This summer, five residential programs are being hosted through Aug. 2. They include:

• Two high school programs, running from June 15-June 28 and July 20-Aug. 2.
• Two middle school programs, running from June 23-June28 and July 13-July 18.
• Parents program from June 27-June 28.

Participants represent a broad range of communities across California. These programs aim to inspire academic excellence, personal growth and college readiness through hands-on learning, mentorship and enrichment activities in a university setting. For the parents who participate in the two-day program, they learn about navigating the education system, accessing support services and fostering a college-going culture at home.

“Our summer residential programs are designed to give students an authentic college experience that goes far beyond academics,” said Pedro Lopez, program manager of California Teaching Fellows Foundation. “By living in dorms, engaging in hands-on classes and building relationships with trained mentors, students not only explore future career pathways but also develop a strong sense of confidence, connection and belonging within a university environment. We want every student to leave feeling inspired and equipped to pursue higher education.”

Students in each program live in Fresno State dorms, attend daily classes and participate in workshops and enrichment activities led by current Teaching Fellows — college students working in expanded learning programs during the academic year. Teaching Fellows staff, who currently hold leadership positions such as site leads and assistant site leads in expanded learning programs, serve as resident advisers. 

“Teaching Fellows Summer University is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience not just for us as staff, but for the students as well. I have deep admiration for every student who travels to Fresno with the courage and curiosity to explore college life, build meaningful connections with peers, instructors, and [residential advisers], and step into a new chapter of growth,” said Lexi Streets, residential adviser for Teaching Fellows Summer University. “TFSU cultivates a genuine sense of belonging and excitement that stays with everyone involved.”

The program tracks include: 

• Health & Fitness Track: Soccer, yoga, boxing, zumba, and strength training.
• English Language Arts Track: Creative writing designed to strengthen literacy skills and build student voice through expression and critical thinking.
• Higher Education Track: College exploration, majors and and career exploration. 
• STEM Track: Computers, drones and aviation, graphic design, and RC engineering.
• Cultural Awareness Track: Folklórico, Latin dance, Making la Banda, DJing, and  hip-hop dance.
• University Life Activities: From movie nights to activities on campus and a field trip to Six Flags, students enjoy a vibrant campus experience that fosters connection, confidence, and unforgettable memories beyond the classroom.

In addition to the on-campus experience, students will be invited to participate in two follow-up university field trips during the 2025–2026 academic year, continuing their exposure to California State University campuses and higher education pathways.

For more information about Teaching Fellows Summer University or ways to support its mission, contact Natalie Dodson at natalie.dodson@ctff.us 

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For many young musicians, it will be the first time performing in a venue internationally recognized for its acoustics and architecture – a unique reward that students experience every summer after two weeks of intense study, practice and rehearsals.

The Fresno Summer Orchestra Academy (FOOSA), an international music program, is back with three music programs for all levels of student musicians and several evenings of public performances. The intensive festival culminates in three free and public concerts.

The Symphony Orchestra and Chamber Orchestra Concert is at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, June 26, at the Fresno State Concert Hall. The FOOSA Symphony Orchestra is composed of middle school through college students looking to expand their orchestral experience. The Chamber Orchestra, a half-day program, is made up of young string players, typically under 14 years of age.

The FOOSA Philharmonic will hold two “Rites and Reveries” concerts under the direction of Dr. Thomas Loewenheim, FOOSA artistic director and director of orchestras at Fresno State. The philharmonic is composed of pre-professional student musicians and internationally recognized faculty. 

The philharmonic program includes “Pelleas and Melisande, Op. 5” by Arnold Schoenberg (1874-1951) and “Le Sacre du printemps (The Rite of Spring)” by Igor Stravinsky (1882-1971). The performance at the Walt Disney Concert Hall adds “Sinfonía No. 1 ‘My Great Dream,’” by Juan Pablo Contreras (born 1987). 

“Audiences are in for an unforgettable evening of music that is as emotionally powerful as it is technically brilliant,” said Loewenheim. 

The first performance of “Rites and Reveries” is at 8 p.m. Friday, June 27, at the Walt Disney Concert Hall in downtown Los Angeles. Tickets are free with a reservation. 

The orchestra returns to the Valley for a second performance at 4 p.m. Sunday, June 29, at the William Saroyan Theatre in downtown Fresno. Standard tickets are free, or patrons can purchase tickets to guarantee specific section seating while supporting FOOSA. 

FOOSA’s slogan, “Bringing the world to Fresno and Fresno to the world,” is embodied in its international faculty, skilled, world-class musicians who provide transformative experiences for young, dedicated and talented musicians.

“FOOSA is critical to our region because it exposes young musicians from the Central Valley to the highest possible musicianship, working with faculty from great music schools and conservatories — right in their own backyard. This transformative festival not only builds the local talent of our youth but also raises the profile of the university and Fresno internationally,” Fresno State President Saúl Jiménez-Sandoval said in the program letter.

A collaboration between the Youth Orchestras of Fresno and Fresno State, the two-week summer intensive program is designed for musicians who are willing to dedicate themselves to a demanding daily schedule. 

“What also sets FOOSA apart is its emphasis on mentorship and community-building,” Loewenheim said. “Every student in the top-level program serves as a coach and role model for younger participants. This structure fosters a strong sense of collaboration, leadership and giving back—helping to inspire the next generation of musicians while reinforcing each student’s own learning.”

The program includes orchestra rehearsals, daily lessons, masterclasses, a professional orchestral recording session and numerous performance opportunities.

“We are very pleased to be collaborating with the Youth Orchestras of Fresno in hosting this 2025 FOOSA Festival. Since its founding in 1911, Fresno State has promoted the study of music as a central part of the liberal arts tradition of fostering students’ artistic and intellectual growth, and the College of Arts and Humanities is proud of the increasing musical excellence now reflected in the department’s elevation to a School of Music,” said Dr. Honora Chapman, dean of the College of Arts and Humanities. 

Throughout the two-week festival, FOOSA will present free recitals and student showcases nearly every evening at the Fresno State Concert Hall, giving the community additional opportunities to experience the remarkable talent of these young musicians.

(Photo: FOOSA performs in the Walt Disney Concert Hall on June 21, 2024. Photo by Benjamin Chua.)

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All campus offices will be closed on Thursday. Summer classes are not scheduled to meet face to face or synchronously on Juneteenth. Students should consult with their professors regarding instructional activities and schedules. 

The Student Health and Counseling Center will be closed June 19, reopening at 7 a.m. June 20. Medical advice and counseling is available by calling the main line of the Student Health and Counseling Center at 559.278.2734. Students experiencing a medical emergency should call 911. Students experiencing a mental health crisis should call 911, or call or text the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988, or go to Exodus Crisis Stabilization Center (4411 E. Kings Canyon Road) in Fresno.

Other resources:

• The Amendola Family Student Cupboard will reopen at 10 a.m. Friday, June 20.
• The Kennel Bookstore will reopen at 10 a.m. Friday, June 20. 
• The Fresno State Library will reopen at 8 a.m. Friday, June 20. 
• The Student Recreation Center will reopen at 6 a.m. Friday, June 20. 
• The Fresno State Passport Place will reopen for appointments on Friday, June 20. Additional information is available at FresnoPassports.com.

Campus emergencies should be reported to the University Police Department at 559.278.8400.

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Established in 1993, the President’s Medal of Distinction is the highest non-degree award presented by Fresno State. It is presented to citizens of the region, state or nation whose contribution in the area of professional achievements or public service of national or international significance, or represent a contribution of great significance to the university.
The honor is awarded to those who give not only of their time or money, but are worthy of emulation through their leadership.

Ricchiuti, a major figure in Fresno State fundraising, was honored during the September 2025 Foundation Board of Governors Dinner. Jiménez-Sandoval said this about her at the dinner:
“Vinci, you have been a cornerstone of this university. Since your days as a student, you have shown an enduring commitment to your alma mater. From serving on Dr. Harold Haak’s Blue Ribbon Committee and leading the Fresno State Alumni Association to your current role as chair of the Fresno State Foundation Board of Governors, you have given selflessly to support our mission. Your leadership on so many boards and committees exemplifies your dedication, and I know you continue to devote countless hours every week to Fresno State.”

Ricchiuti graduated from Fresno State in 1981. A leader in the Ricchiuti family farming business, She was recognized with the Arthur Safstrom Service award in 1992, and a Top Dog award in 2001. In 2021, she received the Leon S. Peters Award for outstanding leadership and philanthropy.

“Receiving the President’s Medal of Distinction from my alma mater is incredibly humbling,” Ricchiuti said. “Over the years, working side by side with esteemed community leaders and university representatives has been extremely rewarding. I proudly share this recognition with my fellow Foundation Board of Governors; their expertise and steadfast commitment have been vital in our mission to advance student success. I have long considered supporting Fresno State a privilege and wholeheartedly look forward to continuing my service.”

Kapoor was honored on May 16, during the commencement ceremony for the College of Arts and Humanities. Jiménez-Sandoval said this during the ceremony:
“Since 1967, Dr. Kapoor has been a foundational figure at Fresno State, serving the university for 55 years as a dedicated faculty member and earning the distinction of professor emeritus in the Department of Social Work Education. Among his many accomplishments, he founded and served as the inaugural director of Fresno State’s Peace and Conflict Studies Program, an initiative that brought his deep commitment to peace into academic practice.”

In 1990, Kapoor established one of Fresno State’s most cherished landmarks — the Fresno State Peace Garden, which he considers one of his most significant accomplishments.
In 2022, Kapoor received the Arthur Safstrom Service award, and, in 2023, he was named a Social Work Pioneer by the National Association of Social Workers. His work has also been honored by peace organizations across the country.

“My deepest and heartfelt thanks to President Saúl Jiménez-Sandoval for awarding me this prestigious Medal of Distinction,” Kapoor said. “It means so much to me and my family. I consider this recognition also to be recognition of my colleagues and students, whose steadfast support and encouragement over the past 55 years have inspired and empowered me to be what I am today.”

Past recipients of the Presidential Medal of Distinction can be found on fresnostate.edu.

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ESPN3 will broadcast the events live each night from the Ford Wyoming Center starting June 17. A follow-up show recapping the event will air on ESPNU at 5 p.m. Aug. 18 and at noon Aug. 22.

After a runner-up team finish in the West Coast Region, the men’s team ranks 23rd nationally and will make its third trip as a team under seventh-year head coach Uhuru Adem.

In the national individual rankings, junior Tyler Jones (of Friant) is the top-ranked Fresno State athlete with a No. 3 ranking in the team roping header season standings and a No. 22 ranking in the all-around category. 

Jones will also compete in saddle-bronc riding after he topped the region’s team roping header standings, and also ranked third in the all-around and fourth in saddle bronc.

Sophomore Tanner Kerr (Red Bluff) stood 11th in the all-around rankings and first in the region. He will compete in tie-down roping after leading the region, as well as ranking No. 7 in team roping and No. 8 in steer wrestling.

Fellow Fresno State newcomer and junior Brayden Liberio (Caliente) also ranked ninth in the nation’s bull riding standings.

Senior Wilson Redfeairn (Bakersfield) will compete in team roping after ranking third in the region in the header category.

Jones competed as a freshman and sophomore at the College National Finals Rodeo, while the other three men’s entries will make their event debuts. 

Two women will also compete — junior Emma Jensen (Prather) and sophomore Sage Pearce (Santa Maria) — after they ranked second in the region rankings. 

Both also rank top 15 nationally — Jensen in barrel racing (10th) and Pearce in breakaway roping (14th).

Pearce competed at the same event last year and helped Fresno State earn a women’s team invite and No. 17 national ranking at the end of the 2024 regular season. 

This year, the women’s team was one position shy of a College National Finals Rodeo return with a No. 3 finish in the West Coast regular season rankings behind Cal Poly (No. 1) and Cuesta College (No. 2).

Students who are ranked top three in their events from the combined season results automatically qualify for the collegiate nationals from the 11 regions across the nation.

The Bulldoggers are coached by Uhuru Adem, a two-time, collegiate national finals saddle bronc qualifier for Fresno State. Under his guidance, the men’s team posted a No. 13 finish in 2022, and the women’s team placed 19th that season.

The men’s team also placed 17th nationally at the event in his first season in 2019 and featured Colton Campbell, the all-around category champion and tie-down roping reserve champion.

The program started in 1946 and officially became a club in 1949 — the same year the first collegiate national finals were held in San Francisco.More information on the team is available at its Facebook and Instagram pages.

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In high school, the Firebaugh native would shadow his brother, Gustavo Magana, who began working as a pest control adviser for J.R. Simplot after he received a Fresno State plant science degree himself in 2017.

On their visits to various farms and fields, Gustavo would share his knowledge with his brother, 11 years younger, as he scouted for various pests or illnesses that were affecting crops. 

This experience amplified Juan’s own summer work as a laborer in high school and as a field scout in college. Working with Simplot, he has helped grow cotton, almonds, alfalfa, corn, pistachios, sweet potatoes, grapes and walnuts. 

“(In high school) I would have much rather been outside and seeing things grow than staying at home,” Magana said. “I loved riding along with him since you can see and learn something new every day in the fields. Fresno State seemed a natural way to make this a career with its reputation and ties to Central Valley agriculture.”

The younger Magana’s drive to add new agricultural experience also led him to join the Plant Science Club two years ago, which recently led to his 10th-place individual finish at the Soil Science Society of America’s National Soil Judging Contest on May 1 and 2, hosted by the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point.

Magana tallied 756 points at the national event, which featured 107 competitors – the highest finish by a Fresno State individual since Mark Castanon placed fifth overall in 2018. 

“Juan’s performance was incredible, but not surprising,” said Michael Sowers, the coach of the soil judging team and a plant science faculty member. “This past semester he has honed in on his hand-texturing skills, and even collected soil samples from farms that he worked on and brought them to class for practice. That extra dedication has definitely paid off.”

Other Fresno State competitors at the event included seniors Hannah Chamberlin (58th, 659) and William Dowling (80th, 627) and junior Mariela Perez-Garcia (96th, 575). 

Those scores helped Fresno State place 16th overall as a team against the nation’s top agricultural programs, many of which entered students concentrated on soil science degrees.

Competitors were tested on their ability to identify, evaluate, classify and describe soil profiles in individual competition at nearby Wisconsin Lions Camp in Rosholt, Wisconsin, and at a nearby farm for the team portion.

Each individual’s score was based on judges’ evaluations of their descriptions and scorecards of three soil pits. In the team judging event, members from each team evaluated two soil pits and their scores were compiled.

The University of Idaho took top team honors ahead of the University of Delaware (second) and the University of Maryland (third). JosiLee Scott of West Virginia finished as the top individual overall, ahead of second-place finisher Bethany Knutsen of the University of Delaware and third-place finisher Emmeline Seest of Purdue University.

Competitors arrived earlier in the week and began studying the region’s soils in preparation for the competition. As they learned about glacial till and outwash soils, which are derived from glacier advances and recedences, they also learned how the soils impact potato production, which is the main crop in the region.

“The team was challenged by completely different soil types and topographies than what they are used to studying in California, but it did not stop them from excelling,” Sowers said. “After their strong showing at regionals with one of their best team scores, the team continued to bond and push each other to do their best this spring in their classes and labs.”

Fresno State qualified for the national event based on its first-place team finish at the Region 6 Soil Judging Competition on Nov. 2 near Las Cruces, New Mexico. In that event, Fresno State claimed six of the top-10 individual places and the overall title courtesy of senior Tanner Ozuna.

Other team members included seniors Aaron Delgado, Victor Fraga, Jimena Quezada, Tanner Ozuna, Gabriela Rios and junior Mary Travioli.

Two additional California schools from the regional event earned national invites. Cal Poly-San Luis Obispo, which placed second in the region, placed fifth nationally at the Wisconsin event. UC Davis, which placed third in the region, took 23rd nationally.

Fresno State competitors are part of a plant science soil judging class taught by Sowers, who also works as a managing soil scientist at Valley Science and Engineering, a Valmont company. 

The course emphasizes USDA methods for describing and interpreting soils for their capabilities to prepare students for careers in a wide range of agricultural and natural resource-related areas such as the Natural Resource Conservation Service, U.S. Forestry Service, Bureau of Land Management, private farm management and environmental consulting.

In preparation for the regional and national events, the team studied soil profiles in Central Valley locations and utilized support from Tulare County Resource Conservation District, Travioli Family Farms, Vecchio Farms, plant science faculty emeritus Dr. Bruce Roberts, and plant science administrator Marlene Miyasaki. The supporters also contributed funds to purchase equipment and assist with competition travel costs.

Sowers helped guide the team to other national trips in 2024 (24th), 2018 (15th), 2017 (20th) and 2016 (18th).

Magana also competed at the national competition in 2024 and led the team with an 80th-place individual finish at the event hosted by Iowa State University.

After receiving his degree at the Jordan College of Agricultural Sciences and Technology commencement at Fresno State on May 16, Magana can now focus on pursuing his pest control and certified crop adviser licenses. He’s also considering applying for jobs in farm management or sales, since he knows that the skill sets can be shared across career fields.

“Soil judging has helped me come a long way,” Magana said. “I struggled with some of the concepts initially, but the passion and knowledge of our coach carried over to the team as he challenged us with new things every class. Going to nationals was a nice way to end our semester before we received our degrees and have one more memorable experience together.”

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Oct. 3-11: “A Raisin in the Sun,” by Lorraine Hansberry and directed by Thomas-Whit Ellis
Set on Chicago’s South Side, Lorraine Hansberry’s celebrated play concerns the divergent dreams and conflicts in three generations of the Younger family: son Walter Lee, his wife Ruth, his sister Beneatha, his son Travis, and matriarch Lena. When her deceased husband’s insurance money comes through, Mama Lena dreams of moving to a new home and a better neighborhood in Chicago. Walter Lee, a chauffeur, has other plans: buying a liquor store and being his own man. Beneatha dreams of medical school. Hansberry’s portrait of one family’s struggle to retain dignity in a harsh and changing world is a searing and timeless document of hope and inspiration.

Nov. 14-22: “Godspell,” based on the “Gospel According to St. Matthew” book by John Michael Tebelak, music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz and directed by J. Daniel Herring
A small group of performers help Jesus Christ share his parables through an energetic mix of games, storytelling and sharp comic timing — reimagined for today’s world. This updated take on the classic musical “Godspell” blends pop culture nods, fresh perspectives and a wide range of musical styles — from pop to vaudeville — to bring new life to timeless messages. As the story moves from joyful celebration to the emotional weight of the Last Supper and Crucifixion, Jesus’ teachings of kindness, tolerance and love resonate with a bold, contemporary edge.

Feb. 13-21: “Contemporary Dance Ensemble,” artistic director, Kenneth Balint
This annual contemporary dance concert highlights contemporary classics, creative innovation and collaborations between students and faculty.

March 13-April 21: “Fade,” by Tanya Saracho and directed by Gina Sandí-Díaz
When Lucia, a Mexican-born novelist, gets her first TV writing job, she feels a bit out of place on the white, male-dominated set. Lucia quickly becomes friends with the only other Latino around, a janitor named Abel. As Abel shares his stories with Lucia, similar plots begin to find their way into the TV scripts that Lucia writes. A Fresno premiere, “Fade” is a play about class and race within the Latinx community, as well as at large, and how status does not change who you are at your core.

May 1-9: “Twelfth Night,” by William Shakespeare and directed by Michelle Bellaver
Shipwrecked and separated from her twin brother, Viola washes ashore in the land of Illyria and disguises herself as a man to work for the Duke Orsino. But things quickly spiral into romantic chaos when Viola falls for Orsino, who’s in love with the Countess Olivia, who then falls for Viola in disguise. Full of mistaken identities, unrequited love and hilarious twists, “Twelfth Night” is Shakespeare’s witty, heartwarming celebration of love in all its beautiful confusion.

University Theatre Mainstage season subscriptions go on sale Monday, July 14. Individual performance tickets go on sale Sept. 1. Visit fresnostate.edu/theatrearts to stay updated on when ticket sales go live.

Story by Miguel A Gastelum

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• Super Scholars (serving foster youth) beginning June 8.
• Migrant English Language Development Institute, beginning June 13.
• Migrant Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM) Institute, beginning June 13.
• Migrant Summer Universities 1, 2 and 3, beginning June 15.
• Migrant Summer Bridge, beginning June 23.
• Central Valley Summer Programs.

This series of programming is happening in conjunction with the California Department of Education’s Summer Food Service Program, which provides meals to participating students for the duration of their program. 

Through its partnership with the Summer Food Service Program, Fresno State can offer students attending day programs a meal at lunchtime, while students attending residential programs will be offered meals for breakfast, lunch and dinner. 

For more information about these summer programs, contact Martin Luna at 559.278.4768 or martinluna@csufresno.edu.

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A short ceremony will begin at 10 a.m., including speeches from community leaders and campus advocates, with a focus on reflection, connection and collaboration. 

For more information, contact Félix Vargas, coordinator of LGBTQ+ Programs and Services at Fresno State’s Cross Cultural and Gender Center, at felixvargas@mail.fresnostate.edu. 

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A group of Renaissance Scholars visited Macy’s in Fashion Fair Mall in April to work with personal stylists during a two-hour private session before the store opened to the public. Each scholar received their own $250 gift card.

Established in 2008, the Renaissance Scholars Program is dedicated to serving Fresno State students who have experienced foster care at any point in their lives or are certified independent youth. The program currently serves 138 undergraduate students and 13 post baccalaureate students.  

Among the students who participated in the private shopping experience was Kina M. Moua, a senior who worked as a social media student assistant in University Marketing and Communications and has since earned her degree in media, communications and journalism with an emphasis in advertising and public relations.

“What made this experience so special was how personal it felt. Macy’s didn’t just give us clothes, they gave us confidence and support for our next steps in life. We even had stylists, Katie and Joey, who helped us choose outfits that reflected both our personalities and our professional paths,” Moua said.

“That level of care meant a lot. It showed an understanding that everyone comes from different backgrounds, and that how we show up matters, especially in fields where creativity is our identity. I loved how seen and supported I felt.”

Through an internship at Archer & Hound Advertising, Moua was able to gain professional experience prior to earning her degree, assisting in project management and creation of marketing materials. 

“It’s like the build-up for a surprise party, and in the end, we get to surprise the client with the reveal of our great work, and I’ve loved every second of it with the hands-on learning experience that’s strengthened my skills and given me a better understanding of how the creative industry operates,” Moua said. “Beyond my current role, I’ve also been actively pursuing other opportunities with start-ups, companies like Airbnb, Snapchat, Electronic Arts, and creative places that align with my passion for brand strategy and digital engagement to let me keep growing.”

As she continues to grow professionally, Moua aims to work in digital communications and brand strategy for organizations that mix creativity with purpose in the entertainment, tech, beauty and lifestyle industries. She said, “I want to be a part of campaigns that allow people to feel seen, inspired, and connected in the most meaningful way.”

The Renaissance Scholars Program plans to return to Macy’s with more students in June for another private shopping experience. 

“[Renaissance Scholars] has been a huge part of my college journey. As someone who grew up without parental support and as the first in my family to attend college, I thought I understood what it meant to face challenges because life had already thrown a lot. But college came with a different kind of chaos,” Moua said.

“There were moments I wasn’t sure if I could keep going with all the different and new life experiences that I kept facing, but programs like [Renaissance Scholars] made sure I didn’t have to go through it alone. They help guide me and have shown me the true definition and purpose of motivation while pursuing a degree.”

For more information on how to support the Renaissance Scholars Program and other student support services with the Division of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management, contact David Hembree at 559.278.5052 or dhembree@csufresno.edu.

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