Nicanor E. and Norma L. Mostajo

Background: Nicanor E. and Norma L. Mostajo migrated from the Philippines to the United States (US) in the 1960s. Both came from very humble beginnings and dedicated their lives to education. Nicanor was the eldest of 10 children and deferred his aspiration of becoming an architect to join the US Navy in the hopes of providing financial assistance for his siblings’ education. All were very successful, notably, one an architect and another a judge. Norma was a teacher in the Philippines then worked for the Vallejo City Unified School District for nearly 30 years as a secretary supporting the Child Development Program. Both Nicanor and Norma believed education is the foundation for future opportunities. It was an expectation for their four children to attend college. Though money was limited, it would never be prohibitive. Each child completed college through creative financing, a combination of scholarships, grants, loans, employment, etc. The intent of this gift is to provide monetary awards for students pursuing STEM-based professions, specifically, graduates of the Master of Biotechnology (MBT) Program. What a wonderful avenue to acknowledge science-minded individuals through a gift that honors Nicanor and Norma’s beloved passion for education.

Michelle Mostajo Chen, one of the four children of Nicanor and Norma Mostajo, began her relationship with San Jose State in 2005 as a member of the third cohort for the MBT Program. After graduating, Michelle was invited to join the MBT Program Advisory Board. She possessed a unique perspective as a MBT Program participant and professional working for Genentech, a pioneer and leader in the Biotechnology industry. Michelle continues to be an active member to date. As part of the MBT Program Advisory Board responsibilities, the curriculum is assessed routinely for industry relevance and preparedness. Michelle partnered with a colleague, also an MBT Program Alumni, and identified a need to increase awareness of biotechnology manufacturing-related topics. A proposed seminar syllabus was approved by the College of Science, and they have been presenting multiple three-hour seminars annually as part of the MBT Program curricula for nearly 10 years!

Nicanor and Norma had a deep belief that education could change outcomes and invested in their children and the community. It is in their honor that Michelle Mostajo Chen and Cliff Chen are designating the Nicanor E. and Norma Mostajo Bio Equipment Suite. Naming a space in the ISB not only honors Nicanor and Norma L. Mostajo’s commitment to education, but also Michelle Mostajo Chen’s continued commitment to the MBT Program.