José A. Gómez Excellence Award

The José A. Gómez College of Letters, Arts, and Social Sciences Faculty and Staff Excellence Awards acknowledge outstanding contributions of faculty and staff to the CLASS through teaching, research, creative work, service, advising, mentoring, and collaboration. Dr. Gómez established the fund to honor faculty and staff members who have significantly contributed to student success in CLASS. A first-generation college student, Dr. Gómez grew up in La Puente before attending Cal Poly Pomona, where he earned his Bachelor of Arts in Sociology. During his time as a student, he served as president of Associated Students Inc. and chaired the 23-campus Cal State Student Association. Gómez later pursued master’s degrees in political science and public administration, as well as a Ph.D. in political science, all from USC. In 2019, Cal Poly Pomona honored him with the Distinguished Alumnus Award. Through the CLASS Faculty Excellence Award, Gómez seeks to give back to his alma mater and celebrate faculty who embody the ideals and values of the California State University system. 

“From the very beginning, the educators I encountered at Cal Poly Pomona genuinely believed in me and my potential,” said Dr. Gómez, now Superintendent/President of Pasadena City College. “It’s an honor to recognize those who continue to inspire today’s students.” Each recipient will receive a $1,000 stipend.