California State University, Sacramento

California State University, Sacramento
Name	California State University, Sacramento
Established	1947
Type	Public university
President	Luke Wood
City	Sacramento
State	California
Country	United States
Campus	Urban, 300 acres
Students	31,156 (Fall 2022)
Colors	Green & Gold
Nickname	Hornets
Affiliations	California State University system, APLU
Website	https://www.csus.edu/

California State University, Sacramento. Founded in 1947 as Sacramento State College, it is the capital campus of the California State University system. The university is a comprehensive public institution offering a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs, deeply integrated into the civic and economic life of the Sacramento metropolitan area. Often referred to as Sacramento State, it is recognized for its commitment to community engagement, sustainability, and preparing a diverse student body for leadership and professional success.

History

The institution was established by the California State Legislature in 1947, initially holding classes at Sacramento Junior College. Its first permanent campus was located on the grounds of the former Sacramento Army Depot. Under the leadership of its first president, Guy A. West, the college moved to its current location along the American River in 1953. It joined the newly formed California State Colleges system in 1960, later becoming California State University, Sacramento in 1972. Key historical developments include the construction of iconic structures like the University Union and the A.S. Children's Center, and its designation as an Hispanic-Serving Institution in the early 21st century.

Campus

The 300-acre urban campus is situated along the American River Parkway in eastern Sacramento, featuring a blend of mid-century modern and contemporary architecture. Notable facilities include the University Library, the Hornet Bookstore, and the Sacramento State Aquatic Center. The campus is home to the Sacramento State Arboretum, the Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail, and the Capital Public Radio station. Key buildings are the AIRC, the Broadway-fronted University Union, and the performing arts complex housing the Mondavi Center for student performances.

Academics

The university is organized into seven colleges: the College of Arts and Letters, the College of Business Administration, the College of Education, the College of Engineering and Computer Science, the College of Health and Human Services, the College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, and the College of Social Sciences and Interdisciplinary Studies. It offers numerous programs through its Division of Criminal Justice and the renowned Center for California Studies. Sacramento State is also a national leader in graduation initiative success and houses the Capital Campus for policy studies.

Student life

Student life is centered around the Associated Students, Inc. (ASI), which oversees over 300 student organizations including fraternities and sororities governed by the Panhellenic Council. Major events include Concerts in the Quad and the annual Festival of the Arts. Students participate in media through The State Hornet newspaper and KSSU radio. The WELL provides comprehensive recreation and health services, while the Sacramento State Aquatic Center offers extensive water sports activities on Lake Natoma.

Athletics

The university's athletic teams, known as the Sacramento State Hornets, compete in the NCAA Division I Big Sky Conference. The football team plays at Hornet Stadium, which also hosts the U.S. Olympic Track & Field Trials. Other facilities include John Smith Field for baseball and the Hornet Field soccer complex. Notable athletic achievements include championships in golf and tennis, and the success of the volleyball program. The school's rivalry with the UC Davis Aggies is celebrated in the annual Causeway Classic football game.

Notable alumni

Alumni have achieved prominence in diverse fields. In politics and public service, notable figures include Michele Reagan, Doris Matsui, and Heather Fargo. Entertainment and arts alumni include Molly Ringwald, Tom Hanks, and Pete Escovedo. In sports, alumni include Ryan Longwell, Bobby McAllister, and Kimi Pohlman. Leaders in business and journalism include Gurbaksh Chahal and Michele Tafoya. Other distinguished graduates are Astronaut Jose Hernandez and Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Jacques Billeaud.

Category:California State University, Sacramento Category:Universities and colleges in Sacramento, California Category:Public universities and colleges in California Category:1947 establishments in California