Graduating Class

Congratulations RRS Class of 2024

Cecilia Cao — Thu, 17 Apr 2025 17:50:28 +0000

Congratulations RRS Class of 2024

Author: Staff

June 24, 2024

"Be the leader you'd want to follow."

I am elated to be graduating with my B.A. in Communications and a minor in Race & Resistance. During my 4 years, I served on the first national Black Student Union's executive board as the Financial Officer and President. I have become a well-known student leader across our campus and pride myself on being that girl who gets things done! I am leaving my alma mater behind as a Magna Cum Laude graduate, debt-free, and heading to the East Coast. I am looking to the future as I begin my pursuit of a career in higher education in Ithaca, New York.

— Victoria Aloe Bell
Communication Studies, B.A.
Race & Resistance Studies, Minor

Thank you to all my classmates and professors here at SFSU and at CCSF that taught me and helped me grow as a person!

Thank you so much to all my loved ones who have supported me throughout my life and especially the last four years! <3 <3 <3

— Schyler M. Hanzas
Race & Resistance Studies, B.A.

“Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; And lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, And he shall direct thy paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6

Taking in Race and Resistance Studies as my minor was probably the best decision I made. Navigating through injustices and appreciating the diversity this school has to offer has made my years here in SFSU so much more memorable. From classes to the students, learning has been nothing but a blessing and I can not thank enough the professors and classmates that have impacted my education and athletic career here.

To my Mom and Dad, who have given so much of their lives for me to follow my dreams. To my little brother, who has made me so proud and allows me to be a role model to them. To Angel, for supporting me and encouraging me to reach for anything I put my mind to. And to my other family members, who have been on my college journey, thank you for being present and showing me so much love on my achievements.

I am forever grateful to be called a Gator!

— Catherine Ashley Flores
Criminal Justice, B.A.
Race & Resistance Studies, Minor
Queer Ethnic Studies, Minor
Sociology, Minor

“You were not just born to center your entire existence on work and labor. You were born to heal, to grow, to be of service to yourself and community, to practice, to experiment, to create, to have space, to dream, and to connect.” ― Tricia Hersey

From Palestine to Mexico, all the walls must go. Viva Palestina!

Race and Resistance Studies has healed my inner child. It has validated all my experiences. It has taught me that love, compassion, and empathy are not only emotions but tools of liberation. My Professors, friends, peers, and classes have ignited a fire in me that will never be burnt out but will spread throughout my future work.

To my parents who have sacrificed so much for me to be here. To my sisters who keep me grounded and fuel my passion. To my grandma, you are the center of my work, you keep the family strong and our ancestors
stories alive.

I am an Inland Empire baby so a huge shout to my I.E community, it’s my experiences there that shaped who I am today.

— Kathryn Constantino
Race & Resistance, B.A.
Political Science, B.A.
Latinx Studies, Minor

" If there is one thing I am willing to bet on it’s myself." — Beyoncé

This is for my family! Thank you Mom and Dad for everything you do. I love you Dez, Jr. and Soraya for being the best siblings. Big shoutout to Larry and the Peoples Office EP 213!!

YOUR GIRL DID IT!!!!!!!

— Alexis Roman
Race & Resistance Studies, B.A.
Criminal Justice, B.A.

It’s been a long journey to get where I am now as a first gen queer Mexicana.

I am so incredibly thankful to be graduating as an RRS major and have made connections with faculty and students alike. Not only has RRS helped me feel validated in my life experience, but seen and empowered. Much love or everyone in the RRS department !! 🤎

— Vanessa Torres
Race & Resistance Studies, B.A.
Sociology, B.A.

First Generation Graduate! Viva Mexico!

I am a blended student here at SFSU. My major is Sociology. Minor: Race & Resistance. Masters in Gerontology.

Born and raised in LA. First generation graduate! Viva Mexico! Gracias a mi familia Ama, Apa, y Chuy por todo el amor y apoyo.

— Valerie Luna-Franco
Gerontology, M.A.
Sociology, B.A.
Race & Resistance, Minor

“La Persistencia bate La Resistencia"

— Yoko April Tamada
Race & Resistance Studies, B.A.
Cinema, B.A.
Asian American Studies, Minor
Queer Ethnic Studies, Minor

"We need weapons of mass construction, of mass love." — Assata Shakur

I am forever grateful for the past four years I have had, as a student in the Race & Resistance Department. It has taught me endless lessons, introduced me to amazing people and has allowed me to grow in ways I never expected. I am here today not only to celebrate my accomplishments but to give roses to those who have empowered me every step of the way.

For my siblings who will forever inspire me. My parents whose support I carried along the way. My professors' whom which I wouldn’t be standing here today. Lastly, for my community, from across the Bay Bridge and on school campus, thank you making each place feel like home.

Viva Palestina Libre, Isang Bagsak

— Karla Vanessa Muñiz Alvarez
Race & Resistance Studies, B.A.
Latinx Studies, Minor
Studio Art, Minor

“Where there is repression, there is resistance.” — Leila Khaled

FREE PALESTINE TIL IT’S BACKWARDS!!!

— Adhila Bukhari
Race & Resistance Studies, B.A.
Liberal Studies, B.A.

Para todos todo! Y ya basta!

Bella is a 2^nd gen Chicana from Los Angeles! Raised by educators who taught her about social justice and the fight for liberation. Bella is forever grateful and indebted to the community she has found at SFSU from Mela de San Pancho & GUPS. Bella is a proud member of Sigma Lambda Gamma National Sorority Inc.

Bella is continuing her studies at SFSU by pursuing an M.A. in Ethnic Studies in the fall.

Bella hopes to continue to honor her mother, Radha, every day. Thank you to my family and chosen family in SF.

— Bella Martinez-Bernal
Communication Studies, B.A.
Race & Resistance, B.A.

“History is the study of change, and if we are a product of that change, then history is the study of us.” — Mustafa Popal

Our education does not begin or end in a classroom. We learn from those before us, those here with us today, and those who will come after. I learn from all our interconnected struggles, love and solidarity from Palestine, to Congo, to Sudan, to the Philippines, to the Bay.

Thank you to my parents, Virginia & Manuel, and brother, Kuya Lester, for supporting me through my college education. Your love and care are important pillars in this journey and in my life. I love you!

— Maggie Mendoza de Guzman
Race and Resistance Studies, B.A.
Queer and Trans Ethnic Studies, Minor

Race and resistance has taught me a lot about myself and the future I want to create for the youth of today.

Molly Gutierrez is a first generation graduate with roots from Oaxaca and Jalisco.

Race and resistance has taught me a lot about myself and the future I want to create for the youth of today. I am forever grateful for this experience and the community it has introduced me to. I would like to thank everyone who stood by my side throughout this journey. For without their support, this wouldn’t be possible.

— Molly Gutierrez
Race & Resistance, B.A.
Journalism, Minor
Marketing, Minor

— Rhoel Paragas
Asian American Studies, B.A.
Race & Resistance Studies, Minor

immense gratitude to everyone who helped on this journey

grew up in Watsonville, CA
sober 11+ years & active in various recovery communities
plans to continue to learn from & help others. travel, & contribute to the liberation of all peoples

— Seanna Lea Lanagan
Cinema, B.A.
Race & Resistance Studies, Minor

“Be the change you wish to see in the world.” — Ghandi

I want to give a special shoutout to Larry! Thank you for everything.

Thank you to my family and friends who helped support me through these 4 years.

LOVE OVER HATE #nonviolence

— Jason Williams
Criminal Justice Studies, B.A.
Race & Resistance Studies, Minor

"who are we as human beings if we ignore the suffering of others?"

a brown girl born and raised in the Bay, with roots in Honduras.

Thank you to the love and resilience of my parents, Herminio & Nidia, and the continuous support of my family, friends and mentors. I would not be here without you today.

free palestine

— Leana Michele Umanzor Carcamo
Psychology, B.A.
Criminal Justice Studies, Minor
Race & Resistance Studies, Minor

“There is no better teacher than adversity. Every defeat, every heartbreak, every loss, contains its own seed, its own lesson on how to improve your performance the next time.” — Malcolm X

I would like to take this time to thank my family for teaching me the true meaning of hard work. From the fifteen hour shifts to work on 4 hours of sleep. I was taught to never give up and fight for what I want. And boy I definitely had to fight for this degree. I take great pride being your son and brother and I hope you take great pride in me. I also I want to give thanks to EP 213. When I got on campus I was looking for my people and I am glad I found them in y'all.

— Fares Muthana
Broadcast and Electronic Communication Arts, B.A
Race & Resistance Studies, Minor
History, Minor

“There is no better adversity. Every defeat, every heartbreak, every loss, contains its own seed, it’s own lesson on how to improve your performance next time.” — Malcolm X

To my family & love ones — physically & spiritually present — I love you & forever grateful for the pure love & guidance.

To every instructor, advisor, peer — thank you for the support, advice & all around love given.

To myself — You did it! You reached for the stars & landed alongside them. Next stop, the moon <3

— Kymber S. Gastinell
General Biology, B.A.
Race & Resistance Studies, Minor

— Georgia Thomsen
Race & Resistance Studies, B.A.

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Graduating Class

Congratulations RRS Class of 2023

Cecilia Cao — Fri, 26 May 2023 23:09:28 +0000

Congratulations RRS Class of 2023

Author: RRS Staff

May 26, 2023

“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” — Maya Angelou

My professors in this department and those adjacent to it made me feel parts of myself I would have forgotten. Through the many lessons, readings, and deep thinking, I am leaving this institution ready to share this knowledge and live committed to creating heaven on Earth with my kin. This degree does not define me. The love and support my chosen family, community, friends, and mentors is what empowered me to grave this institution.

— Violet(a) Isabel Vasquez
Race & Resistance, B.A.
Queer and Trans Ethnic Studies, Minor

The RRS courses I have taken have not only deepened my understanding but deepened my passion for and drive to do this work.

Thank you to my professors and my classmates. Thank you, Alan, you’ve shaped the framework I’m building to become a therapist. Thank you to everyone who has helped me get here and has helped me get into my master’s program. And for Dana and Zola, I did this for you as much as I did this for me. You’ve made everything brighter.

— Brenna Miller
Labor & Employment Studies, B.A.
Counseling, Minor
Queer Ethnic Studies, Minor

This is for my raza.

Thank you mom and dad for all your sacrifice. To my ancestors that gave me the strength to make it to this moment, thank you. Thank you to SFSU, Metro Program, professors, and mentors that attributed to my success, I’ll never forget the power of ethnic studies. I’m proud to be a brown and educated chicana, long live the raza and the College of Ethnic Studies.

— Briana Elizabeth Torres
Political Science, B.A.
Education, Minor
Race & Resistance Studies, Minor

“Dialogue cannot exist, however, in the absence of profound love for the world and for people… Because love is an act of courage, not of fear, love is commitment to others… It must generate acts of freedom; otherwise it is not love… If I do not love the world, if I do not love life — if I do not love people — I cannot enter into dialogue.” —Paulo Freire

My big brother was my first Ethnic Studies teacher. The streets of southside Stockton — where I was born and raised, my first classroom and exposures to mutual aid and community care. My parents, Jocelyn & Sofronio, were the first cultural bearers of our Ilokano culture I met in this life. I knew these things already because I have lived it, but this education simply gave me the language to articulate what I have known my whole life. Solidarity to us all from Palestine to the Philippines, especially here in Yelamu — the Indigenous name to the OG land stewards Ohlone peoples for so-called “San Francisco” where this institution resides.

— Jaelyn Galasinao Sanidad
Race & Resistance Studies, B.A.
Race, Ethnicity, and Health, B.A.
Queer Ethnic Studies, Minor

I didn’t know the Queer and Trans Ethnic Studies minor existed until my second to last semester at SFSU.

To my surprise, I had already completed all of the required courses. I was just naturally drawn to this field of study. I’m so grateful for the opportunity the RRS department has provided me to dive deeper into what I’m passionate about.

— Alexandra “Kitty” McNeill
Women & Gender Studies, B.A.
Queer & Trans Ethnic Studies, Minor
Human Sexuality Studies, Minor

I didn’t find out about the Queer Ethnic Studies minor until I was almost finished with my studies at SFSU.

I was happy to find that I had almost finished all the requirements and was able to complete the minor while learning something that wasn’t part of my major. Starting school after years away was a challenge that I didn’t realize that was up for. I am grateful for the support of my family and friends and the SFSU. Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to be a part of this field of study. Everyone I have had the pleasure of coming in contact with during my education has been wonderful, inclusive and helpful.

— Denise Marie Lavelle Lauron
English Literature, B.A.
Queer Ethnic Studies, Minor

RRS has revealed my purpose. Now it’s time to change the world.

— Leslie D. Townsend
Race & Resistance, B.A.
Queer & Trans Ethnic Studies, Minor

“You never know how strong you can be until being strong is the only choice you have left.” —Tupac Amaru Shakur

This year has taught me many things. The most important, to cherish and honor the little moments, so cheers to this moment and to everyone who has believed in me. We did it! A special thanks to my daughter Angel Baby “Stinky” Nala and partner for life Jerome.

— Pelesani Sua
Labor & Employment, B.A.
Counseling, Minor
Critical Pacific Islands & Oceania Studies, Minor

I am forever grateful for the wonderful faculty and amazing courses I have taken within the Race & Resistance Studies department.

Moving into the future I will continue to advocate for queer voices within the Latinidad as well as mobilize the community to conjure critical thinking skills. I plan to continue my education into graduate programs for Ethnic Studies with a focus on queerness. Saludos.

— Susan Chavez (they/theme/elle)
Latina/Latino Studies, B.A.
Queer Ethnic Studies, Minor
Women & Gender Studies, Minor

Service over Success. People over Possessions. Principle over Power.

This education has aptly equipped and prepared to me to be a voice for the “voiceless,” marginalized, undervalued, and underrepresented populations in our communities.

— John Cunningham Jr.
Race & Resistance Studies, B.A.

“There is no better than adversity. Every defeat, every heartbreak, every loss, contains its own seed, its own lesson on how to improve your performance next time.” —Malcom X

This is dedicated to my community, as well as all the underrepresented ones. Also my familia, gracias por todo el apoyo! A huge thank you to all professors in this department that have given me so much knowledge, strength and understanding. Especially a huge shoutout to Larry Salomon! So lucky to have had you as a professor, advocate and mentor.

— Sofia Contreras
Psychology, B.A.
Race & Resistance, Minor
Holistic Health, Minor

“The true revolutionary is guided by great feelings of love.”
—Che Guevara

I came to SFSU to study Race & Resistance Studies because I was interested in the unique emphasis on social justice and community work. I am grateful to all the support I have received here and I will continue my education at CSULB where I will be studying Literature with a Marxist perspective. I dedicate my degree and education to my parents, whose love has guided me on my educational journey and I am so grateful for their support.

— Melanie Montoya
Literature, B.A.
Race & Resistance Studies, B.A.

“If diversity is being invited to the party and inclusion is being asked to dance, belonging is dancing like nobody’s watching — feeling free to be your full, authentic self. Knowing that you are welcome and accepted just as you are.”

I am immensely grateful to all of my supporters. It has taken me an entire lifetime to believe that I deserve this moment. It is not a silly, whimsical time in my life — it was earned through hard work, dedication, sacrifice, and love of self. I did not accomplish this alone; I am a member of a tribe of humans who love and support me and I belong here. We all belong here. Congratulations to us!

— Krissi Lewis
Race & Resistance Studies, B.A.
Sociology, Minor
Queer Ethnic Studies, Minor

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Graduating Class

Congratulations RRS Class of 2022

Cecilia Cao — Fri, 27 May 2022 17:53:12 +0000

Congratulations RRS Class of 2022

Author: RRS Staff

May 27, 2022

¡Sin mujeres no hay revolucion! Shoutout to Larry for inspiring me to continue with this degree and work in public service!!!

— Alondra Esquivel Garcia
Race & Resistance, B.A.

“The way to right wrongs is to turn the light of truth upon them.” —Ida B. Wells

— Amaya Edwards
Race & Resistance, Minor

She believed she could, so she did.

— Andrea Cardona-Galvez
Race & Resistance, Minor

I did it all for my mom, grandma, and brother. This is our accomplishment.

— Andrea Michelle Bernal
Race & Resistance, Minor

Thank you to my friends and family for the endless support <3

— Ariana Khateeb
Arab & Muslim Ethnicities Diaspora Studies, Minor

Board Member for the General Union of Palestine Students (GUPS)
Student Org Representative on the Associated Students Board

This is the manifestation of my mother’s and grandfather’s dream. This is for y’all, Mami and Apa <3

— Brianna Valeria Mejia-Carreno
Race & Resistance, B.A.

Clínica Martín-Baró
Metro College Success Program

Thankful for my mom, dad, and boyfriend for always sticking by me and supporting me, and encouraging me to keep going when I wanted to give up.

— Carolina Garcia
Race & Resistance, Minor

They tried to bury us but they didn’t realize we were seeds.

— Chantel Bermudez
Race & Resistance, B.A.

AS Board of Directors (2019 – 2022)
Founder of AS Program Survivor Support
Experimental College Teacher
Residential Life

Thank you to all my loved ones, including everyone in the RRS Department. My journey has been beautiful because of the love and support I’ve been surrounded by.

— Domonique Savanh Insixiengmah
Race & Resistance, B.A.

American Indigenous Business Leadership (AIBL)

Para mi familia.

— Elizabeth Carranza Campos
Race & Resistance, Minor

All my relations.

— Gabriel “Chauncey” Mireau
Race & Resistance, Minor

Miniconjou Sioux

“It’s about time!” —Gabe

— Jacob Paul Mata
Race & Resistance, B.A.

SF Rising
Student Organizer

“A comrade is as precious as a rice seedling… and yes because it grows, not only to fill his hunger, but to give birth to other rice seedlings who will give birth to many more who will fill the hunger of generations of peasants for food and land and right.”
—Mila D. Aguilar

— Javi de Leon Javines
Race & Resistance, B.A.

Anakbayan East Bay
Liyang Network

Shout out to my family and mentor for being my biggest supporters. I am proud to be the first person in my family with a Bachelor Degree — I love y’all.

— Jontae’ M. Henry
Race & Resistance, Minor

SFSU Speech and Debate Team

Gracias a mi padre y mi madre! Dedicado para ustedes! Si es posible!

— Keila Indira Rodriguez
Race & Resistance, B.A.

“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.”

— Laila Ahmad Abdulkader
Race & Resistance, B.A.

Sometimes, home is a person.

— Lizette Trujillo
Race & Resistance, B.A.

Teacher’s Assistant at Early Childhood Education Center
Health Promotion and Wellness Ambassador

Couldn’t have done it without my support system. This one is for you, Mom and Dad!

— Maryfrances Di Maggio
Race & Resistance, B.A.

“I’ll never be known for my work with boundaries.” —Carrie Fisher

— Mikaela Manuel
Race & Resistance, B.A.

Real hot girl sh*t

— Mikayla Calvo
Race & Resistance, B.A.

“To build community requires vigilant awareness of the work we must continually do to undermine all the socialization that leads us to behave in ways that perpetuate domination.” —Bell Hooks

Shout-out Larry and the Sucio Gang, couldn’t do it without y’all.

— Mireya Marley Tabasa
Race & Resistance, B.A.

Thank you/Gracias a mi familia, amigos, y el coffee!

— Mitzy Lopez
Criminal Justice Studies, B.A.
Race & Resistance, Minor

Thank you! Thank you to my family, the homies, and the universe for making this happen. Si se puede mi gente!!

— Monserrat Guevara Ledezma
Race & Resistance, B.A.

Please talk to me nice because I’m really a whole college graduate!! Thank you to everyone who has shown me love and support throughout this journey, especially my parents! This wouldn’t be possible without you. Shout out to all of the amazing people I’ve met throughout my time here at SF State as well. We did it y’all, congrats to Class of 2022!

— Natalia Reyes
Race & Resistance, B.A.

Shout out to my friends, my family, and Larry Salomon, of course!

— Randella Louise Jones
Race & Resistance, B.A.

“One more step. One more breath. Move past what’s stopping you. Leave it behind and walk towards greatness.”

— Reginald Mosley-Moon
Race & Resistance, B.A.

Ahéhee’ to my family, ancestors, and to the land I was born and raised on.

— Robert Williamson
Race & Resistance, B.A.

Big appreciation to my baba and mama who traveled to a foreign land for a better life for my siblings and I, and push me towards success. Shoutout to Rajab, Ziniab, all my family, Larry, EP 213 Gang, Brianna, Metro, and my GUPS family.

— Sabreen Khairy Imtair
Race & Resistance, Minor
Arab & Muslim Ethnicities Diaspora Studies, Minor

President of the General Union of Palestine Students
Member of Arab Resource and Organizing Center
Student Leader with Metro College Success Program

Shout out to me for breaking generational cycles.

— Silvia Denisse Ramirez
Race & Resistance, Minor

Mate ma’a tonga.

— Tailua Wilna Catriona Manu
Race & Resistance, B.A.

“What’s the plan? How long is the dreaming going to last? … I don’t trust dreams that don’t allow the possibility of nightmares.”
—Joy James

— Trân Minh Tim
Race & Resistance, B.A.

SFSU Transformative Justice Group
#KeepSFSUFullyVirtual
VietLead
VietUnity
Spoonie Uni Project

“Pies para qué los quiero si tengo alas para volar.” —Frida Kahlo

— Yatnari Del Toro
Race & Resistance, B.A.

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Graduating Class

Congratulations RRS Class of 2021

Cecilia Cao — Fri, 21 May 2021 21:47:44 +0000

Congratulations RRS Class of 2021

Author: RRS Staff

May 21, 2021

Race & Resistance Majors

Me gustaría agradecer a mi familia, amigos y a todas las personas que me han ayudado en esta camino.

¡Los aprecio y los amo a todos!

— Aldo Pizano

Summa Cum Laude
Double Major: RRS & Psychology
Minor: Criminal Justice

A sincere thank you to my village.

To my family, my loved ones and all educators: eternal gratitude and thanks for watering me and pushing me onward. You always reminded me I’m capable of my wildest dreams. I will carry your love in my heart always. May we continue to shape a world rooted in community and compassion.

— Janine Padpad

Summa Cum Laude
Double Major: RRS & Psychology
Minor: Global Peace, Humans Rights, and Justice

I am so grateful to have graduated within the RRS Major in the College of Ethnic Studies because I found a community that I belong to with very similar passions and drives which works towards liberating oppressed people or changing the way the world works currently.

I’m honored to have received the award for the hood as well!! I couldn’t have been here without my family, friends, and professors. I had a huge support system behind me pushing me to do my best. Every professor in this department is so so amazing; those who impacted me the most were professors Larry Salomon and Rama Kased! They taught me so much and believed in me my whole time at State. I also want to thank my family who inspired me in every way from coming to this country, to organizing for social justice/change, to being an artist, and many more. I love you guys!! Thank you again and congratulations graduates!!

— Eliana Hernandez

Cum Laude
Double Major: RRS & Criminal Justice
Minor: Queer Ethnic Studies

My gratitude for the RRS department, my professors, and my classmates is truly immeasurable.

Thank you all so much, and thank you to each of my closest loved ones for all of your support. Although I am so relieved and happy to be graduating, I know that I will also be grieving the version of myself that existed as an undergraduate student of RRS at SFSU. I am committed to continuing my learning beyond the classroom and to apply all of the knowledge that has been shared with me over the last few years. Thank you all again, I feel so grateful to be here with you.

— Hannah Lomax

Cum Laude
Major: RRS
Minor: Queer Ethnic Studies

Serve the people!

— Kristal Osorio

Cum Laude
Double Major: RRS & Sociology

I would first like to thank my parents and family for being my number one supporters.

I would also like to thank my amazing RRS professors at SF State because their teaching has made the biggest impact on my life. I feel so blessed to be a part of the second graduating class of the RRS major.

— Alicia Manzano

Double Major: RRS & Latina and Latino Studies

I want to congratulate my fellow cohort and the many colleagues I had the opportunity to work with.

I’m grateful for this moment; it feels so surreal that I’m graduating, and that I made it. I would like to thank all the professors who I’ve experienced an amount of knowledge and growth by learning from and with them, especially would like to thank Bibiana, Professor Jaimy, and Justin for a lot of guidance. I’m definitely looking forward to what’s ahead of me, and I hope to continue doing the work of giving back to the community. A lot of what I do is for my family and my family back in the Philippines. I thank them infinitely for all their love and support.

— Althea-Marin Santos

Double Major: RRS & Visual Communication Design

She Believed She Could and So She Did!

Thank you to my family and friends for being the most amazing support system a girl can ask. Thanks to RRS for making these 4 years in San Francisco amazing. I appreciate all the courses I took and all the Professor who taught them <3 mucho amor Larry.

— Alondra Esquivel Garcia

Double Major: RRS & Political Science

First gen student, and I dedicate my degree to community.

I would not be here without community. Thank you to everyone who believed in me.

— Arasi Hamilton

Major: RRS
Minor: Critical Pacific Islands and Oceania Studies

I am excited and grateful to have graduated from RRS.

I want to take this opportunity to thank everyone who supported me through college and the class faculty who made each class different, interesting, and a place where I felt comfortable. Congrats to the second RRS graduating class! Si se Puedo!

— Melissa Garay Galindo

Double Major: RRS & Sociology

My entire educational journey has been me looking for spaces that recognized my community in its curriculum and staff and knowledge, where I could be myself.

I found that here in Race and Resistance. Class of 2021, we did it!

— Tailua Manu

Major: RRS
Minor: Critical Pacific Island and Oceania Studies

This journey was long and anything but easy, but the joy and pride I have created not only for myself, but for my future made all these challenges, tears, and long hours worth all the risk.

I never thought I would make it to this day, yet here I am.

— TaraLynn Ta’ala

Major: RRS

I’m so happy to be graduating!

As a first generation college student, it was very challenging, but with the support of my family, I was able to accomplish my goals. San Francisco State University has taught me some amazing things that I will cherish forever. I’m excited to enter the “real world” and make a difference. My degree is in honor of my mother and grandparents. Los Amo.

— Yoselin Rodriguez

Double Major: RRS & Criminal Justice

We’d also like to honor the following RRS Majors

Diego Bautista
Stephanie Gonzalez
Marilyn Mota

Race & Resistance Minors

I am very proud to be the first graduate ever in my family, especially coming from a household that was not able to provide for me financially.

I put myself and education first and made it. I am honored to be the first in my family to attend and graduate as the Class of 2021.

— Ai Fry

Major: Psychology
Double Minor: RRS & Queer Ethnic Studies

So unbelievably grateful for my last four years at SFSU!

— Amanda Rukasin

Major: Sociology
Minor: RRS

I am so excited to graduate.

The journey here has not been easy and nothing like I expected, but I’m excited for the next chapter of my life. I take all the relationships I’ve built, the knowledge I have gained, and the experience of being a first-gen with me. Grateful for how far I’ve come and excited to see what the future holds for me!

— Athziri Martinez

Major: Latina/Latino Studies
Minor: RRS

“Success is no accident. It is hard work, perseverance, learning, studying, sacrifice and most of all, love of what you are doing or learning to do.” — Pele

— Angela Rodas

Major: Political Science
Minor: RRS

Our existence and success in higher education is the most beautiful form of resistance.

We are the flowers they never thought would blossom. Gracias mama y papa… no me gradue, nos graduamos.

— Baleria Barrera

Double Major: Sociology & Latina/Latino Studies
Minor: Education & RRS

— Bryanna Zuleta

Major: Sociology & Latina/Latino Studies
Minor: RRS

While I am anxious to be graduating during such an unsure time, I am excited to enter the career and “real adult” world!

I sincerely congratulate my fellow graduates for getting through this past year and a half!

— Caity Rymel

Major: Anthropology
Minor: RRS

As a first generation student, graduating is both a personal accomplishment and an accomplishment for my community who has supported me.

I want to become a pillar of knowledge and resources to build community ties and support them by any means. I plan to incorporate my knowledge into my life and work be becoming a resource for me community through librarianship. Thank you to all my professors, friends, and family for supporting me!

— Cecilia Castaneda

Major: Latina/Latino Studies
Minor: RRS

Graduating not only for myself, but for those who came before me, those with me now, and those that will come after me.

— Erica Vasquez

Major: Psychology
Minor: RRS

Gracias a mis Padres por su esfuerzo, amor, y disciplina.

LO LOGRAMOS! Los quiero mucho! Aqui empezamos una nueva etapa. A seguir triunfando.

— Fatima Gutierrez

Major: Criminal Justice
Minor: RRS

As a Muslim and a woman of color, I’m proud to have learned how I can put my passion for social justice work and filmmaking into what I hope will become the foundation of my career in the future.

I’m blessed to have met many incredible people during my two years at SFSU and know those connections will last a lifetime!

— Honna Afzal

Major: Cinema
Minor: RRS

I want to analyze the historical past and decolonize the concepts and philosophies of present day Black communities.

I don’t only want to examine the problems and trauma of past generations with criticism, but I want to move forward with strategies and find amicable solutions to the issues.

— Jemal Taylor

Major: Sociology
Minor: RRS

This has been a wonderful crazy journey.

This is not how I expected it to turn out, but I am glad I made it to the finish line. I would like to thank everyone who has supported me along the way. If it weren’t for you all I would not be here today. To my fellow grads, we did it!!!!

— Jontae Henry

Major: Communications
Minor: RRS

It’s a bittersweet ending.

I’m excited to have accomplished my studies but sad to say goodbye to the friends I made.

— Katherine Burgos

Major: Photojournalism
Minor: RRS

I would like to thank my amazing family and friends for all their love and support!

To all my fellow graduates, congratulations!

— Kaylee Bokeh

Major: Criminal Justice
Minor: RRS

Thank you RRS department for filling my undergraduate years with transformational and healing lessons along with an extremely support community.

Thank you to my ancestors, family, friends, and loved ones for guiding and supporting me through these past 4 years. Shoutout to my city, SF, for raising me into the person I am today. I am so excited to continue to learn in the Ethnic Studies M.A. program at SFSU!

— Kaylah Breiz

Major: Political Science
Double Minor: Education & RRS

Through adversity, I was able to complete my education.

I would like to thank my mother and father for all the support and love they have given me throughout these 4 years.

— Laurin Lovato Romero

Double Minor: Latina/Latino Studies & RRS

These past 4 years at SFSU were some of the best years of my life!

I met so many amazing people and learned so much! I want to specifically thank all my RRS professors for all the support and for all the knowledge they bring to the table, so thank you! I’m excited to be graduating with all of you today and I wish you all the best!

— Maria Guadalupe Hernandez Morales

Major: Criminal Justice Studies
Minor: RRS

I am so happy to finally be graduating from SFSU!

After taking a two-year break, coming back to finish my undergraduate degree feels amazing. I never would have gotten this far if it wasn’t for my family, mental health support team, friends, and God. I am extremely grateful and honored to be graduating from the College of Ethnic Studies!

— Melchor Bongato

Major: Asian American Studies
Double Minor: RRS & Queer Ethnic Studies

I am thankful for my time at SF State and excited for my new journey ahead.

Thank you to my family and friends for their continuous support!

— Mariela Cisneros

Major: Criminal Justice
Minor: RRS

I’d like to thank my parents for their unconditional support throughout my educational journey and their encouragement for me to pursue my passions.

I would also like to thank the Residential Life department, as well as Health Promotion and Wellness for the opportunity to expand my leadership abilities across campus.

— Mina Hernandez

Major: Sociology
Minor: RRS

Dear children of immigrants, it may feel like you were born into a game of life where you were born into a game of life, where you’re expected to reach certain milestones and goals in a particular order to be happy, successful, and worthy.

I am proud to say that I broke generational cycles and graduated college with a boyfriends, a beautiful baby girl, and a family, still being prouder than ever!

— Natalie Herrera

Major: Criminal Justice Studies
Minor: RRS

I would like to thank my family, friends and professors for making this a memorable experience!

— Raquel Aceves

Major: Criminal Justice
Minor: RRS

If there’s anything that RRS has taught me, it is to continue to study our history from the people by the people.

As young individuals coming out of an institution with rich revolutionary history with our student activism, we must continue to work beyond academics!

— Nickel Rivera

Major: Cinema
Minor: RRS

I am a mixed heritage Asian American, first generation college student, child of a refugee parent.

RRS provided me the tools, space, and community to further radicalize my politic and be grounded in third world liberation. I met my chosen family and forever companions in these classes. I’d like to express my immense gratitude to Simmy Makhijani for mentoring me and reminding me of the magic of community care throughout my last three years at SF State!

— Amy Ricky Rivera

Major: Asian American Studies
Minor: RRS

RRS provided me with the necessary tools and lessons for a lifelong dedication to the people’s movement for freedom and justice.

Could not have done it without the support of an incredible community too many to count, but especially Simmy Makhijani who provided mentorship and guidance to myself and so many others. LONG LIVE PALESTINE, LONG LIVE INTERNATIONAL SOLIDARITY!

— Jules Retzlaff

Major: Cinema
Minor: RRS

It’s been quite a ride.

Too many sleepless nights to count, but even more memories to recall later in life. I’m sad that my college journey ended this way — in a pandemic — but, like the great Max Holloway once said: it is what it is! Congratulations everyone. Let’s go kill it out there!!!

— Sadik Twal

Major: Liberal Studies
Minor: RRS

Graduating during a global pandemic is strange and a bit anticlimactic but the closer it gets to May 21st, the more real it becomes.

Nonetheless, I am proud, and feeling extremely accomplished. I’m grateful to have had this opportunity at SFSU, and I will really miss my time in SF. I’m also very appreciative of those around me who have been there to remind what an accomplishment it is to be the first to graduate from my family.

— Shantel U

Major: Psychology
Minor: RRS

Big shout out to my dad, I miss you. Couldn’t do this without you.

— Shawnee Sample

Major: American Indian Studies
Double Minor: RRS & Queer Ethnic Studies

Thank you to my family, friends, the School of Cinema, the College of Ethnic Studies, the College of Liberal & Creative Arts, and my incredible mentors for all of their guidance and support.

Without you all, I would not be able to graduate with all of the empowering opportunities I have been able to experience.

— Wencie Hoang

Major: Cinema
Minor: RRS

We’d also like to honor the following RRS Minors

Adalia Rodriguez
Alauna Jaden Torres
Aliyah Bowman
Alyssa Sober
Andrea Olazabal
Andrew Carillo

Christopher Vanegas Aguilar
Emily Uribe
Erika Ramirez
Hector Chacon Arevalo
Jalyn Casey Ocampo
Janneth Gasca-Lozano

Johnny Mejia
Makaela Mabrey
Melissa Aceves-Yepez
Monica Rodriguez
Nadime El-Ali
Olivia Zamorano-Pedregom

Rizza Ward Gordon
Sydni Mullen
Taylor Thomas
Yvonne Cantero

Arab & Muslim Ethnicities and Diasporas Minor

“I want to thank me for believing in me, I want to thank me for doing all this hard work. I wanna thank me for having no days off. I wanna thank me for never quitting. I wanna thank me for always being a giver and trying to give more than I receive. I want to thank me for just being me at all times.” —Snoop Dog

— Janelle Coronado

Major: International Relations
Minor: AMED

Queer Ethnic Studies Minor

As I am entering into the last semester for the B.A./M.A. program in Ethnic Studies, I hope to embody the love that has been imparted to me through this program.

— Amalia Laventure

Major: Latina/Latino Studies
Minor: QES

It’s unbelievable that I’m already graduating because it feels like I just started my B.A. program.

I wouldn’t have this opportunity without my maternal grandparents because they offered me a place to stay, making going to SFSU affordable for me. I also thank many of my advisors and close family (and friends) for sticking with me on this journey. Without everyone’s words of encouragement, I wouldn’t have made it this far. So, THANK YOU SOOOOO MUCH!!!

— Briauna Guerrero

Major: Sociology
Double Minor: QES & LGBT Studies

I want to thank Mikaela, Charlize, Lucy, Zack Snyder, and all the people who helped me get here!

— Elia Wee

Major: Child and Adolescence Development
Minor: QES

My gratitude for the RRS department, my professors, and my classmates is truly immeasurable.

— Hannah Lomax

Cum Laude
Major: RRS
Minor: Queer Ethnic Studies

I had a short but sweet time here at SFSU. I am grateful for my experience and am excited for the future!

— Mari Champagne

Major: Women & Gender Studies
Double Minor: Global Peace, Human Rights, and Justice & QES

I want to thank my parents that were there for me every step of the way, and for all the sacrifices they have made.

I want to thank my older sister that has paved the way for success for my younger brother, sister, and I. I want to thank Clinica Martin Baro for being a safe space and a family.

— Veronica Hernandez

Major: Latina/Latino Studies
Triple Minor: Health Education, QES, Education

We’d also like to honor the following QES Minors

Adali Rodriguez
Aliyah Bowman
Chris Lawson
Diego Bautista
Grace Mcguire
Hillary Ortiz-Luis
Jerome-Tomas San Diego

Critical Pacific Islands and Oceania Studies Minor

First gen student, and I dedicate my degree to community.

I would not be here without community. Thank you to everyone who believed in me.

— Arasi Hamilton

Major: RRS
Minor: Critical Pacific Islands and Oceania Studies

Grateful for the Ethnic Studies program that allowed me to learn more about my culture and my people.

Excited to use this knowledge and these tools to better my communities. Thank you, SFSU, for all the great experiences. I look forward to what the future has in store for me!

— Cassandra Fong

Major: Biology
Minor: CPIOS

WE DID IT!

Class of 2021 we are a force to be reckoned with! Do yourself a favor and enjoy the journey even through the chaos, you’ll find out at the end of the tunnel, it was never really that bad! We MADE IT! Cheers to all the great things we will accomplish!

— FiaauLagi Tautolo

Major: Psychology
Minor: CPIOS

First, I would like to thank everyone that helped me throughout my journey at SFSU.

Being a first generation college graduate within my family is mind blowing and honoring. I am forever grateful for my family for being super supportive and continue to encourage me to push beyond my limits. Shoutout to my friends, they have been my backbone throughout this whole journey of college. CONGRATULATIONS CLASS OF 2021!

— Uhna Nauer

Major: Criminal Justice
Minor: CPIOS

My entire educational journey has been me looking for spaces that recognized my community in its curriculum and staff and knowledge, where I could be myself.

I found that here in Race and Resistance. Class of 2021, we did it!

— Tailua Manu

Major: RRS
Minor: Critical Pacific Island and Oceania Studies

Tags

Graduating Class

Congratulations RRS Class of 2020

Cecilia Cao — Fri, 29 May 2020 18:44:03 +0000

Congratulations RRS Class of 2020

Author: RRS Staff

May 29, 2020

I hope to use what I've learned as an RRS minor to advocate for the needs of the people of color in urban planning.

— Ciana Olivia Adams

Earning my degree in RRS, LTNS and minoring in Education, I took forward to serving the youth in my community.

During my time at SFSU, I was able to gain the Ethnic Studies experience I had not had in my previous education. With my degree, I'm going into the educational field where I can teach the youth the histories that are rarely represented in textbooks.

— Diana Argueta

With my degree in RRS, I will use it to bring awareness of oppression we face in communities of color and the resistance we all fight for in our daily lives.

I would like to keep learning and educate others on similar struggles we face in our education system, healthcare, and socioeconomic status. I would like to break the cycle of how social factors do not define or stereotype who we are.

— Lesly Cecilia Argueta

With my degree in RRS, I hope to work with youth who have been affected by the juvenile justice system by providing them with the guidance and resources they need in order to be successful.

— Jenny Barroso

I plan to utilize my RRS Minor through educating and reminding others that we have been resisting and fighting since the beginning of time.

I plan to work in social services and continually educate myself on Race and Resistance Studies.

— Kathleen Mae Alvarez Buban

The department of RRS has prepared me to make a difference in my community.

RRS has given me the tools to be a critical thinker when it comes to fighting daily inequalities, I'm so thankful to be working with a grassroots organization as a recent graduate. Thank you to all the professors who have helped me grow into the person I am today.

— Isabella Canal

I plan to be part of dismantling and abolishing the school to prison pipeline in hopes to implement critical thinking and history of ethnic identities in public school curriculums.

— Megan Carbajal

I will use my minor in RRS as a framework for my work in decolonizing outdoor education.

I will work as a bridge for BIPOC, immigrants, LGBTQIA communities to secure access to green spaces. I plan in using the knowledge my professors left me with to create multicultural and relevant curriculum to teach youth in the outdoors.

— Adriana Castillo

Growing up in a conservative town, I grew up with racism, sexism, and homoantagonism around every corner. It took years for me to be proud of being a queer Chicana woman.

Learning about the ways to decolonize my life took work, and RRS gave me the tools to know that I'll never stop fighting for a just world. Thank you to everyone! Mom, Dad and Nico, esto es para ti.

— Alena Catherine Chavez

I hope to use my degree to give back to communities of color, by continuing to fight against the social inequalities we face in this country. Now, more than ever, is the time to rid our society of racial and ethnic discrimination.

— Melissa Cruz

Con diligencia, integridad, y mucho amor planeo usar mi conocimiento para asistir en la transformación de mi comunidad de Woodland.

— Jacqueline Galicia

RRS introduced me to an intersectional academia that allows students to define and nature of their education.

We must continue to reflect history through all lens of cultures and minds. I hope to create a space that allows youth to think, create and deconstruct the -isms in our communities.

— Andrea Jacqueline Gil

My return to academia, after having dropped out, was a long-awaited fruition.

Feeling perpetually alienated from perceiving myself as a knower, in the house of knowledge, I was unaware of the power paradigms imbedded in the university experience. Echoing Ms. Angelou, now that I know better, I do better. I am deeply grateful for the existence of the College of Ethnic Studies, and, most importantly, the RRS teaching faculty, for cultivating in its students the profound practice of belonging. I plan to keep pushing.

— Diego Cihuacoatl Gomez

I plan to earn my teaching credential for music at SF State next and become an elementary school music teacher. I then plan to pursue graduate studies and researching ethnomusicology.

— Randella Jones

RRS has instilled in me to be resistant in the wake of complacency.

To be fearless when I say 'Abolish ICE' or 'Defund the Police,' because I know my education has given me the resources and tools to know what this means and how to give back to my community.

— Alexandra Lalama

With a minor in Race and Resistance Studies, I hope to use this to elevate students in under resourced communities. My goal is to specifically help students of color achieve a higher education!

— Genesis Jasmin Morales

I learned so much about my people, all people, and myself within after graduating.

— Ashura Mujawashema

I plan on using my knowledge and skills that I've learned in this RRS department by writing stories, whether it be in print, audio, or visual journalism, around race in America.

I have my degree in Journalism, and I would really like to apply what I've learned about lost histories in ethnic groups to my career. I would love to talk to communities of color and give them a voice and have them feel heard by society.

— Karishma Kaushik Patadia

I plan to use my RRS minor to continue to inspire me to do organizing work.

I hope this minor will help me stay vigilant and critical of the systems we are fighting against, my conditions and the conditions of the people around me. Being in RRS has allowed me to participate in student organizing and connecting me to local grassroots orgs that work directly in the communities in SF and the Bay Area. I have been able to connect and build community with so many amazing individuals, and I hope to continue genuinely building with my community in the future. Thanks for your work everyone!

— Rachel Perry

I want to create a space to organize with Black/Indigenous and POC youth in my community, to inspire and support them in obtaining local change.

Using my field of studies as a foundation to teach on past Liberation movements, so we can learn from and build upon further in our communities.

— Ada Reyes

With my degree, I plan on serving a community much like my own.

I want to help first generation families find a voice in order to reach their highest potential because THEY MAKE AMERICA GREAT! Gracias ma y pa, lo hicimos! QUE VIVA MI RAZA!

— Maria Nathali Ildefonso Salas

I plan to use my major in RRS in my social work practice.

Upon graduation, I plan to work for a nonprofit organization that is committed to advancing the rights of marginalized communities. My long-term goal is to utilize my degree and experiences to enact macro-level change in the Philippines in the future.

— Thea Jewel Terrado Soriano

I plan to use my Bachelor's in RRS to support the advancement, success, and legacy of Black and Brown people.

It is my goal to continue to learn how I can best serve my community so that I can be apart of the movement to create resources for our empowerment. In doing this I know my ancestors will guide me along the way and for that I am grateful.

— Selena Teferi

A queer, non-binary, Lao/Korean who found a lot of hope and empowerment through the RRS minor track.

I saw resilience and hope, and I encourage many others to take the opportunity for the major! I appreciated the like-minded resilient, QTPOC folks the classes brought together. May we continue to create community and remember how close we are and our strength as a community. For collective liberation. We are never alone.

— Sone Yun

Other Graduates Not Pictured

Renz Andales
Soha Ashraf
Carmen Lima Ayala
Janus Baetiong
Isela Carreras
Johanna Castaneda
Vikas Chonkria
Pamela Estrada Christian
Fernando Espinoza
Sammy Garcia

Rizza Gordon Ward
Jenna Harris
Chelsea Herrera
Nathan Hinsley
Leah Jarrard
Antonia Johnson
Clay Keniston-Finger
Sam Lund
Leelamini Massaquoi
Angelica Mendez

Alejandra Mendez-Ruiz
Sam Moore
Genesis Morales
Dina Muqhar
Maricela Nunez
Emely Nunez
Alondra Ochoa
Alexandria Reber
Jules Retzlaff
Amy Rivera

Alondra Robles-Romero
Azucena Salas-Esparza
Jocelyn Salaverria
Marina Salazar
Rosalea Salmeron
Alexis Shelton
Luke Sullivan
Jomal Terrado
Chloe Vannasdall

Tags

Graduating Class