College of San Mateo closed out its Centennial Year through a weeklong series of events from April 3–7. The week began with the launch of a new shuttle service for students providing free rides from the Millbrae BART station to the CSM campus.
Over the next few days, open house events for MESA, Makerspace, and the Nursing Skills Lab introduced their spaces and services to the community. In addition, a public planetarium show highlighted the effects asteroids and comets have had on Earth. Finally, stepping outside, students from the Drone Mapping Club provided drone demonstrations and
shared examples of the 3D maps they had made.
On Thursday, April 6, the inaugural President’s Advocacy Council Dinner drew over 175 attendees to raise funds for student support and increased innovation on campus. Students, community members, and employees of CSM and the San Mateo County Community College District began the night with a lively reception, mingling with one another while enjoying passed appetizers.
Original artworks were on display by two talented CSM faculty members, Susan Matthews, whose work explores Cuban music and dance, and Jane Williams, who paints people in a style that bridges between impressionism and realistic art. KCSM DJ Harry Duncan spun a freestyle Roots & Rhythm music mix that kept the reception engaging.
Following a welcome by President Dr. Jennifer Taylor-Mendoza and Executive Director Andrea Vizenor, CSM students George Ward and Miracle Evans gave a riveting vocal performance. Eight more students then took the podium individually to share their personal stories about how CSM inspires them.
After dinner, the highlight of the evening was a live musical performance by Tony Lindsay, the former lead singer of Santana and 11-time Grammy Award winner. His powerful voice and upbeat rhythms had guests dancing and singing along, creating an energetic and fun-filled atmosphere.
Thanks to the CSM President’s Advocacy Council, the Strategic Initiatives and Economic Development team, and the SMCCCD Foundation, this first event was a great success, raising $22,000. The night was an excellent example of how art and music can unite to support a great cause while showcasing the incredible talent and generosity of the campus community. It left attendees feeling inspired and energized.
The Centennial Closing Week ended on Friday, April 7, when over 70 SMCCCD retirees reconnected at a special luncheon full of historical memorabilia and great food. Later that evening, Professor Mohsen Janatpour held his 34th Presentation of Art and Science in the theatre, where he spoke about the need to see the world through artistic and scientific eyes.
