The Award
The Jon Fuzell Dedication to Expression Award at MiraCosta College is an award given as part of Expressions, the annual magazine featuring creative works from students in MiraCosta’s Continuing Education program.
This award honors Jon Fuzell, a former committee member and colleague who dedicated his career to uplifting others, particularly continuing education students. He worked in the tutoring center at the Community Learning Center (CLC) and was known for his commitment to helping students express themselves and achieve their goals.
The award is given to a participant in Expressions who demonstrates outstanding dedication to creative expression.
2026 Recipient
Asha Dutta began taking classes at MiraCosta College in 2019 after retiring. Believing that education is never complete, she remains motivated to continue learning, growing, and discovering what she can do next. She has taken classes in technology and art and appreciates the opportunities that continuing education provides for older adults.
Since 2020, Asha has proudly shared her artwork through Expressions. She especially enjoys creating abstract paintings with acrylics and finds inspiration in nature. Participating in Expressions brings her joy, pride, and a meaningful sense of accomplishment.
Asha is deeply grateful to her teachers for their guidance, encouragement, and continued support. She also appreciates her fellow students and enjoys helping and encouraging others. A humble and community-minded person, Asha is proud to have been happily married for 53 years. Her kindness, gratitude, and love of learning come from within—they are simply part of who she is.
2025 Recipient
Paul Wu, an ESL student, has been recognized with the Jon Fuzell Dedication to Expression Award for his yearly contributions to Expressions and his leadership in eco-friendly art projects. He mentors children and classmates in transforming recycled materials into paper-cutting artwork, many of which are donated to cancer patients in hospitals to brighten their days. Paul’s creativity, mentorship, and commitment to community embody the spirit of this award.
2024 Recipient
Neda Towfiq is a Southern California-based watercolorist and acrylic artist, known for her unique and expressive artwork, often created on unconventional surfaces such as packing papers. She is GIA certified and studied art in Florence, Italy, which has greatly influenced her creative approach and appreciation for classical and contemporary techniques. Neda's work has been exhibited at the Fallbrook Art Center, Oceanside Museum of Art, and North Coastal Art Gallery, among other prominent venues. Her art reflects her deep commitment to creativity, community, and social justice. With a background spanning three continents, Neda’s diverse experiences fuel her artistic vision. In addition to her studio practice, she has developed an art curriculum for the Bahá'í Institute for Higher Education, where she teaches online art courses to Iranian Bahá'í students who are denied access to higher education. Neda continues to explore new ways to inspire others through her art, encouraging them to find and share their own voices.
2023 Recipient
Riley Pathman is the first Jon Fuzell Dedication to Expression Award recipient. This student has been an Expressions participant for multiple years and has submitted multimedia projects, photography, and artwork over the years. He is dedicated to expressing himself and ensuring he is seen, heard, and included. Cerebral palsy affects his ease of speech and mobility, but this has not prevented him from sharing his talents and perspectives. He and his teammate broke a Guinness World Record in running in a marathon while pushing a wheelchair. This was a goal reflected in the multimedia project he submitted in 2020.