Alumna Comes Full Circle in Return to School of Education

Alumna Comes Full Circle in Return to School of Education

By Marilyn Huerta

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Cassiopeia Guthrie has worn many hats in her career - educator, journalist, curriculum designer and arts advocate. But at the heart of it all is a deep commitment to equity, creativity and student success.

A proud alumna of Cal State San Marcos and its School of Education, Guthrie serves as a Distinguished Teacher in Residence (DTiR)- a unique program that brings experienced educators into the university to teach, mentor and lead. DTiRs play a vital role in preparing the next generation of teachers by bridging theory and practice, offering students real-world insights and guidance rooted in classroom experience.

In her role, Guthrie designs and teaches a wide range of undergraduate, credential and graduate-level courses. Her leadership extends beyond instruction, as she co-chairs the school's Community Governance and DTiR committees and serves on the Education Recruitment Committee.

"It has been an honor to come full circle by returning to teach in the School of Education," Guthrie said. "The faculty at CSUSM do an incredible job of preparing and inspiring future educators to create meaningful learning environments across our region. The opportunity to bring my classroom and real-world experience back to support our TK-12 candidates fills me with both joy and a deep sense of purpose."

Last year, Guthrie was honored with the College of Education, Health and Human ServicesOutstanding Alumni Award, a recognition of her impact on education and her continued dedication to CSUSM's mission.

Now, she's taking on a new challenge as the faculty fellow for Project R.I.S.E. (Recruiting Inclusive, Supportive Educators), leading strategic programming and planning to support sustained outreach across partner school districts. Her work will lay the foundation for a future Project R.I.S.E. Center, envisioned as a regional hub to strengthen recruitment and pipeline development for aspiring educators.

"Cassiopeia brings a unique blend of creativity, strategic thinking and heart to everything she does," said Moses Ochanji, director of the School of Education. "Her leadership in Project R.I.S.E. will help us build lasting partnerships and expand opportunities for future teachers."

Guthrie's journey began with a bachelor's degree in journalism from San Diego State, followed by a teaching credential at CSUSM and an MBA from a private university. She is pursuing a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadershipthrough the joint doctoral program between CSUSM and UC San Diego, with a research focus on how political rhetoric affects teachers' emotional responses in polarized times.

Her resume includes roles such as a curriculum and educational technology specialist, marketing communications officer, and arts integration fellow with CSUSM's Center ARTES. She also has served as a journalist and theater critic, earning multiple San Diego Press Club awards and contributing to outlets such as San Diego Magazine and San Diego Story.

Whether she's leading professional development, designing equity-focused curriculum or mentoring future educators, Guthrie's work reflects CSUSM's commitment to innovation and developing creative solutions in partnership with the community.

Support leaders like Cassiopeia Guthrie and programs like DTiR, Project R.I.S.E. and Center ARTES by contributing to CSUSM's "Blueprint for the Future" fundraising campaign. Your gift helps us innovate in education, accelerate student success and cultivate lasting impact across our region. Learn more and give today.

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