CSUSB Women's History Month graphic

CSUSB alumna and current graduate student Breanna Ramirez has been awarded the prestigious Crellin Pauling Student Teaching Award from CSU Biotechnology, recognizing her outstanding contributions to teaching in biotechnology-related courses at Cal State San Bernardino. 

Ramirez, a biology major, has served as a teaching assistant in CSUSB’s Department of Biology for four years. During that time, she has taught courses in human anatomy and physiology, as well as animal physiology, building a strong record of excellence in student instruction. She was nominated for the award by her mentor, Tomasz Owerkowicz, professor of biology.

Ramirez received the Crellin Pauling Student Teaching Award at the 2026 Southern Regional CSU Biotechnology Symposium with the support of Tomasz Owerkowicz, professor of biology, who nominated her for the honor.
Ramirez received the Crellin Pauling Student Teaching Award at the 2026 Southern Regional CSU Biotechnology Symposium with the support of Tomasz Owerkowicz, professor of biology, who nominated her for the honor.

“I felt honored and grateful for not only the nomination from my mentor but also to be selected by the CSU Biotechnology committee,” said Ramirez.

Ramirez was one of two students to receive the California State University (CSU) systemwide honor, which recognizes outstanding student teaching achievement across the CSU in biotechnology-related settings, courses and programs. The award highlights effective teaching practices, celebrates exceptional teaching assistants, and encourages future educators in science and engineering. With the honor, Ramirez also received a monetary prize to help support her education.

Ramirez received the award at the 2026 Southern Regional CSU Biotechnology Symposium, hosted by CSU Biotechnology, held on Jan. 26 at Cal State LA. Additionally, a virtual awards ceremony was held on Zoom to honor this year’s award recipients. 

Ramirez was honored as one of only two students selected across the California State University system for the award.
Ramirez was honored as one of only two students selected across the California State University system for the award.

The symposium brought together CSU students, faculty, administrators and biotechnology professionals, offering exposure to cutting-edge research, product innovation and career pathways in the life sciences. In addition, CSU faculty and administrators contribute to the event by designing workshops, reviewing poster abstracts, serving on committees and identifying speakers.

CSU Biotechnology is a collaborative network representing all 22 CSU campuses. Through its efforts, the organization advances biotechnology innovation and supports students in pursuing careers in the life sciences through hands-on, experiential learning opportunities.