News Summary
California State University, Long Beach has appointed Andrew Jones as its new acting president following the retirement of former president Jane Close Conoley. Jones brings over 25 years of experience within the California State University system, previously serving as executive vice chancellor and general counsel. He is not seeking the permanent position. CSULB is currently engaged in a search for a long-term successor, actively seeking community input. His appointment coincides with various ongoing construction projects and initiatives aimed at improving student experience and success.
Long Beach — California State University, Long Beach (CSULB), is set to welcome a new acting president at the beginning of the 2025-26 academic year due to the retirement of former president Jane Close Conoley. CSU Chancellor Mildred García announced on August 19 that Andrew Jones will step into the role of acting president, effective August 25, coinciding with the start of the fall semester.
Andrew Jones brings extensive experience to his new position, having worked within the California State University system for over 25 years. Prior to being appointed acting president, he served as executive vice chancellor and general counsel, along with prior roles as deputy general counsel and team leader for the Business and Finance Team at CSU. In his legal capacities, Jones played a crucial role in navigating legal challenges for the CSU during the COVID-19 pandemic and advised the CSU Board of Trustees during times of leadership transitions. He has also dealt with various issues, including campus protests and political challenges facing higher education.
As an alumnus of CSULB, Jones graduated in 1982 with a bachelor’s degree in business. Despite taking on the role of acting president, he is not a candidate for the permanent president position that the university is currently seeking to fill. The ongoing search process aims to find a suitable successor to Conoley, with public input being actively sought to help identify the desired qualities and attributes for the next leadership role.
García expressed her confidence in Jones’ experience, particularly his commitment to the CSU’s student-centered mission. His appointment comes as CSULB addresses several challenges, including budget constraints and internal political matters, while simultaneously fostering an environment conducive to student success.
CSULB is also engaged in several major construction projects that are expected to enhance campus facilities. This includes the renovation and expansion of the University Student Union and a new student housing complex, both of which are expected to be completed by July 2024. A new pool is set to open in January, which will support various athletic programs and serve the local community.
At an annual convocation, university leaders highlighted the theme “Waves of Change: Honoring the Past, Envisioning the Future.” This theme aims to inspire reflection and a forward-looking approach for the upcoming academic year. CSULB has consistently been recognized for its efforts in promoting social mobility, currently ranking third among national universities in this regard. Additionally, the university’s four-year graduation rates have significantly improved, more than doubling over the past decade.
In alignment with the changing landscape of education, CSULB is integrating artificial intelligence-driven tools to improve both learning and service delivery for students and faculty. Moreover, updates to the university’s policy on Time, Place and Manner have been implemented to enhance communication and create a more inclusive environment on campus. The “Speak Boldly and Listen Bravely” initiative has also been renewed to encourage respectful dialogue following recent protests concerning political issues.
The search for a permanent president is officially underway, with the CSU board scheduled to hold its first meeting to discuss the selection process. This meeting is a vital step towards establishing the future leadership of CSULB, as community feedback will be taken into account to ensure that the next president embodies the values and vision necessary to guide the university through its next chapter.
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Additional Resources
- Press Telegram: CSULB Alumnus to Serve as Acting President
- Press Telegram: CSULB Kicks Off New Academic Year
- LB Current: CSULB Alumnus to Serve as Interim President
- Google Search: California State University Long Beach
- LB Current: The Search for CSULB President
- Encyclopedia Britannica: California State University
Author: Anaheim Staff Writer
Anaheim Staff Writer The Anaheim Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREAnaheim.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Anaheim, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as major conventions at the Anaheim Convention Center, including NAMM and VidCon, exciting games at Angel Stadium and Honda Center, and developments at Disneyland Resort Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Anaheim Chamber of Commerce and Visit Anaheim, plus leading businesses in hospitality, entertainment, and innovation that power the local economy As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECostaMesa.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERESantaAna.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
