Associated Students Staff Newsletter

Dear A.S. Staff,

Many years ago, when I was starting my time in college, I recall listening to a song by Don Henley with lyrics that go: “Out on the road today, I saw a Deadhead sticker on a Cadillac / A little voice inside my head said, ‘Don’t look back, you can never look back.’”

The lyrics are from one of my favorite songs, but I’ll have to ignore Henley’s advice because I think there is great value in “looking back” on the year. It has, as all years do, gone by quickly. Despite various headwinds, A.S. continued to do what we do best: advocate for students and empower them to succeed as leaders both personally and professionally. It is exciting to see our graduating seniors take experiences they have learned at A.S. that help propel them into new career opportunities.

Currently, Business Services is actively “looking back” to be as prepared as possible for the week of Aug. 3, when the annual financial audit will begin. We are also reviewing goals and objectives for the academic year as the team explores new initiatives and processes, to better serve the organization.

I hope you all can also take a moment to reflect back on the academic year with positive thoughts and memories. Heading into fall, I encourage you to take time to set new goals and identify opportunities to succeed!

So, while Don Henley might tell us not to look back, he also later said that: “Every day is a new day.” I say, reflect as much as you need to appreciate how far you have come.

Happy New (Fiscal) Year!

Carlos Careaga
Finance Director

A is for Art Raises Record-Breaking Amount in Donations

Through the Annual A is for Art Exhibition, the Center raised more than $23,000 in donations, including a record-breaking auction of $3,300 for a single artwork! Bringing together families and community members, the event features a live auction of paintings crafted by the Center’s children. Each classroom studies a specific artist and then creates their collaborative masterpiece. The event is a testament to creative expression and the generosity of families, community members and various sponsors. The funds will help further expand the Center’s outdoor programming.

Viejas Arena Named Venue of the Year

Viejas Arena, home of the San Diego State men’s and women’s basketball teams, was named the Venue of the Year at the Sports San Diego Game Time Gala in April. Viejas Arena won the Venue-of-the-Year Award over four other finalists, including Jenny Craig Pavilion, Pechanga Arena, Snapdragon Stadium and The Club at Omni La Costa Resort.

"Viejas Arena is at the heart of the student experience and a place where lifelong memories are made," said Milan Rawls, Associated Students Executive Vice President. "Associated Students is proud to operate a facility where students can cheer on our teams and host events that reach our local and global communities."

Aztec Recreation’s Fitness Buddies Receives the Campus Rec Innovative Programming Award

Aztec Recreation was honored at the 2026 National Intramural-Recreational Sports Association (NIRSA) Annual Conference in Maryland, receiving the Campus Rec Innovative Programming Award for the Fitness Buddies program!

This award celebrates excellence within recreation centers that enhance student success, foster community and promote well-being. By pushing the boundaries of traditional campus recreation, Fitness Buddies has been recognized for its ability to create meaningful experiences and inspire positive change across the student body.

Tim Ripke Receives Presidential Leadership Award at the Annual Aztec Achievement Awards

Each year, A.S. hosts the Aztec Achievement Awards, a night to recognize the excellent contributions students, faculty, staff and community members have made to SDSU. One of the awards presented is the Presidential Leadership Award, chosen by the A.S. President and given to SDSU community members for their excellent contributions to San Diego State University and Associated Students. This year, A.S. President, Kareen Holstrom, selected Tim Ripke, Viejas Arena Director, as one of the recipients for the award.

“For 30 years, Tim’s work at Viejas Arena has ensured that the events there are spectacular for the SDSU community and beyond. Student leaders come and go every year, but Tim’s support for the work we do and the A.S. values lives on,” Kareen said. Congratulations, Tim!

This article previously appeared in SDSU NewsCenter.

More than two decades ago, Kobe Sanders of the Los Angeles Clippers sat inside the Pandas classroom at the SDSU Children’s Center, an Associated Students program that provides childcare for SDSU families.

Viewing the familiar classroom from his current 6’8” perspective, Sanders returned with a significant announcement: the Center received a meaningful grant from video game publisher NBA 2K and 2K Foundations as part of a mentorship program for LA teens he facilitated during 2026 NBA All-Star Weekend.

Sanders described visiting the Children’s Center as nostalgic, sparking memories of his earliest years. He noted the growth of the facility and the children’s enthusiasm reminded him of his own experiences, a connection that fuels his ongoing commitment to future generations.

“I strongly believe in inspiring, uplifting and supporting youth,” Sanders said. “Investing in their education, health and development is essential, especially during such impactful years in the kids' lives.”

The funds donated during NBA All-Star Weekend will help enrich classroom experiences, strengthen programs and sustain high-quality, Reggio Emilia-inspired learning for children and families in the SDSU community.

Kobe’s mother, Sara Sanders — the center’s assistant director — recalled what he was like at the center and the persistence he showed even as a child, describing him as “goal-oriented and a child who didn’t give up easily.” She attributes his dedication and jovial spirit as major characteristics that have stayed with him on his journey to the NBA.

“Play is such an important part of early childhood, and it’s something we often lose as adults,"  Sara Sanders said. “But with Kobe, that playful spirit has always stayed with him. Even as a child, he loved to play, engage with others, and bring energy into whatever he was doing, and you can still see that today.”

Full-Circle Moment

Building on his generosity, Sanders continued his support through the Center’s A is for Art Exhibition in April. The event features a live auction of paintings crafted by the Center’s children. Each classroom studies a specific artist and creates their collaborative masterpiece. Center Director Michelle Zamora calls the annual event a “labor of love” that brings families and the greater SDSU community.

Sanders’ support was multifaceted, featuring a donation of premium LA Clippers tickets, branded gear and souvenirs for auction. The fundraiser raised a total $23,240, a testament to the collective generosity of sponsors, families and community members.

“With these generous donations, we are going to be able to get more outdoor equipment,” said Zamora. “We serve families of the SDSU community, so we are grateful for these opportunities to get state-of-the-art equipment that will enhance their physical movements. We certainly also want to get more basketball hoops!”

A rewarding part of the night for Sanders was seeing his very first teacher, Imelda Rivera, win a special prize package to an upcoming LA Clippers game. Rivera has worked at the Center for more than 20 years.

“I was really happy to see her win, especially since it was a basket I was personally handing out,” Sanders said. “She always reminds me that I might not remember, but she was the one changing my diapers. She was my first teacher, so that full-circle moment meant a lot. It was emotional and really heartwarming.”

With the NBA All-Star Weekend contribution and his donation to the A is for Art exhibit, Sanders’ generosity will further the Center’s efforts in expanding essential programs and quality care. The Center also serves as an academic college-credit site for SDSU students majoring in Child and Family Development and Early Education. In addition, the program employs over 100 part-time students who gain real-world experience.

“I’m blessed to be in a position where I can give back and support the next generation. It’s something that’s very important to me and I think it should be a priority for all of us,” said Sanders. “I want to give a big thank you to the SDSU Children’s Center and Associated Students for their support and dedication to the development of our community and our youth. It truly doesn’t go unnoticed.”

Exemplary full- and part-time A.S. employees are recognized each semester for their hard work and dedication. A.S. recognizes the following employees:

Scholarships

A.S. Part-Time Student Employee Scholarship

A.S. awards five $1000 scholarships each semester to part-time student employees based on academic performance, contributions to the SDSU and San Diego communities, financial need and length of employment. This semester, A.S. has awarded the following students!

• Colette Kensington,
  Climibing Wall Attendant II – Aztec Recreation
• Oshri Zohara,
  Media Student Technician – Student Union
• Grace Ward,
  Operations Lead – Student Union
• Hillary Tran,
  Building Services Assistant – Aztec Recreation
• Guyvin Benedetto,
  Paddling Instructor – Mission Bay Aquatic Center

McCarron Scholarship

The McCarron Exemplary Service Endowed Scholarship is a $1,500 scholarship awarded to the A.S. student employee who best exemplifies the service ideals of A.S. through exceptional performance and is a contributing member of the SDSU community. Established in 2014, this scholarship is a generous annual gift from Tom & Virginia McCarron that is awarded in the spring semester each year. The McCarron Scholarship winner is:

• Isabella Di Filippo,
  Aquaplex Lifeguard – Aztec Recreation

Jillian Santos

SDSU Children’s Center Master Teacher

Hello A.S. team! My name is Jillian Santos, and I’m excited to introduce myself as the newest full-time member. I will be joining the SDSU Children’s Center as a Master Teacher, and I am incredibly honored to continue supporting children’s growth and development in this new role. My journey at the Children’s Center began in 2022 as a lab student, and over the years I have had the privilege of growing through several positions, including Assistant Teacher, Associate Teacher, Lead Associate Teacher and now Master Teacher. Throughout this journey, I have developed a deep passion for early childhood education and feel so fortunate to continue building my career at the Children’s Center!

I graduated from SDSU in 2024 with a bachelor’s degree in Child and Family Development, and I also hold two associate degrees in Social Work and Psychology. Working with children has become my true passion, and I am eager to continue learning, growing and making a positive impact at the SDSU Children’s Center. Outside of work, I enjoy reading, spending time with loved ones and traveling.

I feel incredibly fortunate to be part of such a wonderful team, and I look forward to this exciting new chapter!

Gabriela Jimenez

SDSU Children’s Center Master Teacher

Hello everyone!

My name is Gabriela V. Jimenez, and I am a new full-time Master Teacher at the SDSU Children’s Center. I was born and raised in San Diego, and I am the proud daughter of two hardworking Hispanic parents. In addition, I am pleased to say that I am an SDSU alum and graduated from San Diego State University in 2025 with a bachelor's degree in Child Development.

I am passionate about helping children thrive and reach their developmental goals. Growing up, I have always been fascinated by the development of young children, and once I started my educational journey in becoming a teacher, I knew I had selected the career that was meant for me. I started interning at SDSU Children’s Center in 2023 and have slowly worked my way up through each position in the Center. I am proud of how much I’ve grown and all the relationships I created with the children, families and staff. I managed to create a new community for myself at the Center, and I can’t wait to expand it even more by joining the A.S. family.

When I am not working, you’ll find me spending quality time with my family. I enjoy going to the beach, reading and watching movies. Anything that involves relaxing on my own or spending time with my loved ones brings me joy.

Overall, I’m excited to connect with all of you and look forward to getting to know you better!

Jet Stadick

Aquaplex Lead

1. What is your name, job title and major?

   My name is Jet Stadick, and I am a Lead at the Aztec Aquaplex. I’m also a recently graduated business marketing major at SDSU.

2. Which A.S. department do you work in? Describe your job in 25 words or less.

   I work for Aztec Recreation under Associated Students. My role includes supervising staff, assisting our members and helping create a positive environment at the Aquaplex.

3. How long have you worked for A.S.?

   I started working for A.S. during my sophomore year and have worked at the Aquaplex ever since. Over time, I moved into a leadership role as an Aquaplex Lead.

4. What is your favorite part of working for A.S.?

   My favorite part of working for A.S. has been the people. I’ve met so many hardworking and supportive coworkers, and many of them have become great friends. The experience has helped me grow professionally and socially.

5. There is a free, round-trip shuttle to Mars. The catch: it will take one year of your life to go, visit, and come back. Are you in? And why?

   Absolutely. A chance to see Mars would be impossible to pass up. Losing a year would be worth experiencing something that only a handful of people ever could.

6. If you had one free hour each day, how would you use it?

   I’d text my friends that they’re coming over and we’re making dinner together. Some of my favorite memories are just hanging out, cooking and catching up with people I’m close to.

7. Which famous person from history would you most like to meet? And why?

   The Wright Brothers. I think it would be incredible to hear how they stayed motivated while trying to accomplish something people thought was impossible, and to see what their mindset was like during the early days of flight.

8. What is your favorite book? And why?

   “Stick and Rudder” by Wolfgang Langewiesche. It’s great for developing your fundamentals in aviation.

9. If you could start a charity, what would it be for?

   I would like to create a program that helps introduce kids to aviation and provides opportunities for students who normally wouldn’t have access to flight training. Aviation can change lives, but it’s expensive and not always accessible.

10. Do you collect anything? What do you collect and why?

    I like collecting things that remind me of experiences and places I’ve been — tea towels from Japan, ski lift tickets, plane tickets and other random small keepsakes. I like having small reminders of different memories and trips.

11. If you had to sing karaoke right now, which song would you pick? And why?

    “Bedrooms in the Sky” by HARDY & Stephen Wilson Jr.

12. Do you like to cook and what is your specialty?

    I love cooking. My specialty is chorizo breakfast burritos, and I could honestly eat like four a day and never get tired of them.

13. You have your own late night talk show, who would you invite as your first guest?

    A.S. Aztec Recreation Aquaplex Membership Services Representative Aiden Rothman.

14. Would you rather speak all languages or be able to talk with animals? And why?

    Speak all languages. Being able to communicate with anyone anywhere in the world would open so many doors and experiences, especially while traveling!

15. Which of your teachers is/was most memorable and why?

    Lance Hoffman in the Fowler College of Business taught lessons that were direct, honest and incredibly beneficial beyond the classroom.