Jody Nelsen was the keynote speaker at this year’s Women of Influence event, part of the Women’s “Herstory” Month celebration. The event included student performances and an awards ceremony — where one of CCE’s own was recognized.

Interim Dean Jenni Murphy was honored at the ceremony with an award for her positive influence on the campus community. CCE was so proud to see her win this award, not only as a representative for our college, but also as a role model for all women on campus. 

“I’m really honored to have been nominated and blown away to have received the award,” says Dr. Murphy. “I am completely humbled by the testimonials and by the energy that went into this.”

In 15 years at Sacramento State, Dr. Murphy has developed and refined her talents as an advocate, spokesperson, liaison, and strategist. The opportunity to work with students, faculty, leaders, constituents, employers, and elected officials has deeply connected her to the Sacramento region and motivates her desire to increase student success to build a better workforce and more powerful economy.

More than 150 people came out to support their female friends and colleagues at the Women of influence event. The university honored seven Sac State women for their outstanding leadership on campus and in the community.

Award Winners

• Brigitte Clark, associate director of the Career Center – Unsung Hero Award
• Seunghee Wie, professor and chair of the Department of Family and Consumer Sciences; and Jenni Murphy, interim dean of the College of Continuing Education – Faculty Award
• Norma Mendoza, interim outreach specialist with the College Assistance Migrant Program (CAMP) – Staff Award
• Lauren Lombardo, past president of Associated Students Inc. (ASI) – Student Award
• Desiree Valdez Chavez and Sierra Mahaffey – Residential Student Award

-Article by Deborah Chen