STEM Scholarship Helps Students Shoot for the Moon

Roberto Hernandez, Jr. (B.S. ’99, Computer Science) values the power of connections. As the worldwide director of services support and infrastructure at Ruckus Networks at CommScope, a network technology company, he helps large enterprise customers around the world realize the value of the Ruckus Network technology. He also has advised many who are just starting their careers on how to make connections and advance in their profession.

When Hernandez, a 2021 Cal State East Bay Distinguished Alumnus, thought about making a gift to Cal State East Bay, things that are important in his life came together into one connected idea. He knew he wanted to help students committed to careers in STEM. But on top of it, Hernandez wanted to honor members of his family and the values that animated their lives, with the goal of involving other family members in supporting undergraduate students.

The first person who came to mind was Alfonso Gutiérrez, Hernandez’s deceased brother-in-law, who had a lifelong interest in space and NASA. The eldest of 12 children, Gutiérrez came to the United States from Mexico when he was 15 years old. He attended school for a short period of time, but was forced to drop out to focus on making money to send to his family. Bringing his siblings to the United States became Gutiérrez’s goal in life. He understood that his family would have better opportunities for education and jobs than in their hometown.

In 1989, Gutiérrez accomplished his goal. The entire family immigrated to the United States and a new life full of opportunities began for his family.

“My brother-in-law was fascinated with space and NASA. He was a frequent visitor to the Chabot Space Center in Oakland, and would spend hours watching TV series about space. Even though he did not finish high school, he understood how important school was,” Hernandez said.

Remembering Gutiérrez’s love of science, as well as his care to help others reach their goals, Hernandez decided to establish the Alfonso Gutiérrez Go to the Moon Memorial Scholarship in STEM, in honor of his brother-in-law’s life. Eligible students are undergraduates who are in majors within the departments of Biological Sciences; Chemistry and Biochemistry; Computer Science; Earth and Environmental Sciences; Engineering; Mathematics; Physics; and/or Statistics and Biostatistics. The student who receives the scholarship must demonstrate how their future STEM career will promote, advance, and inspire minority students in STEM, and/or demonstrate their involvement with affinity groups or projects that support minorities.

“The purpose of the Alfonso Gutiérrez Go to the Moon Memorial Scholarship in STEM is to be a small contribution into someone’s future,” said Hernandez. “Helping someone to potentially reach their goals, knowing that only the moon is the limit. In future years, I hope to honor other family members and the dreams of future CSUEB graduates.”

“As an alumnus, Hernandez understands both the challenges our students face in financing their degrees, as well as the tremendous impact a degree from Cal State East Bay will have on their future careers,” said Jason Singley, Dean of the College of Science. “I’m grateful for his decision to help future students and am inspired by his choice to honor his brother-in-law.”