HEAL Graduate Student Association

HEAL Graduate Student Association (HGSA) is an organization that aims to support the development of our diverse MA Higher Education Administration & Leadership students through professional development opportunities as we transform into advocates, educators, and leaders in the fields of higher education and student affairs.

Itzel Montoya Sanchez

Executive Chair

Itzel Montoya Sanchez is a native of Salamanca, Guanajuato, Mexico, and her parents strived for a better life, moving to the United States when she turned two years old. They established their residency in a small town on the outskirts of Fresno – Caruthers, California. Itzel completed her K-12 education in Caruthers Unified School District. 

Post Graduate School Aspirations

Itzel would like to create an environment where DACA students are never discouraged from pursuing their careers in fear of financial aid resources and their immigration status. I believe in being an aspiring agent for student success to build a brighter future for ourselves and our community.

Pedro Martinez

Associate Chair

Pedro Rodrigo Martinez is a current HEAL Graduate Student at California State University, Fresno, as well as a double bachelor's in Sociology and Chicano and Latin American studies and a minor in Psychology with four certificates in serving youth-at-risk, research methods, social justice and social change, and ethnic studies from CSU Fresno. He has expertise in researching various aspects of Latinx youth and veteran affairs in higher education and reintegration. Pedro served in the Army, where he, as an Infantry Staff Sergeant, led soldiers at platoon, squad, and basic training duties both in country and overseas. During his time in service, he upheld moral, created and reinforced mission essential training and standards. In his current journey as a HEAL graduate student, he also collaborates with Fresno City College institutional research planning and effectiveness, as well as part of the humanities program at CSU Fresno, serving the community through community benefit organizations.  

Post Graduate School Aspirations

I want to be in an administrative role that provides meaning input to positive change both on and off campus. Plus, I think I can teach in the community level with my Masters so that I could simultaneously pursue my Ph.D! I know that where and when I get my foot in the door, the location that I land in would benefit as it will be a well reciprocated relationship. I was raised and trained to be a hard worker, and everything that follows afterwards is due to that solid Mexican work ethic.

Lindsey Yang

Financial Chair

My name is Lindsey Yang (she/her) I am the Administrative Support Coordinator for the Women’s, Gender and Sexuality Studies Department at Fresno State

Post Graduate School Aspirations

Student Affairs is something I am excited about becoming more involved with, and I hope to continue to advocate for students. I aspire to become a thoughtful leader in my field who empowers others. I aim to continue serving and supporting students in higher education with what I learn in the HEAL program.

Chi Chang

Professional Development Chair

Hardworking and determined with a strong sense of justice, Chi is a Hmong-American and first-generation Fresno State alumna on track to earning her master's degree in Spring 2025. Despite challenging life experiences and limited support in navigating higher education, Chi has continued forging her path while supporting and creating opportunities for others to achieve their visions of success. She looks forward to continuing to break barriers for herself, her peers, and future generations. In her free time, Chi loves listening to music, journaling, listening to self-help podcasts, taking walks, and spending time with family pets Benny, Coco, Reign, and Simba.

Post Graduate School Aspirations

Chi looks forward to working as an academic advisor where she can help students navigate higher education and provide holistic support to ensure their academic, personal, and professional growth. Chi also looks forward to being in a supervisory role in campus activities and continuing to foster a welcoming environment and sense of belonging on campus for students.
 
 
 
 

Diana Williams

Communications Chair

Hi my name is Diana! I am a creative and general adventurer. I love to travel, try new things such as foods and crafts, and meet new people. I have spent years as a graphic designer and have recently taken the role of communications coordinator at Fresno State’s ASI. This role has introduced me to a whole new field and I am loving the growth and learning process.

Post Graduate School Aspirations

A role that allows me to directly interact and help people. The dream is to work within positions related to DEIA, DSPS, Communication, or Nonprofit work.