Belonging at Stanislaus State is built by students who show up — for their peers, their organizations and the broader community.
That spirit was at the center of the Student Leadership Awards, an annual celebration recognizing students, organizations and advisors who go beyond the call of duty to support their community, peers, organizations and University.
Community Engagement and Belonging Director Jesse Magaña said student leaders help turn belonging into action.
“Our students, especially those we celebrate tonight, embody this spirit in remarkable ways,” Magaña said. “They step forward to lead, but they also step back to listen. They create opportunities for others, foster dialogue across differences and work to ensure that our campus is a place where everyone can thrive.”
Associate Vice President and Dean of Students Heather Dunn Carlton said the ceremony offered a moment to recognize student leaders whose work often happens behind the scenes.
“Leadership is not just defined by titles or positions, but by action, integrity and the courage to step forward when it matters most,” Dunn Carlton said. “Each of you has demonstrated those qualities in ways that have strengthened our campus community.”
President Britt Rios-Ellis connected the students’ leadership to the broader impact of service.
“What we witnessed tonight isn’t just about achievement, it’s impact in action,” Rios-Ellis said. “I call it cariño, which is love and justice in action.”
She encouraged students to carry the sense of service, compassion and responsibility they have shown during their time at Stan State into the next chapters of their lives.
“Wherever you go, remember to lead with purpose and with cariño,” she said. “Because when Stan State students and graduates lead, families are uplifted, communities are strengthened, ancestors’ dreams are realized, and the Central Valley rises.”
The celebration continued with the presentation of awards recognizing students, organizations and programs for their contributions to campus life, peer support, service and student success.
Student Leadership Award Honorees
Outstanding Advisor Award: Vincent Campbell
Vincent Campbell, a psychology professor, research mentor and faculty advisor for the Student Organization for Behavioral Analysis, was recognized for his mentorship and impact on student learning. As director of the BASE (Behavior Analytic Services & Education) Lab, Campbell supports students’ academic, professional and personal development while creating hands-on learning opportunities, including an on-campus clinic for children on the autism spectrum. His nominators praised his dedication to students and his commitment to creating a culture of respect and care.
Greek Excellence Award: Isaiah Sanchez
Isaiah Sanchez was recognized for his leadership and engagement in the Fraternity and Sorority Life community. As a member of Nu Alpha Kappa, Sanchez fosters brotherhood and creates space for students to connect through Greek life and cultural identity. His nominators highlighted his reliability, peer support and campus involvement, including his work as a student assistant and Warrior.
Outstanding Service to the College Panhellenic Association: Makenzie McGrath
Makenzie McGrath was honored for her service to the College Panhellenic Association and her ability to build strong partnerships across organizations. Her nominators recognized her thoughtful approach to programming, attention to detail and commitment to creating inclusive and meaningful experiences for the Panhellenic community.
Spirit of Titus Award: Jennifer Frisk and Jiovani Martinez Castillo
Jennifer Frisk was recognized for her leadership, service, inclusion and mentorship. Through her work with Psi Chi as student event coordinator and former president, Frisk helped create welcoming spaces for students while expanding access, strengthening partnerships and enhancing student engagement. She also founded Psychology Student Advocates and supported the growth of new student organizations.
Jiovani Martinez Castillo was honored for his dedication, integrity and commitment to fostering an inclusive campus community. His nominators recognized his extensive service on campus and in the local community, as well as his ability to bring people together and create spaces where others feel welcomed, valued and connected. One nominator noted his “authenticity, warmth and sincere commitment to uplifting others.”
Inclusive Excellence Award: Maggie Devins
Maggie Devins was recognized for her leadership with the Young Democratic Socialists Association, one of the fastest-growing recognized student organizations on campus. Her nominators said Devins helped bring the organization to life with intention, inclusivity and a commitment to service. Under her leadership, YDSA has created space for critical conversations, community building and action on issues affecting the campus and broader region.
Catalyst for Equity and Justice Award: Tory Sumbler
Tory Sumbler, a dual major in biological sciences and political science, was recognized for his academic achievement, leadership and commitment to equity. A McNair Scholar whose research focuses on healthcare access and equity, Sumbler has also served as president of the Black Student Union and director of diversity for ASI. His nominators praised his work toward promoting inclusion, advocacy, student success and creating meaningful and lasting change.
Community Impact Award: Ingrid Ruvalcaba Gómez and Penelope Lee
Ingrid Ruvalcaba Gómez was honored for her leadership in research, service and campus involvement. As an undergraduate researcher, she presented her work at local, state and national conferences, including the Joint Mathematics Meetings, and her team advanced to the CSU-wide research competition. She also serves as president of the Math Club and works as a tutor in the Learning Commons, supporting students with patience and care.
Penelope Lee was recognized for her community impact, advocacy and compassion. A psychology student and McNair Scholar, Lee’s research focuses on substance use and harm reduction. As president of Psi Chi, she has led service initiatives, volunteered with Valley Streetz, organized a clothing drive for unhoused community members and coordinated student participation in the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention walk.
President’s Award for Outstanding Organizational Service: Psi Chi
The members of Psi Chi were recognized for their commitment to service, engagement and collaboration. The organization’s officers supported student success through workshops on careers, graduate school preparation and research opportunities while also coordinating the department’s research symposium each semester. Psi Chi contributed to campus outreach through events such as Warrior Expo and Science Day and their members were recognized for making a lasting impact on both the campus and local community.
