​​Gerardo “Jerry” Langarica Martinez, a first generation kinesiology major at Chico State, crossed the commencement stage in May 2023 with honors as the Outstanding Student Leader and Physical Education Teacher Education (PETE) Student of the Year. 

Whether volunteering with individuals who have disabilities or coaching high school volleyball, Jerry enthusiastically gives back and advocates for underserved groups. He also served as vice president of the PETE Club and volunteer coordinator for a project that provides free P.E. lessons to schools. 

Currently in the teaching credential program at Chico State, Jerry aspires to become a P.E. teacher at a school with extreme need. His primary life goal is to serve as a role model and eliminate barriers for his family and others​.