April 10, 2024
The School for Professional and Continuing Studies Team
Submitted by Lisa Buono '04
In 2004 I decided to make a career change and came to Cal Lutheran to obtain my MS in Counseling and Guidance. At that time, I could not have predicted that I would decide to pursue a career in higher education, earn a doctoral degree at Cal Lutheran, and ultimately become the Dean of the School for Professional and Continuing Studies. My transition from a faculty member in the Graduate School of Education to the Director of the Bachelor’s Degree for Professionals program, to my current position would never have been possible without the AMAZING people I have worked with over the years – specifically Kristy Fenstermaker (pictured), Jess Waddell (pictured) Ruby Ortega (pictured), Dena Jenson, Christina Tierney, and Maggie Bueno. These incredible team members are patient, wise, supportive, thoughtful, and passionate – I learn from them each and every day. I also am inspired by our incredible student workers we have had on our team – including Rachel, Kayleen, and David. Our team members are the heart of the School for Professional and Continuing Studies. Our faculty aren’t too shabby either – Drs. Ariana Young, Aaron Heresco, & Chris Njunge, and our talented part-time faculty – too many to mention by name – but all incredibly special. These individuals come together to create an extraordinary community – one that compliments the wonderful community that is Cal Lutheran Our extraordinary community strives to serve and provide access for the Bachelor’s Degree for Professionals Students, our new Fifty and Better students, and the members of the Center for Nonprofit Leadership.