CSUB hosts Presidential Search Open Forum

Attendees share what qualities they’re looking for in university’s next president

By California State University, Bakersfield

April 24^th, 2024

California State University, Bakersfield faculty, staff and students had the opportunity on Tuesday to share what qualities they’re looking for in their next president.

The CSU Trustees Committee for the selection of the president held an open forum in the Student Recreation Center as the committee begins its search for the next appointed president of CSUB.

Vernon B. Harper Jr. has served as interim president since Dr. Lynnette Zelezny’s retirement from the role at the end of 2023.

“Today is vital, essential to the search process. Your voice, your input matters and is deeply valued,” said CSU Chancellor Mildred García. “I think we can all agree that we want the best next president for Cal State Bakersfield.”

Speakers said they want the next CSUB president to be someone who takes swift action, has a vision for the future of the university and is invested in both the CSUB community and the region.

“The next president has to be future-minded. We can’t do what we’ve always done and get new results,” said Associated Students Inc. Executive Vice President James Tompkins. “We need a president who’s not afraid to take risks and is willing to push us forward. We need someone who will take action and build relationships that are long-lasting.”

Several attendees also said it is important that the next president be committed to diversity, equity and inclusion, makes themselves available to students and cultivate a campus culture that gives students a better sense of belonging at CSUB.

“I believe this next president should come in with plans to actively promote diversity and create a campus environment that fosters inclusivity for students, faculty and staff from all backgrounds,” said CSUB graduate student and staff member Tiffany James. “We need someone who is committed to ensuring that our campus is a welcoming and supportive place for everyone. We want a president who will stand up for us, who wants to see us succeed, develop and grow.”

The Trustees Committee is chaired by Doug Faigin. The other members are Board of Trustees Chair Wenda Fong, Vice Chair Jack B. Clarke Jr., Raji Kaur Brar, Jonathan Molina Mancio and Chancellor García.

Members of the Advisory Committee to the search committee also attended the open forum. The committee is made up of CSUB faculty, staff, alumni and student representatives. Members include Dr. Aaron Hegde, Dr. Tracey Salisbury, Daisy Alamillo, Andres Chavez and Connie Perez-Andreesen.

Over the next few months, the Trustees Committee will review candidates and conduct interviews. The committee expects to announce its decision in September.

Those who were unable to attend Tuesday’s forum can fill out a survey on what qualifications and attributes they would like to see in CSUB’s next president. Questions and comments can also be submitted to presidentsearch@calstate.edu.