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Shining Star Award of the Month
Yearly STAR Awards
Shining STAR Award of the Month
This award is presented monthly to an individual in the division whose actions or work performance stands out as an exceptional reflection of our divisional values (Integrity, Wellness, Innovation, Inclusivity, Collaboration, and Service). Nominations are evaluated on alignment with the identified value(s), the scope of impact on the division or campus, and the timeliness of the work included in the nomination.
January 2026 STAR Awards
Alexandria Raya-Franklin, Esak’tima’ Center
I am elated to nominate Alexandria for this award in recognition of her exceptional service to Native student success. Her work ensures that Native students are not only supported but are an integral part of Sacramento State’s story and the very fabric of who we are as a division.
I have observed Alexandria’s immense dedication to preserving Native traditions and education through the arts, most recently demonstrated through her powerful film screening that showcased her lived experience and honored the legacy of her ancestors through storytelling. Her work reflects a deep commitment to cultural continuity, representation, and healing.
Guided by her grandfather’s legacy and her lineage as a member of the Ione Band of Miwok Indians, Alexandria consistently leads with intentionality. She ensures that Native voices are present at decision-making tables and that the unique needs of Native students are recognized, respected, and prioritized. Her advocacy, cultural stewardship, and unwavering commitment make her truly deserving of this recognition.
Previous Shining Star Award Recipients
- January - Ashley Torres-Gibson, Student Organizations and Leadership
- February - Ruby Espinoza, SA-IT
- March - Stephanie Reyes Alcala, Women’s Resource Center
- April - Erin Gallagher, Academic Advising Center
- May - Luis Cortes, Dreamer Resource Center (Interim)
- July - Racquel Reber, Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) & Summer Bridge
- August - Amy Brown, Student Affairs Business Resources
- September - Saray Aguirre, El Centro Serna
- October - Jasmeen Bangar, Student Affairs Business Resources
- January - Kim Gomez, Dreamer Resource Center
- February - Grace Hall, Financial Aid & Scholarships
- March - Catherine Mayorga, Multi-Cultural Center
- April - Dr. Steve Uzelac, Student Health, Counseling and Wellness
- May - Amanda Wilder, Degree Advisor in the Office of the University Registrar
- June - Tiffany Northern, New Student Orientation & Transfer Resource Center
- July - Andres Corona, Union/WELL Inc.
- August - Ari Uzzle, Student Health, Counseling & Wellness Services
- September - Juana Zaragoza, Serna Center
- January -Shannon Brown, Services for Students with Disabilities
- February - Andrew Yang, APIDA Center
- March - Robert Tran, Financial Aid and Scholarships
- April - Jerry Blake, Educational Opportunity Program (EOP)
- May - Amy Yu, Academic Advising Center
- June - Rena Horse, Esak’timá Center
- July - Eric Espejo, Student Service Center
- August - Patsy Jimenez, Academic Advising
- September - Tyler McCoy, Student Service Center
- October - Daniel Castellanos, Academic Advising Center
- January - Andrea Roush, Admissions & Outreach
- February - Ana Uribe, Strategic Student Support Programs
- March - Yolanda Blackshire, University Housing Services
- April - Isaac Vanderwiel, University Housing Services Facilities
- May - Veronica Delgado Rodriguez, Admissions & Outreach
- June -Kevin Nguyen, Student Academic Success & Educational Equity Programs (SASEEP)
- July - Michelle Yee, Student Service Center Advisor
- August - Shannon Ainger, Student Affairs Business Resources
- September - Amy Yu, Academic Advising
- October - Abigail Morrissey, The WELL
- November - Jodi Shultz, Student Engagement & Success
- December - Sean Carrington, Sports Medicine
- January - Kathy Colin, Admissions and Outreach Department
- February - Patsy Jimenez, Multi-Cultural Center
- March - Jason Raley, Financial Aid
- May - Cindy Brandon, New Student Orientation
- June - Nancy Lopez, ASI Children’s Center
- July - Noelle McCurley, Student Affairs
- August - Eric Espejo, Student Service Center
- September - Katelyn Sandoval, Student Health and Counseling Services
- October - Ashok Penumalli, Information Resources & Technology (IRT)
- November - Sandhya Rao, Financial Aid
- December - Susan Kischmischian, Guardian Scholars Program