CSUSB Alumni Center grand opening graphic

With more than 67% percent of Cal State San Bernardino alumni living and working in the Inland Empire, the new on-campus Alumni Center will be the hub for alumni to participate in engagement activities and stay connected to their alma mater and to each other.

The official grand opening will take place on Wednesday, Sept. 18 beginning at 4 p.m. 

The center occupies what was formerly known as the Santos Manuel Student Union (SMSU) East building, a site that is in the heart of student life on campus. But the center is more than just an in-person location.

“This Alumni Center is not just a physical space – it is a symbol of the strong bond that exists between our alumni and the university,” said Robert J. Nava, vice president for University Advancement and executive director of the CSUSB Philanthropic Foundation. “It will serve as a place where memories are cherished, connections are strengthened, and the legacy of CSUSB is celebrated.”

Crystal Wymer-Lucero ’07 ’19, director of Alumni Relations and a CSUSB alumna herself, echoes Nava.

“It will be more than just a physical location – it will represent the proud history of the institution and a hope for the future that inspires excitement and loyalty,” said Wymer-Lucero.

The center was made possible through the visionary leadership of university President Tomás D. Morales, the president’s cabinet, the CSUSB Philanthropic Foundation and the Alumni Association Board of Directors. 

“As we embark on this exciting journey to establish our Alumni Center, we envision it as a vibrant hub that will serve as a bridge between our cherished alumni and our thriving campus community,” said Morales. “This center will be a testament to the enduring bonds that tie our alumni to the university, fostering a spirit of unity, connection and shared purpose.”

The center's welcoming lobby sets the stage for a space that includes a boardroom dedicated to the CSUSB Philanthropic Foundation Board and the Alumni Association Board of Directors, alongside workspaces for Alumni Relations and Annual Giving. A creative lab serves as a hub for the Alumni Relations team. The center also features a rich photo history of alumni and recent events, as well as alumni Hall of Fame awardees.

“The building will support all visitors, from chapter and board participants to volunteers to those looking to reconnect with the university, becoming a cornerstone of alumni engagement practices and innovative programming,” explained Wymer-Lucero. “It will have spaces for alumni and students to come together in mentorship, chapters to support DEI (diversity, equity and inclusion) programming, enrollment initiatives and other high-impact practices that will promote job attainment and internships for students.”

According to Wymer-Lucero, the Alumni Center will inspire current CSUSB students to see themselves as future alumni and encourage them to actively engage in the alumni community.

“Alumni represent the strength and vitality of our university, and an Alumni Center will be a prominent and vibrant symbol of CSUSB’s dedication to current and former students, friends and the community,” she said.

“With the launch of this Alumni Center,” said Nava, “we are taking a significant step forward in strengthening our alumni network, fostering lifelong connections, and ensuring that CSUSB’s legacy continues to shine brightly.”