Class of 2021 Spotlights: Public Policy and Administration
When we asked graduating seniors why they choose to pursue a career in health and human services, their answers all had one thing in common: CHHS students want to give back to their community.
The Graduate Center for Public Policy and Administration (GCPPA) at CSULB equips students with the education and practical experience need for a successful career managing public and non-profit organizations. Graduates have gone on to successful careers in these fields, and as alumni offer a network of support to current and graduating students.
While all CHHS graduates are worth celebrating, here are a few graduates whose stories stand out because of their courage to overcome challenges, follow their dreams, and have a positive impact on the lives of others.
Jacqueline Cruz, MPA
“I was looking forward to starting my master's program during Fall 2019, it was going to be a whole new ball game for me. Unfortunately, that same week I was going to start my MPA program I had a motorcycle accident. I remember sending emails and making phone calls to accommodate to my situation. I am very thankful that my department was able to help me during this process. I remember there were days where I would write papers after surgeries while being in pain. I had my mind set. I wanted this as bad as I wanted to get up and walk on my own again. I’m glad I didn’t postpone this degree. The free time I had while being down, helped me reflect on what I wanted the outcome to be during my MPA program and even after. Fast forward to Spring 2021, I have completed my program, looking forward to graduation on May 29th, and I’m back on twos!”
Denice Bailey, MPA
MPA graduate Denice Bailey reflected on how her career inspired her decision to return to CSULB after earning her Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering. “I believe that receiving my Masters in Public Administration from my alma mater CSULB will give me the tools I need to make lasting change in this world,” said Bailey. After more than 5 years in the engineering industry, she has found a new passion for project management for the City of Seal Beach. “Being the Project Manager on various Capital Improvement Projects throughout the City has been one of my most treasured accomplishments. Working in a small city I get to make personal connections with the residents which brings me joy,” she said. Bailey hopes her degree will open new opportunities for growth in her career as a Director or a City Manager. “I have a passion for helping. I look forward to utilize my education to make meaningful contributions in my community, in local government, and in international compassion projects,” she shared.
Norma de la Cruz, MPA
“I began the MPA program at CSULB in January of 2020. I was beyond excited to have been accepted into the program and was more excited to attend the beautiful campus in Long Beach. Unfortunately, I was only able to go to campus for a few weeks prior to instruction being converted to on-line due to COVID-19. I was devastated! I never got a chance to get to know the campus. It was a huge challenge for me being a new grad student who was opposed to taking on-line classes. I had to make a huge mental adjustment and motivate myself to keep going both at school and at work. I am [one] year into the program and am graduating this spring. I was able to attend school full-time during my very short time at CSULB and was able to maintain a 4.0 GPA all while holding a full-time position as an HR Investigator with the Los Angeles County Superior Court. I am so proud to say that not even a pandemic stopped me. I completed my entire Master's Program during a global pandemic! Congrats to the Class of 2021! We did it!”
Kimmie Le, MPA
MPA Student Kimmie Le attributes success in her program to the support she received from her friends, fellow peers and her family, which includes her 16-year-old son. “He motivates me every day to be a better person and mentor for him. He also challenges me on days where Zoom can be a struggle,” said Le. “Since starting the MPA program, I have felt really blessed to have family support and time to self-care.” As a full-time student, parent and worker Le learned valuable skills in time management during her time at CSULB. “I really had to learn to manage my time and conduct self-care. My family and friends have been my support system since entering the MPA program. I have learned to use planners to remind myself of important due dates; and working ahead prevents me from procrastinating,” said Le. Besides keeping up with her coursework, another way Le gave back to her community was as a volunteer for OC Community Action Partnership, where she helped pack food boxes to distribute to seniors and low-income families and communities. “The pandemic has really affected many families and communities, and I feel it is important to me to give back for which I've been fortunate to have. I have also encouraged others to volunteer their resources to help others in need,” said Le.
