In this second episode of “Fanning the Flames,” Dr. Elvia Ramirez interviews two first-generation college students, Diana Rangel and Chris Nuñez, who discuss the ways that the CRISJ Mentoring Program marked a pivotal moment in their academic journeys. Both Diana and Chris describe how the program offered not just guidance, but a sense of belonging, connecting them with faculty mentors and peers who validated their goals and helped them navigate unfamiliar academic structures. Through their shared experiences, they reveal how mentorship can ease uncertainty, build confidence, and open pathways that once seemed out of reach. Their stories together show the transformative power of community and support for students carving out their place in higher education.

Join Dr. Elvia Ramirez as she interviews Sac State alumni Demonza Hunter and Hector Rodriguez, whose experiences in the CRISJ Mentoring Program showcase the powerful outcomes that emerge when research, mentorship, and personal experience intertwine. Demonza and Hector share how the program helped them turn personal histories and research interests into meaningful research projects and transformative career paths. Along the way, they offer “nuggets of gold” on choosing impactful courses, building strong mentor relationships, leveraging campus resources, and crafting a professional network with purpose. This episode highlights the significant influence that high-impact educational practices, such as undergraduate research, have on promoting student success.

In this episode of Building Justice, hosts Dr. Susanna Curry and Dr. Arturo Baiocchi from Sacramento State’s School of Social Work are joined by Dr. Ethan Evans to explore the concept and impact of Guaranteed Income programs. The conversation highlights the differences between guaranteed and universal basic income, the effects of providing unconditional cash payments to individuals and families, and local initiatives led by United Way in Sacramento. Dr. Evans discusses research findings from an evaluation of the local initiative and reflects on the potential of these programs to reshape social services and economic equity.