CEIS Staff Member Receives Distinguished RSCA Staff Award

Sheena Chang, a practicum placement coordinator in the College of Education and Integrative Studies (CEIS), was recently awarded the 2023 Distinguished RSCA Staff Award by the Office of Undergraduate Research.

Each year, the RSCA Staff Award is presented to one staff member who has demonstrated excellence in supporting students and faculty who engage in research, scholarly and creative activities. Chang was selected to receive the award in recognition of her efforts to secure practicum placements, which is a research-related experience.

As the practicum placement coordinator, Chang works with local school districts, superintendents, principals and mentor teachers to place early childhood studies students at school sites for their practicum coursework. In addition to placing students at school sites, she also hosts workshops to assist students in completing the application process for enrolling in the practicum course, and ensures students are following the procedures outlined in their Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with school sites.

“I am honored to receive this award, as it shows me that students are appreciative of the time and effort that is put into the work that we do as a department, college and as a university,” said Chang. “I can speak for my colleagues to say that we as a team work collectively to ensure that each and every one of our students have their needs met, are heard, and are treated with respect and urgency. I firmly believe that the work we do in staff support can impact students in their ability to be successful in their courses and academic careers, particularly first-generation and underrepresented students. I am proud to be a part of the CEIS and Credential Office team!” 

Chang was recognized with the award during the RSCA Scholar Recognition Celebration at the Bronco Student Center on Tuesday, May 2. For more information about RSCA, visit www.cpp.edu/cppsrc.