Prebys Foundation Invests $1M to Expand Research Opportunities

Prebys Foundation Invests $1M to Expand Research Opportunities

By Debby Clark

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Victoria Naficy didn't expect to find her future in a research lab.

After attending community college and working for a few years, she enrolled at Cal State San Marcos as a psychology major, eager to continue her education but uncertain about what would come next.

"I knew I wanted to keep learning, but I didn't have a clear vision for my future," Naficy said.

Her path crystallized after a friend encouraged her to connect with CSUSM's Center for Training, Research and Educational Excellence (CTREE), where she discovered a passion for research and added a minor in biological sciences.

"CTREE changed the trajectory of my career," Naficy said. "They showed me how to explore graduate programs, apply for funding and even present my work at national conferences."

Now, as she prepares to graduate in May, Naficy plans to pursue a Ph.D. and a career in biotech research, a path she never imagined when she first arrived at CSUSM.

For Kailey Pickering, the journey began even earlier.

Just a few days after graduating from high school, Pickering was contacted by CTREE and invited to learn more about the program.

"As a first-generation college student, I didn't really know what graduate school was," Pickering said. "They explained all of my options in a way that's welcoming, not intimidating. It's such a privilege to get a stipend for research, which allows me to focus on my studies without worrying about groceries or gas money."

Today, this third-year biochemistry student plans to pursue a Ph.D. in microbiology and hopes to become a professor who focuses on teaching, mentorship and research.

Expanding Access to Research and Graduate Education

A new $1 million investment from the Prebys Foundation will ensure that more students like Pickering and Naficy have access to research experiences, mentorship and critical financial support as they pursue graduate school and careers in STEM.

"Programs like CTREE are critical to sustaining scientific success long-term," said Emily Young, the Prebys Foundation vice president of programs. "They identify and help prepare the next generation of researchers, and the foundation is delighted to be part of the process."

Led by faculty director Denise Garcia and associate director Richard Armenta, CTREE prepares undergraduate and master's students for advanced degrees and careers in science, medicine and health-related fields. The program has been especially successful in supporting first-generation and low-income students, achieving a graduate school placement rate of 90 to 100 percent in recent years.

"Kailey and Victoria show what's possible when talented individuals are given the opportunity to pursue research and advanced education," Garcia said. "We've seen our graduates go on to doctoral programs at UCSD, Columbia, Cornell, Harvard, Northwestern and Texas A&M among others. And many of them build careers here in San Diego, helping drive innovation, advance health research and give back to the communities they came from."

The grant will support students and faculty across several key areas.

Student research: Each year, at least 10 undergraduate students and five master's students will receive paid research internships, with stipends of up to $20,000. The funding allows students to dedicate meaningful time to research while reducing the financial pressures that often limit participation.

Faculty research: Faculty researchers will receive support for projects involving undergraduate and graduate students. The funding can be used for research supplies, equipment, participant costs and time devoted to mentoring student researchers. The investment is expected to be particularly impactful for early-career faculty members as they establish research programs and pursue external funding opportunities.

Conferences, workshops and research training: The grant will support student and faculty participation in professional conferences, workshops and specialized training programs. Participants will have opportunities to present research, engage with the scientific community and develop skills in emerging research techniques and technologies, including programs offered in partnership with local biotechnology companies.

"CSUSM faculty are doing exceptional research, and they are deeply committed to involving students in that work," Armenta said. "This investment expands opportunities for both faculty and students, helping researchers advance their work while giving more students a chance to discover what's possible through research."

The investment also aligns with the Prebys Foundation's commitment to strengthening San Diego County's research ecosystem and scientific workforce. With 8 in 10 CSUSM graduates staying in the region, the university serves as an important pipeline of talent for the county's biomedical, biotechnology and STEM industries.

"CSUSM students reflect the diversity and talent of San Diego County," Garcia said. "When we invest in their development as researchers, they gain the skills, confidence and experience to pursue opportunities they may never have imagined. We're deeply grateful to the Prebys Foundation for helping us expand those opportunities and support the next generation of scientists and innovators."

Every contribution to CSUSM brings the university closer to its Blueprint for the Future campaign goal to raise $200 million in philanthropy and research funding.

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Brian Hiro, communications specialist

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