The dawn of every new year brings new possibilities, along with a measure of excitement and anticipation. I am enthusiastic for what 2023 has in store for CSUDH. Much of my excitement has to do with the achievements of our faculty and students, as well as the continued implementation of our university’s new strategic plan, titled “Going Far Together.”

Going Far Together positions the university as a social justice-focused and inclusive model urban university, and will serve as a blueprint for the institution’s future. The plan reaffirms our commitment that the educational pathway Toro students travel will not be walked alone. At CSUDH, we learn together, we journey together, and we thrive together. You will see this spirit of Going Far Together reflected throughout this issue of CSUDH Magazine.

This issue also celebrates CSUDH’s 50 years of providing health-related courses and programs. Our very first health course opened its doors in 1973, and as CSUDH has grown and evolved over time, our dedication to developing skilled health care workers, researchers, and administrators has also grown. Dean Mi-Sook Kim of the College of Health, Human Services and Nursing details what makes CSUDH programs stand out in a wide-ranging interview.

CSUDH has been in the news quite a bit recently due to our alumni’s outsized influence on Southern California politics. November saw two Toro alums elected to impactful mayoral positions—Karen Bass in Los Angeles and Rex Richardson in Long Beach. I am proud to welcome them to their new roles as they join other Toro leaders at the local, statewide, and national level. Indeed, CSUDH’s mission of public service and community engagement continues to manifest itself in ways both large and small, as we have truly transformed lives that are transforming America.

Finally, I would be remiss if I did not mention that this is the final issue of CSUDH Magazine to be produced under the leadership of Director of Communications and Public Affairs Amy Bentley-Smith. She is leaving the university after 15 years of stellar and dedicated service. I thank her for her tireless work on behalf of the university.

Communicating with all of you via this periodical is both a pleasure, as we keep you informed about your CSUDH, and an invitation for each of you to stay engaged with us. I hope you enjoy this issue of CSUDH Magazine and look forward to Going Far Together with the entire Toro family!

Sincerely,
Thomas A. Parham, Ph.D.
President

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