Provost's Message - September 2023

September 2023

Cultivating Compassion

Hi friends, I hope we are all settling into our new 2023-24 academic year. This fall semester has already brought its unique challenges. Together, we have started classes, faced a tropical storm, a power outage, and campus shifts. However, we ALL came together to ensure the safety of our community and found paths forward. It gives me confidence to know that whatever comes our way, our campus will always respond for the good of us all.

At our recent convocation ceremony, we leaned in on the need for compassion on campus to uplift the working and learning environment for others. It is in moments of uncertainty or when things do not go according to plan that our compassion is particularly necessary. I have every confidence in the good intent of our community to extend their grace, and their ability to uplift those around them.

As this month begins – our campus will celebrate Latinx Heritage Month, Cultural Welcomes, and Pregnant and Parenting students. This is an opportunity to extend kindness to those celebrating their rich heritage by affirming their experiences, stories, and cultures as beloved members who collectively make the Beach community a beautiful interwoven tapestry. Please join us, show your support, and celebrate with us.

As we navigate the start of our year, let’s face the hurdles with determination and remember that it is not what we do… it’s how we do it.

Let’s approach our work with great empathy, compassion, and courage.

GO BEACH!

In community,
Karyn Scissum Gunn

Welcome New Faculty! - The Division of Academic Affairs is pleased to welcome 55 new faculty for the 2023-24 academic year. We look forward to supporting our new faculty as they excel in teaching, scholarship, and service. Together, they will enrich their respective departments, colleges, and CSULB's monumental initiatives.

Other Important Dates:

This month, CSULB has many exciting Points of Pride to report and share with our community. Learn more about our #BeachPride 

  • CSULB Secures $11M Gift from Ballmer Group to Credential Early Childhood Teachers - Cal State Long Beach recently received an $11 million grant from Ballmer Group that will allow the university to credential early childhood educators.

  • MPA Program Merits Distinguished Reaccreditation - CSULB’s Master of Public Administration program received reaccreditation from NASPAA for demonstration of “a substantial commitment to quality public service education."

  • COE Ranks #6 in Best Colleges for Robotics Engineering in California - The College of Engineering’s robotics program recently ranked #6 for best colleges in California thanks to its combination of theoretical coursework and hands-on practice.

View the latest accolades and see how our Academic Affairs faculty members are contributing as experts in the news.

Stay up to date on your colleagues that have acquired the latest CSULB grants and gifts on our website.

Wellness Resources Lunch and Learns - Beach Wellness is hosting a series of Lunch and Learns for faculty and staff. Join us in person or online to learn about campus resources available to staff, faculty, and students. | More Events

University Library Hours and FAQs - The University Library's Fall 2023 hours are now available on their calendar page. For questions, please visit their Frequently Asked Questions repository.

Beach Shops Rebranding - The 49er Shops name has officially rebranded to Beach Shops. The bookstore, retail, and dining locations throughout campus will now reflect this new name. | Details

Cross-Campus Learning for Staff Available - Staff may now enroll in professional development courses led by other CSU campuses from September through December 2023. For a list of available workshops, please visit MyBeach.

Faculty Online Readiness Program Starting Soon - Earn your digital badge today and sign up for a series of short, self-paced courses exploring best practices for online instruction. Course begins September 11. | More Events

Become a Career Advocate Today - Sign up for the Career Development Center's four-part training series instructing faculty and staff how to apply career success models, employment preparation, and more. | Details

Beach Mentors Needed - The Faculty Center is looking for Beach Mentors to promote student success through positive and inclusive counseling. Join today! | More Events

Student Scholarships! Upcoming Deadlines - Encourage your students to apply for the Gilman International Scholarship before October 5 and the Fulbright U.S. Program by October 10. Thank you for helping us spread the word!

New FAFSA 2024-25 Announcement - The FAFSA Simplification Act will provide students with a new form for the 2024-2025 academic year. Stay tuned for additional resources coming your students' way!

A.I.M by Kyle Abraham Tickets on Sale - Tickets for A.I.M by Kyle Abraham are still on sale. Use promo code FACULTYSTAFF50 at checkout for a discount until September 14! | Tickets

 

Submit items for upcoming messages to aa-communication@csulb.edu with a hyperlink.