By Daniel Wilson

April 03, 2025

Sacramento State and the California State University have recognized three outstanding individuals with distinguished honors for their contributions to the campus community, the CSU system, the region and beyond.

Two honorary degrees and one President’s Medal for Distinguished Service were awarded during a reception Wednesday, April 2, at the Harper Alumni Center, an annual tradition for the University.

The CSU has awarded honorary degrees since 1963 to individuals who have demonstrated excellence in areas that benefit humanity, CSU campuses, the state, the nation and/or the world.

Additionally, the President’s Medal for Distinguished Service is awarded to community members who provide outstanding service to Sacramento State, higher education, the public and/or the common good.

More information about each of this year’s three recipients is available online.

Honorary Degrees:

• Thomas L. Karlo, a general manager emeritus for KPBS at San Diego State University, is the recipient of an Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters.

• Paul Lau, chief executive officer and general manager for SMUD, is the recipient of an Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters.

2025 President’s Medal for Distinguished Service:

• Randy Solorio, retired Sacramento State head gymnastics coach (awarded posthumously)

At the reception, families, friends and colleagues of each of the recipients joined members of the Hornet Family including University leadership, faculty and staff, and others to honor this year’s awardees.

Jori Gonzales-Solorio provided emotional remarks on behalf of her late husband, Randy Solorio, the posthumous recipient of the President’s Medal for Distinguished Service. Karlo and Lau also spoke and shared deep gratitude for the honor.

The event also included live entertainment featuring musicians from the School of Music.

The honorees will be recognized May 16-17 during the spring Commencement ceremonies at Golden 1 Center.

Visit the Honorary Degrees webpage to learn more and to see a list of past honorees.

Click the images below to enlarge.