Excellence

The meaning of excellence can be hard to pin down, but you know it when you see it. It's apparent when you look at the accomplishments of our award-winning faculty. It's obvious when you look at the work our students do through programs such as the Undergraduate Research Opportunities Center. It's evident when you see what our alumni go on to achieve.

Take Isael Rubio for example. Rubio, a senior biology major, had a chance to participate in the recent annual meeting of the American Phytopathological Society in Honolulu, where he made a presentation about his research.

Rubio, who attended Salinas public schools before coming to CSUMB, has published research articles in scientific publications and is working at the USDA’s Ag Research Service in Salinas, investigating bacterial plant pathogens and disease. His work involves radishes, arugula, cauliflower and other vegetables important to local growers.

Dr. Carolee Bull, his mentor at the Ag Research Service, says: “His presentation was well received and through discussions with a number of scientists, he helped our laboratory to develop new collaborations with scientists from Europe and the U.S.

“I thank all of you for the opportunity to work with this amazing young man. His work has significantly benefited the USDA/ARS research program,” Dr. Bull told the UROC staff and faculty.

Rubio is just one example, but there are many others. Once you start really looking, you'll find excellence all over Cal State Monterey Bay. In fact, after a while, it becomes hard to miss.