Class Notes 2023
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November 2023
Carrol Whisler, ’62, and his wife, Charlene, celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary on July 26. They recently moved to Sedro Woolley, Washington and built a new home to be close to all of their family. The home was built by Carrol and his grandsons and is shared with two of their daughters.
Steve Lewis, ’69, and his wife, Marilyn, ’00, celebrated their 59th wedding anniversary on September 5.
Dr. Yolanda Calderon, ’94, received her Doctorate of Ministry from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Kansas City, MO on May 5, 2023. Here is a little note from Yolanda: “The celebrations began after the graduation with a family luncheon at a beautiful local Kansas restaurant. From Kansas I traveled to Nebraska where I met my first great-grandson, Toby Dreessen, and after a few days, I returned home. The following week after my return, I was honored by Fundacion ConPaz, a non profit organization for Hispanic abused women. I am happy to say that I am one of the founders of this organization and presently serve as the director. The following week, my husband, Art Calderon, our three children and spouses, and my eight grandchildren, surprised me with another celebration. I asked my husband, ‘Why is everyone making such a fuss about my graduation?’ He answered sweetly, ‘Because you are 81 years old!’ I give God all honor and glory and thank Him for His grace!”
Kevin Sheckler, ’03, and his wife, Keri (Overstreet) Sheckler, ’92, celebrated their 20th wedding anniversary on October 18.
Juan Jimenez, ’13, taught English for ten years and has since transitioned to the Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) Coordinator position in the Val Verde Unified School District. Juan provides leadership and support to help promote a positive culture through district and site-based tiered intervention systems. With special focus on behavior supports, social emotional learning and student agency.
Kevin Marstall, ’14, is excited to announce he has published his second book, “Beginnings: The Omniscients,”
a detective mystery set in 1994 Los Angeles.
Sonia (Magana) Garcia, ’19, passed the State of California clinical exam and is now a Licensed Marriage & Family
Therapist (MFT).
Abigail (Johnson) Catarnas, ’20/’22, after moving to Nashville last year to pursue working at her dream hospital Vanderbilt
University Medical Center, Abigail is now an Acute Trauma & Oncology Physical Therapist
Assistant. She was also united in marriage to, Alex Catarnas on October 21, 2022.
Kaylynn Esposito, ’20, and her husband, Joseph, welcomed a daughter, Elyse Freya Esposito. Elyse was born
October 28, 2023.
Micayla (Wright) Cook, ’21/’23, married Jacob Cook, ’21/’23, on July 24, 2021. The couple are both working as Associate Marriage and Family Therapists.
Bobby Mendez, ’21, is in the Ph.D. program at Loma Linda School of Medicine and had his first research publication during his first year.
Laura (Padilla) Cano, ’23, and her husband, Enrique, are excited to announce they are expecting their third child.
Laura is a sales coordinator at Marriott. Pictured are her two oldest children
Shea Marie Cantor-Martinez, ’23, recently graduated with her masters and celebrated her second wedding anniversary
with her husband, Patrick.
Ariana Landeros Guillen, ’23, was recently promoted to Senior Elite Account Director at Yelp.
October 2023
Wilson McDuffie, ’72, was attending a small Baptist church in Long Beach, Ca. while in the Navy. The pastor,
Irving Shaw, was a speech professor at CBC. Wilson was soon getting out of the service
and had no plans and Professor Shaw encouraged him to consider going to college.
He began summer school in 1968 and his first class was literature with Mr. Hayden McClung. He recognized Wilson’s plight and with his special help and the constant, "You can do this," he was on his journey to a degree in history in 1972.
Wilson says, “From the counselor who laid out my courses perfectly to the final day, I experienced the best help, encouragement, and motivation a student could ask for. Higher education with Christian values is a cornerstone for a successful career. Along the way, I was a classmate of Bonnie Metcalf. A fine lady loved by everyone and an example of its never too late to go to college.
I am now 78 years old and I still have all my papers and tests from my years there. I pull them out sometimes and can't believe I actually went to college and did well. It seems like a dream. But what I remember most were the people who stood in front of me and dispensed knowledge, displayed character, and the belief in Jesus Christ our Lord.”
Wilson spent 45 years in education as a teacher, administrator, and tennis coach. He passed along to his students those same words of encouragement, "You can do this."
Wilson now spends his days walking his dog, playing tennis, loving his wife of 49 years and praising our Lord for his goodness and mercies.
Mike Procter, ’74, has begun serving as the Transitional Pastor at the Kinoole Baptist Church in Hilo,
Hawaii. CBU is well represented in the congregation, as Ken and Denise Drake (class of '75) are members.
Heather (Clark) Baker, ’81, is the owner of Caring Transitions South Bay PV along with her husband, Tim. For the
past five years they have helped families with relocation, downsizing, estate sales
and more.
Janet Perkins, ’91, was ordained by the National Association of Christian Ministers and is now a pastor at Hallelujah Spirit-filled Fellowship. Janet also announces the birth of her granddaughter, Veora Paige Nichols (2 mths).
Jessica (Mosebach) Garcia, ’03, received second place in Explanatory Journalism and third place in Community Service, rural category, in the 2023 Nevada Press Association Awards of Excellence.
Andrew Hintz, ’06, and his wife, Terra, welcomed his first child, son Andrew Fenton McCullah-Hintz one
year ago. Andrew is an education specialist with Temecula Valley Unified School District.
Michael Fuentes, ’05, co-wrote a book called "Pickleball Is My Superpower.” The book is about a thirteen
year old girl with special needs who feels isolated from her peers. She unlocks her
superpower with the help of her grandfather and her physical education teacher. They
help her to believe in herself and to transform into a pickleball superstar who goes
on to compete in the Special Olympics for USA.
Samantha Boubel, ’12, has been accepted into the University of North Texas’ Counselor Education and Supervision PhD program.
Korinne Davis-Lobban, ’13, celebrated her 20th anniversary with her husband Jason. The couple is planning to
renew their vows in San Diego, where they first met 24 years ago.
Aarika (Petersen) Hofer, ’13/’16, married her husband, Jesse, on May 27, 2023 with her two best friends from CBU at
her side – Day Horton, ’13, and Natalie (Dixon) Hammond, ’13. Aarika works as a Special Education Teacher, Orthopedic Impairment Teacher and Assistive
Technology Specialist for the Redlands Unified School District.
Dr. David Hernandez, ’15/’18, is the Regional Forest & Fire Coordinator at the Inland Empire Community Foundation. David has been tasked with coordinating a two-year grant of $1.6 million to increase forest and fire resilience in the face of a changing climate. On a small scale, David says they are looking at home hardening projects that will help homeowners implement vegetation management and the use of building materials to reduce damage from wildfires. On a larger scale, they will look at roadside ignition projects to prevent the spread of wildfire along roadways.
Geoffrey Van Noty, ’20, married Kristina on July 2, 2023.
Dr. Scott Mann, ’21, started a new position as Director of Risk Management at Manpower West of San Diego.
James Whitten, ’22, is the Senior Logistics Manager, Systems & Projects at Thuma. James feels that obtaining
his masters at CBU changed his life for the better. He now works from home and is
able to spend more time with family in his new role.
Aimee (Yeager) Lee, ’22, married her high school sweetheart, Gangpyeung. The couple maintained a long distance
(USA to South Korea) relationship all four years of university. Aimee moved to South
Korea to be with her husband and is teaching English.
Amanda Hyden, ’23, and her husband, Brent, welcomed, Micaiah Hyden, born May 11, 2023 — just 2 weeks
after Amanda finished her MA in worship arts. Amanda is a volunteer worship leader
at New Vision Church.
Jessamine Perez, ’23, and her husband, Luis, welcomed a daughter, Eliana, on August 17, 2023 . Jessamine
is a teacher with the Jurupa Unified School District.
September 2023
Tia (Green) Goodman, ’12/’15, is proud to announce that her son, Michael, started at CBU this fall. She is so excited for all of the opportunities he will have at CBU over the next few years.
Erik Plocki, ’13, married his wife, Sterling in 2021 and the couple are now expecting their first child in November 2023. Erik currently works for the San Diego Sheriff’s Department.
Mandy Stephens, ’17, and her husband, Patrick Stephens, ’17, celebrated their 20 year wedding anniversary. The couple both received their Masters from CBU in 2017 and both work for the City of Menifee.
Kendall (McFarland) Carlson, ’17, and her husband, Hayden, welcomed a daughter in July 2023. Kendall has been working as a labor and delivery nurse for five years at Hoag Hospital. She absolutely loves her job and says it was so worth all the hard work she put in as student, as she is now considered one of the most skilled nurses on her unit.
Denise Matthews, ’18, recently earned a Master of Theological Studies from Gateway Seminary. Denise works
as the Executive Assistant to the President at Gateway Seminary.
Samantha Neely, ’19/’21, was recently hired as a full-time, tenure-track Professor of Kinesiology and Head
Indoor and Beach Volleyball Coach at Mt. San Antonio College (Mt. SAC) in Walnut,
CA. In the 2022-23 seasons, Samantha led both volleyball programs to their first conference
championships in school history. She also had the opportunity to help design the state-of-the-art
beach volleyball stadium that Mt. SAC is currently building. The values and standards
that are promoted at CBU helped me become a better person. She credits CBU for giving
her the skills to help positively impact people’s lives.
Azucena Orozco Basaldua, ’20, and her husband, Leonardo Basaldua, welcomed their second child on July 13, 2023.
His name is Leonardo Daniel Basaldua. Leonardo joins sister Elena as the newest Lancer
in the family.
Kris Cordova, ’22, is currently a marketing specialist for San Bernardino County Child Support Services.
Marisa Phillips, ’22, was recently promoted to Management Analyst for the County of Los Angeles Department of Public Health. She is currently working on a CDC grant to modernize and expand disease investigation procedures.
Elizabeth Soares, ’22, is a Clinical Research Coordinator for Tri Valley Urology Medical Group. She has recently been named lead coordinator on two different studies. One for an experimental drug vs. placebo for Interstitial Cystitis and the other is an observational study on two commonly-prescribed cancer drugs for prostate cancer.
James Armour, ’23, recently married his wife, Paola, moved into a new lake home and won an award from
his work as a grant writer at Renewing Hope Family Counseling Center.
Michael Metzler, Jr., ’23, recently won two prestigious Award of Merits from IndieFEST Film Awards. Michael and
his co-director, Grant Clover (pictured on left with Michael, right), won the awards for their short film, I Walk With Ghosts. Michael is currently working as a videographer for SANDMARC.
August 2023
Corrine (Rios) Gonzalez, ’53, turned 94 years old on August 15, 2023. At California Baptist College, Corrine was
the first Homecoming Queen and a member of the first graduating class. Corrine is
doing well and is still active. She and her family give all the honor and glory to
Jesus for the many years and blessings Corrine has enjoyed.
Walt and Marilyn Crabtree, both Class of ’62, recently celebrated their 62nd wedding anniversary.
Wilson McDuffie, ’72, celebrated his 49th wedding anniversary June 22, 2023 with his wife Nancy. Wilson has been retired from his school administrator career for quite some time.
David Livingston, ’76, and his wife Pam, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on September 1, 2023.
David is a financial advisor with Ameriprise in Hawaii. David is an avid volunteer
with the YMCA, the United Way, the Coalition for a Drug Free Hawaii, the Navy League
and many more. He is also a celebrated photographer, photographing key events across
Hawaii and was honored by Canon where his works were displayed in their Exhibit Hall
during “Dave Livingston Month.” Dave is living his purpose and wakes up each day asking,
“Who can I help today?”
Bryant Sinkler, ’79, celebrated the 75th anniversary of Camp Conrad Weiser. Bryant was a former staff member and Village Chief
at the prestigious 600-acre international summer camp. Bryant is pictured with current counselors who hail from the United Kingdom and Finland.
Nina Atwood, ’84, graduated May 6, 2023, from Southern Evangelical Seminary with a Master of Divinity.
The 90-credit degree took 7 years and she is now seeking a position focused on spiritual
development in a local church.
Jimmy Don Hudgins, Sr., ’85/’88, had the honor to go with 47 Military Veterans - Korea and Vietnam and 47 Guardians and 30 Honor Flight Volunteers on a Veterans Honor Flight from Dallas, TX to Washington, D.C. on June 9-10, 2023. Jimmy is a retired, ordained Southern Baptist Minister. He now counsels disabled military veterans in obtaining VA assistance.
Michelle (Battson) Gifford, ’92, and her husband, Michael, celebrated 30 years of marriage on August 14, 2023. The
couple has 15-year-old twin daughters, Sophia and Savannah.
Priscilla Grijalva, ’95/’00, was named 2023 California (AD58) Woman of the year. Priscilla is a counselor with
the San Jacinto Unified School District. Priscilla is pictured with Assembly member Sabrina Cervantes.
Colleen (Langley) Chao, ’00, recently published the books, “In the Hands of a Fiercely Tender God” and “Out of
the Shadow World.”
Rebecca Langston-George, ’01/’04, published her 13th children's book, the graphic novel Virginia Hall: Clever Spy, (Capstone Press). She recently retired from teaching to write fulltime and to do author visits at schools.
Heidi (Rotz/Montano) Harriss, ’03, recently moved to Florida and is working PKYonge K12 Developmental Research school,
which is run by the University of Florida.
Emma Perez-Singh, ’06/08, and her husband, Joe Singh, ’08, celebrated their 17th wedding anniversary. The couple was married at CBU in the James
courtyard.
Jennifer (Binggeli) Gray, ’08, and her husband Kevin, welcomed a baby girl, Noelle Lauren, in December 2022. Jennifer is currently battling stage four breast cancer, but remarks she has seen God‘s goodness during this fight — in the joy and the battles. Her baby girl and son remind her to live life to the fullest each and every day and find joy in the smallest details.
Aubrey (Stetzner) Redinger, ’11, was featured in the May 2023 edition of OC Parenting Magazine for her work with perinatal mental health. She is also a finalist for Irvine Chamber’s
40 under 40, which will be decided in September 2023.
Lauren (Bissell) Smith, ’15, and her husband, Christopher Smith, ’13, welcomed a second daughter, McKenna on June 3, 2023.
Drew Eisenman, ’16, was married December 10, 2022 to his wife Evelyne. The couple is due with a baby boy
October 15, 2023. They hope to relocate to the northwest Arkansas area to be closer
to family.
Mendy Mejia, ’18, passed her licensing exam in 2021 and is proudly a private practice owner of Mindful Mending Therapy, working with underprivileged first generation Americans as a therapist.
Bertha “Betty” (Lopez) Vaughn, ’18/’21, and her husband, Andrew Vaughn, ’19, were both transfer students in Fall 2016, they met the day before classes started
during Welcome Weekend. They were married the day after finals in December 2017. The
couple now has two daughters and they love sharing CBU with them. Betty works as
a marriage and family therapist.
Lindsey Hanlin, ’20, received her Masters from Loma Linda University and is now working as a Child Life
Specialist at Loma Linda University Children's Hospital. Lindsey’s job is to promote
resiliency in children and to help them master their diagnoses, giving them back the
power and control that has been compromised due to illness.
Berenice (Rodriguez) Jones, ’21, and Noah Jones, ’19, were married October 2022. Berenice works as a Clinical Therapist for the County
of Riverside and Noah is a Broadcast Technician at the University of California Riverside.
Butch Maier, ’21, is a filmmaker and is in pre-production on two sequels to “Mother of a Day,” his successful
family comedy movie. Maier wrote and directed “Mother of a Day,” which was produced
through his company, Sumbadhat Productions. “Mother of a Day” landed a distribution
deal with Maverick Entertainment and is featured on several streaming platforms, including
Peacock, Roku, Tubi, and Vizio. The two sequels are scheduled to be released simultaneously
in November 2024.
Tiara Richardson, ’21, was recently promoted to Executive Director of Student Success & Family Engagement at Real Journey Academy.
Shay Ryan, ’21, was recently honored with four awards by the National Catholic Media Association:
First Place: “Social Media Professional of the Year;” First Place: “Best Use of Graphics
on Social Media;” First Place: “Best New Website;” and Third Place: “Best Freestanding
Presentation of Online Video – Catechesis.” Shay works as a Digital, Brand and Marketing
Manager.
Eduardo Cisneros, ’22, proposed to the love of his life, Irahis Esquivel on June 19, 2023. In July, started
a new position as a Quality Assurance Manager at Eclypse International in Corona,
CA, an aerospace company that manufactures circuit analysis equipment for diagnosing
electrical circuits on military aircraft.
Clayshia Hill, ’22, recently started a position as a Registered Nurse at Riverside Community Hospital.
She was also chosen to be part of their new graduate program for training as Neonatal
Intensive Care Unit (NICU) nurse.
Evan Allen, ’23, and his wife, Samantha, welcomed their first baby on May 31, 2023. Evan recently started
a new position as a Project Engineer with Gray Construction in Charlotte, NC.
Jacob Diaz, ’23, married his best friend, Kelly, on May 20, 2023 in Jurupa Valley, CA in a backyard
ceremony with a western theme. The couple honeymooned in Tulum, Mexico. Jacob graduated
from CBU with a Masters in Athletic Training and is the Head Athletic Trainer at Moreno
Valley High School.
Kenna (Morrison) Martinez, ’23, married her husband Martin shortly after graduation. She started a new position as
a Technical Solutions Engineer at Epic and recently found out she is expecting a baby!
June 2023
Zeldon Gordon Davidson, ’76, was recently named an Adviser of the Year by Golf Inc. Zeldon is the President of Z. Gordon Davidson and Associates.
Caron (Ferguson) Rand, ’87, will have a solo exhibition of 20 scroll paintings entitled "Dark Energy: Black &
Gold" at the Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum, Japan, June 2023. It will be part of The
USA Exhibition curated by Julienne Johnson & Katsu Shimmin.
Maribeth (Pofahl) Myers, ’94, and her husband Byron recently celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary. A celebration of the couple was lovingly planned and executed by their daughters, Kelly (Myers) Marley, ’02 and Keri (Myers) Murcray, ’01, with capable assist by their husbands, David Marley, ’04 and Josh Murcray, ’20, all of whom are graduates of CBU.
Jorge Gomez, ’98, completed a Ph.D. in clinical psychology in 2015 and currently works as a therapist with Nueva Creacion.
Oscar Enriquez, ’04, is the Space Execution Manager for northern California and the Pacific Northwest regions at Constellation Brands. He has ranked number two in the country for two years in a row and is on track to reach the number one spot this year.
Kristofer Dorn, ’07, recently won the 2023 NAIA National Championship with the Vanguard University (VU)
Beach Volleyball team as the head coach. Kristofer and his staff received NAIA Coach
of the Year awards for the second straight season. This is the first national title
at VU, but Kristofer’s sixth overall. Kristofer is also the Campus Director for Fellowship
of Christian Athletes at VU.
Andreana (Banuelos) Battaglia, ’13/’15, and her husband Joseph welcomed their second child, Jaxson John born in January 2023.
Jaxson joines his sister Brookie Sophia (20mths).
Kayla (Jech), ’13 and Chris Rabbich, ’13, welcomed their second child, Lily Grace on April 14, 2023. She The couple also has
a son, Owen.
Julio Solano ’14 and his wife Sarah (Murguia), ’17, welcomed a daughter, Elena Neriah on Memorial Day 2023.
Christopher Carlberg, ’15, and his wife Gabriela are celebrating their 10th year of marriage. Together they have two children. They are also celebrating their tenth year in operation of their family business, Hallelujah Honey.
Brittany (Throne), ’16 and Nathan Arambula, ’16, welcomed their second daughter, Nora Maeve on April 19 2023.
Raymond Boetger, ’19, started his own teletherapy practice, Coastline Speech Therapy. Raymond works with
military and homeschool families who have children with special needs.
Diana Cazares, ’19, graduated from Southwestern Law School.
Jenna (Anderson) Inns, ’19, started a company with her husband. Their company, Salt Productions LLC, is dedicated to creating unique and engaging video content that showcases the creativity and vision of their clients. Salt Productions LLC is proud to be officially certified as a Women-Owned Business.
Steve Guglielmana, ’19, is a P.E. teacher and volleyball coach at Fresno Christian Schools. This year, both
the girls and boys volleyball teams advanced to the state playoffs for the first time
ever and Steve was chosen as the Fresno Bee Coach of the Year for girls volleyball
and coached both the girls and boys all-star matches.
Megan Cropp, ’22, started the Master of Public Health (MPH) program at Benedictine University.
Shanae Hampton, ’22 married Wah-Née-Ota Colvin, ’23.
Felicia Watson, ’22, recently started a position as an investigative assistant with the Orange County District Attorney.
May 2023
John McRae, ’69, celebrated his 50th wedding anniversary with wife, OkHee, on March 17, 2023. John
is a retired Chaplain with the United States Army. The couple is pictured in Sri Lanka,
April 2023.
David Daffern, ’99, earned a Professional Certified Coach (PCC) credential from the International Coaching
Federation. While working for the Dallas Independent School District (DISD) since
2018, David began coaching training to support his work as an instructional specialist.
After five years, 126 hours of coaching training and over 500 hours of coaching others,
he obtained this elusive credential from the only internationally recognized coaching
association. To David, coaching IS his ministry and he connects with others by offering
them presence and unconditional regard, as he walks alongside them through their struggles.
Raquel (Lule) Fuentes, ’00/’05, has created a nonprofit organization, La Voz, to support educators with financial support for field trips, cultural enrichment and special educational projects. After 22 years of teaching, she saw a need in her district. The communities are predominantly students of color from historically underrepresented and marginalized races and ethnicities. Raquel notes that the teachers do an amazing job trying to provide experiences and opportunities for their students, but in many instances, funding is not available. La Voz's goal is to assist educators with funds to finance these student opportunities.
Adam Elwer, ’08, started working for Eden Reforestation Projects as a carbon portfolio manager after
leaving his Christian school teaching position after 14 years. The company does poverty
alleviation through landscape restoration and Adam manages a technical team that works
to find land to restore, with communities to create project activities as well as
designing the technical documents for carbon emission removals and prevention.
Matthew Shumaker, ’08, was recently hired as the regional vice president for Hanover Insurance Group in Southern California.
Phylicia (Paulson) Heinze, ’11, and her husband, Clint Heinze, ’12, welcomed their third child in November 2022.
Itzel Lizarraga, ’21, and her husband, Rodrigo, welcomed a daughter, Rebekah to the family. Rebekah joins
big brother, Nikolaus (2yrs).
Michelle Martinez, ’21, was chosen as the American Red Cross Inland Empire Chapter “2023 Services to the
Armed Forces Hero Award” because of her commitment to outstanding leadership, exceptional
job performance, community service and overall presentation as a service provider
to the Veterans & the VA Loma Linda/Ambulatory Care Center, Redlands, CA.
Tiara Richardson, ’21, is an assistant principal at a middle school in Highland, CA. Tiara states that her
goal is to change the school culture and environment so that students do not have
to come to school in survival mode.
Karena Munoz, ’22, started a new position as a social worker II for the In Home Supportive Services Program with the Department of Aging and Adult Services in February.
March 2023
Dr. David Ajeigbe, ’78, obtained a Doctor of Philosophy in Healthcare Services in 2012. He worked in active nursing service within varying healthcare systems for over 40 years. He retired in 2016. Since that time, he has obtained his real estate license and has written multiple articles on his experiences in healthcare and is a peer reviewer for the Journal of Emergency Medicine. He is also a published author, having already published two books, Zacchaeus Come Down! and Your Response Could Make a Difference. He is the process of writing his third book. David is married and the father of three grown sons.
John W. and Barbara Post, both Class of ’86, celebrated 63 years of marriage on March 11, 2023. Both John and Barbara went through
the Business Executive Program at Cal Baptist. Both are now retired after several
years of employment with the State of Montana. They currently live in Helena, Montana.
Lee Burton, ’93/’97, and Eric Mortensen ’95/’97, started the Kamali'i Foster Family Agency in 1998. They are celebrating 25 years in business. Kamali'i is the Hawaiian word that translates to “the Children's.” Initially, the organization was only focused on children in foster care, but is now contracted with Riverside, San Bernardino, and San Diego Counties to work with Transition Aged Youth (TAY) up to the age of 25. These TAY are at risk of homelessness and in need of additional support. Kamali’I also provides a counseling center to work with the youth who are or were dependents of the court.
David Blair, ’06, and his wife, Leslie (Newkirk), ’06, welcomed their sixth child, Sophia Faith Blair, on October 23, 2022.
Ryan McDivett, ’06, and his family are opening a new and used Lego store in Riverside! They plan to be
a local school outreach for STEM and special needs programs as well as a space for
parties. They are looking forward to being a part of the Riverside community.
Greg Johnson, ’08, was the composer for the Fifa World Cup Qatar 2022, writing music for the Opening/Closing
and Awards Ceremonies as well as other activations throughout the month-long event.
Jackie Contreras, ’16, welcomed her third son in 2022. Jackie is a Foundation and Alumni Association Administrative
Specialist at Mt. San Antonio Community College.
Areva Neely, ’19/’22, began a new job working from home as a benefits and wellness specialist. Areva recently
released her fourth book called I’ll Just Wait, which is her first fictional book. The book promotes helping young people to value
themselves . Areva also began a non-profit called, You’re Worth More. The goal of
the organization is to help young people exemplify their talents without compromising
their values, while obtaining a higher education. Areva is so grateful for her time
at CBU, she believes she is truly living her purpose.
Kirby McKenzie, ’19, is a nursing home administrator with West Harbor Healthcare. Kirby is pictured with
wife, Aisha.
Grace (Crosby) Utomo, ’19, met her husband, Ivan, ’17, while the pair where in the University Choir and Orchestra. Grace played violin and
Ivan the piano. They married and Grace began working as the department secretary for
CBU's Physician Assistant Studies program in 2015.
In 2016, Grace was hit by a car that ran a red light as she was walking across Magnolia Ave to CBU. She suffered two strokes, and a traumatic brain injury, and was not expected to survive the night. By God's grace, she did recover and went on to complete an English degree at CBU in 2019.
This fall, Shepherd Press will publish her memoir, Walking with Grace. Grace will also complete her master of fine arts (MFA) in creative writing at the Savannah College of Art and Design this August.
Savana (Cranford) Yarnell, ’19, started a moms’ group six months ago to find friends in the same stage of life: parenthood.
Last week the group, @cv.hotmomwalk (Instagram handle) were featured on NBC Palm Springs.
The community outreach group has had amazing growth to over 25 weekly moms!
Jessica Balderas, ’20, welcomed her son, Luca on September 9, 2022.
Jinger (Haberbush) Miranda, ’22, is an Human Resources Assistant with Utiliquest. She and her husband, Jacob, recently
celebrated one year of marriage.
February 2023
Mildred Wier-Jarvis, ’55, and Bruce Jarvis, ’60, have been enjoying their retirement on the Oregon coast since 1988. Mildred had a 23-year career with Bank of America and Bruce had a 26-year career as a counselor with the California Department of Corrections. This June they will celebrate 67 years of marriage. Mildred and Bruce were in the first group of students to attend the new CBU campus in Riverside.
Viola K. Estel Smits, 64’, married David Smits on November 19, 2022 at Magnolia Church in Riverside.
Randy Bennett, ’75, retired June 30, 2022 after serving in the Baptist Ministry for 50 years. Randy was
the Director of Missions for the Kern County So. Baptist Association for 27 years
and his other years of service were spent as a Senior Pastor and church staff member.
Lauren Rios, ’14, was recently promoted to the Digital Media Manager for the Marketing and Communication
department at California Baptist University.
Ryan Galippo, ’14/’17, passed away on January 5, 2023 after battling cancer for several years. He was a
treasured and faithful husband, son, brother, and friend. He was a wise counselor
to many, both in his personal relationships and through his vocational calling as
a clinical therapist. Ryan was a proud Lancer who cherished his time in the College
of Behavioral and Social Sciences; his participation in several International Service
Projects that grew his love for Great Commission ministry; and the dear friendships
that flourished during his time on campus, especially in Smith Hall.
Kaylea Ott, ’15, celebrated five years working with the Milwaukee Brewers with a promotion. She now
oversees the Premium Service department as the Senior Manager.
Marina (Stickley) Rice, ’16, owns a small business, Rice Collective, making 100% soy candles.
Maddison Williams, ’18, is engaged to Dillon Chado, ’17. The couple plans to wed March 25, 2023 in Louisville, KY.
Lauren Hoff, ’18/’20, recently married Sebastian Wiesboeck, ’19/’20. The couple met in a marketing class while working on a group project as undergraduates at CBU. Currently, Lauren works as a Human Resources mangager at AST a parmaceutical manufacturing company and Sebastian works as a clourd engineer at Amazon. The couple resides in Washington state.
Kristin Huneau, ’19, works at Parents Anonymous as a CAPIT Counselor and Group Facilitator Level 1. Facilitated
a program that is now court mandated approved, she was swiftly promoted. Kristin has
completed hours needed to sit for both MFT/PCC exams for licensure. Her goal is to
eventually create a program for veterans and their families that will promote family
unity and togetherness and help limit suicide deaths of veterans. She and her husband,
Jason, have been married 13 years.
Sulgi Lee, ’22, and her husband, Kevin, welcomed two babies during her time in the CBU Master of
Social Work program with the second arriving right after graduation. Her children
are Abigail (21 months) and Caleb (6 months).
Cheryl Nicholson, ’73, and her husband Gary have been married since 1974. They have two children and one granddaughter who is the light of their lives. Cheryl taught vocal music at Grace Christian School for 17 years and is currently a worship leader at church. The couple lives in Medford, Oregon.
January 2023
Fred Deberry, ’73, and his wife, Roberta (Roth) DeBerry, ’72, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on January 27, 2023. Fred served as Pastor to the Deaf at Calvary Baptist Church in Renton, WA, for 40 years. He retired in 2018. Fred and Roberta met at Cal Baptist, and their son David also met his future wife, Karen, at CBU.
David Leonard, ’77, after serving as Chairman in 2022, David resigned from the Riverside County Planning Commission in January 2023 as a result of redistricting. David and Kim live in Riverside, pending David’s retirement in June 2023.
Melinda (Phillips) Russell, ’79, and her husband, Dr. Robert Russell, spent the last six years living in China due to Roger’s job in education. During this time, Melinda began writing and released her first ebook, Life in a Box, in August 2020. On January 1, 2023, she published her second book, The Star ... Der Stern.
Kiersten Laxamana, ’15, announces her engagement to Maurice Bollhorn. The couple got engaged on July 26,
2022, and the wedding date is set for March 3, 2023. Kiersten was recently promoted
to Manufacturing and Process Manager at Bioseal. She leads the Operations teams, where
she helps to streamline and automate the day-to-day processes.
Beau Christian, ’00/’18, earned a Doctorate of Nursing Practice (DNP) from Frontier Nursing University and assumed the role of Assistant Director of Undergraduate Nursing at Carson-Newman University. His oldest son, Josiah, a senior in high school, was just honored as a semi-finalist for the National Merit Scholarship. The first school to offer Josiah admission was CBU.
Brittany (O’Connell) Raulino, ’11, is celebrating 11 years as a registered nurse. She and her husband Jason reside in
Vista, CA, with their two-year-old daughter and recently bought their first home.
Morgan (Sherman) McCutcheon, ’17, and her husband Christian just celebrated four years of marriage and expecting our
second baby in May 2023. Their daughter Addison is 15 months old. Morgan is a per
diem nurse at Kaiser Permanente in the GI Lab. The family resides in Laguna Nigel,
where they recently purchased their first home.
Kyle Jarboe, ’18, and his wife, Analy (Garcia) Jarboe, ’18, welcomed their first baby, a daughter named Cheyenne in July 2022.
Cherica Bell, ’19, is an assistant director for the California State University San Bernardino Education
Talent Search. She was awarded the WESTOP Achievers Award at a conference in Hawaii
in March 2022. The WESTOP Achiever’s Award recognizes the accomplishments of former
TRIO participants who have completed their baccalaureate degree, entered professional
fields and whose community or professional activities have served their fellow human
beings while focusing on improving society. Cherica mentions that the award was a
huge surprise but has motivated her to continue going above and beyond for her students
and their communities.
Anthony Cardenas, ’19/’20, was accepted to the Tufts School of Dental Medicine and will begin the program in
July 2023. Anthony says, “There was a lot of trial and error applying to dental school
amid a pandemic. I was overwhelmed, leaned hard on God, and trusted all would work
in my favor according to His plans. It took time, but He never fails.”
Ocean Lee, ’19, married Madison Tassi in July 2022. The couple resides in London, and both are getting
their Master’s degrees at the University of Roehampton.
Michael Gonzalez, ’20, recently accepted the position of Manufacturing Engineering at Ortho Clinical Diagnostics. He graduated from Keck Graduate Institute in May 2022 with a Master of Science in Medical Device Engineering.
Macy (Mascarenas) Lange, ’20, and her husband Joseph Lange are expecting their firstborn child in March 2023. They
are also in the process of building their first home. Macy works in real estate with
Wathen Castanos Homes and loves her job.
Alfredo Solis, ’20, is a proud construction business owner and is financially succeeding after just three years in the industry. Alfredo credits his success to CBU. He and his wife, Irene, enjoy watching their son wrestle varsity for his high school team.
Elizabeth (Pollock) Vander Weide, ’20, recently transitioned from a position in MedSurg nursing to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Doctors Medical Center of Modesto. Her husband, Nicolas Vander Weide, ’20, started a new engineering position with E&J Gallo Winery in August 2022.
Anna (Saviage) Lucas, ’21, married CJ Lucas on November 20, 2022, in Rochester, Minnesota. Anna is a financial
advisor at Thrivent Financial.
Dr. Melissa Conway Luther, former director of the library from 1993 to 1995, passed away June 28, 2022. Melissa leaves behind her husband, Dr. Tim Luther, former professor of Political Science at CBU.