Leadership Overview
California State University has 5 executives leading key functions including administrative strategy, information technology, audit advisory, board operations, and academic leadership.
Committed to academic excellence and workforce development, California State University fosters scientific, technical, and social progress through extensive research initiatives and inclusive educational programs across the state.
Committed to academic excellence and workforce development, California State University fosters scientific, technical, and social progress through extensive research initiatives and inclusive educational programs across the state.
Leadership Roles at California State University
Jennifer Matos - President
Jennifer Matos, the President at California State University, provides the overarching vision and strategic direction for the entire public university system. Overseeing academic programs, research initiatives, and community engagement, the President ensures that the institution continues to prepare graduates for the modern workforce. This leadership role involves representing the university to state officials and external stakeholders to secure necessary funding and support. By championing inclusive excellence, Jennifer Matos drives the university toward greater scientific and artistic achievements. The President also collaborates with the Board of Trustees to set long-term goals that address the evolving needs of California. Through active engagement with faculty and students, the President fosters an environment of innovation and social progress. This position requires balancing complex administrative demands with the core mission of accessible education. Ultimately, the President secures the future of the university by maintaining its status as a leader in public higher education.
Julia Fahrenbruch - Chief of Staff
Julia Fahrenbruch, the Chief of Staff at California State University, coordinates high-level administrative operations to ensure alignment with institutional goals. Managing complex workflows, the Chief of Staff facilitates communication between executive leadership and various campus departments. This role involves streamlining internal processes to support the broader mission of public education. By optimizing resource allocation, Julia Fahrenbruch directly impacts the efficiency of university-wide initiatives. The Chief of Staff also collaborates with the Board of Trustees to implement policy changes that enhance student outcomes. Through rigorous oversight of daily operations, the Chief of Staff maintains organizational stability across the entire system. This position requires constant engagement with academic stakeholders to drive progress in technical and social fields. Ultimately, the Chief of Staff secures the operational foundation necessary for the university to continue providing high-quality education to the diverse population of California.
Gene Dippel - Chief Information Officer
Gene Dippel, the Chief Information Officer at California State University, directs the digital infrastructure and technological strategy for the entire public university system. Overseeing large-scale network security and data management, the Chief Information Officer ensures that all campuses maintain robust connectivity for research and learning. This leadership role involves architecting scalable cloud solutions that support the evolving needs of students and faculty. By modernizing legacy systems, Gene Dippel enhances the overall digital experience across the state. The Chief Information Officer also collaborates with academic leaders to integrate advanced software tools into the curriculum. Through strategic investment in cybersecurity, the Chief Information Officer protects sensitive institutional data from emerging threats. This position drives innovation by leveraging data analytics to improve administrative decision-making. Ultimately, the Chief Information Officer provides the essential technological framework that enables the university to achieve its mission of academic excellence and scientific advancement.
Sarah Vagts - Audit & Advisory Services Chief of Staff
Sarah Vagts, the Audit & Advisory Services Chief of Staff at California State University, manages the internal oversight functions that ensure institutional integrity and regulatory compliance. Coordinating complex audit schedules, the Audit & Advisory Services Chief of Staff evaluates operational risks across all campuses. This role involves providing strategic guidance to university leadership regarding financial transparency and governance standards. By implementing rigorous assessment frameworks, Sarah Vagts strengthens the accountability of the entire system. The Audit & Advisory Services Chief of Staff also works closely with external auditors to verify the accuracy of institutional reporting. Through proactive risk mitigation, the Audit & Advisory Services Chief of Staff protects the university from potential liabilities. This position supports the long-term sustainability of the institution by fostering a culture of ethical conduct. Ultimately, the Audit & Advisory Services Chief of Staff ensures that all administrative activities align with the core mission of public service.
Rachel Corell - Deputy Chief of Staff & Director, Board Operations, Office of The Board of Trustees
Rachel Corell, the Deputy Chief of Staff & Director, Board Operations, Office of The Board of Trustees at California State University, manages the governance processes that guide the university system. Coordinating the activities of the Board of Trustees, the Deputy Chief of Staff & Director, Board Operations, Office of The Board of Trustees ensures that all policy discussions remain focused on student success and institutional growth. This role involves preparing complex briefing materials and facilitating high-stakes meetings that shape the future of the university. By streamlining board communications, Rachel Corell enhances the effectiveness of executive decision-making. The Deputy Chief of Staff & Director, Board Operations, Office of The Board of Trustees also monitors legislative developments to ensure the university remains compliant with state mandates. Through meticulous organization of board operations, the Deputy Chief of Staff & Director, Board Operations, Office of The Board of Trustees supports the strategic vision of the institution. Ultimately, this leadership role maintains the essential link between governance and academic execution.
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