CSU Trustee to Speak at 2023 College of Science Commencement

CSU Trustee Diana Aguilar-Cruz will speak at the 2023 College of Science Commencement ceremony where she'll be receiving her BS in Biology.

On June 1, 2022 Governor Gavin Newsom appointed her to the 25-member Board of Trustees and her two-year term began July 1, 2022.  She represents 477,000 students in the CSU system that spans 23 campuses.

Over the past year she’s been involved in the Chancellor search committee and has had the opportunity to visit eight CSU campuses. “One of the biggest highlights is being able to meet the students and hear their stories so I can better serve them,” she said.  “I’ve learned how each of the CSU’s has a unique culture.”

Aguilar-Cruz chose CPP because she felt comfortable and welcome. “I also love the learn by doing motto. I’m glad I studied here because I got so much experience. It prepared me to do research and if I wanted to go to work in a lab right now, I know I could get a job and succeed.”

She’s grateful for the mentorship she received from faculty, administrators, and staff. “The professors taught me so much, including life lessons. Professor Alex John mentored me in class and in research. He taught me to have confidence in myself and what I was doing,” she said.

In addition to her studies, she conducted Alzheimer’s research with Professor Kageyama and research on gestational diabetes for the Insan Foundation. She was also student advisor to Hermanas Unidas, and a member of the Achieve Scholars Program, and the Mexican-American Student Association. “I found friends and support here. CPP provides many opportunities to find a home away from home,” she said.

Aguilar-Cruz was born in Mexico and came to the U.S. when she was fourteen. She’s wanted to be a doctor since she was four. Her late grandmother, Yolanda, encouraged her to play teacher but that didn’t interest her, lab coats and stethoscopes did, so her grandmother obliged. Toys wouldn’t suffice, she soon wanted a real stethoscope and to learn how to use it, which she did.

Aguilar-Cruz wants to be a role model to her young cousins and 14-year-old brother Alejandro, who is interested in engineering. “I want my family and other Latinas to see what’s possible. Becoming a doctor will also allow me to serve others and give back. I want to be able to ensure that all people have access to healthcare.”

Her next step is earning a master’s degree in public health from Cal State Fullerton. After that, she plans to go to medical school to become a pediatric neurosurgeon and also wants to earn a Ph.D. in organic chemistry.

A central theme of her Commencement speech will be the importance of honoring those who came before us and supporting those who come after us.