya.lewis@csus.edu, 916-217-8366

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