Champion of Education Fred Hilpert Memorialized with Classroom Naming

Stanislaus State recently honored the legacy of the late Professor Emeritus Fred Hilpert by dedicating a classroom in his name.

Family members, former colleagues and friends of Hilpert gathered in Demergasso-Bava Hall on Nov. 7 for a dedication ceremony for the Dr. Fred P. Hilpert, Jr. Classroom.

Colleagues who spoke during the ceremony celebrated his profound impact on both students and the University.

College of the Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences Dean James Tuedio talked about Hilpert's strategic vision for the University and his commitment to serve its evolving student population. President Britt Rios-Ellis also paid tribute to Hilpert, emphasizing his lasting influence on the campus community.

Hilpert joined Stan State in 1977 and played an instrumental role in founding the Department of Communication Studies, which he eventually chaired. He also founded the University's chapter of the California Faculty Association (CFA) and coordinated the Faculty Mentorship Program when it launched in 1987.

His commitment to education extended beyond his initial retirement in 2011. The following year, Hilpert returned to work to help create the Bachelor of Arts in Social Sciences (BASS) program through Extended Education.

Department of Communications faculty member Greg Jacquay, who was once a student of Hilpert, summed up his mentor's legacy.

"Fred spent his career and all the time I've known him lifting me up, lifting the students around me up, lifting this entire campus up," Jacquay said. "I'm glad that he's going to be looking out for all of us, and it's a big honor."