English and creative writing professor Jim Krusoe has been garnering critical acclaim for his first novel Iceland. The Los Angeles Times Book Review, in its July 28 cover review, said the book leaves the reader “feeling dazzled, even breathless.”

Manuel Islas, transportation assistant, has been designated as a certified community transit manager by the Community Transportation Association of America. The certification recognizes community transit managers for specific skills and a passing score on the certification exam. Islas has demonstrated proficiency in human resources, finance, operations and development of transit programs.

ESL professor Sharon Jaffe became a first-time grandmother July 16 with the birth of Liv Ida Berg in Los Angeles. The parents of the little girl are Jaffe’s daughter and son-in-law, Erith and Adam Berg.