The San Joaquin Engineers Council (SJEC) is shining a well-deserved spotlight on a local leader who is transforming the future of STEM in San Joaquin County. This year’s 2026 Distinguished Service Award will be presented to Rosemary Cureton, Director of the MESA Program at the University of the Pacific, during the 59th Annual Engineers Banquet on February 19 at the DeRosa Center.
Each year, SJEC’s Distinguished Service Award honors individuals whose leadership and service elevate the engineering profession — not for recognition or financial gain, but for the lasting impact they create in their communities .
From Student to STEM Champion
Cureton’s story is one of full-circle inspiration. A proud Pacific alumna and former MESA student — a true “Double Tiger” — she returned to campus not just to work, but to lead. Since joining Pacific in 2018, she has risen from Administrative Assistant to Program Director, significantly expanding the reach and impact of the Mathematics, Engineering, Science Achievement (MESA) program .
Under her leadership, MESA has grown from 16 to 27 schools, now serving more than 1,100 middle and high school students across the region, along with 124 Pacific undergraduate mentors . That growth represents more than numbers — it reflects opportunity, access, and a strengthened pipeline for future engineers.
Building Pathways, Breaking Barriers
Colleagues describe Cureton as a visionary leader who turns ideas into action. “She has made a tremendous impact in advancing STEM education for local schoolchildren in fun and innovative ways,” shared Lourdes Reyes …