Presidential Transition

Praise for the Appointment

Dianne F. Harrison speaking in front of a podiumBelow are comments from members of the Campus Advisory Committee for the Selection of the President about the appointment of Dr. Dianne F. Harrison as the next president of California State University, Northridge.

“With her experience as president of CSUMB on top of her long experience as an administrator at Florida State University, Dianne Harrison brings the ideal mix of skills to the CSUN presidency. I look forward to working with her.” —Michael Neubauer, Professor of Mathematics and Director, Liberal Studies Program

"I couldn't be more pleased over the Trustee's choice of Dianne as the new president of CSUN. We were keenly aware of her sterling record as president of CSU’s Monterey Bay campus, and I know she will do a tremendous job as president of CSUN.  I personally look forward to working with her over the years to come." —David Fleming ’09 (Hon. Doctor of Laws), member of CSUN’s Foundation Board of Directors and Counsel, Latham & Watkins LLP

“One of the primary goals during the presidential search was to find someone with many of the qualities that Northridge had come to treasure in President Jolene Koester. Early in the interview process it became apparent that Dianne Harrison had many of these highly valued traits: a strong belief in shared governance; a commitment to the needs of a diverse campus and the communities that it serves; knowledge of CSU budgetary and enrollment issues; a dedication to faculty development and research; and an excellent record in community outreach and development.” —Steven Stepanek, CSUN Faculty President and Senate Chair

“We are very fortunate to have Dianne join our work at California State University, Northridge. I spend a significant amount of professional time in the greater Monterey community, and I have personally observed time and time again what an extraordinary job she has done on behalf of CSUMB.  She is respected and admired on campus and in the greater community on all levels. We very much look forward to bringing that level of attention and achievement home to CSUN.” —George S. Leis ’81 (Geography), President, Santa Barbara Bank & Trust

“When I envision our future, I see California State University, Northridge poised to earn even greater distinction for advancing student success while also serving the needs of our region. The recent WASC accreditation report chronicles our successes in these areas and describes our capacity to go beyond. We know from experience the impact of an exceptional leader on moving a university forward. President Harrison is highly qualified to take the baton and lead us at this time. She is a seasoned leader with knowledge of how to get things done in the CSU, and she has keen insights into the challenges facing public higher education. CSUN is exactly the kind of university Dr. Harrison wants to lead at this point in her career. The campus community will find her absolutely committed to our mission, optimistic about our future and genuinely enthusiastic about the opportunity to help others know and support the work we do.” —William Watkins ’74 (Urban Studies), Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students and Acting Administrator of Academic Affairs

“President Harrison is a much respected colleague and has been a great advocate for Cal State Monterey Bay. I know that she will display that same determination and drive on behalf of CSUN. She understands the role of the CSU and embraces our mission. She will, no doubt, continue to work tirelessly on behalf of students, faculty and staff—but now at CSUN. She is one of the most knowledgeable presidents in the area of athletics, and this will be a huge benefit to the Matadors. President Harrison will be an excellent leader for CSUN. I look forward to continuing to work with her to resolve the critical issues facing the CSU.” —J. Michael Ortiz, President, California State Polytechnic University, Pomona