Message from President Papazian
Photo: Josie Lepe, ’03 BFA Photography.
The culmination of 2020 and the arrival of a new year present an opportunity to refresh and recharge in the midst of this challenging time. For many of us, this is a time for reflection, connection and for giving thanks for what we have—and for looking ahead.
Despite the real hardship that exists for many as we work our way through the pandemic, there continues to be cause for celebration at San José State. I am tremendously grateful for our remarkable alumni and community, and I feel privileged to work every day at the #1 Most Transformative University in the Nation.
This digital edition of Washington Square includes the stories of Spartans who aim for the stars and follow a course through to completion—no matter the circumstances. From classrooms and the football field to a galaxy far away, there are many examples of how SJSU is transformative. This semester, our faculty members have dreamed up innovative ways to teach inherently tactile skills during the mostly virtual semester. Physics and Astronomy Professor Aaron Romanowsky and his research colleagues have upended assumptions about how galaxies are formed. And our football team set a new standard for success under uniquely challenging circumstances.
Among our stellar alumni are Pasquale Esposito, who lifts up others through the gift of music, Gwen Nguyen, who delivers sweet inspiration through Maven’s Creamery, and Lisa Andrew, who is transforming classrooms as CEO of the Silicon Valley Education Foundation.
The work everyone is doing, despite the pressures of the past year, inspires and motivates me. Thank you for staying connected, supporting our community and for being a critical part of the transformation.
Sincerely,
Mary A. Papazian, Ph.D.
Learn about Transformation 2030. Please share your thoughts by emailing sjsupres@sjsu.edu or on Twitter at @PrezPapazian. You may also subscribe to my blog at blogs.sjsu.edu/president.
