San Jose State University Alumni Association

August 1, 2024, marks one year since my return to San José State University, a place that shaped my journey two decades ago. I am honored to lead the Lucas College and Graduate School of Business, and I am deeply grateful for our dedicated faculty, staff and leadership team whose commitment to our students has fueled our accomplishments, which we highlight below.

🎉🌍🏅 Get ready, Spartans! The 2024 Olympics in Paris have officially begun, and we're thrilled to cheer on our very own SJSU alum Rae Lekness, as she makes waves with Team Canada in water polo! 🇨🇦 Rae's dedication, hard work and Spartan spirit have brought her to the world stage, and we couldn't be prouder. Let's show our support and cheer her on as she competes for Olympic glory! Go, Rae! Go, Spartans! 💙💛 #SJSU #Olympics2024 #Paris2024 #TeamCanada #WaterPolo #SpartanPride

🏅🏃 John Carlos: SJSU Alum, Olympic Sprinter, and Social Justice Icon 🏃🏅 Join us in honoring the incredible life and career of John Carlos, a proud San Jose State University alum whose impact goes far beyond the track. 🌍 At the 1968 Mexico City Olympics, John Carlos, '05 Honorary Doctorate, alongside Tommie Smith, '69 Social Science, '05 Honorary Doctorate, took a courageous stand for human rights and social justice with the iconic human rights salute on the medal podium. This powerful gesture became a symbol of the fight against racial inequality and inspired generations to advocate for change. ✊🏾✊🏿 As a student-athlete at SJSU, John Carlos was a member of the legendary "Speed City" track team, where he showcased his extraordinary talent and dedication. His contributions to both athletics and social justice have left an indelible mark on our university and the world. Let's celebrate the enduring legacy of John Carlos, whose courage and determination continue to inspire us to strive for equality and justice. 🕊️💙💛 #SJSUAlumni #JohnCarlos #OlympicLegend #SocialJustice #BlackHistory #SpartanPride #SpeedCity

🎉🌊 Join us August 9th 4:30 - 8PM for SJSU Alumni & Family Night at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk! 🌞 Whether you're a recent grad or a long-time alum, come reconnect with friends and family in a beautiful beach setting. 🎢 What's Included: Unlimited Rides Wristband 🎡 ($55 value!) Private Group Area 🎈 All You Can Eat BBQ Dinner (6-7 PM) 🍔🌭🥗 Unlimited Soda & Water 🥤 50% Off Parking 🚗 We can't wait to see you for an evening of fun and alumni camaraderie! Bring your loved ones for an unforgettable night by the ocean. Stick around for the beach movie night at 9 PM featuring The Goonies! 🎥🏖️ 🎟️ https://ow.ly/E2V850Sqtnr 🎟️ #SJSUAlumni #BeachBoardwalkFun #TheGooniesNight

Life at Nike: Creative Leadership Lessons and Emotions by Design 👟 July 23rd at 9 AM PDT Emotion is what elevates the most successful brands above the rest, allowing them to occupy a rarefied place in consumers' hearts and minds. In this engaging webinar, bestselling author and former CMO at NIKE Greg Hoffman unveils the concept of "Emotion by Design," illustrating how we can all harness its power to craft products, stories and experiences that make people feel that even their most audacious pursuits are possible to achieve. Register for this webinar and check out other online events here: https://ow.ly/jEq950SCEQN #emotionbydesign

🏅🏃♂️ Tommie Smith: A Legend On and Off the Track 🏃♂️🏅 Tommie Smith's legacy is one of remarkable athletic prowess and profound social impact. Born in Clarksville, Texas, and raised in California, Smith's speed on the track earned him a place at San José State University, where he became a standout athlete. At the 1968 Mexico City Olympics, he won gold in the 200m, setting a world record of 19.83 seconds. However, it was his iconic silent protest on the podium that cemented his place in history. With a bowed head and a raised, gloved fist, Smith, '69 Social Science, '05 Honorary Doctorate, along with bronze medalist John Carlos, '05 Honorary Doctorate, made a powerful statement against racial injustice and inequality. This act of bravery brought global attention to the civil rights movement and highlighted the struggles faced by African Americans in the United States. Beyond his Olympic fame, Smith continued to champion social justice. He earned his master's degree in sociology from Goddard College and later worked as a coach and educator, inspiring young athletes at Oberlin College and Santa Monica College. His connection to San José State remained strong, where he became a prominent figure in the institution's rich history of activism and sports excellence. His influence extends beyond the sporting world, reminding us of the enduring power of courage and conviction. 💙💛

Share your Spartan story! 💙💛 https://lnkd.in/guWa8VJJ

Happy Fourth of July from #SJSU 🇺🇸❤️ Today we celebrate Independence Day, as we honor our nation’s unity, freedom and resilience. #Spartanlife

Like many within the Spartan Community, I am saddened by the passing of SJSU alumnus Victor Garza earlier this month and appreciated the moments to learn more about him and his influence at his Celebration of Life. Fortunately, I had the opportunity to meet Victor when he invited me to a La Raza Roundtable gathering. I personally experienced his impact and influence. Victor leaves a powerful legacy. His longstanding work is iconic in nature and will continue to have an incredible impact on us all, especially within the Latino community for generations to come. The Garza family, including Victor’s daughter Cindy, who is a longtime employee of the Facilities Development and Operations department, are in the Spartan community’s thoughts and prayers. #SpartanCommunity #LaRazaRoundtable #LatinoCommunity https://lnkd.in/gNz9QxEc — with San Jose State University Alumni Association

Rest in peace to Spartan legend Yoshihiro "Yosh" Uchida, '47 Biological Science, '04 Honorary Doctorate. Yosh was a true pillar of the San José community. His passion for judo drove him to strengthen the incredible program at San José State and advocate for the sport on a global level. Yosh's legacy will live on through the judo program he led to recognition and the campus building adorned with his name. We are honored to have had Coach Uchida in the Spartan family and thank him for his contributions to our university and community. 💙💛 https://ow.ly/px5x50Ss6Ev 📽️