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Associated Students Staff Newsletter

Associated Students Sep '25

Welcomes, Wellness and Written Wonders

Director’s Message

Dear A.S. Family,

Welcome to fall semester 2025! As we kick off another year, we want to thank you for your continued dedication to supporting SDSU students. The A.S. services, programs and facilities that you all operate are critical to the sense of belonging and success of all SDSU students. A.S. is great at this because of you. To the professional staff and student staff, you are seen and you are appreciated. We are looking forward to all that will be accomplished in the year ahead.

With the new year comes new milestones, and we are excited to have the first fully female executive officer team in A.S. history! The executive officers are excited to share their theme for the year: "Rooted in Hope, Grounded by Community," reflecting A.S.’ commitment to promoting an inclusive, engaged campus community while focusing on three core branches:

Belonging: A.S. will continue to nurture a culture of belonging by creating safe, inclusive spaces where every student feels seen, heard and supported through A.S. initiatives. A.S. programs like Aztecs Rock Hunger and Your Voice Matters will ensure a connected campus community.

Visibility: A.S. has over 200 student volunteer leaders each year and they are dedicated to increasing their visibility and approachability by maintaining a strong, consistent presence on campus through the implementation of office hours and walk arounds to many student communities and classrooms on campus. By actively engaging students in their spaces, A.S. will also promote transparency and raise awareness of available funding and resources, such as the A.S. Food Pantry and the FLEX and FAST Track student mentorship programs.

Empowerment: Through developing tangible aids to build knowledge and confidence such as an advocacy tool kit, a financial literacy campaign and AI skills training, A.S. will ensure students are empowered to advocate for themselves and others, amplifying their voices on and off campus.

If you have ideas for incorporating these themes into your department’s goals or activities, please share them with your supervisor or director. As a student-led organization, we value all of your ideas that contribute to the student leaders’ goals that help guide work for the year and to overall student success.

Lastly, we wanted to ensure everyone is aware of two campus resources: the SDSU Safe App and Your Voice Matters. The SDSU Safe App contains reporting tools, campus maps and other safety resources for the SDSU campus community and Your Voice Matters is a platform for all students to submit a comment, idea or suggestion to tell us what you would like to see improved or offered at SDSU or in A.S.

Thank you for your continued dedication to furthering A.S.’ mission!

Kareen, A.S. President & Chair of the A.S. Board of Directors
Christina, A.S. Executive Director

Kareen and Christina posing on a balcony.

Latinx/e Heritage Month

The weeks between Sept. 15 and Oct. 15 mark National Hispanic Heritage Month, a time to honor the culture, traditions and contributions of Hispanic, Chicanx and Latinx communities. It is also Latinx/e Heritage Month. As a federally-designated Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI), SDSU celebrates the many contributions of our Hispanic, Chicanx and Latinx students, faculty, staff and colleagues.

The Latinx Resource Center, along with various campus partners, will be hosting a series of events. Stay tuned for updates on events and more news by visiting the Latinx Resource Center website.

All students, regardless of race, sex, color, ethnicity or national origin, who are interested in celebrating and participating in Latinx Heritage Month events are welcome. Learn more by reading SDSU's Affirming Equal Opportunity statement.

Mexican paper flags.
Papel picado is a Mexican folk art where intricate designs are chiseled or cut into a stack of 50 to 100 sheets simultaneously. They are then strung together to create a banner.

National Gym Day

Ready to get moving? National Gym Day is coming up on September 16, and what better way to celebrate than by exploring everything the Aztec Recreation Center (ARC) has to offer! Whether you're a seasoned gym-goer or just starting your fitness journey, the ARC has something for everyone.

The ARC is a massive, two-story facility spanning 134,000 square feet. It's packed with a wide variety of equipment and features, including:

  • Six courts for basketball and other sports
  • An indoor track for running or walking regardless of the weather
  • Five fitness studios offering a range of classes from Heated Yoga Sculpt to Boxing Fitness
  • Dedicated areas for Olympic lifting
  • Gear for climbing and bouldering at the wall
  • A spacious turf zone for functional training
  • Shake Smart for a post-workout treat
  • Lockers and showers to get ready for the day

For those who prefer a quicker workout, the ARC Express offers a convenient, focused space with cardio machines, free weights, TRX, and cable machines.

Activate Your ARC Membership

Did you know your ARC membership is included with your employment or enrollment at SDSU?

For Full-Time A.S. Staff

Your ARC membership is part of your benefits! To activate it, simply email Amanda at ajgonzalez2@sdsu.edu or stop by the ARC with your Red ID.

For Student Staff

Activating your membership is easy and only takes a few minutes. Follow these simple steps:

  • Visit the ARC online portal.
  • Click "Sign In" in the top right corner, then select "Enrolled Student Login".
  • Enter your SDSU login credentials.
  • Click the "!" in the top right corner to read and sign the waiver.
  • Download the Aztec Recreation app.
  • Select the barcode icon, choose "Enrolled Student Login", and enter your SDSU credentials again to access your digital ID.

If you have any questions about your eligibility, you can reach out to A.S. Human Resources by emailing ashrdept@sdsu.edu

So mark your calendars for National Gym Day and get ready to make the most of your membership!

A woman using a weight machine to work out while a trainer spots her.

National Read a Book Day

by Quentin Skaggs, Graphics Manager

September 6th is National Read a Book Day, so celebrate by sitting back, relaxing and reading a book.

Reading is more than just a way to pass time — it’s a window to new worlds, ideas and perspectives and can also connect us with people and cultures across the globe and across generations.  Whether you are diving into fiction or learning from nonfiction, books have the power to expand your imagination and sharpen your way of thinking.

Regular reading improves vocabulary, focus and empathy. It reduces stress and stimulates the brain, helping you grow both intellectually and emotionally. And, a Yale University study found that people who read books lived an average of two years longer than those who didn’t read at all. Reading can keep your brain healthy and strong by keeping it active.

You don’t have to pick up an actual book to reap the benefits. Read an ebook on your tablet or phone or even listen to an audio book.

You can enjoy the magic that books can bring to your life for FREE! Visit your San Diego Public Library, get a library card and check out a physical book or audio book for FREE. Take a walk around your neighborhood and look for a Little Free Library in one of your neighbors’ yards. Take a book, it’s FREE, and next time share a book by adding one of yours to their little library.

An easy way to get started reading, or start reading again, is by joining the A.S. Book Club. Visit the club’s website to learn more.

Reading doesn’t just inform — it inspires, challenges and can transform us. The best way to celebrate this day is by grabbing a good book and getting lost in it. Here are just a few of my favorites:

  • The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time

    by Mark Haddon

    View Goodreads Summary of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time

    Christopher John Francis Boone knows all the countries of the world and their capitals and every prime number up to 7,057. He relates well to animals but has no understanding of human emotions. He cannot stand to be touched. And he detests the color yellow. This improbable story of Christopher’s quest to investigate the suspicious death of a neighborhood dog makes for one of the most captivating, unusual, and widely heralded novels in recent years.

  • I See You've Called in Dead: A Novel

    by John Kenney

    View Goodreads Summary of I See You've Called in Dead: A Novel

    Bud Stanley is an obituary writer who is afraid to live. Yes, his wife recently left him for a “far more interesting” man. Yes, he goes on a particularly awful blind date with a woman who brings her ex. And yes, he has too many glasses of Scotch one night and proceeds to pen and publish his own obituary. The newspaper wants to fire him. But now the company’s system has him listed as dead. And the company can’t fire a dead person. The ensuing fallout forces him to realize that life may be actually worth living.

  • The Widow's Husband's Secret Lie

    by Freida McFadden

    View Goodreads Summary of The Widow's Husband's Secret Lie

    The Widow's Husband's Secret Lie is an utterly addictive, unputdownable, nail-biting, absolutely gripping psychological thriller novella with a shocking, breathtaking, heartstopping, spine-chilling twist that you won't see coming, will leave you stunned, and will literally have you picking your jaw up off the floor and bringing it to the nearest hospital for major facial reconstructive surgery.

A person reading a book.

Fruits & Veggies Month

September is National Fruit and Veggies Month, an excellent reminder to incorporate more produce into your daily meals. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, there's always a delicious new way to enjoy these nutritional powerhouses. Get inspired by the recipes below, shared by our A.S. staff, and see how easy and exciting healthy eating can be.

  • Caprese Salad

    Steven Tong, Food Services Supervisor, SDSU Children's Center

    Ingredients:

    • Campari tomatoes
    • Mozarella Pearls
    • Basil
    • Olive Oil
    • Salt
    • Pepper

    Instructions
    1. I start by quartering campari tomatoes.
    2. In a salad bowl I mix equal parts tomato and mozzarella pearls.
    3. I then chiffonade some basil and add it in with olive oil, salt and pepper to taste.
    Caprese Salad

  • Asparagus Soup

    Jennifer Shorey, Contracts & Risk Management Coordinator, Business Services

    Ingredients:

    • 2 lbs. asparagus (about 2 bunches)
    • 1 medium yellow onion
    • 2 cloves garlic
    • 2 tablespoons olive oil
    • 1 ½ teaspoons salt
    • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
    • 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth

    Instructions
    1. Cut the vegetables. Trim about 1-inch off the ends of 2 pounds asparagus and discard. If desired, cut the tips from 12 of the asparagus spears into 2-inch pieces and reserve to garnish the soup. Cut the remaining stalks into 1-inch pieces and set aside. Finely chop 1 medium yellow onion and mince 2 garlic cloves.
    2. Soften the aromatics. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a Dutch oven or large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until softened, 3 to 5 minutes. Add the asparagus stalks, garlic, 1 1/2 teaspoons salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and cook, stirring occasionally, until crisp tender, about 5 minutes.
    3. Add the broth. Pour in 4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil.
    4. Simmer the soup. Reduce the heat to maintain a simmer, and simmer uncovered until the asparagus is very tender but still bright green, 8 to 12 minutes.
    5. Purée the soup. Working in batches if needed, carefully transfer the soup to a blender and blend until completely smooth. (Alternatively, use an immersion blender.) Return the soup to the pot.
    6. Serve the soup. Ladle the soup into bowls, and top with the reserved raw asparagus tips, if using.
    Asparagus Soup

  • Fresas con Crema

    Lorena Ramirez, A.S. Office Coordinator, Government Affairs

    My grandfather is diabetic so my family makes Fresas con Crema a little differently. It is super simple and cuts down on a lot of the excess sugar from the sweetened condensed milk and evaporated milk in traditional Fresas con Crema.

    Ingredients:

    • 2 lbs. of strawberries
    • One 8oz. tub of sour cream
    • Sugar to taste
    • Splash of Mexican vanilla extract (optional)
    • Dash of cinnamon (optional)

    Instructions
    1. Wash and cut strawberries to preference and add to a large bowl. My grandmother preferred to dice and then slightly mash the strawberries once everything was combined, but my mom and I prefer a medium dice.
    2. Add the 8oz of sour cream to the bowl. You can add less or more depending on your preference.
    3. Add sugar to taste.

    You can enjoy Fresas con Crema by itself or on top of an angel food cake with whip cream if you want to get fancy.

    Fresas con Crema

  • Fruit Salad

    Kevin Dieschbourg, Technical Services Supervisor, Student Union

    Ingredients:

    • 1 whole banana
    • Small bowl of strawberries
    • Small bowl of blueberries
    • Trader Joe's cashew yogurt
    • Agave syrup

    Instructions
    1. Prep: Cut up the banana into thin slices. Wash and cut up strawberries into fourths. Wash the blueberries.
    2. Put all the fruit into a bowl and top with several spoonfuls of yogurt (I usually add about 5 or 6 spoonfuls).
    3. Add desired amount of agave. Mix altogether and serve!
    Sliced bananas, strawberries, and blueberries

New Employees

Mollie Estep

Mollie Estep

Viejas Arena Office Coordinator

My name is Mollie Estep, and I’m the Office Coordinator for Viejas Arena and the Cal Coast Credit Union Open Air Theatre! Originally from Arkansas, I’ve traveled all around the country and have called sunny San Diego home for the past seven years.

For over a decade, I’ve worked in hospitality, event operations and administration. My experience ranges from box office, front desk and housekeeping supervision to managing overnight operations at luxury hotels like The U.S. Grant and the Fairmont Grand Del Mar. I’ve also worked in member services at the YMCA and supported executive teams remotely in administrative and data-focused roles.

I’m passionate about creating welcoming spaces and making sure the behind-the-scenes details are handled with care. My journey started as a lifeguard, and over the years I’ve built a career rooted in strong service, adaptability and teamwork.

Outside of work, I enjoy all things Disney, sports, live music, traveling and spending time with friends and family. I’m a proud Seattle Mariners and Arkansas Razorbacks fan. I’m always looking to grow personally and professionally, and I’m excited to see where this next chapter with Associated Students leads!

Carlos Contreras

Carlos Contreras

Accounts Payable Coordinator

Hello A.S.!

My name is Carlos Contreras. I am the new Accounts Payable Coordinator for Business Services. I am incredibly excited to be joining the A.S. family! I was born and raised here in San Diego and attended San Diego State University where I majored in Finance. I am currently seeking my CPA certification as well.

I am actually a former employee of A.S. back when I was a student, working at Aztec Lanes. After working as an accounting supervisor for Specialty Produce here in San Diego for a few years after graduating, it is extremely cool to be back!

You can usually find me either at the gym, movies or watching the Padres game after work. On the weekends, I love spending time trying new restaurants all around San Diego with my girlfriend and spending time anywhere by the water, whether it’s hiking, running or paddle boarding. I also love to cook, spend time with my dog, Rosie, and write. I cannot wait to continue connecting with everyone and making an impact!

Associated Students of SDSU

15 Questions

Quentin Skaggs
Graphics Manager

  • What is your name and title?

    Quentin Skaggs, Graphics Manager

  • Which A.S. department do you work in?

    I work in the Graphics Department, a part of Business Services. I oversee the daily operations of the department and do print and web design work.

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

    A little over 24 years.

  • What do you like most about working for A.S.?

    I get to work with an amazing team of creatives, especially the student designers who are studying graphic design, as they experience the real world feel of a creative studio by working in our office. They all do excellent work!

  • If you had to move to another country, which one would you choose?

    I would move to Finland. It has been ranked the happiest country in the world for eight years in a row. My grandmother was from Lapland — the far northern part of the country — and I have visited Helsinki. The city is a fascinating and beautiful blend of old and new, with friendly people who, thankfully, all speak English. The Finnish language is nearly impossible to learn, for example, “juustohampurilainen” means cheeseburger; don’t even ask me how to pronounce it.

  • What 5 songs are at the top of your playlist?

    These songs change, often, here are the five that are currently at the top my playlist — some old, some new:

    • “American Idiot” by Green Day
    • “Broken Man” by St. Vincent
    • “How Soon is Now?” by The Smiths
    • “The Line” by Twenty One Pilots
    • “Who” by Lxandra

  • Which famous person from history would you most like to meet?

    I would like to have coffee with Oliver Sacks (1933-2015). He was a British neurologist, professor, naturalist, historian of science and writer — he wrote 17 books. He was also an avid powerlifter, motorcyclist and swimmer. As an author, he is best known for his many collections of very unusual neurological case histories. “The New York Times” has referred to him as “the poet laureate of medicine.” His book “Awakenings,” inspired a play, two films, a ballet and an opera. I have a long list of questions that I would ask him.

  • What is your favorite book?

    This is a tough question for me as I have many, many favorites. If I have to pick one, it would be “The World According to Garp” by John Irving. It has very quirky characters and a very unusual and interesting storyline. It is a really great book! And it was made into an equally great movie, starring Robin Williams and Glen Close.

  • What is your favorite national park or museum to visit?

    My favorite museum is The Board in LA. It has an amazing collection of contemporary art from the 1950s to the present. It is home to over 2,000 works, by nearly 200 artists. The collection features many of my favorite artists: Richard Diebenkorn, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Keith Herring, Robert Rauschenberg, Andy Warhol and more. And best of all, admission is free! 

  • 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?

    Definitely! I really always wanted to be an astronaut.

  • “Most people don’t know that I…

    … have worn a prisoner of war bracelet for 54 years and I almost never take off. When I was in high school, at the end of the Vietnam War, I received the bracelet from a non-profit organization. It bears the name of an Air Force pilot — Lt. Col. Joseph Christiano — who was declared missing in action after his plane was shot down over Laos on December 24, 1965.

    The idea behind the bracelet is to wear it in honor of the missing service member. If they returned home or their remains were found, you would then send the bracelet — along with a personal note — to them or their family.

    To this day, there is still some uncertainty about Lt. Col. Christiano’s remains that were said to be found a few years ago in southern Laos. His family is still waiting for definitive proof. So, until that is resolved, I am proud to continue to wear the bracelet in his honor.

  • When you visit the Zoo, which animal do you make sure you see, and why?

    I always see the polar bears. Amazing, beautiful creatures — it breaks my heart that they are becoming endangered. Interesting facts about polar bears: they can swim constantly for days at a time, their skin is actually black and scientists can extract their DNA from just their footprints.

  • What does your perfect burger have on it?

    Being vegetarian, a plant-based patty, on top of that, gochujang, tomato and red onion slices, pickled jalapeños, sliced avocado, on large leaf lettuce, no bun.

  • What is your favorite breakfast food?

    I know this sounds strange, but you have to try it. Oatmeal topped with cottage cheese and spicy salsa. It’s actually delicious.

  • Would you rather speak all languages or be able to talk with animals?

    I would like to be able to talk with animals. I am positive they would have a lot to say — amazing, sad, wonderful stories to tell. They probably have great insight into how we could make the world a better place.

Quentin and Dave
Quentin and his partner, Dave, at the Mendenhall Glacier in Alaska.