California Student Aid Commission Welcomes New Student Commissioner Kaitlan Sakuma

Sacramento, CA, August 17, 2026 — The California Student Aid Commission (CSAC) is pleased to announce the appointment of Kaitlan Sakuma of Monterey Park as its newest Student Commissioner, reinforcing the Commission’s commitment to ensuring student voices directly shape state financial aid policy at a critical time for higher education access.

“We are thrilled to welcome Commissioner Sakuma to the California Student Aid Commission,” said Dr. Daisy Gonzales, Executive Director of CSAC. “Having authentic, active student representation on our Commission is essential to our mission. Commissioner Sakuma’s lived experience and background in student advocacy will bring vital insight to our work as we continue implementing the CSAC Student Success Blueprint, ensuring our strategy to expand aid directly reflects the real-world needs and priorities of the learners we serve.”

“Student Commissioners provide an indispensable perspective that keeps our board grounded in the daily reality of California’s college students,” said Catalina Cifuentes, Chair of the California Student Aid Commission. “Kaitlan Sakuma’s leadership and dedicated community involvement make her an outstanding addition to our team. Her voice will be instrumental as we work to break down financial barriers and make higher education affordable and accessible for every student across the state.”

“It is an honor to serve as the Student Commissioner and bring the direct experiences, challenges, and aspirations of California’s diverse student body straight to the decision-making table,” said Commissioner Kaitlan Sakuma. “Financial aid is a lifeline that opens doors to higher education. I look forward to collaborating with my fellow Commissioners to advance the CSAC Student Success Blueprint and ensure our state’s financial aid programs effectively reach and empower every learner who needs them.”