05/27/2026
After a continuous 40-year career in higher education, with thirteen years serving as a president or chancellor at public regional universities, and six extraordinary years at Cal State East Bay, I have decided to step down from my full-time role as president at the end of December 2026.
As a first-generation college graduate, one proudly “Made in the CSU,” it has been the honor of a lifetime to bring my experience back home to the East Bay, the place where I was born, raised, and first began my journey.
While this stage of my career is ending, I can’t quite bring myself to say “retirement.” After December, I will continue serving as a commissioner for First 5 Alameda County and as a board member for HERS (Higher Education Resource Services). Beyond this work, who knows what new opportunities and adventures still lie ahead.
To the many students, faculty, staff, alumni, community partners, and friends who have supported me along the way: thank you. I move into this next chapter with deep gratitude and immense pride in all we have accomplished together.
No matter what, I am a Pioneer for life and will continue to serve as president proudly for the remainder of 2026.
