San Jose State University

In this edition of the SJSU Magazine, we see the extraordinary impact that can begin with something as simple as a book.

Through the iSchool’s Soma Safari initiative, more than 50,000 books have found their way to children and communities in Kenya, opening doors to literacy, imagination and opportunity. But this story is about more than books. It is about building connections across continents, empowering local libraries, supporting educators and creating lasting pathways to learning.

What makes this work especially meaningful is the ripple effect. Every book shared has the potential to inspire a reader, strengthen a community and change the trajectory of a young person's future.

📚🌍 Read the story here - https://ow.ly/6sgv50Zfgpk and see how the SJSU community is helping write the next chapter for learners around the world.

Today we honor Juneteenth, a day to reflect on freedom and resilience.

San José State University's campus is closed in observance of this important day.

Let us take this time to remember and celebrate together.

⚽️ Did You Know? SJSU Soccer Edition ⚽️

San José State University has a rich soccer legacy that stretches far beyond the pitch.

From collegiate competition to professional clubs and international tournaments, soccer has been part of Spartan history for nearly a century. Swipe through to learn more.

⚽💙💛

San José State University was honored to join this year’s Juneteenth Festival in the heart of San José’s SoFA District.

More than a celebration, Juneteenth is a powerful reminder of resilience, freedom, and the ongoing pursuit of opportunity and justice. Throughout the day, our team had the privilege of connecting with community members, sharing information about SJSU, and celebrating the rich history, culture, and contributions of Black communities.

One of the day's most memorable moments was hearing from Dr. John Carlos, whose powerful reflections on leadership, courage, and legacy inspired meaningful conversations throughout the San José community. His message served as a reminder that progress is built through conviction, service, and a commitment to creating opportunities for future generations.

Thank you to everyone who stopped by and helped make the day so memorable, and a special thank you to African American Community Service Agency for their leadership in bringing the community together for this meaningful celebration.

As we reflect on Juneteenth, we remain committed to honoring the past, celebrating the present, and helping build a future where every member of our community has the opportunity to thrive.

Black Engineer Week at San José State University is more than a series of events. It is a reminder of what becomes possible when community and opportunity come together.

As the week kicks off with a Juneteenth celebration, we honor both the legacy of freedom and the future being built by Black innovators, engineers, creators and leaders. What started as a small initiative in 2021 has grown into a powerful platform for connection, mentorship, career exploration and belonging.

Programs like Black Engineer Week help students see themselves reflected in industries where they have historically been underrepresented, while creating pathways to leadership, innovation and impact. Through partnerships with organizations across Silicon Valley and beyond, students gain access to experiences that can shape careers and transform lives.

Read more about this wonderful initiative here - https://ow.ly/N7QX50Zbk3L

Sammy + Storytime + Soccer Training + Future Spartans = the best morning a Mohawk (Plume) could ask for.

Hi everyone! Sammy the Spartan here. I may or may not have convinced our social media manager to let me take over the keyboard for a few minutes. (Don't worry, they're fine.)

But seriously, how cool is it to spend the morning making new friends, reading stories about soccer and then enjoying a special training session with the SJSU Men's Soccer team?

One of my favorite parts of being SJSU's #1 Spartan is connecting with our broader Silicon Valley community. Events like this remind me how sports, learning and community can bring people together in meaningful ways.

A huge thank you to the San Jose Public Library, our SJSU Center for Community Learning and Leadership, the YMCA of Silicon Valley and our SJSU Men's Soccer team for helping make this event possible. Your time, energy and passion for this beautiful game created a memorable experience for everyone involved.

Most of all, thank you to the young readers for spending the morning with us. We are proud to share the excitement that comes with welcoming the world to San José!

Until next time,
Sammy ⚽️💙💛

On World Oceans Day, it's worth celebrating the science and people working to better understand and protect our marine ecosystems.

Featured in the spring 2026 SJSU Magazine, scientists and graduate students at Moss Landing Marine Laboratories explore how fisheries science, conservation and cutting-edge research are helping us better understand and protect our oceans.

This story highlights the power of scientific discovery, student innovation, marine conservation and the real-world impact of environmental research. A great reminder that the future of our oceans depends on the questions we ask today.

🌊 Marine science
🔬 Research and innovation
🐟 Fisheries conservation
🌎 Environmental stewardship
🎓 Student success

Take a moment to read and share the story:
https://sjsu.foleon.com/sjsu-magazine/spring-2026-sjsu-magazine/inquiring-minds-fisheries

STOP SCROLLING. IT'S TIME TO CELEBRATE! 🎓

Thank you to everyone who showed love to our Spring 2026 Spartan graduates and their incredible cap designs.

Now let's give that same energy to this semester's winner!

A huge shoutout to Slide #2! 🏆 By popular vote, you claimed the top spot and helped us close out commencement season on a high note.

And to all our contestants, Sammy has one thing to say: you're all winners. After all, your caps stayed on during the ceremony. His didn't. 😅