Katelyn Gambarin

'26 Political Science, 2025-26 president, Associated Students Board of Directors

“I’d like to work in the public sector, either as an elected official or to give back in some capacity. Being involved in Associated Students (AS), as well as our Department of Political Science, has really played an instrumental role in creating that blueprint for me. AS has provided me with many opportunities that have helped me cultivate a lot of skills needed for leadership, whether that’s public speaking, organization or teamwork.

“I’m really grateful to apply those skills in various ways. As for the Department of Political Science, the professors and lecturers are just so incredibly supportive. I feel like the department is a hidden gem within our university. I’m really grateful to the faculty and lecturers who have just done an incredible job teaching us and using their real-life experiences to inform their teaching."

Wayne Jopanda

Assistant professor of sociology and interdisciplinary social sciences

“In my first year as an assistant professor, SJSU supported me by providing a space and process to envision the type of scholar-activist and ethnic studies educator I hope to be. From my first month, I found a passionate community of students, colleagues and community members willing to collaborate towards a collective vision for Asian American Studies and Ethnic Studies. My Asian American Studies program, department and dean have been extremely supportive and have ensured I was never feeling isolated or alone.

“Collaborating with spaces such as the Africana, Asian American, Chicano, & Native American Studies Center (AAACNA), the Filipino Alumni Network, and great student organizations like the League of Filipino Students and Akbayan SJSU has been pivotal in shaping my praxis as a scholar. I am thankful for the mentorship, the community support and the welcoming energy I have received since starting as an assistant professor at SJSU."

Khristine Lugo

’24 MPA, director of special events

“San José State University has been the cornerstone of my professional journey. What began as a role supporting San José State Athletics evolved into a fulfilling career in event management that SJSU has helped shape every step of the way. Through hands-on roles across departments and major university events, I have grown my leadership, planning and organizational skills in real time.

“Earning my master’s in public administration at SJSU further deepened my understanding of public service and institutional operations, giving me the confidence and knowledge to lead high-impact events like President Teniente-Matson’s investiture and large-scale community engagements. The support and trust I have received from mentors, colleagues and campus partners have empowered me not only to build a career here, but also help shape the SJSU experience for others."

Nick Ajluni

’12 BS, ’17 MS Environmental Studies, division manager of utility, financial and business operations

“SJSU provided me with the blueprint for my career by giving me a perfect combination of technical and soft skills to effectively work across my organization, the City of San Jose. As an environmental studies student, I learned technical concepts in environmental policy and protection that I carry with me to this day. Additionally, that major prepared me to be successful in coordinating across disciplines such as engineering, environmental science, law, business, communications and writing."

Vondell Pilcher

’23 BS, '25 MS Speech Language Pathology, speech language pathologist

“San José State has created a blueprint to help me find purpose, in the sense of who I’m going to serve and who I can become. It’s taught me to identify which skills, personal traits and life experiences I can use to benefit others."