Otter Student Union
The heartbeat of campus life.
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A Place to Belong
The Otter Student Union (OSU) is a student-focused nonprofit and a key part of campus life at Cal State Monterey Bay. It’s a welcoming place where students can relax, connect and get involved. The OSU offers study spots, events, dining, cultural programs and an esports lounge. It also provides space and support for the campus and surrounding communities. Built on care, community and social justice, the OSU helps students feel empowered, included and proud to be part of the Otter Raft.
What We Offer
The Otter Student Union is a dynamic center for student engagement, offering spaces for meeting, lounging, dining, gaming, and cultural connection. Services include event reservations, A/V technical support and sustainable digital advertising. The OSU also supports student-led governance through its Board of Directors, where students help shape the OSU’s direction and priorities. It’s a place to study, hang out, organize, collaborate and celebrate — all under one roof.
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Sustainability at the OSU
As a LEED Silver-certified building, the OSU reflects Cal State Monterey Bay’s broader commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. Our building uses water-efficient systems, native landscaping and a Calsense irrigation system to reduce water use. Refillable water stations, low-flow restrooms and a three-bin waste sorting system make sustainable choices easy. We provide e-waste and battery recycling stations, use clean solar energy and integrate sustainability into every area of operation, including events and dining. Event organizers can use the Sustainable Events Blueprint to plan zero-waste gatherings that minimize landfill waste and promote reuse. The Otter Cross Cultural Center within the OSU also leads education and initiatives around environmental justice.
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Diversity and Inclusion
The OSU is committed to creating a welcoming, accessible and inclusive environment for all. We incorporate the CSUMB Land Acknowledgement into our events and ensure that all gatherings held in the Union are designed to be accessible, whether that means sign language interpretation, wheelchair access or other accommodations. The work of the Otter Cross Cultural Center is central to our mission. Through its programs and community-building efforts, the Center supports identity development, equity, and action across campus.
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Meet Mini Monte
Mini Monte is the Otter Student Union’s smallest team member and a favorite on campus. As an eight-month-old sea otter pup, he’s full of energy, curiosity and school spirit. Rescued by Monte Rey and brought to CSUMB, Mini Monte quickly found his home in the new OSU building. He now helps with events, stars in social media posts and brings smiles wherever he goes. He wears his custom OSU hoodie, loves snacks and sunbathing and is always looking to meet new people. His favorite part of the OSU? The students, of course.
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Otter Cross Cultural Center
A welcoming campus space where students come together, learn about each other and grow as leaders. The center offers events and programs that celebrate who we are, build community and support fairness and respect. It helps students feel connected, learn new skills and succeed in school and in life.
Learn more about the Otter Cross Cultural Center.Latest News
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The environmental science major has enjoyed an ocean-centered career, including being recognized as Miss Best Diver and Miss Marine Conservation.
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The chance to do research drew Maxwell Frantz to CSUMB.
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CSUMB community members are working behind the scenes on the MLK Day march and program in Seaside.
Professional Staff
Jeffrey Rensel
Director, Otter Student Union
Diana Ballesteros
Associate Director
Vânia Silveira
Office Coordinator, Otter Student Union
Karina Rios Alvarez
Marketing & Design Specialist
Marlena Truong
Operations Specialist
Carlos Ronco
AV/ Technical Services Coordinator
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Start the Conversation
Contact us to learn how you can get involved and make an impact at CSUMB.
Get Involved
All voices are welcome in shaping student life.