Staci and her student, Kelsey at the May 2011SF State journalism graduation ceremony.

I first met Staci in 2009 during my second semester at San Francisco State University, where she was one of my journalism professors. I had just moved to the city at the beginning of that year, and had never even visited before, so needless to say, I will still gaining my footing when it came to navigating my way through the culture and adventures that SF holds. I was also still gaining confidence as a journalist. Staci helped me immensely with each of these challenges.

Staci is a motivator. She is willing to devote time outside of class and school with her students to make sure they are confident with their talents. She does not pressure us while we try and learn new things. She works beside us, letting us set a pace of learning that we are comfortable with. It is this patience that will make Staci such an amazing mother, I have no doubt. As a team, Jay and Staci will be parents that are patient, supportive, motivational, and truly loving. They will listen, they will understand, and they will motivate their child to be confident, just like they do for those around them, whether they be friends or family. I have no doubt that they can form a family that is not only intelligent and adventurous, but one that will smile, laugh and grow happily.

Kelsey Avers, San Francisco