October 22, 2019 – CSU Chancellor Timothy P. White to retire
To: Campus Community
From: President Gayle E. Hutchinson
Today, California State University Chancellor Timothy P. White announced that he will retire on June 30, 2020. As bittersweet as this news is, I am truly grateful to the Chancellor for his exceptional leadership of the CSU over the last seven years.
Chancellor White began his tenure in 2012 by continuing to lift the system from the Great Recession, when state support had been reduced by nearly $1 billion. He consistently championed student access to quality higher education through inclusive excellence. Under his leadership and with innovative approaches such as the Graduation Initiative 2025, more students are making progress toward degree and graduating than ever before. His leadership has raised the California State University system to greater national prominence.
The CSU is a large system with 23 campuses and 480,000 students, and yet the Chancellor always demonstrated knowledge and concern for student, faculty and staff well-being at each campus. During the Camp Fire, Chancellor White was in constant contact with me, listening and sharing concern for students, faculty, staff, and community members impacted by the fire. He visited campus on November 26, 2018, and met with members of our community, demonstrating his care and concern. Because of Chancellor White, the CSU and all our sister campuses are in a stronger place as we serve and guide the most diverse student population toward achievement and success.
CSU Board Chairman Adam Day announced that a special committee of trustees will be appointed to lead the process to identify the next CSU chancellor. A listening tour will be conducted in November and December, including forums across the state. An advisory committee, including leadership from statewide academic senate, California State Student Association, alumni council, campus presidents, and staff, will be appointed to serve in concert with the Trustees’ Committee. Please see additional details from the Chancellor’s Office in the attached press release.
It is with deep admiration and respect that I thank Chancellor White for his leadership to the CSU. Please join me in wishing him all the best in his much-deserved retirement.