Fresno student is one of three
to receive CSU Trustees Award

A Fresno State English major is one of three students in the entire CSU system to receive the 1998-99 Trustees' Award for Outstanding Achievement.

Beatrice A. Valenzuela of Fresno, a single mother of four who returned to college eight years ago as a Reentry and Educational Opportunity Program student, was named last week by the CSU Board of Trustees in Long Beach as a recipient of the non-renewable $2,500 award.

Valenzuela, 47, holds a 3.75 grade point average and is a McNair Scholar. The other two 1998-99 recipients are from the Cal Poly and Sonoma CSU campuses. Each of the 23 CSU campuses nominated a student.

President John D. Welty said Valenzuela is an exceptional and extraordinary individual.

"The ability to excel in her studies without compromising an unselfish commitment to contribute to the well-being of others demonstrates a spirit and quality that is all too rare in our society," Welty said.

The annual distinction recognizes extraordinary achievement by students who have shown superior academic performance, community service, and personal achievement as well as demonstrated financial need.

Valenzuela's selection marks the third time a Fresno student has earned the award since its inception in 1988.

Back to University Journal, 7/20/98 Issue