Faculty Spotlight

2026 ‘Emerging Scholar’ Honor

The EDU Ledger, a national higher education news outlet, has named Jarred Cuellar, political science, a 2026 Emerging Scholar. The award honors outstanding faculty under 40 years who make a significant impact in the classroom, communities and in research.

Undergraduate Research Fellows Award

Winny Dong, inaugural senior director, innovation and grants, has been named a 2025 Council of Undergraduate Research Fellow. Dong joins an esteemed group of educators who are recognized for leadership, mentorship and advocacy in undergraduate research.

Professor Chantal Stieber and a group of students in her lab class.

Chem Professor Wins Presidential Award

Chantal Stieber, chemistry, received the Presidential Award for Excellence in Science, Mathematics and Engineering Mentoring, announced by the NSF. Stieber’s research and mentoring is supported through $1.56 million in grants and $15 million in collaborative funding.

Faculty Awarded 2025 Carnegie Fellowship

Assistant Professor Aaron Cayer, architecture, received the 2025 Andrew Carnegie Fellowship — one of just 26 recipients and the only Fellow in architecture. The fellowship recognizes his influential work at the intersection of architecture, labor and politics.

Professor Vilupanur Ravi smiles during a classroom lecture.

Innovative Research & Development Award

Professor Vilupanur Ravi, chemical and materials engineering, received the William B. Johnson International Founders Award. Ravi conducts groundbreaking research in materials science and corrosion engineering and has a deep commitment to student success.

Jessie Vallejo playing guitar in the classroom for her students

Yamaha Celebrates CPP Music Faculty

Jessie Vallejo, music, is one of “40 Under 40” music teachers celebrated by Yamaha Music USA. Vallejo directs CPP’s mariachi ensembles and teaches courses across the music department’s curriculum.

CA State Senator Honors CPP Leaders

State Sen. Bob Archuleta honored Provost S. Terri Gomez and Associate Professor Álvaro Huerta for their leadership and achievements in education and community advocacy during Hispanic Heritage Month celebrations.