College of Arts and Letters Fiscal Year 2025-2026
Message from Leadership
Dear Donor, In the College of Arts and Letters, we believe that preparing students for the future means helping them understand and address the human challenges that shape our world. Over the past year, our students, faculty, and alumni have demonstrated the impact of humanities and social sciences education through meaningful work in their communities and beyond. Students explored issues such as homelessness, human rights, sustainability, and global citizenship through research, internships, and international experiences. Faculty advanced innovative scholarship that combines technology, data, and humancentered inquiry, while new programs—including SDSU’s first AI degree, the B.S. in Artificial Intelligence and Human Responsibility—prepare students for a rapidly changing world. These opportunities are made possible through philanthropy. Thank you for helping provide scholarships, research support, global learning experiences, and other transformative opportunities that empower students to lead with curiosity, compassion, and purpose. Warm regards,
Todd Butler, Ph.D. Dean, College of Arts and Letters
Year in Giving By the Numbers | Fiscal Year 2025-26
$5.42M CAL Total Raised
$757,931
CAL Scholarship Awards
350 CAL Scholarships Awarded
Philanthropy
Propelling the SDSU Community Forward The Paul Yett International Business Internship Endowment The Paul Yett International Business Internship Endowment expands access to transformative professional and global learning experiences for students in SDSU’s internationally recognized International Business program. By providing stipend support for internships, leadership experiences, and other career-building opportunities, the endowment removes financial barriers that often prevent students from pursuing highimpact experiential learning.
Five of the ten 2026 Yett Global Fellows (L to R): Giselle Pacheco, Aldo Torres, Polette Duarte, Heno Girma, and Journey Taylor photographed with Paul Yett (center).
Student Spotlight
Thriving in the Aztec Experience Jasmin Zeiz-Khalil, Class of 2026 Class Level: Graduating Senior College: College of Arts and Letters Major: Political Science; minor in International Security and Conflict Resolution (ISCOR)
Jasmin Zeis-Khalil exemplifies the College of Arts and Letters’ commitment to leadership, global engagement, and service. A political science student, Jasmin was recognized with SDSU’s prestigious Quest for the Best Award for her academic achievement and commitment to her community. She also participated in the Center for Human Rights’ Access to Justice in Southeast Asia and Beyond program, where she studied human rights issues in Indonesia alongside fellow SDSU students. Through classroom learning, international experiences, and engagement with diverse communities, Jasmin has developed a deeper understanding of the complex social and political issues shaping our world. Her experiences have strengthened her commitment to public service and demonstrated how education can inspire meaningful action. Jasmin represents the next generation of leaders who are prepared to address global challenges with curiosity, compassion, and purpose.
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Jasmin represents the next generation of leaders who are prepared to address global challenges with curiosity, compassion, and purpose.
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Student Spotlight
Dean Benner, Class of 2026 Class Level: Graduating Senior College: College of Arts and Letters Major: International Business; emphasis in Western European History/Spanish
Dean Benner, a fourth-year international business student, transformed his passion for public policy into a life-changing professional experience through the Panetta Institute Congressional Internship Program. As SDSU’s representative in this highly competitive statewide program, Dean spent nearly three months in Washington, D.C., serving in the office of Congressman Jim Costa and gaining firsthand insight into the legislative process. Drawing on the interdisciplinary skills developed through his studies, Dean researched policy issues, prepared constituent correspondence, attended briefings, and analyzed legislation. The experience deepened his interest in foreign affairs and public service while strengthening his professional skills and network. Dean’s journey demonstrates how experiential learning empowers students to apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings, develop leadership abilities, and prepare for meaningful careers that contribute to their communities and beyond. Pictured above (left to right): Leon Panetta, Dean Benner, and Sylvia Panetta at the award ceremony at CSU Monterey Bay for the completion of the Panetta Institute for Public Policy Congressional Internship Program.
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Dean’s journey demonstrates how experiential learning empowers students to apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings, develop leadership abilities, and prepare for meaningful careers that contribute to their communities and beyond.
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Student Spotlight
Carina Hernandez-Carrillo, Class of 2026 Class Level: Graduating Senior College: College of Arts and Letters Major: Sociology and Women’s Studies; minors in Chicana and Chicano Studies and Social Work
Carina Hernandez-Carrillo’s path to graduation reflects extraordinary perseverance, determination, and the transformative power of higher education. More than two decades after beginning her college journey, Carina graduated from SDSU in 2026 with degrees in sociology and women’s studies, along with minors in Chicana and Chicano studies and social work. She was also recognized as the Outstanding Graduating Senior in Women’s Studies. After pausing her education to raise her son as a single mother, Carina returned to complete her degree while attending SDSU alongside that same son, who graduated with a sociology degree on the same day (pictured above). Their shared academic experience created opportunities for learning, growth, and mutual support, culminating in a remarkable family achievement. Carina’s story demonstrates the lasting impact of education and serves as an inspiration to students of all ages who aspire to create new opportunities for themselves, their families, and their communities.
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Carina’s story demonstrates the lasting impact of education and serves as an inspiration to students of all ages who aspire to create new opportunities for themselves, their families, and their communities.
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Points of Pride
Celebrating Shared Success Current Rankings The International Business program, co-administered with the Fowler College of Business, is ranked No. 1 among California schools and No. 19 nationally. Statistics of Interest More than 1,500 undergraduate students, more than 200 master’s students and five doctoral students graduated from the College of Arts and Letters in spring 2026. CAL’s alumni network exceeds 70,000 graduates worldwide. Recent Highlights The college launched SDSU’s only undergraduate degree in Artificial Intelligence and Human Responsibility, reinforcing the importance of human-centered approaches to emerging technologies. Through the new R-Next initiative, faculty members Taharka Adé, Dustin Edwards, and Haley Ciborowski received support for interdisciplinary research projects focused on Africana cultural restoration, the societal impacts of AI data centers, and border-related issues affecting the San Diego region and beyond. Geography lecturer Adam Pine partnered with the Uptown Community Service Center to provide students with hands-on learning experiences addressing homelessness, food insecurity, and housing insecurity. Inspired by this work, students Meleana Love Suarez, Jacob Gallardo, and Hana Adan launched HUMANKIND at SDSU, a student organization dedicated to service and advocacy. CAL students also broadened their global perspectives through international experiences. Political science student Jasmin Zeis-Khalil participated in the Center for Human Rights’ Access to Justice in Southeast Asia and Beyond program in Indonesia, while international business student Dean Benner represented SDSU in the prestigious Panetta Institute Congressional Internship Program in Washington, D.C. Faculty achievements reflected the college’s excellence in teaching, research, and service. Irene Lara received the SDSU Alumni Distinguished Faculty Award. Faculty Excellence Award recipients included Amanda Kearney, Zamira Abman, Isaac Ullah, Justin Bissell, Marie Draz, and Cheryl O’Brien. Zamira Abman and Erin Riley were also recognized with SDSU Faculty Global Engagement Awards. We are pleased to share our E-magazines for fall 2025 and spring 2026.
By the Numbers
Spring 2026 graduates topped 1,500 undergrads, 200 master’s students, and 5 doctoral students; alumni now exceed 70,000 worldwide.
Faculty and Staff Achievements
Transforming Lives Irene Lara, Ph.D. Title: Associate Professor, Department of Women's, Gender, and Sexuality Studies College: College of Arts and Letters
Achievements: Irene Lara is the recipient of the 2025 SDSU Alumni Distinguished Faculty Award in recognition of her outstanding teaching, scholarship, mentorship, and service to the university and broader community. A nationally respected Chicana scholar, writer, teacher, and spiritual activist, Lara recently celebrated 20 years of service at San Diego State University. Throughout her career, she has inspired students through innovative teaching, community-engaged scholarship, and a deep commitment to mentorship. Her work explores issues of identity, spirituality, social justice, and cultural knowledge while encouraging students to examine the world through critical and compassionate perspectives. Known by many students as a dedicated mentor and advocate, Lara creates learning environments that empower students to find their voices, engage with their communities, and pursue meaningful change. Her impact extends well beyond the classroom through public scholarship, community partnerships, and her commitment to advancing equity and inclusion. She exemplifies the College of Arts and Letters’ mission to prepare students for thoughtful leadership and engaged citizenship.
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Lara creates learning environments that empower students to find their voices, engage with their communities, and pursue meaningful change.
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Faculty and Staff Achievements
Zamira Abman, Ph.D. Title: Assistant Professor, Department of History and Comparative International Studies College: College of Arts and Letters
Achievements: Zamira Abman is the recipient of the 2025 CAL Faculty Excellence Award for Research, Scholarship, and Creative Activity and the SDSU Faculty Global Engagement Award for internationally impactful scholarship. Abman is an emerging leader in international and interdisciplinary scholarship whose work exemplifies the global reach of the College of Arts and Letters. In 2025, she received both a CAL Faculty Excellence Award for Research, Scholarship, and Creative Activity and an SDSU Faculty Global Engagement Award, recognizing the impact of her research and international collaborations. As a scholar of history and comparative international studies, Abman’s work helps students and colleagues better understand the interconnected forces that shape societies across regions and cultures. Her research contributes to important conversations about global citizenship, historical understanding, and international engagement. Abman encourages students to think critically about complex global issues while developing the skills necessary to navigate an increasingly interconnected world. Her teaching and scholarship reflect CAL’s commitment to preparing students to engage thoughtfully with local, national, and international challenges.
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Equally committed to student success, Abman encourages students to think critically about complex global issues while developing the skills necessary to navigate an increasingly interconnected world.
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Faculty and Staff Achievements
Ming-Hsiang Tsou, Ph.D. Title: Professor of Geography and Director, Center for Human Dynamics in the Mobile Age (HDMA) College: College of Arts and Letters
Achievements: Ming-Hsiang Tsou has been named the principal investigator of a $450,000 National Science Foundation-funded project using geospatial artificial intelligence and community partnerships to develop solutions addressing homelessness in the San Diego region. Tsou is advancing innovative research that combines technology, data science, and community engagement to address some of society's most pressing challenges. As principal investigator, Tsou leads an interdisciplinary team of researchers working alongside local agencies, nonprofit organizations, students, and community members throughout San Diego County. The project uses geospatial artificial intelligence, mapping technologies, and field-based research to better understand the needs of unhoused populations and inform solutions that improve health, welfare, and access to resources. Under Tsou's leadership, students gain hands-on research experience while contributing to meaningful work that serves the broader community. By bringing together data, storytelling, and community partnerships, Tsou demonstrates how research can create real-world impact while preparing students to become thoughtful problem-solvers and engaged civic leaders.
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Under Tsou's leadership, students gain hands-on research experience while contributing to meaningful work that serves the broader community.
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Endowments
Empowering Aztecs for Generations New Endowments Charles Wei-hsun Fu Center for Asian and Pacific Studies Endowment Jeff Williams Memorial Scholarship Endowment Mike Denning Scholarship Endowment Paul Yett International Business Internship Endowment
Endowments (Active) African-American Faculty/Staff Endowed Scholarship Al O’Brien Endowed Scholarship Alvena Storm Memorial Endowment Alyce Cioch Wawrytko Endowment for American Indian Studies Andrea O’Donnell Endowment Andrew Appleby Endowment Andrew B. Appleby Memorial Endowed Scholarship Ann M. Johns Linguistics Scholarship Endowment Ann M. Johns Rhetoric and Writing Studies Scholarship Endowment Anonymous Endowment-College of Arts & Letters Ariss Treat Endowed Scholarship Arthur Getis Endowment for Social Science Excellence Arthur Getis Lectureship Endowment B. Porteous Endowed Professorship in Political Science Baron Ethics Endowment Betty Nesvold Endowment Birch Endowed Chair Bowman English and Comparative Literature Endowment Catherine M. Stiefel & J. Keith Behner Latin American Studies Endowment Center for International Business (CIBER) Endowed Scholarship Charles Wei-Hsun Fu Endowed Scholarship Chinese Language Lecture Endowment Christopher John Mortenson Memorial Endowed Scholarship Clara De Escudero Endowment Clifford Baker Endowment Colonial Latin American History Endowment
Conniff Memorial Endowment Cooper Lectureship Endowment CPE/Weiss Endowment D.C. & K.W. Stott Endowed Scholarship Dan McLeod College of Arts and Letters Faculty Excellence Endowment Dan McLeod Japanese Language Endowment Daniel Weintraub Endowed Scholarship Danny Scarborough Endowment David George Excellence Endowment for Political Science David H. Johns Memorial Endowed Scholarship Dennis P. Hill Memorial Endowed Scholarship Donna Dickson Kindig Dean’s Excellence Endowment Dorothy E. Knott Endowed Scholarship Dorris Lipinsky Lecture Endowment Dr. Clare B. and Loch Crane, Sr. Endowed Scholarship for Liberal Studies Dr. Gianangelo Vergani Italian Endowed Scholarship Dr. Nalini and Dr. Hasmukh Shah Endowment Dr. Norman Mann and Mrs. Sivia Mann Public Policy and Foreign Affairs Endowment Dr. Ora B. Gordon, MD and CAPT Lance B. Gordon, USN (Ret.) Endowed Scholarship for the Center of War and Society Dr. Thomas L. Wendelmoot Dean’s Excellence Memorial Endowment for History Dr. Thomas L. Wendelmoot Dean’s Excellence Memorial Endowment for Rhetoric & Writing Dwight Stanford CAL Dean’s Excellence Endowment Economics Endowed Scholarship Edwin A. Watkins Endowment Elijah James Blum Memorial Endowed Award Elynor F. McPeak Endowed Scholarship for Economics Excellence Endowed Post-Doctoral Fellowship in Classics in Memory of the Stepsay Family English and Comparative Literature MA Endowed Scholarship Everett W. Hesse Endowment
To learn more, please contact Karena Sara at ksara@sdsu.edu
Endowments
Empowering Aztecs for Generations Endowments (Active) Continued Fiske Pre-Law Endowment Frank J. Dixon and Marion E. Dixon Memorial Endowed Scholarship Fred E. Sims History of Progressive Thought & Reformist Movement Endowment Fred J. Hansen Chair in Peace Studies Friends of Classics Charter Endowment Friends of Classics Endowed Professorship Friends Of Classics Endowment Gail Burnett Lecture Endowment Gene Gleeson Endowed Scholarship Geography Development Endowment Geography Graduate Reception Endowment George and Evelyn Parrott Memorial Scholarship in Geography Endowment Gertrude Jockusch Endowed Scholarship Gracia Molina Enriquez de Pick Endowed Scholarship Guffan Family Endowed Scholarship Harriet Newmark Study of Ethics Endowment Henri and Jeanne Ghilbert Endowed Scholarship Herman & Mary Branin Endowment for Program Excellence in Geography Hillary Ann Moore Memorial Endowed Scholarship for Religious Studies Hugh C. Hyde Living Writers’ Endowment Irene McFarland Geography Endowment J. Keith Behner and Catherine M. Stiefel Center for Brazilian Studies J. Keith Behner and Catherine M. Stiefel Chair of Brazilian Studies Jack McBirnie Endowed Scholarship for English and Comparative Literature James J. Stansell Classics Endowment James Hervey Johnson Endowment for Reason and Critical Thinking Janet Cooling and Jackie Corlin Scholarship Endowment Janice Dragin Endowment Jewish Historical Society Archives Endowment
Joely Way Memorial Endowment John Adams Endowment John Anderson Bequest-Sociology Endowment Katherine Ragen Endowed Scholarship Kit and Karen Sickels Endowed Chair in University Heritage and Community Engagement L. C. Post Lecture Endowment L.C. Post Endowed Scholarship Laurie Okuma Memorial Endowment Letty Zanchez Memorial Endowed Scholarship Lionel Ridout Memorial Endowed Scholarship Lipinsky Institute Endowment Loch and Clare B. Crane Endowed Scholarship for History Lou Terrell Memorial Endowed Scholarship M.C. Madhavan Excellence Endowment M.S. Biehl Endowment Mahatma Gandhi Endowment McCuen Endowed Economic Scholarship MFA Creative Writing Endowment MFA Program Endowed Scholarship Michael & Christine Pack International Business Endowed Scholarship Mindy Gates O’Mary Memorial Endowment Nasatir Endowed Chair Ned Greenwood Physical Geography Award Endowment Norma G. Sullivan Memorial Endowed Scholarship Norton Allen Endowment Oliva Espin Endowed Scholarship Pat Crawford Endowment Pitt and Virginia Warner College of Arts and Letters Dean’s Excellence Endowment Pitt and Virginia Warner English Department Endowment Pitt Warner Endowed Anthropology Scholarship Prebys Poetry & Creative Writing Endowed Scholarship President Stephen Weber Fund for Excellence in CAL Endowment Ray Sabin and A.K. Jones Endowment Richard Wright Award in Cartography Endowment Robert and Paula Cottam Endowment
To learn more, please contact Karena Sara at ksara@sdsu.edu
Endowments
Empowering Aztecs for Generations Endowments (Active) Continued Robert W. Knauer Endowed Scholarship for Writers & Poets Rosario J. Patti Memorial Endowed Scholarship for the Humanities Ruth Keen Endowment Salim & Francoise Shah Endowment for the Center for Islamic and Arabic Studies Sara Joanne Davis Endowed Scholarship Sarah B. Marsh-Rebelo Excellence Fund Endowment for the MFA Program in Poetry Schuch Classics Endowment Sheila Martin-Stone Scholarship Endowment Shirley Ann Speilman Endowed Scholarship for Chinese Studies Shirley Wade Thomas Memorial Endowment Siegel Lectureship Endowment Sociology Faculty Legacy Endowment Sociology Graduate Symposium Endowment Sonek Memorial Endowed Scholarship South Coastal Info Center (SSRLB) Endowment Stanford Endowed Chair Stanley I. and Andrea J. Ornstein Scholarship Endowment Stephanie Jennings Scholarship in Social Justice Endowment Steven C. Schaber Endowed Scholarship Stuzane Lectureship on Women and Judaism Endowment Sue Russell Memorial Endowed Scholarship
Sutherland Endowment Terhune Economics Endowed Scholarship Terhune Political Science Endowed Scholarship The Henry N. Wood Endowment for the Department of Economics The Honorable Scholar Endowment The Judge Victor E. Bianchini Mediation and Arbitration Endowment The Mother of Edward Y. Uechi ISCOR Scholarship for Study Abroad Endowment The Mother of Edward Y. Uechi ISCOR Visiting Speaker Endowment For External Community The Pitt and Virginia Warner College of Arts & Letters Endowed Scholarship The Skatepark Project Center for Skateboarding, Action Sports and Social Change Endowment Thomas C. Strand Endowed Scholarship in Geography Traute Gleeson Endowed Scholarship Ulla Lotta Wiik Endowment USS Midway Chair in Modern US Military History Endowment Victor Bianchini War and Society Excellence Endowment Viola Granstaff Endowed Scholarship Virginia Warner Endowed English Scholarship Wagner Faculty Development and Research Endowment William & Vivian Finch Endowed Scholarship
To learn more, please contact Karena Sara at ksara@sdsu.edu
Thank you for your generous support.
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