Today, Governor Gavin Newsom announced ten new appointees to the governing boards of California’s three public higher education segments. Seven of these appointees are Latino—a strong statement in recognition of our diverse student population and the importance and power of Latino leadership for higher education and socioeconomic mobility.

One of the appointees, Julia Lopez, previously served as president & CEO of College Futures Foundation until 2017. She joins the California State University Board of Trustees.

I congratulate Julia on her well-deserved appointment. Her intellect, strategic thinking, focus on practical solutions, and dedication to students will be invaluable in this role. I look forward to working with her and the other appointees and seeing the impact of their leadership at the CSU, the UC, and the community colleges. This is a historic moment that will doubtless change the focus of these vital leadership bodies. I am glad to see this administration’s continued commitment to excellence in appointing leaders of color.

A college degree sets graduates up for a lifetime of benefits that will extend to future generations and throughout their communities—especially for low-income families and communities of color, the majority of California’s population. At their best, our systems of higher education drive economic mobility, close equity gaps, and prepare talented workers and leaders for the jobs of tomorrow, fueling a robust and inclusive economy.

If we want to build a more prosperous and equitable future for all Californians and bridge our societal divides, institutions of higher education must embrace and fully serve the rich diversity of today’s students. That means strong and thoughtful leadership within higher education that is committed to the mindset of continuous improvement in support of student success. It also means leadership throughout our education system that reflects the racial and socioeconomic diversity of the student bodies they serve.

Sincerely,

Monica C. Lozano
President & CEO
College Futures Foundation