Dr. Elmano Costa, professor of Teacher Education at CSU Stanislaus since 1995, was named the Christie Sue Whalen-Saxton Professor of Teacher Education. This endowment was established to support and enhance teacher-training programs. Whalen-Saxton received her B.A. degree in 1977 and her teaching credential in 1979 from CSU Stanislaus.

Dr. Peggy Hodge, a professor and chair of the Department of Nursing who joined the CSU Stanislaus faculty in 2003, was named the Marian Palmer Professor of Nursing. Palmer served on the California State University, Stanislaus’ Foundation Board of Directors for a decade and was also a founding member of the Emanuel Medical Center Auxiliary, one of the largest hospital volunteer groups in the region.

An endowed professor is among the most important gifts to higher education and a vital tool to ensure faculty excellence. An endowed professor honors and recognizes the distinction of superior faculty while providing invaluable financial support.