Alumni Stories
Superior Court Judge Devon Lomayesva, CAL history alumna, follows her heart to make a difference
A longtime champion of Native communities, her path to a law career began at San Diego State University
In search of a sense of belonging, Devon Lomayesva (‘94), a first-generation transfer student to San Diego State University, discovered the Native American Students Association (NASA) and a professor who helped set her on a career path that would change her life.
Read Devon's full story on the CAL news site.
SDSU alumnus transforms passion for sustainability into purposeful career
Nick Vallejo, a recycling specialist with the City of San Diego, thrives on educating the public about climate action solutions.
Nick Vallejo ('22) found his calling when he switched his major from communications to sustainability upon transferring to San Diego State University. Vallejo registered for two courses in geography that changed his career focus.
In Lecturer Jane Thorngren’s Earth’s Physical Environment and Conservation Science and Policy course, Vallejo remembers it as an overview of climate and the history of how humans created industrial processes that resulted in climate change.
Read Nick's full story on SDSU NewsCenter.
Peloton CMO, Megan Imbres, finds her creative calling in a global marketplace
International business alumna remained open to opportunity and stepped out of her comfort zone — to build a meaningful career.
Megan Imbres (‘04, international business) is a creative-at-heart. Just watch the Apple Music Super Bowl Halftime Show with Rihanna or Peloton’s latest ad campaign.
Imbres was managing director of Apple Marcom LA for three years and her team helped bring the Apple Music Halftime show to life. On any given day, she worked with creative directors, copywriters, filmmakers, and a superb creative team. Now Imbres is the chief marketing officer for Peloton where she oversees global brand and product marketing.
Read Megan's full story on the CAL News site.
Will Beall, English alumnus, crafts a career in Hollywood
After a stint as an LAPD homicide detective, Beall’s writing passion produces a viable second career trajectory.
Will Beall (‘96 English) began his writing career in earnest with the 2006 publication of his first novel “L.A. Rex,” a thriller based loosely on activities in the South Central homicide division of the Los Angeles Police Department where he spent a 10-year career as a detective.
Beall is one of the screenwriters behind the 2024 “Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F” and “Bad Boys: Ride or Die” movies. He also co-wrote the screenplay for “Aquaman,” and “Zack Snyder’s Justice League.” He was the writer for the feature “Gangster Squad,” starring Sean Penn, Ryan Gosling, and Josh Brolin. Other credits include his work as an executive story editor for 34 episodes of “Castle.” He also wrote and executive produced “Training Day” and “Deputy” for television.