Fullerton First Year (FFY) Instructional Teams

Jawad Ali, Faculty Instructor

When I tell people that teaching at the college level is like directing a play whose script is written collectively by the whole class, they don’t believe me.  Some say, “So your class must be an easy ‘A’ because you just talk?” they couldn’t be more wrong.  I teach Humanities and Literature classes for which it is important to read closely the assigned stories, essays and poems so that we can all hear and see what others are thinking and how they make sense of art.  Because a typical class has students from a variety of backgrounds, it would be naïve to assume that everyone would agree about the meaning of a poem, for instance.  At some level, we all make sense of the world—art, politics, culture and science too—on the basis of what’s most familiar to us: the culture and politics we’ve experienced, what our parents tell us and I suppose how much TV we watch!  But there are so many ways of making sense of the world and one of the great gifts of a college education is to allow students like you the opportunity to travel—oftentimes metaphorically, sometime literally—to far-off cultures where people think differently. As an undergraduate at the University of California at Irvine, I was fascinated with Physics, art and literature and I graduated with a degree in Physics with a minor in Comparative Literature.  I didn’t want to choose between the Science and Humanities but I had to for my graduate degree in Literature and whenever I get the opportunity I bring some aspect of science into my curriculum.  Maybe some of you will also find yourself in a similar position; if you do, ask yourself what intellectual conversation you’d want to continue for the rest of your lives even if you don’t pursue a graduate degree?  You will meet so many brilliant men and women through the next four years—in the classrooms, in the books, on campus—and some of them will remain with you as good friends if you’ll allow them to. I am very excited to be part of the Freshman Programs’ Instructional Team, which will allow me to teach, mentor, enlighten and, of course, entertain you.  I have been teaching for the past five years and besides teaching in the Liberal Studies department at CSUF, I also teach test prep classes (LSAT, GMAT, MCAT, GRE) to students who are applying to Medical or Law schools.

Dr. Esiquio Uballe, Student Service Professional

Currently the Associate Dean for Student Life, Dr. Uballe has a degree in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies with a concentration in Higher Education from Arizona State University in Tempe.  He earned a Masters Degree in Human Services Administration at St. Edwards University and an undergraduate degree in Political Science from the University of Michigan.  He is a trained mediator experienced in conflict resolution and has extensive knowledge of university policy, development and implementation. Dr. Uballe has over 20 years of experience in higher education and has held various positions including Policy Analyst and Trio Programs Director, directing Upward Bound, Educational Talent Search and Student Support Services.  He has also served as a former recruiter and admissions counselor recruiting first generation college students from families who are migrant farm workers. As the Associate Dean of Students he is responsible for activities related to clubs and organizations and their on campus recognition and supervises the work of the Student Organization Service Center and the Volunteer Service Center. Dr. Uballe serves on the Titan Student Union Board as the Presidents Office designee.  He responds to and reviews complaints/concerns from staff, faculty and students related to campus activities.  He has experience in leading Diversity workshops and multicultural awareness sessions. He is the youngest of eleven children and the only one in his family to earn a four year degree, a master or a doctorate. He is married to Susan a Social Worker who works for Orange County Health Services. He is an avid golfer, loves to draw and paint, traveling and fly fishing.

Karenina Lines, Faculty Instructor

After graduating from high school, I entered Chapman University with the intentions of becoming an orthodontist. I thought that this would be a great occupation for me, since, at the time, I wanted to make a lot of money and be able to make my own hours. One thing I did not take into consideration was the fact that that meant I had to take hundreds of science classes and actually do well  in them. After one semester of struggling with the sciences, and absolutely hating school because of them, I changed my major to English with a pre-law emphasis. My intentions were to go to law school. Therefore, I took the LSAT’s, applied to several laws schools, but found myself weeks before I was to receive my letters back from the schools, feeling empty and apathetic toward the field I was about to enter. I began to dread the day that I would no longer be able to take an English class, and regret my decision to stray from that field, the one that I had excelled in my whole life, but always thought it was too easy and enjoyable to turn into an occupation. I began to complain to my dad, who ingeniously suggested I go to graduate school for English and to forget law school altogether. So I did. I entered Cal State Fullerton immediately following college, and have not left ever since. I just graduated from the Master’s Program in English, emphasizing my studies on composition, especially the first-year composition student’s transition from high school to college. I have extensively researched struggles high school students face in their writing, and ways to compensate for such struggles upon entering college. I worked as a writing tutor for two years at Chaffey College, where I was able to see firsthand what areas of writing beginning college students need extra help in. I am looking forward to working with first-year college students, not only to help them improve their writing, but also to help assuage their insecurities and fears of entering college. I have been a mentor to high school students for the past six years where I have been able to listen to them voice their expectations for college and admit their hesitations. This experience with both high schoolers and college students allows me to anticipate the needs freshmen have, and will hopefully provide a strong foundation for being able to help in the transition. I am excited to direct college freshmen to the fun college provides, but also to the importance it has to the rest of their lives.

Mary Lehn-Mooney, Student Service Professional

In high school, I participated in a wide variety of activities, such as acting in plays, painting murals, participating in speech and drama competitions, and writing/illustrating the school newspaper. No one would have called me shy. When I began college, however, I wandered around lost, searching for “my people” and wondering if this huge campus would ever feel like home. In my first days, I told my parents about the fact that no one was speaking to each other in my classes…not to each other, and not to the instructor…I hoped my first drama class would be different, but found those students silent as well!!!! When I mentioned it to another student, she thought it might be because CSUF is a “commuter” campus, and that many students just want to “get in and get out” as quickly as possible. 20 years later, I know a little more. I realize that in my freshman classes, we were all terrified and didn’t want to make the peep that would draw everybody else’s attention. I know that while some people do just the minimum necessary to get their degrees, many more participate in the wonderful, rich variety of campus offerings here; clubs and organizations, certificate programs, service learning opportunities, etc. Once the terror subsided, I started exploring the campus. While gaining a Bachelors degree in Psychology and a Masters degree in Counseling, I worked as a student assistant in the Career Development Center, and then as an academic advisor for the Psychology department and the School of Business and Economics.  I did a career counseling internship with the Career Development Center, and gained two certificates (Leadership and E.M.B.R.A.C.E) from the Student Leadership Institute. After facilitation training, I co-facilitated the E.M.B.R.A.C.E. program, and participated in “Human Relations” training in Los Angeles.  For the past 5 years I have been the graduate advisor to nursing students who are training for specialized medical niches. I can tell you from experience that this campus has everything you need to develop into the person you want to be. There are a million and one great things to do here in addition to your classroom study.  I can’t wait to share them with you!

Erin Tyson, Faculty Instructor

Hello! My name is Erin Tyson and I am an English instructor by trade here at CSUF.  I have taught Developmental and Entry-level English at CSUF for one year now.  As for Freshman Programs, I am fairly new; this is my second time around teaching University 100, and I look forward to all the new plans for this semester’s course.  In addition to teaching at CSUF for Freshman Programs and the English Department, I also teach English at Chaffey College in Rancho Cucamonga. Teaching University 100 was a great experience for me as an instructor this past summer.  I was able to work with and help some great students, and these students also taught me a thing or two about hard work.  I asked the students to do a lot in a short period of time during the summer semester, but they showed me the definition of dedication through their hard work and study.  Before I became a teacher, I was also a student at CSUF.  I earned both my Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees here, so I know this campus very well!  I was also an EOP student, peer tutor at the Writing Center and University Learning Center, and graduate advisor here on campus. But even before I was a student at CSUF, I was a student at Katella High School in Anaheim, CA.  I was born and raised in Anaheim, and I lived there until I was 24.  I now live in Fullerton and enjoy being so close to campus—I can actually walk to work! 

Mark Kamimura-Jimenez, Student Service Professional

Welcome to Cal State Fullerton! The Titan family is a community of learners where steps towards your dreams begin.  While in college I was on the Track and Field Team, President of a Fraternity, Tutor at a Community Center, Mentor at a Youth Shelter, Intern at a Court House, Resident Advisor, Extended School Teacher in Boston,  worked 30 hours a week as the Pizza Guy, Parking Guy, Women’s Shoes Salesman Guy and Student Affairs Work Study Guy.  My experiences in college really exposed me to many areas of college and I hope you will take advantage of all college has to offer you.  Mark received his BA at UC Irvine, MA at Columbia University, NY and is a PhD Candidate at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor.

Brooke Bain-Hanna, Faculty Instructor

Brooke was born in Tennessee and moved to Southern California as a child.  She grew up in La Habra and Brea, graduating from Brea Olinda High School.  Brooke attended California Lutheran University, initially studying Biology with plans to attend Dental School.  While completing her general education requirements, Brooke took some Sociology courses and enjoyed them.  She decided to minor in Sociology, and eventually decided to get a second major in Sociology.  Brooke obtained her Masters in Sociology from California State University, Fullerton, completing her Thesis on Father-Child Relationships in Various Family Types.  Brooke has also spent time working with victims of domestic violence and served as a counselor/ counseling coordinator for four years at a residential treatment facility for teenagers with eating disorders. 

Victoria Cafasso, Student Service Professional

Professional: My experience working with Upward Bound allowed me to work with high school students, assisting them with the college preparation process, and experiencing with them the joys, frustrations, and growth as they prepared for this next important step in their lives that would take them, many for the first time, away from their families, neighborhood, and high school friends. I now work with ILE and EOP students at CSUF, which allows me to continue the journey, as my students navigate their way through GE requirements, major courses, and all of the other challenges that go with earning a college degree.  There is something so exciting about assisting in this process, as students find a field of study and future career that they feel passionate about. Personal: I am a first generation and re-entry student, so my path to earning a BA in Human Development, and a MA in Educational Counseling was interesting, but very rewarding. I am proud to have been a role model to my children in continuing their education, as my older son, Daniel is working on a JD at Case Western University, and my younger son, Vittorio, is a junior at Sonoma State.

Matt Haskins, Faculty Instructor

As a graduate of Cal State Fullerton, I have been very proud to teach in the American Studies department here at CSUF for the past six years.  I am equally excited to be working with the Freshman Programs assisting students adapt to their new college life.  My interest in working with the Freshman Programs stems from my desire to help new students avoid some of the pitfalls common to first year college studies.  With the right support I firmly believe that every student can not only survive their first year of college but thrive.  I look forward to meeting and working with the terrific freshmen here at Cal State Fullerton. My own academic interest is in the history of American popular music.  I started playing guitar when I was twelve and thereafter performed with various bands through high school and college.  In graduate school I combined my love of music with my interest in American history.  Currently I’m completing a dissertation on the early years at Capitol Records.  When I’m not in the classroom teaching or in the library researching, I’m at home with my wife Linda and two children Elias and Olivia.     

Peggy Garcia Bockman, Student Service Professional

Peggy has recently completed her eighth year at CSUF.  Her professional background includes a variety of positions in higher education. She served the University of California, Irvine as the Director of Graduate Student Services. Related experiences included semester internships at the University of Southern California - Undergraduate Office of Admissions and the CSU Chancellor’s Office in Academic Affairs. Peggy serves as the Assistant Dean for Student Affairs in the College of Communications.  She reports to the Vice President of Student Affairs and the Dean of the College of Communications.  Nominated by the division of Academic Affairs, she garnered the Titan Excellence Award in 2001 for her exemplary work with students and faculty. Working with over 3000 majors, her primary responsibilities include promoting the value of co-curricular learning, helping students’ access campus resources and navigate the maze of university services policies and procedures.  She also coordinates outreach and retention programs.  Assistant Dean Bockman oversees academic advising in the college and gets much satisfaction when students’ graduate and fulfill their goal of a college degree.  She was honored to receive the Advisor of the Year award in 2005. Peggy serves as one of the advisors to the annual Communications Week program - a huge endeavor that brings over 100 professionals to the campus. She has also served on numerous committees on campus and has been an active board member for the Chicano/Latino Faculty & Staff Organization.

Dana Reemes, Faculty Instructor

I was born and raised in California, the child of parents who came from relatively humble circumstances. My father was from a very small town in northeastern Tennessee, while my mother was the daughter of farm folk who migrated west from the plains of Missouri in the early decades of the last century. I am only the second person in my family to have a university education, my mother having studied art and education at UCLA before becoming a middle school teacher. Educationally, I am entirely a product of the California public schools, from my K-12 experience at the local level to my college studies in the California State University and University of California systems. My personal interests have always been divided primarily between the humanities and the arts, with an additional healthy curiosity in the sciences. After graduating from the College of Letters and Science at UC Berkeley, I went on to pursue an M.A. in Film Studies at San Francisco State University. I then spent over a decade working in children's television before moving on to work in theatrical animation at Walt Disney Studios. While at Disney I returned to graduate study, this time at UCLA, and began working toward an M.A. and eventual Ph.D. in Near Eastern Languages and Cultures, my main interest being the cultural history of ancient Egypt. I began teaching History 110A (World Civilizations through 1500) at Cal State Fullerton in Fall 2005, and have enjoyed it very much. The most challenging aspect of my work has been meeting the needs of my many Freshman students, not only by developing strategies to make the subject matter interesting and relevant to them, but also by assisting them to develop the study skills, work habits, and intellectual drive necessary for a smooth transition into the university, and for success throughout their university careers and beyond. I well remember my own experience as a Freshman, a crucial time in anyone's life, and it does not seem so long ago to me! Through my experience team-teaching University 100, I hope to further refine my understanding of the current issues confronting Freshman students, so that I might better succeed as their teacher and as an advocate for their higher education. I am married and live near the ocean with my wife, my eleven-year-old stepson, a little housecat, and two small lizards. 

Yen Ling Shek, Student Service Professional

Yen Ling Shek is the Coordinator of the Multicultural Leadership Center at CSUF. She is originally from Virginia and has lived in four states over the past eight years. Yen Ling has worked on equity and diversity issues in higher education throughout her professional career. She has taught courses on leadership, social justice, gender and race, and currently trains facilitators for the Educating Myself for Better Racial Awareness and Cultural Enrichment (EMBRACE) program on campus. In the MLC, Yen Ling oversees the Multicultural Mentoring Program, SafeSpace, EMBRACE, Asian American and Pacific Islander Leadership (AAPIL) Institute, and advises cultural clubs and cultural graduation celebrations. She enjoys working with the local community on social justice issues and loves to develop future leaders.

Edward Robinson, Faculty Instructor

As I strive toward the end of my graduate career, I am reminded of Langston Hughes’ poem “Mother to Son” when the mother’s words said “Life for me ain’t been no crystal stair.” In truth, those words, for me, have rung true as I complete my doctoral studies in Cultural Studies. But, as I look towards greener pastures, I also believe that I must do my part in ensuring that the “stairs” others will walk behind me are more stable and more golden. This is why I am honored and excited about the opportunity to spend time with the Cal State Fullerton’s Freshman Programs imparting my experiences and knowledge for improving the undergraduate experience of my future colleagues. Although I do not come from the Cal State Fullerton system, I do bring many experiences to the program. I have worked for the last four summers at the University of Utah where I served as program assistant for the Summer Research Opportunity Program (SROP). This program brought in students from all over the country to do a research internship, learn about the university and its resources, as well as prepare for graduate school. For the CSUF’s Freshman Programs, I look forward to assisting future freshman in how to navigate, find, and use the many resources Cal State Fullerton has to offer. Born in South Florida and raised in South Georgia, my personal experience taught me to appreciate everything around me, especially the importance of civil rights and equal opportunities for everyone. My educational experience has allowed me, through the university experience, to broaden my life to the struggles and importance that education can have on everyone’s life. Therefore, as a mentor and teacher, I am truly committed to the possibility that I can help change the life of every student. However, it takes mentors that truly believe in the experience. I am one of them. In addition to becoming a faculty member for the CSUF’s Freshman Programs, I am also a part-time instructor for the Liberal Arts Education and English program at the University of La Verne. In my free time, I enjoy watching baseball and collecting books. However, I find the most joy in sitting down over a cup of coffee at the neighborhood coffee shop talking about books, politics, and how I ended up thousands of miles away from home. Truly for me, life has been no crystal stair, but through the completion of my academic career the stairs are starting to look much brighter.

Serena Cline, Student Service Professional

Serena is an Oregonian and graduated from Warner Pacific College with a bachelor’s degree in Social Science and History.  She studied abroad at Oxford University during her senior and fell in love with the learning process.  Upon graduation she moved down to Southern California to pursue a master’s degree in Education and College Student Affairs at Azusa Pacific University.  During graduate school, Serena advised student government, peer mentoring programs, student union management, chapel programs, and new student orientation.  After receiving her master’s degree, Serena began working at one of the Claremont Colleges in residential life and academic support.  Excited by the opportunity to work at CSUF, Serena is currently working in New Student Programs with New Student Orientation. 

Dr. Andi Stein, Faculty Instructor

Andi Stein is an associate professor in the Department of Communications at Cal State Fullerton University, where she teaches courses in the journalism and public relations concentrations. She joined the faculty in the fall of 2000. Andi has nearly 20 years of experience in the fields of public relations and journalism. She has worked as a public relations specialist for a variety of nonprofit organizations in the San Francisco Bay Area. She has also written numerous feature stories for trade, professional, and alumni magazines. Andi has a B.A. in journalism from George Washington University; an M.A. in mass communication from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; and a Ph.D. in communication and society from the University of Oregon.

Maricela Alvarado, Student Service Professional

Maricela Alvarado has been a member of the California State University, Fullerton (CSUF) family since her involvement as an undergraduate mentor for the Links Mentoring Program.  Ms. Alvarado currently serves as an Academic Counselor for the Educational Opportunity Program at CSUF.  Ms. Alvarado received a Bachelors of Science Degree in Human Services from CSUF and a Masters in Public Policy and Administration degree from California State University, Long Beach.  Ms. Alvarado’s research interests include policy issues related to undocumented students and higher education, and state high school exit exam reform.  Her master’s graduate project examined the relationship between the California High School Exit Exam passing rate and students’ socioeconomic status. Ms. Alvarado serves as the staff advisor for Lambda Theta Alpha Latin Sorority, Inc, Gamma Lambda Chapter.  She is dedicated to creating a cohesive environment for all students specifically first generation college students.  Ms. Alvarado has a strong belief that social support is found in the family, culture and community created through the involvement in extra-curriculum activities.  Her involvement in a Latina sorority has given her a solid understanding of the significance of providing a positive and rewarding experience for all students in higher education.  Ms. Alvarado has a desire to continue to research and explore alternative ways to assist students in the transition and attainment of a college degree.

Bruce Rubin, Faculty Instructor

Bruce Rubin, a teacher for nearly eighteen years, has been at CSUF since 2001.  He works primarily in the Arts & Humanities for the Liberal Studies Department and in English as a Foreign Language for the American Language Program. Over the years he has taught students of all ages from a wide range of world cultures. Before becoming a teacher, Bruce was a freelance writer, and he’s still pursuing a variety of writing projects.  His latest, a co-authored academic reading and vocabulary textbook being published by Oxford University Press, is due out in January 2008.

Paul Miller, Student Service Professional

Bio and Pix Coming Soon!

Live ‘n Learn (LNL) Instructional Teams

Darlene O’Cadiz, Faculty Instructor

Ms. O’Cadiz has danced professionally with Dance Repertory Theatre of California State University Fullerton and The Gloria Newman Dance Theatre. In the past she has given lectures for the Student Leadership Institute of CSUF on “Eating Disorders”. Freshman Programs hired Ms. O’Cadiz in 2002 to team teach University 100 and she has continued to be part of the fall teaching staff the past 4 years. Dedicated to contribute to the University overall, Darlene has worked with the Women’s Center advising the interns for the Gender Alliance Program to communicate more effectively with the students and use improvisational skills to facilitate discussion. In the fall of 2005 Ms. O’Cadiz organized an alumni reunion and retirement party for her colleague Barbara Arms.  This event raised over $400 for the dance scholarships in honor of Barbara Arms. Darlene served on the board of directors for 10 years with the non-profit organization “Dance in Action”. In November of 2000 she coordinated a fundraiser for Dance in Action making over $1000.00.  In addition Darlene has helped to plan many DIA workshops and conventions to enlighten and inspire young talented dancers. For the past 3 years, Darlene has been nominated for inclusion in Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers.  This past year she has also bee included in the AcademicKeys Who’s Who in Fine Arts Higher Education.

Dawn Macy, Student Service Professional

I have had the pleasure of working in the Center for Internships & Service-Learning at CSUF for more than 5 years.  I came to this campus after spending more than 10 years working as a social worker.  I have B.A. in social work and a M.A. in public administration.  Outside of work, I enjoy taking classes, organizing things (any things!), spending time with friends and family, laughing as much as possible, reading, camping, traveling and cleaning house.  Things I don’t enjoy include tomato sauce, getting hit in the face with a surfboard, grouchy people and snoring. Transformation. This is currently my favorite word  It is a perfect descriptor of the “college experience”-- learning, growing, questioning, experimenting, thinking, trying new things, stepping out of comfort zones-- and some of the reasons that I love education.  So much so, that I’ll never stop taking classes in my lifetime.  My family calls me “the perpetual student”.  Some even say that I am a collector of certificates.  Examples include: emergency medical technician, massage therapist, mediator… (I’ll save the story for the classroom!) Freshman Programs is about helping students gain the tools that they need to be successful in higher education so they can focus on the “experience” and not just the mechanics of education.  My two favorite components of Freshman Programs are the tools it provides to students for their college experience AND getting students out into the community where they are able to make a positive impact during the very first year of college!  Freshman Programs acknowledges the complexity of student life and the responsibility we all have as engaged and educated citizens. 

Angelica Haro, Faculty Instructor

Welcome to Cal State Fullerton!! I am proud to say I am a CSUF graduate.  As a Kinesiology graduate student, I am fascinated and very passionate about health, fitness and nutrition education.  I am a marathon runner who has successfully completed 12 marathons and I am still going!  Learning about health has inspired me to motivate and assist others in improving their health status.
Most recently I was a member of the Worksite Wellness LA (WWLA) team.  WWLA provides low-wage workers in the downtown Los Angeles area with health care and health education information.  As the Health Educator and Program Coordinator, I led the team by developing and presenting health presentations on major health issues, such as:  obesity, heart disease, cancer, and diabetes.  I have also taught several activity courses at CSUF. On a personal note, I established my own nonprofit organization, Shoes For Sonrisas (SFS;shoesforsonrisas.org). Having several pairs of running shoes that were in good condition, but I no longer needed, I established SFS to provide gently worn athletic shoes to underprivileged individuals living abroad.  Locally SFS promotes health and fitness in low-income areas. I enjoy working with diverse populations in helping them become more health-conscious and ultimately healthier!  In addition, I enjoy providing support to new students as they transition into college life.  Being part of the Freshmen Instructional Team will give me an opportunity to work closely with new students in developing educational and career paths.  As with optimal health, there are critical steps in obtaining academic success—and I can help!
As you can see, I am creative, courageous and willing to take action!  I look forward to getting to know all of you and helping you become successful at CSUF.

Dr. Gloria Sims, Student Service Professional

Dr. Gloria S. Sims has worked at Cal State Fullerton for over 20 years in various students affairs and academic affairs positions.  In these role, she assist undergraduate and graduate students as well as alumni with their search for employment, including internship opportunities as well as preparing for the job search overall.  These efforts include interacting with employers on an on-going basis, teaching special job market search seminars and workshops, and coordinating special events such as employer information sessions, college specific job/career fairs and employer site visits. As an adjunct professor, she has taught undergraduate and graduate level courses during her tenure. Prior to her employment at Cal State Fullerton, Dr. Sims worked in similar positions at the University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA. She received her Bachelors for Science Degree in Fashion Design from Florida A & M University and completed her Masters Degree in Counseling at the University of California, Irvine, she has a Doctorate Degree in Higher Education from Nova Southeastern University. Dr. Sims is active in the community where she volunteers with local non-profit organizations. She enjoys coastal hiking and horse back riding.

Compass Instructional Teams

Patricia Drew, Faculty Instructor

I am so excited to be returning as part of the Freshman Programs’ Instructional Team!  As an instructor within Freshman Programs as well as the CSUF Visual Arts department, I have had the opportunity to work with a variety of students with an assortment of differing situations.  I am committed to helping students achieve their educational goals as well as helping them develop self-confidence through their personal achievements. I am extremely grateful for the excellent education that I received through CSUF.  In 2000, I earned my Bachelor of Fine Arts degree.  In 2004, I earned my Graduate degree with an emphasis in Art History. I am a native Southern Californian and I love to be in on or near the ocean. My true joy is teaching!  I love what I do and I learn something everyday from my students.  I am so looking forward to meeting all the new, great students this year in   Freshman Programs. To quote Nelson Mandela “Education is the most powerful weapon. You can use it to change the world.”

Dr. Lea Beth Lewis, Student Service Professional

Lea Beth Lewis has been at Cal State Fullerton for over six years, currently as the Assistant Dean for Student Affairs in the College of Health and Human Development.  In this position, she coordinates and promotes the services of the College and Student Affairs to faculty, students, (current and prospective), employers and alumni. 
A native Southern Californian, Lea Beth grew up with the best that So Cal has to offer – skiing the local mountains in the winter, and surfing, water skiing, and swimming in the summer. Consequently you will be able to spot her around campus wearing a hat and big sunglasses. In her previous life, Lea Beth was extremely active – a lifeguard and swimming instructor, an aerobics instructor, and an extra in Thelma and Louise. Now she tries to stay fit by taking yoga and doing cardio in the Employee Wellness Program on campus, and cheering on her favorite college football team (Fight On!). Lea Beth earned a B.A. in Social Work and M.S. in Counseling (Career) from CSU Long Beach.  She holds an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership from the University of Southern California and is a Certified Professional/Master Career Counselor, as well as an On Course Ambassador.

Bridget Kominek, Faculty Instructor

For the past ten years, California State University, Fullerton has been a big part of my life. I went to high school across the street at Troy High School, and during lunch my friends and I would trek across State College to go to free concerts here on campus. Later on, I came here as a student to study English and political science, and I earned my B.A. in 2004. When it was time to choose graduate programs, staying at Fullerton was an easy decision. I graduated with my M.A. in English in 2006, and soon after began teaching English at the college level. I now teach at CSUF, Fullerton College, Citrus College, and Chaffey College. I spend a lot of time in the car, driving from school to school, but I love the classes that I teach and the amazing students, teachers, and staff members that I get to meet. I decided to become a part of Freshman Programs after teaching English 101 to freshmen; the transition from high school to college is an exciting and challenging time, and I wanted to be a part of that with my students. When I am not teaching or preparing for school, I like spending time with my husband doing volunteer work for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, traveling, and reading.

Megan Hervey, Student Service Professional

Looking back at my past, it comes to no surprise that I wanted to work with students in higher education.  During my stay as an undergraduate at the University of California Irvine, there were suttle clues along the way.  I genuinely enjoy being on college campuses and thrive off the passionate and energetic vibe coming from the student body.  I feel at ease yet I also sense a certain aura about the life on campus.  It’s one of great depth, vigor, and hope.  I knew early in my college experience that I wanted to make a career out of coming to campus everyday. 
I received my bachelor’s degree from the University of California, Irvine and recently earned a Master’s degree in Counseling from California State University, Long Beach.  I currently work in the Academic Advisement Center on campus as a general education advisor and the coordinator of undeclared student advisement.  I believe that education is the center of health and welfare of our society and that the drive for learning and wisdom takes root at the University.  I also believe that it is all of our responsibility to bring the creativity, energy, and devotion to campus that is necessary for growth at Cal State Fullerton.  It is a sincere delight to be a part of the Freshman Programs instructional team.  I look forward to working with the future of Cal State Fullerton, which will undoubtedly prove to be a reciprocal educational experience.

Freshmen Future Teachers (FFT) Instructional Teams

Carolyn Houston, Faculty Instructor

Whether in my personal life as a wife, mother, daughter or friend, or in my professional life as an educator, I have always been first and foremost a teacher.  In each position the role of teacher and all that it embodies has guided me in my daily routines. As a professional educator where I have held positions of curriculum specialist, assistant principal, principal, university supervisor and instructor, there were prevailing characteristics that continued to remind me of my primary role: Teacher.  Regardless if I have acted as a listener, advisor, facilitator translator, negotiator, collaborator or reflective practitioner I have used these skills to enhance my role as a teacher and as a person. 

Lillybeth Sasis, Student Service Professional

Welcome to a new chapter in your life!  Starting off as a freshman student is an exciting endeavor.  As a part of this community, Freshman Programs is here to support you as you begin this journey.  This is an opportunity to discover new realms.  Meet new friends and professors!  Take part in your new community, after all it is yours to explore! As the Assistant Director for the Center for Careers in Teaching at Cal State Fullerton, I also have the privilege to co-teach University 100A.  In addition, I will assist you with your academic advising needs as a Freshman Future Teacher.  I look forward to our partnership as you start off your academic career at CSUF!  I wish you a successful transition to college!

Paula Hasler, Faculty Instructor

Hello, my name is Paula Hasler and I am thrilled to be part of the Freshman Programs’ Instructional Team at Cal State Fullerton.  I am currently a university supervisor for student teachers at the College of Education at this university. My career goal is about fostering student success by helping them gain the necessary life skills and tools to reach their full academic and career potential.  I am committed to making their first year a successful and enjoyable experience. I have over 7 years of training, teaching, and coaching experience with young adults.  I have worked for the Dept. of Education in Orange County, where I managed, trained, and counseled student interns and teachers in the Multiple Subject Credential Programs, partnering closely with district personnel to determine the appropriate placement match between the student and the school site.  I also developed, implemented and presented seminars under the direction of the University Block Leaders. I had the pleasure of coordinating and presenting a mentor career programs with secondary students and the local business community for the Newport – Mesa Unified School District.  In addition, I produced a community educational outreach video, focusing on secondary students in work training programs. In the last few years, I have been an educational consultant for Houghton Mifflin and Macmillan/McGraw-Hill Companies. As a consultant, I have assisted in product learning displays, setting up focus assessment groups, and presented educational trainings to program specialists, teachers, and administration. In my spare time, I volunteer for non-profit organizations sponsored by the Voluntears at Disneyland.  I look forward to being part of the Instructional Team whose main goal is giving support and guidance to Cal State’s freshman class.

Melissa Martinez, Student Service Professional

My name is Melissa Martinez and I work at the Center for Careers in Teaching as the STEP (Streamlined Teacher Education Program) Coordinator. In May 2004 I received my Bachelor of Arts degree in Liberal Studies from CSUF. After that I took a semester off to substitute teach in grades K-8. It was a wonderful experience for me and reaffirmed my desire to become a teacher. In the Spring of 2005 I entered the Multiple Subject Credential Program here at CSUF and completed it that December. Upon receiving my credential I continued substitute teaching until my husband and I moved to Idaho in the summer of 2006. I was lucky enough to get a teaching job for that coming fall, and had a wonderful (and very challenging!) time teaching 1st grade. Unfortunately we didn’t care too much for Idaho and moved back to Southern California in June. Now we are back in a familiar setting with friends and family and are taking advantage of all the great things California has to offer!  I am so excited to be back on campus! CSUF is my home away from home! And furthermore, I am very excited and happy to have the opportunity to work with Freshman Programs this year!

Elisabeth Colcol, Student Service Professional

I currently hold the position of Coordinator of Support Services in the Office of Disabled Student Services at CSUF.  In my capacity as the Coordinator of Support Services, I work closely with students and faculty on campus.  My responsibilities include mentoring students, assisting in teaching career development classes, and counseling students both individually and in group settings.  The students I assist are very diverse culturally and educationally.  In addition, they vary greatly in regards to types of disabilities. My educational background includes a Bachelor and Masters Degree in American Studies, which I earned at CSUF.  I later returned to the university to earn my teaching credential and was awarded a credential in Special Education in 2003.  I had worked for four years as a special education teacher of a 6th, 7th and 8th grade combination class for mild to moderately disabled students a Middle School in Norwalk, California.  The diversity of students in my class required me to meet the individual needs of students with either physical or learning disabilities.  Some of my students were successfully mainstreamed into general education classes, which provided me with the opportunity to work closely with general education teachers and participate in staff collaboration. I believe my individual experience as a student at CSUF has provided me with a unique perspective and insight.  Having been born with a mild cerebral palsy, I understand the different challenges students face while pursuing their academic goals.  As a student, I utilized the services provided by the Disabled Student Services Office and understand how important the Center is in the support of students with disabilities.  I believe that my background and experience will help me to relate as well to the students in the Freshman Programs.

Engineering Computer Science (ECS) Scholars
Instructional Teams

Dr. David Falconer, Faculty Instructor

Bio Coming Soon!

Tonia Teresh, Student Service Professional

Tonia teaches University 100 for the ECS Scholars Learning Community.  In 2006 she joined the CSUF family as the Assistant Dean for Student Affairs in College of Engineering and Computer Science. Tonia attended West Virginia University for both her undergraduate (BSJ in Public Relations) and graduate (MA in Educational Leadership and Administration) degrees.  Her previous positions include serving as Leadership Coordinator at UC Davis, Greek Affairs Coordinator at University of North Florida, and Dance Marathon advisor at West Virginia University. Drawing from her experience as a first-generation college student, Tonia is committed to helping students understand the resources available to facilitate their success.  She is also an advocate for social justice, environmentalism and animal rights.

Miguel Martinez, Student Service Professinal

Bio & Pix Coming Soon!

Interested in Becoming a part of a Freshman Programs Instructional Team?

Freshman Programs continually recruits successful and adventurous educators, among the Faculty (full-time and part-time), and Student Affairs Professionals, to become advocates of success among CSUF first-time-freshmen. Call for applications for the fall semester go out in spring through the campus portal. If you are interested click here  for the Call for Applications. 

Contact Maruth Figueroa at mfigueroa@fullerton.edu or 714-278-3709 if you have any questions.