Cal State University appoints interim chancellor
CALIFORNIA (KION-TV) UPDATE MARCH 23, 2022 at 3:50 p.m.-- The California State University Board of Trustees has appointed a new interim chancellor on Thursday.
Jolene Koester, Ph.D., will return to the CSU system after serving as the President of CSU Northridge from 2000 to 2011.
“The CSU and its 23 campuses make a significant impact on California and the nation, and I am deeply humbled by the opportunity to serve as their interim chancellor,” said Koester. “The commitment of our world-class faculty, staff, administrators, executives, and trustees deeply align with my values to provide life-changing educational opportunities for our students. I look forward to learning and providing my skills to guide the university during this transformational time in CSU history.”
Koester is currently a senior consultant for the American Association of State Colleges and Universities.
She worked along with university leadership to help assist with strategic planning, change management and team building.
Koester begins as chancellor on May 1.
ORIGINAL STORY
The California State University Chancellor Joseph I. Castro let his resignation be known effective immediately on Thursday, Feb. 17.
The Board of Trustees accepted his resignation.
“I have been honored to serve the California State University for more than eight years, including as its eighth chancellor, and the decision to resign is the most difficult of my professional life," Dr. Joseph I. Castro said. “While I disagree with many aspects of recent media reports and the ensuing commentary, it has become clear to me that resigning at this time is necessary so that the CSU can maintain its focus squarely on its educational mission and the impactful work yet to be done."
Castro's resignation comes after accusations that he mishandled sexual assault and workplace intimidation claims against a former colleague while he was president of Fresno State University.
State Vice President of Student Affairs Frank Lamas had several complaints against him, that was apparently known to Castro.
Castro, amid allegations against Lamas, still recommended Lamas for an achievement award and later paid him $260,000 with full retirement benefits to leave his post.
A succession plan to replace Dr. Castro is being finalized by the Board of Trustees.
Executive Vice Chancellor and Chief Financial Officer, Steve Relyea, will be acting chancellor until an interim chancellor can be named.
