Dr. Hizer is a tireless champion of STEM students at CSUSM. As an instructor of BIOL210, I have seen first-hand how her work with SI and the STEM Student Success Center is instrumental in helping students receive the additional outside-of-class support they need.

Dr. Hizer is an immensely integral part to the exceptional work that happens in the STEM center. I have had the privilege of working with Dr. Hizer for about a year and a half, and I am truly saddened by this decision. It is my final semester here at CSUSM, and when reflecting on my experiences, I can easily say that without the assistance, motivation, and love/encouragement from Dr. Hizer, I would certainly not have grown into the learner and peer educator that I am today.

Dr. Hizer is one of the hardest working faculty members at CSUSM. She works tirelessly to ensure that every student taking a STEM class has places to go to get support so they can succeed. I had the pleasure of working alongside Suzanne for two years as an undergraduate student working as a Supplemental Instructor with the SI Program. I also served as the SI Assistant Supervisor where I was fortunate enough to work and collaborate directly with Dr. Hizer on a daily basis. I can say that Suzanne was one of the most positive influences I had at CSUSM and helped cement that I wanted to be an educator myself. Dr. Hizer deserves to retain her position at CSUSM so that future students will have the benefit of her leadership and guidance.

Dr. Hizer has been instrumental in running the SI program on our campus, and has been invaluable towards student success in my classes.

I fully support Suzanne as the Director of the STEM Student Success Center

Dr. Hizer could not be more perfect for the position of director of the STEM SSC. She has the biggest heart for the students on this campus, and has directed the center to place the students first. Her kind soul and love of teaching makes her perfect for the job.

Dr. Suzanne Hizer is the cornerstone and household name when someone thinks about the success of STEM SSC. Everything you see in there—from the commitment of her student staff to the accessibility and inclusivity of the center itself—can and is attributed to her efforts through the years. Suzanne is not just a boss. Sure she approves the timesheets. She does all the “heavy lifting” behind the scenes, but what makes her stand out from any staff member on campus is her innate ability to believe in her staff and understand the importance of giving her staff opportunities to thrive outside the confines of the center. She gives the tools, the insight, the fire in your belly feeling for everyone she comes in contact with to be a better educator, friend, and most importantly, an outstanding individual who can do anything. There is no doubt in my mind that no one else is more deserving to have the title as “STEM SSC Director”. She shouldn’t have to prove her ability to effectively run a center when she has done so time and time again without failing. We love you Suzanne!

Dr. Hizer understands what is needed for tutors to excel at their jobs. Without her, our tutors will not be given the optimal environment to help our student body succeed in STEM classes. Forcing Dr. Hizer to leave her position will have negative consequences on the entire STEM student body at CSUSM. I hope you understand and accept the negative consequences that will result in this decision.