Meet the FGSF Mentors

• FGSF Founder and Board Chair

• Professor of Biochemistry

• FGSF Mentor Since 2024

• Cal State Los Angeles Bio​

• Professor and Chair of the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry 

• FGSF Mentor Since 2025

• Cal State Northridge Bio

Dr. Fischhaber became involved through FGSF Board Chair Jamil Momand, who she has known for years as a colleague in the California State University system-wide Biotechnology affinity group, CSUBIOTECH (formerly known as CSUPERB). CSUBIOTECH fosters collaboration between faculty among the 23-campus system.​

• Professor of Chemistry 

• FGSF Mentor Since 2026

• Cal State Los Angeles Bio

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"As a first-generation college graduate, I understand both the challenges and opportunities that come with being the first in your family to pursue higher education. I joined FGSF because I want to help students navigate that journey with confidence, encourage them to dream big, and show them that their background can become one of their greatest strengths."

• Professor of Biochemistry

• Interim Dean for Research and Graduate Studies

• FGSF Mentor Since 2026

• Cal State Long Beach Bio

"As an educator and mentor, I have seen firsthand how guidance, encouragement, and opportunity can change the trajectory of a student's life. The First Generation Scholarship Fund (FGSF) helps make that transformation possible by providing students with both financial support and a strong sense of community. Being an FGSF mentor is a privilege and I am proud to support its mission at the Beach."

• Associate Professor in the Center for Excellence in Math and Science Teaching and the Department of Biological Sciences

• FGSF Mentor Since 2026

• Cal Poly Pomona Bio

"I think the transfer stage to the 4 year university is such an important transition for the student to begin building community, becoming familiar with resources, and having me as a support structure at their new school so I can help with this big move in their educational career."