Stuart Sumida, a professor of biology and world-renowned paleontologist, is now president of the Society of Vertebrate Paleontology (SVP), the largest professional organization of paleontologists in the world. Since 2022, Sumida served as SVP vice president, and after the two-year term, the role transitioned to president in November.

The Society of Vertebrate Paleontology is a diverse organization of scientists, students, artists, preparators, advocates, writers and scholars across the globe.

While there are many California State University faculty and students who are SVP members, Sumida is the first CSU faculty member elected to the society’s leadership or presidency. He will serve as president for a two-year term and stay on as past president in an advisory role for two additional years.

“Being elected president of SVP is the honor of a career, as it is the global leader engaged in protecting the fossil heritage of the United States, as well as around the world,” said Sumida. “I am particularly pleased that the teaching and research I have been able to do at CSUSB has prompted my paleontological colleagues to trust me with the future of the society.”

He added, "I'm very fortunate that the environment and culture of professional development here at CSUSB has not only facilitated my scientific work but embraced its impact on the entertainment industry as well.”

Sumida joined CSUSB in 1992 and lectures on a variety of subjects, including human anatomy and physiology, evolution and topics in zoology. He is the author of three books and more than 90 journal articles. 

In addition, Sumida is a nationally and internationally recognized educator. He has been honored for his commitment and passion for teaching with CSUSB’s Golden Apple and Outstanding Professor awards, the prestigious California State University Wang Family Excellence Award, and California Professor of the Year from the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching and the Council for Advancement and Support of Education.

“Professor Sumida's election as president of the Society of Vertebrate Paleontology is a testament to his outstanding contributions to the field,” said Sastry G. Pantula, dean for the College of Natural Sciences. “We are incredibly proud to have him as a colleague in the College of Natural Sciences. He embodies the very best of our college: a dedication to research and teaching, a passion for discovery, and a commitment to collaboration. His presidency is a well-deserved honor, brings us visibility globally, and we are excited to see him continue to shape the future of paleontology."

Beyond the classroom, Sumida's expertise in human and animal anatomy has made him a sought-after consultant for several film and animation projects. In this role, he collaborates with animators to ensure the accurate portrayal of animal movements and behaviors in their characters. Sumida has contributed to more than 70 feature-length films, television programs and video games, including the Academy-Award-winning animated films “Soul,” “Ratatouille” and “Zootopia.” His most recent work has been with DreamWorks Animations “Wild Robot.”

Sumida’s election as president of SVP highlights his exceptional leadership and dedication to advancing the field of paleontology. His appointment not only honors his distinguished career but also underscores the influence of CSUSB faculty in shaping global scientific communities.