For the 2023 Photo of the Year contest, photographers from across the California State University submitted captivating and inspiring images that capture the story and spirit of the university.
“The CSU's Photo of the Year is just one opportunity for us to showcase and marvel at the boundless talent that flourishes at our universities,” said Wenda Fong, chair of the CSU Board of Trustees, when announcing the winners at the September board meeting. “We greatly value and appreciate the work of our dedicated communications and media professionals who use their skills to share the CSU story in compelling and creative ways.”
Meet this year's winners.
First Place
Student Toni Grubesic looks through the viewport of the ultrahigh vacuum chamber at Chico State's ultracold laboratory run by professors Hyewon Pechkis and Joe Pechkis.
Jason Halley, university photographer
Chico State
How would you describe the power of photography in telling the story of Chico State?
Photography has the power to be a window through which others can experience or see what opportunities are available for them at Chico State. I hope my images create a moment of inspiration or excitement for those who see it. The best compliment of my work is when I read or hear a comment saying, “I didn’t know about that.” It’s what education is all about—that discovery moment for a student to learn new things. When they discover a program or opportunity that excites them, photography has impacted them.
What most inspires your work as a photographer?
Meeting all the incredible students who are on amazingly positive journeys. I’ve spent my time as a news-photojournalist, and there was an industry tendency to focus on the “bad news.” When I came to work as a university photographer, I realized the negativity was only a small part versus the larger positive benefit of students achieving new skills and understanding with resilience and a variety of support systems. There is a community of caring and encouragement that gives each person the chance to change their life for something better. Getting to meet some of the students is an inspiration to always stay positive and improve.
What message did you hope your photo would communicate about Chico State?
I hope my image inspires others to see the unique and sophisticated technology that our students partake in. It’s not only sitting in a large classroom and writing notes. Our students work hands-on with industry-leading technologies and research to broaden the boundaries of learning. It’s amazing to me to think in little ol’ Chico there are students who are studying atoms at near absolute zero with lasers and vacuum chambers. The technologies that they work with are complicated and involved to me, but students are very comfortable with their use and impress me with the knowledge they apply.
How have you been most shaped, either personally or professionally, by your time at Chico State?
Every day is a new opportunity to learn and become better. The campus has fully supported my time and voice as a university photographer, and it’s allowed my creative authenticity to excel. Being able to work in an environment that respects and supports my passions is a main motivator to push myself to skills I didn’t realize I could achieve. Over my years, I’ve grown and become more creative while being grateful for the value that others see in me. It’s an honor to be a part of so many lives in the campus community and capture just a slice of what it’s like to be a Chico State Wildcat.
Second Place
Juan Ayala, of the Chichimeca tribe, performs in front of a large crowd at the Walter Pyramid during the Chicano-Latino cultural celebration at Cal State Long Beach.
How would you describe the power of photography in telling the story of Cal State Long Beach?
Imagery is everywhere at Cal State Long Beach, from the university’s digital presence to booklets, brochures and banners hanging from buildings, promoting various school objectives and celebrating achievements. These photos visually communicate Cal State Long Beach’s identity. I’ve had students tell me that they decided on attending Cal State Long Beach based on what they saw on our social media platforms. So, I’d say photography plays a big role in telling Cal State Long Beach's story. It conveys a strong sense of pride and value. It also showcases the vibrant personality and diversity of our community.
What most inspires your work as a photographer?
Composition, colors and light really inspire me.
What message did you hope your photo would communicate about Cal State Long Beach?
That was a really cool performance, with the sound coming out of the speakers, the dancers’ [cultural attire] and their overall performance. I got wrapped up in the moment of photographing it; I hope the photo somewhat conveys my experience. The performance was also a great display of the heritage of Cal State Long Beach’s large Latinx student population.
How have you been most shaped, either personally or professionally, by your time at Cal State Long Beach?
Being able to visually communicate an idea and/or story with ease (most times) is probably what has shaped me the most. But, to be clear, that comes with dedicated time spent working on a craft. In addition, collaborating with all the various personalities on campus has definitely shaped me most during my time as Cal State Long Beach photographer.
Third Place
Naomi Carrera, student marketing assistant, immerses herself in an interactive virtual reality application in the Dr. Allan Greenberg & Dr. Ellen Junn Warrior Fab Lab at Stanislaus State.
Merri Hansen, media production specialist
Stanislaus State
How would you describe the power of photography in telling the story of Stanislaus State?
At Stan State, I believe the power of photography lies in showing off the beauty and opportunities of our campus without words. I hope the photography from Stan State leads folks to learn more about and be inspired by everything our campus has to offer.
What most inspires your work as a photographer?
My work as a photographer is most inspired by the unique opportunity to capture a moment. I think that great images come from the stories and people behind them, and I’m so grateful for all the moments and wonderful people I get to capture at Stan State!
What message did you hope your photo would communicate about Stanislaus State?
I hoped that our image would communicate the success and innovation happening here at Stan State. Our new Fab Lab is such a great resource for our community, and I’m so glad this pillar of excellence at our campus is being recognized in this way.
How have you been most shaped, either personally or professionally, by your time at Stanislaus State?
I have been most shaped in my role as media production specialist by the incredible people at Stan State. We have an incredibly dedicated and creative campus community, and I’ve grown a lot from the support and encouragement to try new things by our Communications and Public Affairs team.
View all photo submissions for the 2022-2023 Photo of the Year.