Making Waves: March 2025

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Sam Lee, assistant professor and researcher in the Department of Science Education at CSULB has been selected for the 2025 Outstanding Doctoral Research Award by the National Association for Research in Science Teaching (NARST) for their dissertation, “Toward a linguistic otherwise in science: Customizing curriculum for emergent multilingual learners’ equitable sensemaking.” Lee’s work explores how alternative ways of knowing and communicating can help bi/multilingual students fully engage in science education, challenging dominant language ideologies. By collaborating with teachers, analyzing classrooms and adapting curricula, they highlight how diverse communication methods enhance student participation and learning. This prestigious award recognizes the significance of Lee’s research in fostering more inclusive science education. They will be honored alongside other award recipients at the upcoming NARST Annual International Conference in Washington, D.C. 

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Chris Lowe, professor of marine biology and director of CSULB’s Shark Lab, is representing the university at an international symposium in France where global experts are gathering to discuss shark mitigation strategies. CSULB is among a select group of universities invited, highlighting the Shark Lab’s leadership in research on white shark populations and public safety. The French government has expressed particular interest in California’s shark mitigation model developed in response to increased shark activity along the coastline. Lowe’s research, which incorporates telemetry, drones and eDNA analysis, has helped shape policies that balance conservation efforts with public safety. His presentation will showcase the success of the California Shark Beach Safety Program, which has reduced beach closures and financial losses due to shark-related incidents. Under Lowe’s leadership, CSULB continues to be at the forefront of marine research and education. 

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Emily DeMots, director of compliance for CSULB Athletics, was honored as February's Employee of the Month for her outstanding contributions to streamlining the department’s student-athlete signing process. In just seven months on campus, DeMots leveraged her industry network to benchmark best practices, collaborated with vendors to implement a tailored technological solution and provided clear communication to coaching staff and prospective student-athletes. Senior Associate Athletic Director Tiffany Edlin praised DeMots for her resourcefulness, professionalism and ability to enhance efficiency, noting that her efforts have set a new standard for department operations. DeMots was recognized in a virtual celebration attended by President Jane Close Conoley, Executive Director of Athletics Bobby Smitheran and colleagues. 

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The Black Student Resource Center at CSULB was recently recognized by Long Beach District 8 Councilwoman Tunua Thrash-Ntuk for its commitment to Black advocacy and excellence. Victoria Rowe, special assistant to the councilwoman, visited the center to present a plaque and certificates of recognition to the center’s staff and students acknowledging their efforts in creating a safe and supportive space for Black students. A separate recognition was also awarded to the Black Student Success team led by Demetri Kelley, its associate director. The center provides academic assistance, peer support and a strong sense of community, making it a vital resource on campus. As part of Black History Month, the councilwoman sought to highlight spaces that honor and uplift Black success and the Black Student Resource Center exemplifies that mission.