Crafton Hills College Celebrates Equity Champions at Spring 2026 In-Service Day
Publish Date: Jan. 16, 2026
During Crafton Hills College’s Spring 2026 In-Service Day on January 16, the campus community came together to reaffirm its commitment to equity, inclusion, and student success by celebrating the 2nd Annual Equity Champion Awards. The call for nominations was shared with the campus community in Fall 2025, inviting faculty, staff, and students to recognize outstanding equity-centered work across the college. Organized on behalf of the Student Equity and Achievement Committee (SEAC), the awards recognize individuals and departments whose intentional actions advance justice, belonging, and opportunity for all students.
This year’s honorees exemplify the many ways equity work shows up across campus—from classrooms and labs to counseling offices, committees, and student support services.
Classified Professional Equity Champion
Rosemarie Hansen, Laboratory Technician II, Biological Sciences
Rosemarie Hansen was recognized for her unwavering commitment to student-centered support in the sciences. Colleagues shared that she “goes above and beyond as a science lab tech,” consistently finding creative ways to help students navigate barriers—whether related to the high cost of materials or uncertainty about lab expectations.
In department, committee, and senate meetings, Rose is known for centering student needs and advocating for equitable access. As one nominator noted, “Students are her priority, and helping reach and support our diverse student population is a natural part of who she is.” Her work reflects both compassion and action, ensuring students feel supported inside and outside the lab.
Faculty Equity Champion
Dr. Christopher Olivera, Professor of Microbiology; Chair of Kinesiology & Public Education
Dr. Christopher Olivera was honored for his deep personal investment in student success and mentorship. A dedicated faculty mentor to first-generation, Latinx, and LGBTQ+ students, Dr. Olivera serves as Academic Senate Vice President of Support and is widely known for leading with purpose rather than position.
Comments highlighted that Dr. Olivera “arrives early, stays late, and regularly tutors and mentors students—often beyond his own advisees.” He models academic excellence while maintaining genuine compassion, creating learning environments where students feel seen, valued, and supported. Many of his mentees have gone on to graduate school or professional roles in public health and healthcare, crediting his guidance as transformative.
Faculty Equity Champion
Dr. Danae Hart, Assistant Professor of Ethnic Studies
Dr. Danae Hart was recognized for her comprehensive and sustained impact as an equity leader across curriculum, policy, student engagement, and shared governance. Dr. Hart advises student clubs and serves on the Academic Senate, Student Equity Committee, and the Labor Union, consistently advocating for inclusive and just institutional practices.
One colleague shared, “Dr. Hart’s work reflects a deep commitment to transforming Crafton Hills College into a place of justice, inclusion, and belonging.” Another noted her “tireless advocacy, innovative leadership, and genuine commitment to creating an inclusive campus community.” Her leadership continues to shape systems that support students and colleagues alike.
Administrator Equity Champion
Dr. Willie Blackmon, Dean of Student Services
Dr. Willie Blackmon was honored for his extraordinary leadership, mentorship, and presence across campus. Serving as a mentor to students and employees alike, Dr. Blackmon is Co-Chair of the A2MEND Conference, Co-Chair of the Black History Month Workgroup, and a member of the Dual Enrollment Committee.
Nominators consistently described him as dedicated, personable, and humble, noting that he “goes above and beyond to ensure the success of staff and students.” Dr. Blackmon’s welcoming spirit is evident daily, as he greets students by name and creates spaces where everyone feels respected and valued.
Department Equity Champion
Counseling Services
The Counseling Services Department was recognized for its collective commitment to equity and student-centered care. Serving 6,370 students in Fall 2024 and 7,185 students in Fall 2025, the department reflects the diversity of the campus and embraces a multicultural, multilingual approach to student support.
Nomination statements emphasized the department’s warm, inclusive environment, noting that students of all backgrounds are treated with dignity and respect. Staff are encouraged to use their multilingual skills, and employees are welcomed to practice their first language. One student worker shared, “I have never felt anything other than supported and encouraged to meet challenges and goals.”
Equity Champion Honorable Recognition
Honorable Recognition was awarded to individuals and departments whose work also reflects outstanding commitment to equity and inclusion:
Administrator: Nicholas Reichert
Classified Professional: Rebecca Abeyta
Faculty: David Gerhartz and Marina Kozonova
Department: Tutoring Center
The Student Equity and Achievement Committee (SEAC) is charged with developing and overseeing the implementation of the college’s Student Success Plan and Student Equity Plan, addressing recruitment, admission, retention, and success for all students.
The Equity Champion Awards celebrate not only individual and departmental accomplishments, but also the collective effort of those who submitted nominations and contribute daily to fostering a culture of equity, collaboration, and belonging. Congratulations to all nominees, honorees, and recipients—your work continues to set a powerful standard for Crafton Hills College.
