News Summary
Jane Close Conoley, the president of California State University, Long Beach, has announced her retirement, effective at the end of the upcoming academic year. Her decade-long leadership has faced numerous challenges, including budget cuts and the COVID-19 pandemic, while also achieving significant milestones such as increased graduation rates and successful fundraising. Conoley plans to remain available as a consultant post-retirement, while the search for her successor begins soon, with the new leader expected to tackle pressing issues regarding research funding and student support.
Long Beach – Jane Close Conoley has announced her retirement as president of California State University, Long Beach (CSULB), effective at the end of the 2024-25 academic year. Her departure ends a decade of leadership marked by significant challenges and accomplishments.
In her retirement, Conoley plans to relocate from her 5,200 square foot Miller House in Park Estates to a smaller, 1,300 square foot shared home in San Francisco’s Richmond district, where she will live with her son, two grandchildren, a puppy, and a number of rabbits. To ensure a smooth transition for her successor, she will remain available as a consultant for at least six months following her official retirement.
The California State University Board of Trustees is expected to announce either an interim or permanent president by August 2025. The new leader will encounter multiple challenges, including increased scrutiny over the university’s research grants, student financial aid, and funding for diversity and inclusion initiatives. CSULB currently receives between $60 million and $80 million annually in research funding, but already, $7 million in cuts have been implemented due to funding reductions. Although faculty salaries are funded through state resources, layoffs may impact staff responsible for managing these grants.
Conoley expressed concerns about departing during a turbulent time for higher education, acknowledging the “watershed moments” that lie ahead for the institution. Despite these pressures, CSULB has historically prided itself on its teaching reputation while also expanding its research efforts during Conoley’s presidency, which began in 2014.
Her tenure included notable events, such as the tragic death of design student Nohemi Gonzalez in a terrorist attack in Paris and the unprecedented challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Under her guidance, CSULB established the Basic Needs Program to address housing shortages and food insecurity, which saw significant growth by 2018. The university has also made strides in expanding its on-campus housing, with a new dorm under construction that will provide 424 additional beds, although 1,500 students remain on the waiting list for housing.
Conoley highlighted a positive trend during her administration, as CSULB experienced a 15% increase in its four-year graduation rate, which now exceeds 40%. In 2022, the university achieved the prestigious Carnegie Classification for high research status and currently offers five doctoral degree programs, including a new public health program set to launch this fall.
Additionally, fundraising efforts during her presidency have been robust. CSULB raised more than $500 million and expanded campus space by 170,000 square feet. In a show of continued support, Conoley has committed to personally matching donations up to $25,000 for the university’s President’s Scholars Program during a Giving Tuesday fundraiser.
Conoley’s leadership was not without challenges, notably student protests related to support for Palestine and the treatment of Native land, particularly after the controversial placement of debris on sacred land in Puvungna. Shifts in campus policies, including modifications to commencement ceremonies that received backlash from students, were challenges that also occurred during her presidency. The CSULB administration’s response to protests involving the Israel-Palestine conflict has generated criticism and reflects broader societal tensions faced during this period.
Throughout her tenure, Conoley has been recognized for her impactful leadership and the contributions made to CSULB and the Long Beach community. Her leadership style garnered praise from many, including CSU Chancellor Mildred García and Long Beach Mayor Rex Richardson.
The process to identify Conoley’s successor will commence in winter 2025, with the aim of appointing a new president by July 1, 2025. Until that appointment is made, she will remain engaged and supportive of the university efforts.
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Additional Resources
- Long Beach Business Journal: Jane Close Conoley’s Retirement
- Press-Telegram: CSULB President Jane Close Conoley Set to Retire
- Long Beach Post: CSULB President Jane Close Conoley Announces Her Retirement
- Google Search: Jane Close Conoley CSULB
- 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.
