CRC Hawk Talk Alumni Newsletter – Fall 2025
Welcome from Brian Rickel, Dean of Arts, Media, and Entertainment (AME)
Storytelling is a cornerstone of society. Through stories, we pass down traditions, build empathy, and create the shared humanity that binds us together. Whether told through music, film, journalism, photography, theatre, painting, or clay, every story matters—and at Cosumnes River College, we cherish the incredible stories told by our campus community.
In times of need, we often turn to art for comfort and clarity. A favorite song, a beloved play, a photograph of someone we love, even the act of drawing or creating—these experiences lift our spirits and help us make sense of a complex world. Art builds community, and our Career and Academic Community of Arts, Media & Entertainment exists to nurture that truth. For those pursuing careers in the arts, we want you to know: you matter. Your passion is vital, and your voice is an essential part of our society.
It has also been an exciting season of growth and creativity at CRC. Program enrollments are on the rise, and our partnerships continue to expand. Thanks to the efforts of faculty like Max Kiesner (Music) and Robin Johnson (Art), CRC has forged strong connections with the Elk Grove Unified School District’s arts programs, inspiring the next generation of Hawks. Our gallery has hosted a lineup of powerful exhibitions, and under Johnson’s leadership, the Art Department continues to thrive.
Theatre Arts is experiencing a renaissance—this summer, we proudly welcomed back the name “River Stage” and partnered with the Cosumnes Community Services District to bring “Shakespeare in the Park” back to life. Across disciplines, our faculty are leading with vision: Ryan Perez Adame recently served as the Pride Center Coordinator and will be Directing Rent this Fall, Lauren Wagner has been elected Academic Senate President, and Omari Tau is advancing collaborative learning initiatives while reviving the legacy of playwright Joyce Carol Thomas. Meanwhile, Rubina Gulati’s leadership has kept The Connection, our award-winning student newspaper, at the top of its game.
From classrooms to community stages, CRC’s Arts, Media and Entertainment programs are thriving. Together, we are building a vibrant community of storytellers who hold a mirror up to society—so that we may see ourselves in a brighter, better light.
We invite you, our alumni, to take pride in these stories and achievements, and to continue writing the next chapter with us. Forever Hawks!
Celebrate creativity with us—stay up to date on CRC’s Arts, Media and Entertainment productions, displays, and news.
Sacramento News and Review Highlights CRC Playwright
Sacramento News and Review recently highlighted three Sacramento playwrights, including Anthony D’Juan (standing in photo), CRC’s Theatre Adjunct Professor, who is directing Twelfth Night this summer.
Alumni Spotlight: Fernando Aguilar
“Before coming to CRC, I really had no direction in life… now I’m more confident than ever.”
For Fernando Aguilar, CRC was more than just a place to take classes; it was a starting point for a clear and promising path in film and live production. Now a film major at Sacramento State and building his résumé with the IATSE, he's been part of major productions at Sacramento’s Golden 1 Center, assisting with event set-ups and breakdowns. His favorite call so far includes his work for the WWE spectacles—part rock concert, part theater, part sporting event. The hidden truth of production work? It’s all about timing and teamwork. “The performers and actors aren’t the only ones doing the heavy lifting.”
At CRC, Fernando discovered both direction and confidence through mentorship, hands-on work, and memorable projects. He credits Professors Wagner and Kang in the Radio, Television, and Film program for shaping his knowledge and skills, Dean Brian Rickel for offering him the chance to work as a campus lighting and sound technician, and his colleague Kristina for training him for the position.
One highlight came in RTVF 350, where he served as editor on a short film, reinforcing confidence in his editing abilities. Another was the thrill of live audio mixing: “I take pride in my audio engineer ability, and when I get compliments, it reassures me that I can do it.” His advice for current Hawks? Don’t just sit in class. “So many doors opened up for me simply by getting involved...finding a group of individuals who share the same passion as you—that’s invaluable.”
Looking back, Fernando doesn’t single out just one memory. “Every good thing that occurred for me at CRC is linked to the simple fact that I attended. CRC will forever hold a special place in my heart.” Fernando’s journey is just beginning, but his story already shows the power of CRC’s Arts, Media, and Entertainment programs to change lives—and launch careers.
Meet Our Music Students and Alumni!
Hear what students and alumni share about their experiences at CRC.
Congratulations to the Class of 2025!
Theatre is for Everyone - Pay What You Can
Our Department of Theatre and Dance Arts and our producing arm, River Stage, are dedicated to training and empowering our students and our community. Our evolving program is focused on showcasing the collaboration, artistic daring, and diversity that makes theatre such a singular and unique art form. Whether you want to be in the spotlight or you want to run the spotlight, there’s a place for you on our stage.
With our Pay What You Can model, we welcome all members of our campus and local community to our Black Box Theatre located next to the Recital Hall and Art Gallery. Pay what you can. Come as you are. Theatre is for you. Performances take place at the Black Box Theatre, located in the Visual and Performing Arts Center on CRC's main campus at 8401 Center Parkway, Sacramento. For ticket and performance questions, please call the Box Office at (916) 691-7050.
Once a Hawk, Always a Hawk
Join the CRC Alumni Association!
Remember how you felt when you first started college – possibly nervous, shy, and a little apprehensive? Assess how you feel now – confident, eager, and looking forward to the future? Join others who feel the same way and help those who are still working to get there! As a Cosumnes River College alum, you are part of the CRC family and it is our goal to keep you connected once you transition to a career and/or transfer to another educational institution. Your relationship with CRC does not have to end after you leave. Learn more and join the Alumni Association! Membership in the Alumni Association is free.
Share Your Story
Whether you walked in graduation or just took a few classes that made an impact, we want to hear from you. Share your experience with us and you could be featured in one of our student profiles!
