Telling the UCR Brand Story
These "Bold Hearts. Brilliant Minds." brand stories are available for you to use to share through marketing and communication platforms to tell the story of the people who represent UC Riverside. The brand stories can be used in newsletters, social posts, emails, websites, ads, or other ways. They are organized by the UCR brand pillars of Community, Mobility, and Transformation, and by affiliation, school, or college. Each story has a header that signifies the affiliation of the person featured. Within each story, you will find a description along with supporting assets including narratives, quotes, social tags, and multimedia available to you.
If there are questions or more information is needed, please reach out to the designated staff that is associated with each brand story who is noted at the bottom of the entry.
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Community
Jesse Melgar, MPP '17
When you think about the largest crisis in 2020, what comes to mind? Jesse Melgar, MPP ’17 was at the forefront of communication for Governor Newsom when COVID was at its peak.
Mike Magpayo
Mike’s story is one of COMMUNITY. As the first Asian American head coach in NCAA Division I men’s basketball, Magpayo is not only making history, but also opening doors of opportunities for other young Asian coaches.
Aileen Tran
Aileen’s story is one of COMMUNITY. Her dedication to helping those struggling with mental health indicates a positive shift in healthcare for future generations.
Britney Mayowa
Britney’s story is one of COMMUNITY. By taking advantage of the resources that UC Riverside has to offer, Britney can work towards making a difference in marginalized communities.
John Costumbrado, M.D. '17
John Costumbrado, M.D. ’17 is living UCR School of Medicine's mission. As a graduate of the inaugural medical school class at UCR, he ensured he stayed in the area to make a difference. Now, in Emergency Medicine, he is living his calling by working in a diverse medical field and working with underrepresented and underserved on a regular basis.
Shayla Nguyen
Shayla’s story is one of COMMUNITY. After facing adversities early on in life, her ambitions showcase an earnest sentiment towards paying it forward and making a positive difference in healthcare.
Alexis Carmona
Alexis’s story is one of COMMUNITY. Using her personal experiences as a patient with various health care needs, Alexis is equipped with compassion and empathy to help others in need.
Cesar Bautista
Cesar’s story is one of COMMUNITY. Understanding the challenges that come with running a business inspired Cesar to speak up for small businesses and the families behind them.
Ken Noller ’75, T.C. ’76, M.A. ’84
Two student teachers didn’t have enough money for gas to get to their teaching sites. Ken Noller did something about it with an endowed fund for new teachers who may fall into tough times.
Thy B. Bui '04
Often, a student sees an opportunity and thinks, “I can’t do this because I can’t afford it.” With her endowed scholarship, Thy B. Bui hopes to prevent that thought for students interested in the UCDC program by providing funding support that covers the gap between academic scholarship costs and the cost of living for generations to come.
Brenda Martinez '10
From UCR athlete to Olympian and World Champion and now mentor, Brenda Martinez ’10 has made her 5-year-old self proud.
Mobility
Barbara Kerr '68
Barbara’s story showcases MOBILITY. As a first-generation alumna and donor, her story illustrates the opportunity a student at UCR has to find opportunity not only while on campus, but for the rest of their lives.
Sheila Abdolmanafi
Sheila’s story is one of MOBILITY. Her determination to study at UCR as an international student displays resilience and passion to achieve her goal of working in healthcare.
James Merino MBA '98
Education and opportunity go hand in hand for James Merino, MBA ’98, a data engineer who has worked at some of the biggest firms in Silicon Valley. That’s why he created the Jaime J. Merino Endowed Business Scholarship for Master of Business Administration students at UC Riverside’s School of Business in 2016.
Vera Machado Martinez M.A. '71, Ph.D. '79
A first gen UCR grad and single mom pioneered an exceptional career of firsts and is helping young Latina women do the same.
Allen Van Tran '15
Grappling with financial limitations didn’t stop Allen Van Tran from finding a way to use his education to open doors for others. He is now the youngest alumnus from the Marlan and Rosemary Bourns College of Engineering (BCOE) to establish an endowment at UC Riverside.
Rebecca Jennings
Rebecca’s story is one of MOBILITY. As a first-generation student, her personal adversities have served as motivation to pursue a career in STEM.
Transformation
Arnav Kacker
Arnav’s story is one of TRANSFORMATION. Taking a difficult personal experience and redirecting it into a positive driving force illustrates determination and ambition.
Rafael Lopez '07
From playing nooners, to playing Coachella, then back to UCR again. Rafael Lopez '07, aka DJ Alf Alpha, finds his way back to UCR as a performer and opener for Beach Boys and TLC for Homecoming.
Brian Immethun
Brian’s story is one of TRANSFORMATION. Although he began his studies with an unclear goal in mind, attending UC Riverside allowed Brian to explore his options and discover a career that resonates with his aspirations.
Nwaka Onwusa '08
UCR allowed Nwaka Onwusa, '08 to be empowered and follow her dreams of music and culture. From Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, to the Hip Hop Museum, she has shown what dedication and drive has allowed her to achieve.
Student
Alexis Carmona
Alexis’s story is one of COMMUNITY. Using her personal experiences as a patient with various health care needs, Alexis is equipped with compassion and empathy to help others in need.
Britney Mayowa
Britney’s story is one of COMMUNITY. By taking advantage of the resources that UC Riverside has to offer, Britney can work towards making a difference in marginalized communities.
Shayla Nguyen
Shayla’s story is one of COMMUNITY. After facing adversities early on in life, her ambitions showcase an earnest sentiment towards paying it forward and making a positive difference in healthcare.
Arnav Kacker
Arnav’s story is one of TRANSFORMATION. Taking a difficult personal experience and redirecting it into a positive driving force illustrates determination and ambition.
Cesar Bautista
Cesar’s story is one of COMMUNITY. Understanding the challenges that come with running a business inspired Cesar to speak up for small businesses and the families behind them.
Sheila Abdolmanafi
Sheila’s story is one of MOBILITY. Her determination to study at UCR as an international student displays resilience and passion to achieve her goal of working in healthcare.
Aileen Tran
Aileen’s story is one of COMMUNITY. Her dedication to helping those struggling with mental health indicates a positive shift in healthcare for future generations.
Brian Immethun
Brian’s story is one of TRANSFORMATION. Although he began his studies with an unclear goal in mind, attending UC Riverside allowed Brian to explore his options and discover a career that resonates with his aspirations.
Rebecca Jennings
Rebecca’s story is one of MOBILITY. As a first-generation student, her personal adversities have served as motivation to pursue a career in STEM.
Faculty
Staff
Mike Magpayo
Mike’s story is one of COMMUNITY. As the first Asian American head coach in NCAA Division I men’s basketball, Magpayo is not only making history, but also opening doors of opportunities for other young Asian coaches.
Alumni
Allen Van Tran '15
Grappling with financial limitations didn’t stop Allen Van Tran from finding a way to use his education to open doors for others. He is now the youngest alumnus from the Marlan and Rosemary Bourns College of Engineering (BCOE) to establish an endowment at UC Riverside.
James Merino MBA '98
Education and opportunity go hand in hand for James Merino, MBA ’98, a data engineer who has worked at some of the biggest firms in Silicon Valley. That’s why he created the Jaime J. Merino Endowed Business Scholarship for Master of Business Administration students at UC Riverside’s School of Business in 2016.
Ken Noller ’75, T.C. ’76, M.A. ’84
Two student teachers didn’t have enough money for gas to get to their teaching sites. Ken Noller did something about it with an endowed fund for new teachers who may fall into tough times.
Thy B. Bui '04
Often, a student sees an opportunity and thinks, “I can’t do this because I can’t afford it.” With her endowed scholarship, Thy B. Bui hopes to prevent that thought for students interested in the UCDC program by providing funding support that covers the gap between academic scholarship costs and the cost of living for generations to come.
Barbara Kerr '68
Barbara’s story showcases MOBILITY. As a first-generation alumna and donor, her story illustrates the opportunity a student at UCR has to find opportunity not only while on campus, but for the rest of their lives.
Jesse Melgar, MPP '17
When you think about the largest crisis in 2020, what comes to mind? Jesse Melgar, MPP ’17 was at the forefront of communication for Governor Newsom when COVID was at its peak.
Nwaka Onwusa '08
UCR allowed Nwaka Onwusa, '08 to be empowered and follow her dreams of music and culture. From Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, to the Hip Hop Museum, she has shown what dedication and drive has allowed her to achieve.
Vera Machado Martinez M.A. '71, Ph.D. '79
A first gen UCR grad and single mom pioneered an exceptional career of firsts and is helping young Latina women do the same.
Brenda Martinez '10
From UCR athlete to Olympian and World Champion and now mentor, Brenda Martinez ’10 has made her 5-year-old self proud.
John Costumbrado, M.D. '17
John Costumbrado, M.D. ’17 is living UCR School of Medicine's mission. As a graduate of the inaugural medical school class at UCR, he ensured he stayed in the area to make a difference. Now, in Emergency Medicine, he is living his calling by working in a diverse medical field and working with underrepresented and underserved on a regular basis.
Rafael Lopez '07
From playing nooners, to playing Coachella, then back to UCR again. Rafael Lopez '07, aka DJ Alf Alpha, finds his way back to UCR as a performer and opener for Beach Boys and TLC for Homecoming.
Donor
James Merino MBA '98
Education and opportunity go hand in hand for James Merino, MBA ’98, a data engineer who has worked at some of the biggest firms in Silicon Valley. That’s why he created the Jaime J. Merino Endowed Business Scholarship for Master of Business Administration students at UC Riverside’s School of Business in 2016.
Vera Machado Martinez M.A. '71, Ph.D. '79
A first gen UCR grad and single mom pioneered an exceptional career of firsts and is helping young Latina women do the same.
Allen Van Tran '15
Grappling with financial limitations didn’t stop Allen Van Tran from finding a way to use his education to open doors for others. He is now the youngest alumnus from the Marlan and Rosemary Bourns College of Engineering (BCOE) to establish an endowment at UC Riverside.
Ken Noller ’75, T.C. ’76, M.A. ’84
Two student teachers didn’t have enough money for gas to get to their teaching sites. Ken Noller did something about it with an endowed fund for new teachers who may fall into tough times.
Barbara Kerr '68
Barbara’s story showcases MOBILITY. As a first-generation alumna and donor, her story illustrates the opportunity a student at UCR has to find opportunity not only while on campus, but for the rest of their lives.
Thy B. Bui '04
Often, a student sees an opportunity and thinks, “I can’t do this because I can’t afford it.” With her endowed scholarship, Thy B. Bui hopes to prevent that thought for students interested in the UCDC program by providing funding support that covers the gap between academic scholarship costs and the cost of living for generations to come.
Business
James Merino MBA '98
Education and opportunity go hand in hand for James Merino, MBA ’98, a data engineer who has worked at some of the biggest firms in Silicon Valley. That’s why he created the Jaime J. Merino Endowed Business Scholarship for Master of Business Administration students at UC Riverside’s School of Business in 2016.
Brian Immethun
Brian’s story is one of TRANSFORMATION. Although he began his studies with an unclear goal in mind, attending UC Riverside allowed Brian to explore his options and discover a career that resonates with his aspirations.
CHASS
Aileen Tran
Aileen’s story is one of COMMUNITY. Her dedication to helping those struggling with mental health indicates a positive shift in healthcare for future generations.
Rafael Lopez '07
From playing nooners, to playing Coachella, then back to UCR again. Rafael Lopez '07, aka DJ Alf Alpha, finds his way back to UCR as a performer and opener for Beach Boys and TLC for Homecoming.
Barbara Kerr '68
Barbara’s story showcases MOBILITY. As a first-generation alumna and donor, her story illustrates the opportunity a student at UCR has to find opportunity not only while on campus, but for the rest of their lives.
Nwaka Onwusa '08
UCR allowed Nwaka Onwusa, '08 to be empowered and follow her dreams of music and culture. From Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, to the Hip Hop Museum, she has shown what dedication and drive has allowed her to achieve.
CNAS
Arnav Kacker
Arnav’s story is one of TRANSFORMATION. Taking a difficult personal experience and redirecting it into a positive driving force illustrates determination and ambition.
Shayla Nguyen
Shayla’s story is one of COMMUNITY. After facing adversities early on in life, her ambitions showcase an earnest sentiment towards paying it forward and making a positive difference in healthcare.
Sheila Abdolmanafi
Sheila’s story is one of MOBILITY. Her determination to study at UCR as an international student displays resilience and passion to achieve her goal of working in healthcare.
SOE
Britney Mayowa
Britney’s story is one of COMMUNITY. By taking advantage of the resources that UC Riverside has to offer, Britney can work towards making a difference in marginalized communities.
Ken Noller ’75, T.C. ’76, M.A. ’84
Two student teachers didn’t have enough money for gas to get to their teaching sites. Ken Noller did something about it with an endowed fund for new teachers who may fall into tough times.
Vera Machado Martinez M.A. '71, Ph.D. '79
A first gen UCR grad and single mom pioneered an exceptional career of firsts and is helping young Latina women do the same.
SPP
Cesar Bautista
Cesar’s story is one of COMMUNITY. Understanding the challenges that come with running a business inspired Cesar to speak up for small businesses and the families behind them.
Jesse Melgar, MPP '17
When you think about the largest crisis in 2020, what comes to mind? Jesse Melgar, MPP ’17 was at the forefront of communication for Governor Newsom when COVID was at its peak.
Thy B. Bui '04
Often, a student sees an opportunity and thinks, “I can’t do this because I can’t afford it.” With her endowed scholarship, Thy B. Bui hopes to prevent that thought for students interested in the UCDC program by providing funding support that covers the gap between academic scholarship costs and the cost of living for generations to come.
BCOE
Allen Van Tran '15
Grappling with financial limitations didn’t stop Allen Van Tran from finding a way to use his education to open doors for others. He is now the youngest alumnus from the Marlan and Rosemary Bourns College of Engineering (BCOE) to establish an endowment at UC Riverside.
Rebecca Jennings
Rebecca’s story is one of MOBILITY. As a first-generation student, her personal adversities have served as motivation to pursue a career in STEM.
SOM
John Costumbrado, M.D. '17
John Costumbrado, M.D. ’17 is living UCR School of Medicine's mission. As a graduate of the inaugural medical school class at UCR, he ensured he stayed in the area to make a difference. Now, in Emergency Medicine, he is living his calling by working in a diverse medical field and working with underrepresented and underserved on a regular basis.
Alexis Carmona
Alexis’s story is one of COMMUNITY. Using her personal experiences as a patient with various health care needs, Alexis is equipped with compassion and empathy to help others in need.
Athletics
Mike Magpayo
Mike’s story is one of COMMUNITY. As the first Asian American head coach in NCAA Division I men’s basketball, Magpayo is not only making history, but also opening doors of opportunities for other young Asian coaches.
Brenda Martinez '10
From UCR athlete to Olympian and World Champion and now mentor, Brenda Martinez ’10 has made her 5-year-old self proud.