2025 CSUS Spring Commencement0513-ADAFinal - Flipbook - Page 15
PRESIDENT’S MEDAL FOR DISTINGUISHED SERVICE
R ANDY SOLORIO
GYMNASTICS HEAD COACH, RETIRED, SACRAMENTO STATE
For nearly four decades, Randy Solorio was a pillar of Sacramento
State, leaving an indelible mark on the University as a coach,
mentor, educator, and performer. His passion for gymnastics,
commitment to student-athletes, and love for his campus
community made him a beloved figure whose legacy will continue
to shape generations to come.
Mr. Solorio first arrived at Sacramento State in 1986 as an assistant
coach for the Hornet gymnastics program, helping lead the team
to seven conference titles and four NCAA Regional appearances.
In 2016, he took the helm as head coach, guiding the Hornets to
a Mountain Pacific Sports Federation (MPSF) championship in his
first season and overseeing some of the program’s most successful
performances. His coaching excellence earned him multiple
accolades, including the USA Gymnastics Assistant Coach of the Year,
and being a two-time recipient of the West Region Assistant Coach
of the Year and the MPSF Assistant Coach of the Year awards. During
the 2022-2023 season, Solorio was recognized for his outstanding
service to the University, MPSF, and women’s gymnastics.
Beyond his coaching achievements, Mr. Solorio was deeply committed to enriching the student experience.
As a dedicated kinesiology instructor, he transformed learning into a joyful journey, with his ballroom dance
class becoming a campus favorite. His influence extended well beyond the athletic realm; he served on both
the University Foundation and University Enterprises Inc. boards, notably playing a pivotal role in securing a
state-of-the-art training facility for Sacramento State’s gymnastics program.
An accomplished gymnast himself, Mr. Solorio competed at UC Davis from 1980-82, earning All-America
honors in three events before finishing his academic journey at Sacramento State, where he earned
bachelor’s and master’s degrees.
His love for performance extended beyond athletics. A gifted singer and actor, he graced local theater stages
and could often be heard performing the national anthem before gymnastics meets, joined by his wife, Jori,
and daughter, Kaycee.
Randy Solorio’s warmth, optimism, and unwavering dedication to Sacramento State made an
immeasurable impact on all who knew him. His Hornet spirit remains woven into the fabric of the
University he loved so deeply.
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