Oct 29, 2025 Graduate Student Overcomes Adversity to Inspire Others and Earns CSU Trustees' Award

Oct. 29, 2025 - When Geraldine Montoya earns her master's degree in School Counseling from California State University Channel Islands (CSUCI), she will become the first in her family to earn a graduate degree - a milestone that represents years of perseverance and determination.

A first-generation immigrant from Colombia, Montoya faced significant challenges growing up, including homelessness and the loss of her father at a young age. Yet through resilience and an unwavering belief in education, she turned those obstacles into motivation to help others succeed.

Today, Montoya maintains a 4.0 GPA in CSUCI's School Counseling program while also serving as Coordinator for the California Student Opportunity and Access Program (Cal-SOAP). In that role, she leads more than 50 Cash4College workshops each year to help students and families access financial aid and pursue higher education.

"One of my biggest challenges as a first-generation student was learning a new language and navigating an unfamiliar education system without guidance," Montoya said. "Instead of allowing these obstacles to hold me back, they became my motivation to help others navigate similar challenges."

In recognition of her academic success, Montoya was selected as one of 23 students across the CSU system to receive its highest student honor - the Trustees' Award for Outstanding Achievement - and was recognized at a ceremony along with other award recipients.

The award is given each year to students who demonstrate superior academic performance, personal accomplishments, excellence in community service, and financial need.

Before coming to CSUCI, Montoya earned her bachelor's degree in Child and Adolescent Development from Cal State Fullerton. After completing her master's degree, she hopes to become a high school counselor who helps students overcome barriers and believe in their ability to achieve their goals.

"Geraldine's story embodies CSUCI's mission of access and opportunity," said Charles Weis, Program Chair and Associate Professor of Educational Leadership, School Counseling and Psychology. "Her dedication to helping students navigate higher education is exactly the kind of impact we hope all our graduates will make in their communities."