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Engineering the Future: Rosemary Cureton to Receive SJEC’s 2026 Distinguished Service Award
Caravan News 29

Engineering the Future: Rosemary Cureton to Receive SJEC’s 2026 Distinguished Service Award

The San Joaquin Engineers Council (SJEC) is shining a well-deserved spotlight on a local leader who is transforming the future of STEM in San Joaquin County. This year’s 2026 Distinguished Service Award will be presented to Rosemary Cureton, Director of the MESA Program at the University of the Pacific, during the 59th Annual Engineers Banquet on February 19 at the DeRosa Center.

Each year, SJEC’s Distinguished Service Award honors individuals whose leadership and service elevate the engineering profession — not for recognition or financial gain, but for the lasting impact they create in their communities .

From Student to STEM Champion

Cureton’s story is one of full-circle inspiration. A proud Pacific alumna and former MESA student — a true “Double Tiger” — she returned to campus not just to work, but to lead. Since joining Pacific in 2018, she has risen from Administrative Assistant to Program Director, significantly expanding the reach and impact of the Mathematics, Engineering, Science Achievement (MESA) program .

Under her leadership, MESA has grown from 16 to 27 schools, now serving more than 1,100 middle and high school students across the region, along with 124 Pacific undergraduate mentors . That growth represents more than numbers — it reflects opportunity, access, and a strengthened pipeline for future engineers.

Building Pathways, Breaking Barriers

Colleagues describe Cureton as a visionary leader who turns ideas into action. “She has made a tremendous impact in advancing STEM education for local schoolchildren in fun and innovative ways,” shared Lourdes Reyes .

Through strategic partnerships with organizations such as SHPE, NSBE, and the Energy Coalition, Cureton has fostered inclusive pathways for students historically underrepresented in STEM fields . Her leadership also helped guide Pacific’s first middle school team in more than 15 years to reach the State Championship — a milestone achievement that speaks volumes about the program’s impact .

Following the disruptions of the pandemic, Cureton’s determination ensured that hundreds of students remained engaged with STEM education, rebuilding momentum and confidence at a critical time .

A Night of Recognition

The 59th Annual Engineers Banquet will take place Thursday, February 19, beginning at 5:30 p.m. at the University Center on Pacific’s Stockton campus . The evening will bring together engineering professionals, educators, students, and community leaders to celebrate excellence, mentorship, and service.

In honoring Rosemary Cureton, SJEC celebrates more than one person — it celebrates a movement to empower the next generation of engineers, innovators, and problem-solvers right here in the Central Valley.

For event details and reservations, visit www.sjec-ca.org or contact Larry Test at 209-948-2081 .

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