NORTHRIDGE, Calif. - In its ongoing series of events honoring the University Faculty, CSUN Athletics and the Matador softball team paid tribute to 10 professors during its Most Valuable Professor (MVP) Day on Saturday (Apr. 20) at Matador Diamond.
"The initiative of MVP Day is a testament to the profound relationships and mutual respect fostered between student-athletes and faculty members," said Shawn Chin-Farrell, CSUN's Director of Athletics.
Before the Matadors took on UC Riverside in Big West softball action, each participating student-athlete honored one professor who has significantly impacted their academic journey, underscoring the deep connections beyond the classroom. Each of the 10 CSUN professors was honored on the field before throwing out the ceremonial first pitch.
- Crystal Brownell, a professor in the Department of English, was invited by student-athlete Moani Ioane.
- Barri Caine-Lomberto, a professor in the Department of Criminology and Justice Studies, was invited by student-athlete Shaylan Whatman.
- Manisha Chase, a professor in the Department of Child and Adolescent Development, was invited by student-athlete Carys Murakami.
- Kristine Cho, a professor in the Department of Communication Disorders and Sciences, was invited by student-athlete Lauryn Carranco.
- Kandice Grote, a professor in the Department of Child and Adolescent Development, was invited by student-athlete Alexis Garcia.
- Jennifer Lou, a professor in the Department of Accounting, was invited by student-athletes Jadyn Nielsen and Mikayla Carman.
- Kathy Oborn, a professor in the Department of Criminology and Justice Studies, was invited by student-athlete Shaylan Whatman.
- Jaycy Trifone-Woodruff, a professor in the Department of Criminology and Justice Studies, was invited by student-athlete Shaylan Whatman.
- Gidget Viani, a professor in the Department of Psychology, was invited by student-athlete Kaylee Escutia.
- David Wakefield, a professor in the Department of Child and Adolescent Development, was invited by student-athlete Alexis Garcia.
The next Most Valuable Professor Day will be held on May 11 prior to the CSUN baseball game vs. UC San Diego.
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