Whether it was love at first sight or finding kinship in the student newsroom, there are plenty of love stories that found their beginnings at The Beach.
In celebration of a special Valentine’s Day-themed Show Your Love for The Beach fundraiser, we asked three couples who met at Cal State Long Beach to share their stories. Here is Tracy and Jolene's story.
Tracy Mendoza and Jolene Sagan
It was activism that brought Tracy Mendoza and Jolene Sagan together. They both took classes in the Department of Women’s, Gender & Sexuality Studies. Tracy received her bachelor’s in English in 1997 and earned her master’s in English in 2001. Jolene graduated with a bachelor’s in women’s studies in 2002 and a master’s in public administration in 2004.
Tracy shares their story below:
How did you and Jolene meet?
Twenty years ago this month (February), we met in what was formerly known as the Women’s Studies program, where we shared a passion for activism. In a stroke of good luck and coincidence, we also worked in the same division on campus and would run into each other during work.
What were your favorite date activities at CSULB?
Lunchtime dates at The Outpost! Grilled cheese and french fries[SJ1] were often involved. We also spent a lot of time getting to know each other at what was known as the Women’s Resource Center) now the Women's and Gender Equity Center).
How do you both stay connected to CSULB?
Jolene stays connected by supporting students as a staff member. She has also served as a mentor with the Alumni Association and helped with alumni activities, such as commencement. We have
also regularly attended Dirtbags games, Concerts at The Beach, occasional sporting events and supporting students and programs.
What do you love most about the university?
The students. We were both first-generation students and appreciate that the university has always prioritized underrepresented students. We love its connection to the City of Long Beach and the vast network of Beach family who also make up our extraordinary network of friends.
How do you show your love for CSULB?
We give our time, energy, advocacy and hearts to the university and the community it supports.
What was your most recent gift?
Our most recent gifts have supported students, through scholarships and support for Basic Needs.
