Hundreds of people gathered in the Resnick Student Union (RSU) to celebrate Fresno State’s annual Top Dog Awards on Oct. 23.
The event brought together generations of Bulldogs, all gathered to recognize the achievements and impacts of standout alumni.
Early last year, the ceremony was scheduled for Oct. 24 but was postponed just days before the event. According to a past Collegian article, recipients were notified as early as May 28, and then told of the delay on Oct. 21, just three days before the originally planned date.
The university issued a broad statement saying only that the event “will now take place in spring 2025,” without providing further explanation. That lack of clarity led to questions from alumni and honorees about the cause of the postponement and highlighted concerns about transparency with regard to the university’s event-planning and communication.
At the event, The RSU buzzed with chatter of old classmates catching up and applauding as each honoree received their award.
One of the honorees was Carol E. Scott, representing the College of Health and Human Services.
“Our existence has purpose and our actions make a difference,” Scott said. “I believe that resolve began here at Fresno State. ”
Scott has dedicated decades of service to developing children’s museums, where she played an instrumental role in creating spaces that inspire learning and imagination. Her leadership was key in establishing several children’s museums across the country, including the Children’s Museum of the Upstate in South Carolina and, most recently, the Children’s Museum of Modesto, which opened its doors in October 2023.
Her work extends beyond museums. Scott stated in an interview that she has an extensive history in volunteer work with the Junior League and global service organizations. This led her to champion the welfare of women and children worldwide, including efforts supporting children in a Syrian refugee camp.
“I have dedicated my time to our youth and women because it’s the most important to me,” Scott said. “It’s my passion.”
Another recognized honoree was Jim Boren, representing the College of Arts and Humanities.
“This award is a reflection of the community that shaped me, the mentors who challenged me, the colleagues who collaborate with me and students who inspire me,” Boren said.
Boren served as executive editor and senior vice president for The Fresno Bee and has spent decades reporting on government, politics and regional issues that shape the Valley and country.
After retiring in 2018, Boren founded the Institute for Media and Public Trust at Fresno State and teaches in the Media, Communications and Journalism Department. Through both his leadership and work in the classroom, he continues to advocate for strong local journalism.
This year’s ceremony honored alumni across all eight academic colleges. Nicole Linder received the Distinguished Alumni Award on behalf of the College of Arts and Humanities. The Arthur Safstrom Service Award was presented to Gary and Marlene Peacock for their ongoing commitment through the College of Social Sciences and the College of Health and Human Services.
Outstanding Alumni Awards were also given to:
- Lloyd Fagundes (Jordan College of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, ’79),
- Ralph Fagundes (Jordan College of Agricultural Sciences and Technology),
- Tami Lundberg (College of Science and Mathematics, ’87),
- Fred Fagundes (Jordan College of Agricultural Sciences and Technology),
- Lee Brand (College of Social Sciences, ’73),
- Phouangmala Diane Phakonekham (Kremen School of Education and Human Development, ’05, ’11),
- Allysunn Walker (Craig School of Business, ’08),
- Tony Akel (Lyles College of Engineering, ’83, ’85), and
- Sandi Taylor (Department of Athletics, ’82, ’88).
The ceremony concluded with the recognition of all honorees across Fresno State’s eight academic colleges.
