CAL State LA Executive and Leadership Team

Claudio Lindow, the Vice President of Admin and Finance and Chief Financial Officer Cal State LA at CAL State LA, manages the fiscal health and administrative integrity of the university. Overseeing long-term financial planning and budgetary compliance, the Chief Financial Officer ensures that institutional resources support academic programs and student services. Claudio Lindow directs the financial reporting processes and audit functions to maintain transparency across the California State University system. By analyzing economic trends and funding opportunities, the Chief Financial Officer secures the financial stability necessary for campus expansion. This leadership role involves collaborating with executive peers to align fiscal strategies with the overarching mission of the university. Lindow monitors revenue streams and expenditure patterns to optimize resource utilization. Through disciplined financial management, the Chief Financial Officer provides the foundation for sustainable growth and academic excellence within the competitive higher education landscape.

Stephen Mechlinski, the Chief Operating Officer at CAL State LA, directs the daily administrative functions and operational workflows essential for university efficiency. Overseeing campus infrastructure and facility management, the Chief Operating Officer ensures that physical resources align with the academic mission of the institution. Stephen Mechlinski coordinates cross-departmental efforts to optimize service delivery for students and faculty alike. By streamlining internal processes, the Chief Operating Officer supports the broader goal of maintaining a high-quality learning environment. This leadership role involves managing complex logistical challenges across the Los Angeles campus to sustain institutional growth. Through rigorous oversight of operational budgets and resource allocation, the Chief Operating Officer maintains the structural integrity of the university. Mechlinski drives continuous improvement initiatives that enhance the overall campus experience while ensuring compliance with state-level educational standards and operational mandates.

James Rosser, the President at CAL State LA, provides the overarching vision and strategic direction for the university. Overseeing institutional policy and external relations, the President ensures that the university maintains its commitment to academic excellence and community engagement. James Rosser directs the development of long-term goals that align with the mission of the California State University system. By fostering partnerships with regional stakeholders and industry leaders, the President expands opportunities for student research and career development. This leadership role involves guiding the executive team through complex academic and administrative challenges to ensure institutional growth. Rosser champions initiatives that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion across the campus. Through consistent advocacy for higher education funding and policy reform, the President secures the resources necessary to sustain the university's impact on the Los Angeles region and beyond.

Gabriel Galvan, the President at CAL State LA, focuses on the internal cultural development and student-centered programming that define the university experience. Overseeing student affairs and campus life initiatives, the President ensures that the academic environment remains supportive and inclusive for all learners. Gabriel Galvan directs the implementation of student success programs that improve retention and graduation rates. By engaging with student organizations and faculty councils, the President cultivates a collaborative atmosphere that encourages academic inquiry and personal growth. This leadership role involves managing the day-to-day administrative climate to ensure that university policies reflect the needs of the student body. Galvan monitors the effectiveness of campus services and student support systems to drive continuous improvement. Through dedicated leadership, the President strengthens the connection between the university and the local community, ensuring that the institution remains a vital hub for education and professional development.

Berhanu Tadesse, the Associate Vice President & Chief Information Officer at CAL State LA, architects the digital infrastructure and technological framework supporting the university. Overseeing enterprise systems, cybersecurity protocols, and academic computing resources, the Chief Information Officer ensures seamless connectivity for students and faculty. Berhanu Tadesse drives the implementation of innovative software solutions that enhance research capabilities and administrative productivity. By modernizing the campus network, the Chief Information Officer facilitates digital transformation across all academic departments. This leadership role involves managing complex data security initiatives to protect institutional information assets. Tadesse coordinates with technical teams to maintain robust hardware and software environments that meet the evolving needs of the university. Through strategic investment in emerging technologies, the Chief Information Officer empowers the campus community to excel in a digital-first educational environment while maintaining high standards of system reliability and performance.