From humble beginnings as a chicken ranch to becoming a bold, innovative university with a forward focus, California State University San Marcos turns 25 this year. To mark the milestone, the University is hosting a yearlong series of programs, activities and signature events.
At her 11th annual Report to the Community on Thursday, Feb. 5, CSUSM President Karen Haynes noted that the school is no longer this region's best kept secret. The event, which drew approximately 600 regional and civic leaders to a tented pavilion on campus, served as the public launch of CSUSM's 25th Anniversary celebration.
"The secret is out?we are the place," she said. "We are military friendly…we are a model employer…we are a diverse campus…and we are a community engaged institution!"
From small class sizes and hands-on learning experiences that emphasize the success of each individual student, to unique programs that create a college-bound culture for K-12 students throughout the region, to the university's distinguished faculty who are actively engaged in vital research, Haynes described the countless ways that CSUSM is uniquely poised to meet the demands of the 21st century.
"For 25 years there has been great synergy between our university and our region," she said. "We have literally grown up together, coming of age as we have helped create and were fed by these businesses, organizations, schools, neighborhoods and cities. Now, as we celebrate 25 years of regional impact, not only do we reflect on our collective accomplishments but we are compelled to consider the future."
Despite being only 25 years old, Haynes declared that it is CSUSM's youth that will help leverage its lead going forward.
"Our youth allows nimbleness and our culture embraces change," she reflected. "Even when the challenges seem insurmountable, we do things our way and we get them done. We aren't just 'chalk and talk' but future-focused on real solutions to real problems."
In her remarks, Haynes discussed seven pressing issues from educational access to regional workforce needs, to globalization and climate change, that emphasized how CSUSM is future-focused on real solutions to real problems.
"At Cal State San Marcos we have set our goals to be ready for our future," said Haynes. "Since our founding 25 years ago, through imagination, creative thinking, partnerships, research and our unique approach, we have gone beyond what even we expected."
Haynes also underscored that CSUSM will continue to be ready for whatever the future brings while striving to be a model institution of best practice, indicating that CSUSM's region and students deserve nothing less.
"Last year I told you that I wasn't done yet . . . and I'm not!" she exclaimed. "Today, I ask you to continue to partner with me, with Cal State San Marcos, and commit to achieving the impossible. We are rich in achievement and possibility, and this forward-focused, regional university has much to teach the nation. With you we have become the place . . . we have achieved the impossible… we are prepared for whatever our future holds. Let's move forward together."
For more information on 25th Anniversary events and programs, we invite you to visit: www.csusm.edu/25.