March 9, 2026 - Gratitude For Another Amazing Choose Chico!

Dear Campus Community,

Two days have passed, and I’m still reflecting on what an incredible Choose Chico we created together this weekend. Of the many events we host, this one is among my favorites — and this year was no exception. Once again, we welcomed thousands of prospective students and their families to campus for a powerful firsthand look of what it’s like to be a Chico State student.

While the weather was certainly on our side, it was the hard work, preparation, and unmistakable Wildcat spirit of this community that really elevated the experience. As I walked across campus speaking with students and families, they consistently shared how welcomed they felt and how valuable it was to see Chico State in action. I could not have been more proud. One of my favorite moments was visiting the Declaration Stations and witnessing the mix of nerves and excitement as students completed their intents-to-enroll. We saw 62 students declare on Saturday alone! Whether you are part of an academic program that first drew them here, answered critical questions, or had that one conversation to help seal the deal, you all played a direct role in advancing our enrollment goals and paving the way for a new generation of Wildcats.

Final attendance reflects 1,236 students and 3,647 people total! That means overall attendance this year was 20 percent higher than 2023 numbers — and that this was the third-largest Choose Chico since returning to in-person programming in 2022! These numbers reflect continued momentum and the dedication of our entire campus.

Events like Choose Chico do not happen in a vacuum. They are the results of months of planning and the dedication of those who show up, both visibly and behind the scenes. I want to extend heartfelt gratitude to the Office of Admissions team (especially Mayra Escobar, Jeff Logsdon, and Sarah Wood), as well as our Academic Affairs partners, Facilities Management and Services crews, Student Life and Leadership, Associated Students, University Housing, and so many others who helped make this day a success. I hope you all share my pride. Thank you again, all for the work you do.

Go Wildcats!

Steve Perez