Page 2 - Access Magazine 2023

Message from
THE DEAN
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© 2023 California State University, Fresno
Higher education creates pathways for intellectual growth, career readiness and self-exploration. Often, we consult our family, friends, and role models to decide which pathways to explore. Our
journeys are not solely for ourselves; rather, our growth and enrichment is shared with our supporters and improves the community in which we live.
In this issue of Access we will celebrate the academic achievement of in- dividuals who have overcome special challenges to reach their academic goals. Our students are encouraged by supportive family and friends. Below, I highlight just two of our many stories of student success made possible through supportive networks.
Christine "Chris" Gromis began her journey toward a baccalaureate degree in 1975. Work opportunities soon pulled her away from her studies. She re-enrolled at Fresno State in 2000, and for five years took a course or two each semester. However, work again pulled her away from the unit load necessary to reach 120 credits, the minimum for a baccalaureate degree. Then, Gromis learned about Continuing and Global Education’s Reconnect program, which is designed for working professionals to complete their Fresno State degree. Gromis, like all working adults, has unique educational needs, which is why the Reconnect program is designed in 8 weeks courses and is fully online. In two years, Chris – now in her 60’s – walked across the graduation stage to accept her Fresno State degree in Liberal Arts. I join Gromis’ family lauding her determination, hard-work, and success.
Chandrahas Vishnumolakala was born with a severe form of spina bifida. The severity of the disease prevented Chandrahas from being able to walk even slight distances. But Chandrahas was not ever asked if he ‘was capable’ of doing anything, he was expected to do everything. Chandrahas’ grand- father carried him to school each day, normalizing Chandrahas’ access to education. And when it was time for Chandrahas to consider university, his support networks fueled his self-confidence. With the encouragement of his family, he moved to Fresno to pursue a degree in Computer Science, testing his bravery as he sought a Fresno State degree without the established sup- port networks he had back home. Today, when he is not riding an electric bicycle to class, you just might see Chandrahas carried on the shoulders of his Fresno State family, just as his grandfather did in India.
As you read through the pages of this Access magazine, I offer you the opportunity to consider your cheerleaders, your supporters, and those that carried you through your academic or professional pursuits on their shoul- ders. Who in your life uplifted your spirit and facilitated your successes? Or perhaps more importantly, who in your life have you shown support, or created opportunity for intellectual growth, career readiness and self-explo- ration? For whom do you create access and opportunity? Chris Gromis’s story reminds us that it is never too late to inspire!
Kind regards,
Scott D. Moore, P h.D.
2 California State University, FRESNO