President's Medal

AS-T, Public Health

AA-T, Political Science

AA, Psychology

Wowza! :3

AS-T, Biology 

AA-T, English

Mimi Kira is an English major. In Summer 2025, she earned two certificates of recognition from Foothill College for her contributions to classes in the Language Arts and Ethnic Studies Division.

Her future goals include graduating university and applying to law school in order to further her interest in social studies.

 

AA-T, Economics

As a 2026 President’s Medalist recipient, I am honored to be recognized for my hard work during my time in community college. I am very passionate about learning and pursuing opportunities that challenge me both academically and creatively. I am also very goal oriented, which drove me to succeed in my academics at Foothill. Foothill gave me a great space to learn more about myself and my interests, making me more prepared to go to a four-year university. Now, I am very excited to pursue my Economics major further at UC San Diego this fall!

 

 AA-T, English

Lan will be graduating from Foothill College in the 2025-2026 school year, and she is beyond grateful for her journey at Foothill. She has been able to turn her love for stories and language to action such as literary research thanks to dedicated faculty who pushed her to never stop questioning and to be open to new perspectives.

Foothill is also where Lan explored leadership through clubs, found her community, and fostered lasting friendship. Lan is proud to have Foothill as her second home over the past 2 years.

AS-T, Computer Science

I have been interested in science and technology since I was little. Receiving the President’s Medal is a meaningful milestone in my academic journey. Foothill College provided an environment that strengthened my passion for science and mathematics and supported me in earning my Associate Degree for Transfer in Computer Science.

I look forward to continuing my journey in computer science and using technology to make a positive impact in the future.

AS-T, Business 

Pierce Musladin is a Business major at Foothill College and an active student leader involved in business and consulting organizations on campus. He works as a paraeducator supporting elementary students with autism and other developmental needs, helping create a positive and inclusive learning environment.

Pierce is passionate about finance, entrepreneurship, and making a meaningful impact in his community, and he plans to continue his education at a four-year university after graduating.

AS-T, Biology 

Chloe Darling is a prospective Biochemistry student transferring to UC Irvine in the Fall of 2026. They hope to pursue a career in drug discovery and/or toxicology.

In their free time, Chloe enjoys hiking, reading, notetaking, and uptmost, drawing. Some of their favorite subjects to draw are animals, plants, anatomy, and molecular machinery.

AS-T, Public Health

My name is Juan De Leon, and I am graduating from Foothill College as a Public Health major. My time at community college helped me grow both academically and personally, and it gave me the opportunity to explore different paths in healthcare and better understand what I wanted to pursue in the future.

This fall, I will be transferring to UC San Diego to continue my education. I am very grateful to receive the President’s Medal and thankful for everyone at Foothill College who supported me throughout my journey.

AA-T, English

Tristan is graduating with an Associate's Degree in English. During his time at Foothill he participated in research, worked as a tutor in the Writing and Learning Center, and was involved in several clubs. He also developed a passion for the intersection between linguistics and constitutional law, which he will be pursuing as a linguistics major at university in the fall. Outside of school, he is a novelist and a musician.

He would like to thank his friends and family for supporting him throughout his educational journey so far, and he is excited to continue learning.

AS-T, Public Health

My name is Angelica Galdamez Gutierrez and I have been at Foothill College since 2023 after graduating high school. I’ve been honored to meet many great professors and classmates who have helped me gain new perspectives and figure out what I wanted to do with my major. I’m extremely honored to be receiving this medal thanks to the help of my EOPS counselors, family, and friends. Being a first-generation Latina college graduate I’m constantly inspired by my community and hope to show other students to stay faithful and never give up on themselves.

I will be graduating with an AST in Public Health and Psychology which I hope to use to research epidemiology in low-income communities.

AA-T, Psychology

As a first-generation student, pursuing higher education often felt intimidating and out of reach. There were many moments where I questioned whether I truly belonged in college, especially while navigating financial hardship and personal challenges outside of school. During my last year at Foothill College, I had to learn how to navigate college without both of my parents, which made the journey feel even more overwhelming and isolating at times. Foothill became more than just a school to me, largely because of the EOPS program—it became a support system during some of the most difficult moments of my educational journey.

Through their encouragement, guidance, and belief in me, I learned that asking for help is not weakness, and that my circumstances do not define my potential. Working at the Testing Center and being a part of the EOPS program gave me a second home on campus. For the first time, I found a genuine sense of belonging. I felt welcomed, supported, and surrounded by a community that cared not only about my academic success, but also about me as a person.

Much of the success and confidence I carry today is because of the love, support, and encouragement I received at Foothill College. Foothill reminded me that education is not only about earning a degree, but also about becoming resilient, confident, and hopeful about the future. This fall, I will be attending Santa Clara University to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Psychology.

AS, Dental Assisting (Major: Dental Hygiene)

My name is Phiphi—a name originally without meaning, just a play with sounds by my dad. In my time here at Foothill College since Fall of 2023, I have met many wonderful classmates and mentors, especially in the Dental Assisting Program, who call me by my name and give it meaning beyond family and friend. With the support of loved ones, classmates, and mentors, I have earned this Associate in Science for Dental Assisting. My private life, the classes I took here at Foothill College, and the externships to both UCSF and private practices have reinforced in me that I want to help improve oral—and overall—health in my community and those who need care most. In the following years, I will continue to pursue Dental Hygiene. My time with Dental Assisting was not a setback or sign of failure; it was a “divine detour.”

AS-T, Mathematics

AS-T, Physics 

Astro is graduating from Foothill College with associate’s degrees in Physics, Mathematics, Theatre Technology, and Theatre Arts. They have been a technician for Foothill Theatre Arts productions, secretary of the Genders & Sexualities Alliance (GSA) Club, an onstage presenter for the Physics Show, and a student employee at the Foothill Library.

This summer, they will contribute to research on fast radio burst host galaxies at UC Santa Cruz, where they plan to transfer for Astrophysics this fall. They are eternally grateful to their friends, family, and mentors who have accompanied them on this journey, and look forward to what’s to come!

AA, English

Lucelly Mariana Martinez Magana is an international student from Chetumal, Quintana Roo, graduating with a degree in English and a deep passion for language, literature, and education. As a bilingual student, her academic journey has strengthened her interest in linguistics and in understanding the role of language in shaping identity, culture, and society. Throughout her studies at Foothill College, she has explored the power of storytelling, communication, literary analysis, and the ways narratives shape how individuals understand themselves and the world around them across different cultures and perspectives.

She is particularly interested in how language can challenge, empower, or stigmatize narratives. Through literature, she believes people can inspire social change while encouraging kindness, empathy, and understanding. Her studies, experiences, and openness to learning have transformed both her perspective and understanding of the world. Lucelly believes education is a privilege that carries responsibility, one she hopes to use purposefully not only to fulfill her own aspirations, but also to help create opportunities for change. She hopes to strengthen the voices of those who, like herself, have at times felt lost or found through language and literature.

AS-T, Computer Science

 

 

 

 

AA-T, Political Science

Gal is graduating Foothill with an AA-T in Political Science. During his time at Foothill, Gal maintained a 4.0 GPA and participated in the Honors Program. In addition to this, he was an officer for the Pickleball Club and Enactus. Through these clubs, Gal was able to build community and create a support system for the members. Famously, he was the mascot for the Pickleball Club, dressing up as Dill-on The Pickle in every club fair.

From Foothill College, Gal will continue his academic journey at UCLA, majoring in Political Science with a goal of picking up a double major in Philosophy and eventually going to law school. He is grateful to his friends, family, and the Foothill community for helping him succeed.

AA-T, Political Science

Majoring in Political Science here at Foothill has been such an enjoyable and rewarding experience. I plan to attend UCLA in the Fall with the goal of obtaining a B.A. in Political Science, and hopefully in the future I'll be able to enter into a graduate program. My time at Foothill as an honors scholar has challenged me to grow and build my academic confidence, and it has helped me reach where I am today.

I would like to thank the amazing professors and counselors here at Foothill for assisting and guiding me along my journey.

AA-T, Communication Studies

Hi I'm Sarina, and I'm so excited to be graduating from Foothill College in the 2025-26 school year. I will be receiving my associates degree in Communication Studies from Foothill College, and I will be continuing my journey at UC Berkeley as a Psychology major! Foothill College has provided me with immense support, incredible friends, and the most amazing professors. Being here has made my dream of transferring come true and provided me with a space to discover myself and my goals. I will be forever grateful for the experiences, memories, and opportunities I've received this past school year and I am so honored to be a President's Medalist.

As I transfer to UC Berkeley in the fall, I will never forget that it was Foothill College, the support of my family, and the incredible professors here that helped me achieve my goals, and I am extremely excited for the rest of my educational journey.

AS-T, Mechanical Engineering; AS-T, Physics

Hey, I’m Kyle, a Mechanical Engineering major transferring to UC Berkeley this fall! My interest in engineering started when I was a kid watching YouTube project videos online and wanting to build them myself. Later, participating in the FIRST Robotics Competition and becoming an Eagle Scout confirmed that this was the right path for me.

During my time at Foothill, I have been incredibly grateful for the professors I’ve had and the opportunities I’ve been a part of, like the Engineering Club and interning in the cleanrooms at nano@stanford. Outside of school, I enjoy getting outdoors whether it’s hiking, camping, or exploring. I also enjoy movies, classic rock, and traveling. I am honored to be a President’s Medalist and am excited to see what the rest of my undergraduate career has to offer.

AS-T, Computer Science; AS-T, Mathematics

My name is Kristian Petričušić, and I am graduating from Foothill College as an international student with degrees in Computer Science and Mathematics. I was born in Sweden, and my family is originally from Croatia. Coming to Foothill gave me the opportunity to pursue my education in the United States and completely changed the direction of my academic journey. 

This fall, I will be transferring to UCLA to study Applied Mathematics. I want to thank my friends and family for always supporting me, and Foothill College for the opportunities it has given me. It will always have a special place in my heart!

AA, Social Science

Layla Adams is a first-generation college student, artist, and former hairstylist who returned to school to pursue a new path. She started out as a Graphic Design major and then discovered a passion for education and child development. She is graduating with an Associate of Arts in Social Science and will continue her studies at Cal Poly Humboldt. Layla is passionate about trauma informed education, helping children learn and grow, encouraging creativity, and proving that it's never too late to start over and follow a new dream. 

She is especially grateful to Foothill College for making higher education accessible to working and non-traditional students. As someone balancing work, finances, and family responsibilities, Layla believes she may never have begun her college journey without the flexibility, support, and opportunities Foothill provided. She is thankful for the encouragement of her family, friends, instructors, and community as she continues her educational journey.

AA-T, Sociology

After feeling disillusioned with my options after high school and a negative experience at the four-year university I chose, I decided to enroll in Foothill College for a second chance. During my time at Foothill, I dove into advanced coursework, research internships, leadership, and volunteer work to further my passions and advocate for my community. I decided to major in sociology on a pre-law track, examining how societal forces influence my experience and that of others in my community as a second-generation Hispanic immigrant. Moved by what I found through my studies and research, I set my sights on becoming an immigration attorney and focusing on making real change through political and legal avenues.

Next year, I will be continuing my academic journey at UCLA, where the experience and insight I gained here will motivate me to persevere towards my goals.

AS-T, Public Health; 

Michele Nguyen is graduating from Foothill College with degrees in Public Health Science, Kinesiology, Communication Studies 2.0, and Child & Adolescent Development, along with a degree in Liberal Arts from De Anza College.

As a first-generation college student, Michele has dedicated her time both inside and outside the classroom to serving underserved communities through her role in the EOPS Program, volunteer service at Regional Medical Center, and internship at a pediatric clinic. These experiences have fueled her passion for healthcare and her commitment to improving access to care for those who need it most.

AA-T, Economics

AA-T, Child & Adolscent Development; AA-T Psychology

My name is Bianca, and I am a Sophomore Child and Adolescent Development major at Foothill College. My two years at Foothill have impactfully shaped my perspectives towards my future academic goals, as I kept stepping out of my comfort zone to learn, reflect, and improve while participating in various on-campus and community activities, such as being a math tutor, joining the humanities scholars program to do an internship at a local non-profit organization, and volunteering at a childcare center, and so on. As an honors scholar, I’ve also been taking a wide range of social science and humanities classes, which have fulfilled my passion for earning a career as a higher education educator.

Being a proud member of the EOPS program, my conselor and peers encouraged me throughout my journey as I overcame academic and life challenges, strengthening my confidence in pursuing my goals. Every professor, classmate, and person I met and worked with has left me an unforgettable memory, enriching my journey here so incredibly!

This coming fall, I will be transferring to UC Berkeley to major in Educational Science, and I hope to continue expanding my horizons in a new community with my interests.

AS-T, Public Health

My name is Kathleen Kaye Acosta Celis, and I immigrated to the United States from the Philippines in 2019. I am honored to graduate from Foothill College with an Associate of Science degree in Public Health Science. As the final member of my family to attain a college degree, receiving the President’s Medal is a recognition that I will always be grateful for. This achievement reflects years of hard work, personal growth, and perseverance as I adapted to a new culture and environment.

During my time at Foothill College, I discovered my passion for healthcare and decided to pursue a second major in Radiologic Technology. I believe that both Public Health Science and Radiologic Technology will allow me to make a positive impact on the lives of others, and I look forward to serving my community through these rewarding fields.

This achievement is not mine alone. I would like to thank my parents, family, friends, professors, and everyone who supported and encouraged me throughout my journey. Your confidence in my abilities helped me reach this milestone and shaped me into the person I am today.

I am proud and grateful to receive the President’s Medal, and I am excited for the next chapter of my journey.

AA, Art

Hello my name is Josh Pastuszak, I graduated in Summer 2025 with an Associates of Art in Art. After entering the Hospitality field in 2016, I re-embraced my academic journey at Foothill college in 2021. While maintaining a 4.0 GPA, I worked full time, relocated to a new state and married my high school sweetheart.

My passion for understanding the art of human expression, alongside unwavering support from my loved ones and the talented faculty at Foothill, fueled my academic excellence and resilience. 

Since graduating, my wife and I have welcomed our first born son. As we settle into life as a new family, I eagerly look forward to furthering my education. I plan to explore the fields of Anthropology and Cognitive Science while continuing to build my creative portfolio. Thank you to everyone at Foothill for providing the strong foundation that made this, and many future successes possible.

AA-T, Political Science

Hello, my name is Kaitlyn Paik! I am a political science major and plan to graduate with an associates in Political Science for Transfer and General Studies: Social Sciences. I am the Vice President and co-founder of Foothill's Pre-Law Society. I also work at Foothill's Wellness Lounge as an attendant. My dream is to go to law school and eventually become a lawyer.

In my free time, I enjoy reading, volunteering, playing video games, and spending time with my friends and family. I plan to continue my studies at UCLA in the Fall.