All Together Now: Campus Community Turns Out to Form Giant “50” in Celebration of Dominguez Hills’ Anniversary

On April 8, more than 1,000 students, faculty, staff, and alumni turned out on the North Lawn in front of the Loker Student Union to form the outline of a giant “50,” to celebrate the university’s 50th anniversary and to participate in a special photoshoot. Many of the participants wore gold T-shirts especially printed with the 50th Anniversary logo and provided by donors in support of the university. The spirited festivities, which were organized by by the Office of University Advancement, included music, hot dogs, raffles and even an exciting flyover by the Goodyear Blimp that is based in Carson.

For many graduates of CSU Dominguez Hills, the large gathering was a fond reminder of their time as students.

“I feel like a kid,” said Dr.Gayle Ball-Parker (Class of ’78, B.A., psychology), director of University Outreach and Information Services, who recalled her graduation ceremony on the very same lawn years ago. “It was amazing to see the pride with everybody coming out, students, staff, faculty. It was great to be part of something like this.”

Representatives of the entire student body came out to show their school spirit, including Toro Athletics and numerous clubs and organizations. Members of Sigma Pi were excited to represent the CSU Dominguez Hills Eta-Iota Chapter.

“It was definitely an experience,” said Rene Romero, junior, computer science.

The returning college student, a significant population among CSU Dominguez Hills students, whose average age is 30, was also well represented by freshman James Calhoun. He said that he was partially inspired by two nieces who have achieved their advanced degrees in education.

“When I graduate, I’ll be in my 70s,” noted a jubilant Calhoun, who met President Mildred García at the event. “I want to be an example for my family and for the younger generation [to show] how important it is to have an education. I want to be able to help them achieve the things that I missed. There’s a lot out there but we must be prepared for the world today.”

For more information on the 50th Anniversary celebration at CSU Dominguez Hills, click here.

- Joanie Harmon

Photos above: L-R: Graphic design students Ruth Morales, junior, Melissa Mazariegos, junior, and Elvia Martinez, senior

L-R: John Rivas, sophomore, human services; Sunako Simi, sophomore, business administration/global logistics; Miguel Torres, freshman, physics; Dominick Dura, sophomore, digital media arts; Rene Romero, junior, computer science

James Calhoun, freshman, liberal studies, pictured with President Mildred García, looks forward to earning his college degree.

Photos by Joanie Harmon