Stephanie Williams grew up in San Marcos, California. Williams attended Palomar College studying History and English. A transfer student to California State University San Marcos, Williams received her BA in Communication with two minors in Art History and Ethnic Studies. During her undergraduate studies, Williams became more interested in topics about human impact on the environment and connecting people to nature by creating public art projects to raise awareness.
As a child, Williams was interested in exploring eucalyptus as a non-native tree species located throughout San Diego County, and she admired the tall trees in parks such as Grape Day Park in Escondido, and Balboa Park in San Diego. In order to gain a greater understanding of nature in California, including the blending of native and nonnative species such as eucalyptus trees, Williams studied environmental history in the MA History program at CSUSM. Her thesis is specifically focused on understanding early ideas held by landscape architects designing San Diego’s City Park, today known as Balboa Park. Williams’s study acknowledges different viewpoints about nature held by early designers to create a uniquely subtropical Californian vision of landscape in Balboa Park, that still influences the way people think about the park today. Inspired by environmental history, human impact on the environment, and local landscapes, Williams plans to continue connecting people to these ideas through art and education.
Thesis Acknowledgements: Note from author, Stephanie Williams
Now that I have made it to the finish line for completing my MA History degree, there are a few people who have inspired me along the way that I would like to thank. First and foremost, my husband, Eric Williams. He has inspired me to continue my education and supported me through every step of the way. I would not have been able to get through some of the rough moments and make it to the finish line without you! Thank you so much for your support!
Second, three professors during my undergraduate studies who have been instrumental to my life and school success, including writing me letters of recommendation for graduate school: Professor Liliana Rossmann, Professor Kristin Moss, and Professor Judit Hersko. Professor Rossmann was my mentor in the Faculty Mentorship Program, she has been there for me and witnessed my growth as a student since my first semester at CSUSM. I am so grateful for your support Liliana; you inspire me to continue working toward success!
I was lucky to have taken a course with both Professor Moss and Professor Hersko my first semester at CSUSM. Both Professor Moss and Professor Hersko have inspired me to think outside the box, especially regarding research. The influence of these professors has helped me become a person who pays closer attention to detail, and encouraged me to dig deeper to understand the topics I am passionate about. Professor Hersko invited me to participate as a student artist in a public art exhibition, DesEscondido, as one of four students who took her place to professionally present our art. My research for this project helped inspire me to further study nature in California for my thesis project. Thank you, Professor Moss and Professor Hersko, for motivating my art, research, and life!
Third, I would like to recognize a few of the professors in our History Department who have inspired me during my undergraduate and graduate studies. Dr. Charles, Dr. Hijar, Dr. Nava, Dr. Quinney, Dr. Sepinwall, and Dr. Watts. Each of these professors have inspired my work in the courses I have taken, and the meaningful conversations we have had. With my interest in studying environmental history, Dr. Charles quickly became my chair. Dr. Charles and Dr. Watts have encouraged my research in local history, and especially in unhiding stories that need to be told. Dr. Watts, Dr. Charles, and Dr. Sepinwall have been key readers and supporters of my thesis research along the way. I greatly appreciate the feedback and dedication you have given me over the last four years! I am excited to make it to the finish line of completing my History MA, and ready to continue the lifelong learning journey in the next phase of my life!