myCSUSM
Criselda Yee
Artist Bio
Curriculum Specialist
Academic Programs
Academic Affairs
I have been employed with CSUSM since 1993 and in my current role as Curriculum Specialist in Academic Programs since 2016. I am part of an amazing and dedicated team that coordinates the University-level curriculum review and approval process, publishes the catalog, and archives course syllabi. It is very gratifying to know that we are involved in the development of courses and majors that fulfill our students’ educational and professional goals and help develop them into adults who can make an impact on their communities. I am also a proud member of the Asian Pacific Islander Desi American Faculty Staff Association (APDIA-FSA).
My photographic interests are travel and nature photography, and photo-documenting the monarch butterflies that we have raised and released in the past 8 years.
In this inaugural exhibit for the CSUSM Staff Center Art Gallery, I am sharing my other photographic interest, as a freelance photographer for the San Diego Union-Tribune/Pomerado News, particularly in the City of Poway and nearby communities. Being a news photographer since 2015 has given me opportunities to meet many interesting and inspiring people, as well as attend or witness events that I would never imagine experiencing. I hope my photos evoke the emotions and feelings of those events, such as determination, grit, grief, hope, and joy.
I count my blessings every day, for my loving husband, Michael, and my wonderful sons, Bryan, and Justin!
Artwork by Criselda Yee
"Cowboy at work"
Art Medium: Color Photograph
The Poway Rodeo features the traditions of the old West and Cowboy heritage. The event is a 45-year tradition in Poway, whose “City in the Country” motto emphasizes a rural and horse-friendly atmosphere within a growing city.
1st Place: All Media Design, Photography & Headlines, Sports Photo
Society of Professional Journalists - San Diego Pro Chapter · Jul 2017
"Family, Friends Celebrate Bob Emery's Life"
Art Medium: Color Photograph
Bob Emery was a beloved co-founder and planner of the City of Poway, a longtime educator, civic leader, and volunteer. To this day, there is still a sense of gratitude and respect for his contributions. In this photo, his wife receives the U.S. Flag from the San Diego Sheriff's Honor Guard while their grieving family and grandson look on.
Two Awards:
Excellence in Journalism Awards, Category: Photography - Still: News San Diego Press
Club, 2015
3rd Place: All Media Design, Photography & Headlines, News: Photo Society of Professional
Journalists - San Diego Pro Chapter · Jul 2016
"Bad Day at the Office"
Art Medium: Color Photograph
A rodeo bullfighter (on the ground) narrowly escapes harm while distracting the bull from a rodeo clown hidden in the barrel. Although they often wear clown makeup, rodeo protection athletes, also known as bullfighters, are tasked with protecting the bull rider and the bull during the 8-second ride. These men put their lives on the line, since more aggressive bulls were introduced in the 20th century. In contrast, a rodeo clown serves as the entertainer of the rodeo show, bantering with or heckling the emcee, and keeping the audience engaged.
Selected for Exhibition, San Diego County Fair, 2019
"COVID Christmas at Old Poway Park"
Art Medium: Color Photograph
A young family has a socially distanced chat with Santa. Nine months after the start of the 2020 COVID-19 lockdown, this little girl and her family were hoping to have a “normal” Christmas. She was anxious to talk to Santa, as evidenced by her gaze and excited grasp of her sweater. This was the 2020 scaled-down version of the annual “Christmas in Old Poway Park” event that has since returned to attracting 10,000+ visitors over one weekend.
Selected for Exhibition, San Diego County Fair, 2022
"Play Ball! Little League Opening Day"
Art Medium: Color Photograph
Little League Opening Day is a huge community celebration where teams are introduced, and run together around the bases, holding their team banner, and accompanied by their coaches. Among the ceremonial activities, a specially selected player throws the first pitch, and the youngest player in the league announces, “Play Ball!” All the players, all ages, run with pure joy and excitement! Little League Baseball includes divisions for all children, from ages 4 (Tee Ball) to 16 (Senior League).
Selected for Exhibition, San Diego County Fair, 2022