Dr. Katy Rodriguez Wimberly – Asst Professor of Astrophysics at Cal State San Bernardino

(Festival of Excellence Keynote)

Dr. Katy Rodriguez Wimberly is an astrophysicist, storyteller, and passionate advocate for equity in science. As an Assistant Professor at CSU San Bernardino, she studies the faintest and most ancient galaxies orbiting the Milky Way — tiny cosmic fossils that hold clues to the origins of the Universe.

Her journey to the stars has been anything but ordinary. Before becoming a scientist, Katy pursued acting, played saxophone in the Army Reserves, and worked as a Disneyland performer — all while attending community college. Inspired by Star Trek’s Captain Janeway, she reignited her childhood dream of space and went on to earn her PhD in Physics from UC Irvine.

Today, Katy blends her love of astronomy with a deep commitment to mentorship and inclusion in STEM. She serves as Director of Mentorship for the Cal-Bridge Program and Vice President of the Astronomical Society of the Pacific. At home, her universe revolves around her husband and two daughters — her favorite adventure partners for hikes and giggles. Music still fills her life, and yes — Disneyland remains a beloved escape.