Chapman University Celebrates Women of Distinction at Annual Award Reception The event honored women in the university community who demonstrated exceptional leadership, dedication to empowering women and meaningful contributions to the institution.

Chapman University hosted its second annual Women of Distinction Award reception on March 27. The event, held at Fish Interfaith Center, served as a way to recognize women faculty, staff, students and alumni who displayed outstanding leadership, a commitment to advancing the empowerment of women and their contributions to the university.

“This year, we asked the campus community for nominations, and did they come through,” said Misty Levingston, director of Black excellence and achievement, in her opening remarks. “We had an outstanding number of submissions, which means we have some real powerhouse women on our campus.”

In an atmosphere of excitement and anticipation, members of the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion welcomed attendees to the event, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging and uplifting women’s voices and achievements.

Gabriela Castaneda, assistant vice president for diversity, equity and inclusion and director for Hispanic and Latinx achievement, took the stage and asked: “What would you tell your 21-year-old self?”

Castaneda discussed her recent experiences accompanying Valeria Delgado ’24 to the State of the Union, and thought about how her life as an immigrant from Mexico took her to the United States Capitol.

“It was a powerful moment and I began to reassure Valeria and myself,” Castaneda said. “‘You belong here, Valeria; I belong here; we belong here.’ Sitting where important decisions are made for our nation, I couldn’t help but think that this was a true testament of my parents’ sacrifices, who have shaped my journey and led me to where I am today.”

Castaneda discussed her mentors and role models, women who have invested their time and energy to inspire her own journey to create a positive impact and inspire the next generation of leaders.

Closing her remarks, Castaneda said, “I tell my 21-year-old self to stay relentless and make a positive impact, but you can’t do it alone. Find your support and find your mentors and role models, stay focused and be humble. I ask all of you: What advice would you give your 21-year-old self?”

Before introducing the honorees, Levingston took the stage once more.

“To quote a woman of distinction, Michelle Obama, ‘There is no limit to what we as women can accomplish,’” Levingston said. “Our honorees exemplify this quote by displaying their leadership on campus and for the communities they serve.”

The honorees include:

Faculty/Dean

Stephanie Takaragawa
Associate Dean for Academic Programs
Wilkinson College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences

Jan Osborn
Associate Professor
Wilkinson College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences

Tiffany Cruz
Adjunct Professor
Fowler School of Law

Rachita Sumbria
Associate Professor
School of Pharmacy

Staff/Administrator

Amy Rogan-Mehta
Vice President
University Advancement

Shehani Reeder
Executive Assistant to the Provost
Office of the Provost

Celina Davis
Resident Director
Residence Life and First Year Experience

Helen Norris
Vice President and Chief Information Officer
Information Systems & Technology

Students

Natalia Trejo
Class of 2024

Bernadine Cortina
Class of 2024

Alumni

Monica Shukla-Belmontes
Class of 2006, 2008, 2015

Melissa Rowland-Goldsmith
Class of 1989