CSUMB honors exceptional students with Dean’s Medal

By Caitlin Fillmore

To celebrate Spring 2025 commencement, five exceptional students will receive the Dean’s Medal. Recipients must achieve a GPA of 3.5 or higher and have shown leadership through significant, innovative contributions to students or the university. 

Cydney Gaither, of Marina, was named the Dean's Medal recipient for the College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences. While a student, Gaither was an active member of the Performing Otters theater club and spent time studying in Hawaii and Spain. 

“I am rich in memories from my experience at CSUMB and abroad, and look forward to keeping in touch with everyone and watching them grow,” Gaither said.

The global studies major plans to continue contributing to CSUMB as an AmeriCorps Volunteer Infrastructure Program member for the campus’ College Corps program.

Sacramento native Sarah Walter is the College of Business medalist. While not anticipating taking leadership roles on campus, the business administration major quickly became president of Theta Alpha Sigma and the Accounting Society.

“Her values align closely with CSUMB’s vision of preparing innovative leaders dedicated to

the public good,” said Shaowen Hua, associate professor and faculty lead of accounting. “[And the COB’s] mission to promote business practices that sustain not only profit but also people and the planet.”

Walter is preparing for a summer auditing internship and studying for her CPA license.

The College of Education selected Laura Bogaard as its honoree. The human development and family science major returned to college after a long absence and plans to use her degree to sharpen her professional focus in the social work sector.

“I have dreamed of continuing and completing my college education for two decades,” Bogaard said. “This award shows my children that you can achieve and accomplish your dreams with hard work, perseverance, and resilience.”

Jomar Munaf is the Dean’s Medal recipient for the College of Science. The biology major plans to pursue a master’s degree in biotechnology management and a career in biotechnology.

Munaf credits his professors' support with the successful culmination of his college experience.

“This award means a lot to me because I transferred to CSUMB with no idea of what I was doing,” the Norwalk, California, native said. “To be recognized speaks volumes for all the help and guidance my professors were able to give me. I feel connected to all the professors that helped me realize and achieve my potential as a student.”

Nursing major Lauren Fox was recognized by the College of Health Sciences and Human Services. The Santa Cruz native chose CSUMB to stay connected and give back to the Central Coast community.

“This award is a reflection of the dedicated and continuous hard work I’ve put into my educational journey with my family and greater community in mind,” said Fox, who is also a Montage Scholar.

Post-CSUMB, Fox plans to focus on her career as a registered nurse and hopes to further her education in the nursing field.