Titan of Justice: Karla Aguirre

Karla Aguirre was raised in fear and uncertainty because of political unrest in her parents’ home country.

Education was her path to the American Dream. As a teen parent, she enrolled in community college and persevered to become the first in her family to earn a college degree, paving the way for other relatives.

“Cal State Fullerton changes the world one student at a time. Professors pressed me forward and showed care through mentoring. My research taught me to recognize injustice and to resist fiercely.”

At Cal State Fullerton, Karla completed her fourth degree — a doctorate in education — and awakened to social justice. Through her mentors and research on educational practices in post-apartheid South Africa, she was empowered to fight against marginalization and strive for equity and opportunity for all.

Today, Karla lives her purpose as a school counselor and founder of a nonprofit youth mentoring program, modeling resilience and championing an equitable future for all.