Joe Lopez, left, and Andrew Lopez. Photo by Mimi Ko Cruz

Public Duty for Duo

Student Leaders Lopez and Lopez Take Part in Panetta Institute Summer Program

July 13, 2010

By Mimi Ko Cruz

Two of the university’s student leaders — Joe Lopez and Andrew Lopez, Associated Students Inc. president and vice president, respectively — recently joined fellow leaders at the Panetta Institute’s 11th Annual Student Leadership Seminar.

The unrelated Lopez and Lopez joined 27 other student leaders from throughout the California State University system, Dominican University, Saint Mary's College and Santa Clara University for weeklong workshops and panel discussions designed to sharpen their leadership skills and improve their understanding of government.

Speakers included California Secretary of State Bruce McPherson, former U.S. Secretary of Transportation Norm Mineta, former NFL player and coach Herm Edwards, local civic leaders, government officials and community activists.

The two communications majors called the experience “inspirational.”

Joe Lopez

Joe Lopez said hearing the speakers “reinforced the importance of always holding true to the ideals of integrity, compassion and finding compromise.”

The seminar “inspired many great ideas to bring into my administration,” said the Placentia resident. “It helped me define the roles that I want to focus on as ASI president, which include being a connector, advocate and director. It helped instill in me the importance of public service.”

Lopez, who expects to graduate next spring, said he plans to apply for the Teach For America program and similar programs in his quest to become a public servant.

Andrew Lopez

Andrew Lopez called the seminar a “life-changing experience.”

He, too, is thinking about joining Teach for America or pursuing a master’s degree in public policy. “Either way, I will be continuing my education and doing something every day that is beneficial to the greater community.

“I learned a lot about public policy at the institute and am looking forward to providing back to the community through different opportunities in my future,” the Fullerton resident said. “I learned how to be a good leader, not only on campus but in my community.”

Meanwhile, he said, the Lopez and Lopez administration is looking forward to serving the campus.

"Opportunities like attending the Panetta Institute’s leadership seminar makes me forever grateful of my constituents for allowing me to serve as ASI executive vice president this year,” he said.

Ditto for President Lopez.