CSUSB Celebrates 34 Scholars at 2026 ExCELS Scholarship Reception
Congressman Pete Aguilar, CSU Chancellor’s Office leader Frank A. Gomez, and campus leaders recognize student achievement in computing and AI education
California State University, San Bernardino, celebrated 34 student recipients of the ExCELS Scholarship during the 2026 ExCELS Scholarship Reception on April 16 at Coyote Commons. The event marked the third year of the NSF-supported program, which helps students pursue degrees and careers in computing and related fields.
A highlight of the reception was a recorded message from Congressman Pete Aguilar, who congratulated this year’s ExCELS scholars and recognized them as part of the future of technology and computing in the Inland Empire. He noted that as the region continues to grow, programs like ExCELS play an important role in creating pathways to STEM careers and ensuring that students at CSUSB have the resources they need to thrive.
Video from Congressman Pete Aguilar:Watch on YouTube
Frank A. Gomez, executive director of STEM-NET, delivered remarks on behalf of the CSU Chancellor’s Office, highlighting systemwide support for ExCELS and the importance of expanding STEM opportunities for students across California. The ExCELS project includes the CSU Chancellor’s Office as a key partner in program visibility, dissemination, and cross-campus collaboration.
“The ExCELS program is an investment in both talent and opportunity, reflecting CSUSB's commitment to student success and innovation,” said Provost Rafik Mohamed. “We are proud of our scholars and thankful for this initiative, which will help empower the next generation of innovators, problem-solvers, and leaders in technology.”
“The ExCELS Scholarship is helping our students thrive,” said Dean Sastry Pantula of the College of Natural Sciences. “It supports their academic journey, prepares them for better careers, and strengthens the future of computing and AI education at CSUSB. We are extremely grateful to our honorable congressman and congressional staff for their support of the NSF.”
Group photo of ExCELS scholars and program leaders at the scholarship reception..
About ExCELS
The ExCELS Scholarship Program, Experiential Computing and Engaged Learning Scholarships, is an NSF S-STEM initiative at California State University, San Bernardino. In addition to scholarships, the program provides mentoring, summer research, curricular innovation, and community engagement opportunities designed to improve student success and strengthen pathways into the computing workforce. The project is led by PI Yunfei Hou and co-PIs Khalil Dajani, José Muñoz, Qingquan Sun, and Yan Zhang. Dr. Heather Macias of California State University, Long Beach, serves as the project’s external evaluator.