Students of the Year 2020
A Brief History
Each year, Crafton Hills College Faculty and Staff honor the best and brightest students from their respective departments. These students come from all walks of life and stand out from their peers for a variety of reasons. Whether they have the highest grade, the strongest work ethic, are the first to help others, or exhibit some other unique characteristic, the College is extremely proud of these individuals and their contributions to our campus community. Congratulations to this year's honorees!
Students of the Year
Based on Faculty and Staff Nominations | Spring Semester 2020
Students of the Year 2020
Kristian Agdeppa
Transfer Center
"Kristian is a hadworking student working full time while also attending school full time. He has been accepted to Cal Poly Pomona for Hospitality Management and has shown commitment to reach his goal to transfer to a four-year University. Kristian has worked hard to raise his grades while also making sure he stays on top of all the transfer requirements. His constant visits to the University Transfer Center, appointments with counselors and attendance to workshops has shown his strive to make his goal become a reality."
Nominated by Couns. Marisela Hoehn
Students of the Year 2020
Ryan Amaya
Department of Cal Works
"Ryan is an excellent student and extremely motivated to reach his goals. He has many strengths and is highly responsible and dependable, and when he sets his mind to accomplish his goal, he achieves it! He currently works as a tutor at Crafton Hills College. Ryan currently has a 3.41 Grade Point Average and is set to graduate this May 2020 with AS Multiple Sciences.
Considering the life challenges that Ryan has to overcome, he is committed to making a better future not only for himself, his wife and 2 beautiful daughters but for others who are trying to find a better path in which to live."
Nominated by Cal Works Staff
Students of the Year 2020
Ethan Atil
Department of English
"Ethan is an exemplary student in English. He excels in the classroom and serves as a mentor and cheerleader for his peers. He also goes above and beyond his responsibilities as a student for the English department. He presented at Senior Day, relaying his experience as an English major at Crafton. He was the phoenix slam performer (the last, most powerful poet to speak) at the 2019 Battle of the Campuses Slam Poetry competition between Crafton and Valley. He has been the President of The Sand Canyon Writing Club since Fall 2019 and is currently a member of the 2020 Sand Canyon Review team. He deserves a night of recognition for his genuinely charismatic, kind and supportive role as an English major."
Nominated by Prof. Ashley Hayes
Students of the Year 2020
Jacob Baker
Department of Geology
"Jacob has been one of the top students of the Geoscience Program. He typically was the highest grade in every geoscience class he took. A few years ago, he also became an SI Leader for the Introductory Geology classes. His work as an SI Leader has been nothing less than outstanding. Research conducted as part of the SI program was submitted an accepted at the regional Geological Society of America meeting."
Nominated by Prof. Richard Hughes
Students of the Year 2020
Hannah Barnes
Department of Theatre Arts
"Hannah is the epitome of what the phrase "the show must go on" means. She carried our Fall production after taking over the lead on short notice and I could not have been prouder of how she handled herself."
Nominated by Prof. Paul Jacques
Students of the Year 2020
Kristy Beck
Department of Honors
"Kristy has been a standout Honors student, researcher, and leader. She has developed excellent research and presentation skills and has been accepted to several conferences, including the prestigious 2019 Bay Area Honors Research Conference at Stanford University. As an Honors Ambassador, she has been key in moving our program forward, especially through her use of social media to advertise Honors events. Always cheerful, she is a joy to work with."
Nominated by Judy Cannon
Students of the Year 2020
Naomi Buffam
Department of Spanish
"Has demonstrated excellence in the field."
Nominated by Profs. Jeff Schmidt and Marina Kozanova
Students of the Year 2020
Cody Cunningham
Department of Music
"Cody is finishing his degree at Crafton this semester amid the COVID 19 lockdown. He has always done excellent work and has continued with excellence in this remote environment, practicing between eight and ten hours per day. Cody is a double bassist and has performed at Crafton's Black History Month celebration for the past two years. He specializes in Jazz and has started playing Classical literature as he prepares to transfer to CSU-San Bernardino. He has been already been accepted into the Bachelor of Arts in Music program and will be auditioning for their Bachelor of Music program this summer. Cody is an extremely hard-working student and is known by the Music faculty and his peers as one of the kindest people you could ever have the pleasure to work with."
Nominated by Prof. Mark McConnell
Students of the Year 2020
Makayla Escarcega
Department of Guardian Scholars
"Makayla has not let her past define who she is and what she can accomplish. Despite growing up and living a life of hardship and pain, Makayla has demonstrated that she can overcome any negative experiences and live a life filled with happiness. From tragedy to triumph, Makayla has flourished and is a wonderful example of a young person who is resilient despite pain and trauma. Makayla’s experience has helped her discover her purpose in life which is to help foster kids as a school psychologist. As Makayla stated, “My childhood inspired me to be better and help kids before they have to pick which road is best for them by themselves.” Makayla will be transferring to CSU Fullerton."
Nominated by EOPS Staff
Students of the Year 2020
Fernando Flores
Department of Arts
"I love Crafton because of the small campus with a big homey feel. In my experience at Crafton, my professors have been very supportive and go far to accommodate our learning. I plan to transfer to the University of California, Los Angeles."
Nominated by Prof. Reneé Azenaro
Students of the Year 2020
Andrew Gebara
Department of Fire
"Andrew Gebara is the Secretary II for the Fire Academy & the Fire Technology Department. He has been with us for over two years and is an incredible worker with great communication and people skills. During his time period with us, he obviously has been exposed to the inner workings of our program and the fire service overall. Approximately, one year ago he expressed an interest in becoming a firefighter and as much as Dan & I hate to see him leave his position for our own selfish reasons we absolutely encouraged him to go for it. So, during the last year, he has worked full-time and simultaneously completed the pre-requisites along with serving as one of the advisors for the Fire Tech Club on campus. This club has the largest enrollment of any other club and he does an outstanding job of balancing all of these activities and is now slated to enter the Fire Academy in the Fall of 2020. We are very proud of him and believe that he will make a great public servant in the fire service."
Nominated by Chief Mike Alder
Students of the Year 2020
Elijah Gerard
Department of Student Life
"Elijah is a powerful advocate of student voices at a local, regional, and state level. His intelligence, thoughtful comments, approachable demeanor, sense of humor, and attention to detail as CHC's Student Trustee have garnered positive feedback from everyone who has worked alongside him over the last two years. Elijah has an impressive understanding of policies and procedures important in higher education. A true leader, he is focused on creating a meaningful and inclusive student experience for all. Congratulations Elijah- the best is yet to come!"
Nominated by Dr. Ericka Paddock
Students of the Year 2020
Melissa Grubb
Department of CARE
"Melissa is a single mom working 25 hours per week to ensure she can provide for herself and her beautiful daughter, Luna. Through the process of navigating adversity, Melissa has gained insight and become an empowered advocate for herself, her family and her community. Melissa demonstrates that there is no situation that you cannot change if you have the determination and perseverance to do so. In spite of the hardships she has endured, Melissa possesses an inner strength and self-assurance that are key factors to her success."
Nominated by Care Staff
Students of the Year 2020
Michael Hackett
Department of Computer Science
"I enjoy Crafton Hills because it feels like a small town with its tight-knit community. I have met many amazing and intelligent people during my time here. The classes can be challenging, but I feel as though attending Crafton has made me better prepared to further my education. I am planning to transfer to Cal State Monterey Bay."
Nominated by Prof. Frank Madrid
Students of the Year 2020
Leah Holdsworth
Department of Respiratory
"Leah has a very cheery and uplifting attitude; she knows all about “time and place” which is essential to becoming an effective bedside care provider. Leah is an excellent student; she remains focused and attentive at all times and sets the example for others to follow. Leah is active in the programs Beta 2 club and serves as a classroom leader for her cohort, the 2020 class. In the clinic, I have personally experienced how Leah goes above and beyond to apply herself and make the most of every clinical opportunity. She will do anything asked of her by her assigned preceptors and this is allowing her to shine as a future RT and employment prospect. Additionally, she makes the school and the program look good by her attitude and willingness to work. Keep up the great work Leah!"
Nominated by Prof. Daniel Rojas III
Students of the Year 2020
Britt Kahn
Department of EOPS
"Britt is a working mother who returned to school to help provide a better life for her and her children. She had hopes of only getting an associate degree but was challenged to set her sights higher. The road has definitely not been easy, but Britt has continued to push forward in every aspect of family, school and work life. She spends countless hours wearing multiple hats, but she does it with graces and will not stop short of success. Britt was accepted to CSUSB for Business Administration."
Nominated by EOPS Staff
Students of the Year 2020
Victoria Karalun
Department of Communication Studies
"I am a Psychology major and I love Crafton because of the amazingly dedicated professors and the Honors program."
Nominated by Prof. James Urbanovich
Students of the Year 2020
Dustin Keefe
Department of Business Administration
"I love Crafton Hills because the staff is great. The professors go out of their way to help students and really love to teach. It shows they really care. The views from campus are also amazing looking out over Yucaipa from the hill by CNTL is such an amazing and relaxing view. I plan to transfer to the University of La Verne."
Nominated by Prof. Kenneth George
Students of the Year 2020
William C. Kingsbury
Department of Political Science
"The major I intend to pursue is History and I plan on transferring to UC Riverside. My time as Crafton was eminently enjoyable, and an integral part of my adult life. I had the pleasure of learning under a number of fine professors, some of whom changed the course of my educational and career ambitions together, and for the better at that. I have had many friends and romantic partners here as well. Given the length of my tenure and its effects on my life and outlook, I can say genuinely that it will pain me to say goodbye."
Nominated by Prof. Steve Hellerman
Students of the Year 2020
Karina Sea Lewis
Department of Communication Studies
"I love Crafton because it is a supportive and loving community!"
Nominated by Prof. James Urbanovich
Students of the Year 2020
Karina Lewis
Tutoring Center
"What can we possibly say about Karina Lewis that hasn’t been said? Karina is the personification of joy and school spirit. Her enthusiasm for learning and for serving others is contagious. She is always eager to help, even accepting the less desirable chores with glee. The Tutoring Center is a better place because of students like Karina."
Nominated by Karen Peterson and Nicholas Reichert
Students of the Year 2020
Maria del Carmen Lillemon
Department of Adult Ed
"I am currently majoring in Radiology and hope to transfer to the program that Crafton provides. There are many reasons that I enjoy and love Crafton Hills. I enjoy walking and seeing the modern installations on the campus and that is one of the reasons why I love coming to classes also, the staff and the people who have made it possible for me to thrive in college. I would like to mention Alex Jaco, he was ready to help me with the transition to Crafton and motivated me to enroll. The people at the library are kind and helpful whenever I have a question or need help with a computer. I appreciate all staff in EOPS who have been patient and extremely helpful. Special thanks to my counselor, Raquel who always listened and encouraged to persuade my goals. I am grateful for the opportunities that Crafton Hills has granted."
Nominated by Coordinator Alex Jaco
Students of the Year 2020
Rebecca Maschack
Department of Humanities
"I am an English and History Dual Major and I will be transferring to CSU San Bernardino. I love Crafton because the campus is absolutely beautiful and the college provides tons of different services."
Nominated by Prof. Elizabeth Langenfeld
Students of the Year 2020
Kashawna McKay
Department of Counseling
Faculty Quote
"An adult reentry student coming back to school and her attendance, participation, work ethic and quality is excellent."
Nominated by Prof. Carol A. Mattson
Students of the Year 2020
Solange Morris
Department of DSPS
"I am a studio art/ visual arts major at Crafton Hills College. I intend on transferring to California State University, San Bernardino for the fall semester of this year. One of the reasons why I love Crafton so much is because of the campus faculty and educators and their obvious passion for helping students to succeed. Throughout my academic journey while attending Crafton I have experienced many stumbling blocks and difficult situations but I have also met some of the most humble, creative and enthusiastic people at Crafton that have helped to get through those difficult times. Any student knows the difficulty of trying to declare a major but not knowing if they'll be successful at it. Learning from friends and different instructors at Crafton showed me that it is okay to not know everything and opened me up to trying new things that ultimately made me more passionate about being an artist and I plan on using that knowledge to help others."
Nominated by Marty Milligan
Students of the Year 2020
Alisa Narintarangkool
Department of Anatomy and Physiology
"Alisa holds a Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences and a Master’s degree in Orthotics and Prosthetics. She learned how to create and customize orthoses used in orthopedic bracing, such as arm and leg braces, scoliosis braces, cranial remodeling orthoses for babies, as well as prostheses (artificial limbs) for amputees. In 2019, she attended Crafton Hills College to fulfill her pre-requisites for Occupational Therapy. She is looking forward to combining her background in Orthotics and Prosthetics with Occupational Therapy because she wants to be even more involved in a patient’s care, recovery, and therapy."
Nominated by Dr. Sam H. Truong
Students of the Year 2020
Evan Nelson
Department of History
"Full-time student and full-time worker, turned his life around for the better."
Nominated by Prof. Sabrina Jimenez
Students of the Year 2020
Audrey Ortiz
Promise Program
"I would like to recognize Audrey Ortiz for her efforts in organizing the Teens for Jeans drive on campus. She has gone above and beyond the average student to help others and deserves to be recognized."
Nominated by Soutsakhone Xayaphanthong
Students of the Year 2020
Christian Pantoja
Career Center
"Christian was able to master a very well academic class while being a first time Promise student. He was the top student in COUN 110 course. He is focused on doing well in his future career goals as well as academically."
Nominated by Trinette Barrie
Students of the Year 2020
Dallas Platter
Department of Sociology
"I plan to transfer to CSUSB for the Social Work program and I love Crafton Hills because my journey started here. The support and encouragement from EOP&S and the Foundation have helped me to set and accomplish my goals. Thank you for this opportunity."
Nominated by Prof. Julie McKee
Students of the Year 2020
Kevin Poku
Department of Respiratory
"Mr. Poku carries himself with consistent professionalism and a positive attitude. He is inquisitive and applies his learning towards a better understanding and helps to explain these concepts to his classmates. In the clinic, he provides excellent patient care and strives to learn and experience as much as possible. He has a strong work ethic and treats his classmates and instructors with courtesy and respect. Keep up the strong work Kevin!"
Nominated by Prof. Daniel Rojas III
Students of the Year 2020
Catherine Poster
Department of American Sign Language
"At the beginning of the semester, Kaz approached me and shared that she wasn’t sure if she was ready for the class (one of our highest levels of ASL). I asked her to try out a few classes and let me know how she was feeling. She not only tried it out, but she has been rockin’ it. Her dedication to the class is inspiring and she has overcome many obstacles that have stood in her way. Kaz, I appreciate your optimism and am so proud of how far you have come!"
Nominated by Prof. Breanna Andrews
Students of the Year 2020
Raul Reza
Department of Mathematics
“The Mathematics department would like to nominate Raul Reza for Student Recognition in the discipline of mathematics. Raul brings an infectious joy and enthusiasm for studying mathematics. Raul’s excitement and passion for the subject, and STEM in general, inspires his peers and instructors to reach new heights in their own explorations of STEM. Unhappy with merely satisfying the course objectives, Raul seeks new and exciting ways to explore course material as he augments class discussions and projects to satisfy his innate curiosity about the STEM subjects. He is planning to transfer as an Applied Mathematics major with a possible minor in Physics/Computer Science in Fall 2020”
Nominated by Prof. Brandi Bailes
Students of the Year 2020
Mackenzie Rosenberger
Department of Psychology
"I’m officially transferred to California State University San Bernardino to finish my Bachelors's in Psychology. I think the biggest reason for my love for Crafton has got to be the people. I have met so many outstanding and genuine students, professors, and other campus employees that have continuously pushed me to keep going and keep trudging along with no matter what life or school has thrown at me. I wouldn’t be where I am today and have accomplished so much if it weren’t for my peers and faculty reminding me what I’m capable of. Watching others succeed and support one another is such an inspiring thing that it’s hard not to go out and do the same! Psychology club and Dr. Pfahler have had my back through some of the toughest times in not only my life but also my college career. Dr. Pfahler has been the biggest supporter to All of her students and it never ceases to amaze me. She has helped me achieve great things in regards to my school accomplishments, I owe such a big thanks to not only her but Crafton as well for reminding me of my potential. I love Crafton because it feels like family."
Nominated by Prof. Diane Pfahler
Students of the Year 2020
Karen Ruiz
Department of Sociology
Nominated by Prof. Julie McKee
Students of the Year 2020
Gileyla Serato
Department of Student Life
"As a Student Worker in the Department of Student Life for the second year in a row, Gileyla has consistently proven herself to be an exceptional employee. Her impressive work ethic, quiet confidence, capacity to remain calm during stressful situations, and desire to complete any request to the best of her ability make Gileyla crucial to the department's success. Whether she's serving as a tour guide or helping facilitate major events such as Commencement, Gileyla's leadership is always appreciated. We're so proud of you, Gileyla- you'll always be successful!"
Nominated by Dr. Ericka Paddock
Students of the Year 2020
Suzanna Smit
Tutoring Center
"Suzanna is such an asset to the Tutoring Center. She is always ready to greet students and visitors with a friendly face and a welcoming attitude. She never turns anyone away when she doesn’t know an answer, she does what she needs to do to get them the right information. Suzanna is the best when it comes to helping students, faculty, and staff. She is an expert at staying calm, even when things are chaotic and stressful."
Nominated by Karen Peterson and Nicholas Reichert
Students of the Year 2020
Axel Solis
Veterans Center
"Crafton Hills was my first college after I got out of the military. I immediately felt at home with the scenic campus. When the Veterans Resource Center opened, I got to work there and make some great friends. They bring hardened people together and gives them a place to be themselves. It deserves to be fought for and it deserves the effort that the veterans put into it to keep it stocked, clean, and fun. I am also a Biology major."
Nominated by Steven Rush
Students of the Year 2020
Samantha Vargas
Department of Theatre Arts
"Samantha has a mind that is always searching out new possibilities which is why she is going to be an amazing theatre practitioner. She relates well to her other artists and is always looking to grow."
Nominated by Prof. Paul Jacques
Students of the Year 2020
Adam Virani
Department of Honors
"Adam brought a world-class style to the Honors program. As a business student, he probably has more international business experience than any of his professors. He has worked for a non-profit whose goal is to end world hunger. He has lobbied members of Congress to increase foreign aid. He has also worked through the Student Senate to advocate for positive changes on our campus. While he doesn’t seem intimidated by anything, he is always humble and always hard working."
Nominated by Judy Cannon
Students of the Year 2020
Savannah Wagner
Department of Business Administration
"While studying in Introduction to Business, Savannah demonstrated extraordinary organizational skills and the ability to lead and work in a group. Her business plan presentation was already on a level that would usually only be expected from a professional in the workforce. In it, she created a sound business plan including managerial, financial and marketing considerations. She continues to do excellent work in business law.
In addition to Savannah’s exceptional accomplishments in business as an undergraduate, her friendly personality and her excellent communication skills made her an outstanding member of Crafton Hill’s community. As a volunteer at the San Bernardino County Museum, she has hands-on experience with anthropology work. Her organizational, writing and communication skills have made her a trusted volunteer in that organization."
Nominated by Prof. Kristin Alderson
Students of the Year 2020
Alexis Ward
Department of Radiology
"I love that Crafton has given me the ability to achieve my degree for my dream career."
Nominated by Melissa Huynh
Students of the Year 2020
Kamila Willis
Department of Adult Ed
"I love Crafton Hills because the school is family-oriented and made it easy and comfortable to come back and receive a degree. My plan is to transfer to Cal State San Bernardino."
Nominated by Coordinator Alex Jaco
Students of the Year 2020
Timothy Wilson
Department of Communication and Language
"Timothy has been studying Japanese in my classes of JAPN 101-104. He has been a serious and diligent student. Once he enters the Japanese classroom, he tries to keep using Japanese, even during a conversation with his classmates. Since last semester, he has been working as a tutor of Japanese. He has also been making a great contribution to those who want to learn Japanese as President of the Japanese Study Club."
Nominated by Prof. Mayumi Ajioka
Students of the Year 2020
Eric Zaragoza
Department of Paramedics
"From the start of our program, Eric has maintained an excellent attitude and work ethic, despite the unforeseen circumstances that we face now. Our paramedic program is centered on service to others and Eric emulates that with his attitude towards his classmates and other professionals. I have no doubt that he will go on to be a shining example of our program and a true master of his class."
Nominated by Prof. Amanda Ward
Students of the Year 2020
Gabriel Zavala
Department of Paramedics
"From the start of our program, Gabe has maintained an excellent attitude and work ethic, despite the unforeseen circumstances that we face now. Our paramedic program is centered on service to others and Gabe emulates that with his attitude towards his classmates and other professionals. I have no doubt that he will go on to be a shining example of our program and a true master of his class."
Nominated by Prof. Amanda Ward
We're moving to Self-Service!
Crafton Hills College is in the process of transitioning from WebAdvisor to Self-Service.
Self-Service is a modern and simplified way for students to register for classes and faculty to manage registration.
Be on the lookout for a campus wide email with more information.