by Emma Prophet

The 2025 CPP Fall Retreat was an insightful, energizing, and memorable experience that brought together faculty and staff as well as community members for a time of learning, reflection, and connection. The retreat has been an important tradition for the CPP college. It provides a strong sense of unity and thoughtful conversations.

Throughout that time, faculty and staff were able to step away from their busy routines and focus on growth in a more intentional way. Whether talking through ideas with new faces or reconnecting with familiar ones, everyone seemed genuinely appreciative of the opportunity to slow down and be present with one another. The retreat served as a reminder of how valuable it is to have dedicated time to gather, share perspectives, and build supportive relationships.

Each year, the CPP Excellence Awards recognize individuals who exemplify exceptional dedication, leadership, and service within the College of Professional Programs. Recipients of this award consistently demonstrate a commitment to elevating the student experience, advancing the mission of the college, and contributing meaningfully to their departments and the broader campus community. Their contributions strengthen our programs, inspire those around them, and highlight the remarkable talent and dedication present throughout CPP.

The 2024-2025 CPP Excellence Award Winners are:

● Faculty Service Activities: Ashley Lepisi, Education

● Faculty Teaching: Clive Gary, Education

● Faculty Scholarly & Creative Works: Rajeev Dwivedi, Business

● Classified Staff: Christi Wavada, Education

● Classified Staff: Christine Davies, Psychology

● Exempt Staff: Jill Stinson, Education

● Campus Partner: Margie Scammell-Renner, Advancement

● Community Partner: Matt and Candie Chew, Champions Retreat

● Community Partner: Bob Cole

● Team: Family Resource & Training Center (FRTC)

● Alumni: Alvaro Figueroa Garcia

● Alumni: Mary Beazer

One of the most anticipated moments of the event was the keynote presentation delivered by Cimone Wright-Hamor. Cimone’s message was powerful, engaging, and deeply thoughtful. She spoke with clarity and authenticity about leadership, the impact of faculty and staff on students’ lives, and how universities should navigate the information age. Her ability to connect with the audience through personal stories, practical insights, and genuine passion, made her presentation one of the defining highlights of the entire retreat. Attendees left feeling both inspired and challenged in the best possible way.

As the retreat concluded, the sense of community was amplified. Many participants expressed how refreshing it was to be in a space where learning, encouragement, and meaningful conversation were at the center of the day. The blend of educational content, supportive interactions, and Cimone Wright-Hamor’s outstanding keynote presentation, all created an environment that felt uplifting and restorative. Overall, the 2025 CPP Fall Retreat was a wonderful success!

Longtime Teacher Continues Legacy of Making a Difference

Success after Graduation: CPP Degrees in the Real World

The College of Professional Programs is very proud to highlight EWU School of Psychology Alum Marissa Zuniga.

 Marissa Zuniga currently works as a Behavior Specialist, soon to be Family Therapist, at Rogers Behavioral Health in Seattle. She graduated with a BA in Psychology in June 2020. She recently received her Masters in Applied Child and Adolescent Psychology, has obtained her Licensed Mental Health Counseling Associate credential, and is progressing toward full licensure. Marissa hopes to become a child and adolescent anxiety and OCD therapist.

My academic program greatly prepared me for my career…the program at Eastern did a good job preparing me for graduate school and I felt like I had a very solid foundation. –Marissa Zuniga

At Eastern Washington University, we often talk about having grit; tenacity to learn, achieve and inspire. EWU Alum Marissa Zuniga has that grit. EWU School of Psychology Professor Kevin Criswell, PhD, suggested we take the time to catch up with this talented EWU graduate.

There were many times where [I] almost decided to just focus on working and making money… – Marissa Zuniga

I knew deep down graduating college was one of my biggest dreams and goals and I would forever regret not finishing. – Marissa Zuniga

Like many of our students, changing circumstances changed Marissa’s educational journey.  Moving to Washington to be closer to family, Marissa took a two-year break from school. After hearing good things about EWU, and learning of the opportunities offered at our Bellevue campus, she discovered we were a perfect fit.

Something I wish I knew before starting college was that it’s okay to not know what you want to do for the rest of your life. I put so much pressure on myself trying to find the “perfect” major and had everything mapped out to get a “good” job… –Marissa Zuniga

While at EWU, Marissa reports changing majors four times. She is glad she did as she found the path to the career that was perfect for her. Marissa encourages current EWU students to take advantage of all the opportunities (including the fun ones) and get out of their prospective comfort zones to meet people and challenges. Marissa herself joined Psi Chi, the Psychology Honor Society, to network with peers and gain a sense of connectedness. She also credits her success to small class sizes, amazing faculty who model enthusiasm and passion.

[I] got to know my professors on both an academic and personal level. I also love the community of Eagles that extends far beyond the campus in Cheney! I’ve met people in other states wearing their EWU swag and everyone I’ve met on and off campus have been friendly and proud to be alumni of EWU.

Thank you Marissa for sharing your story and thoughts to current students. We are very proud of you!

About EWU School of Psychology: Psychology is a diverse discipline, grounded in science, aimed to understand human behavior. While some are basic researchers who develop and test theories, others apply the discipline’s scientific knowledge to help people, organizations, and communities. Whether you are interested in educational, behavioral, or applied psychology, we have a program for you. Learn more.