A Word from the President

Dear Warrior Community,

As we head into the home stretch of the semester, I’m reminded of why I came to Stanislaus State — and why I believe so deeply in the transformative power of higher education. Every day, I’m inspired by the drive of our students, the dedication of our faculty and staff and the shared commitment of alumni and community partners who believe in what we are building together.

This spring has brought powerful momentum. From expanding our Stockton Campus, where a new academic building is set to open in fall 2025, to advancing careers in healthcare and deepening the innovative partnerships that support them, we continue to grow with intention. Our work is rooted in creating pathways to opportunity and ensuring that higher education remains accessible, affordable and deeply connected to our region.

That momentum continues with our inaugural 1960 Minutes of Giving, a celebration of Stanislaus State’s founding and a chance for everyone to unite in support of scholarships, programs and student success. We invite you to be part of this special effort as we honor our legacy and invest in our future. That spirit of pride and purpose will carry into Commencement, where we’ll celebrate the achievements of our graduates, many of whom are the first in their families to earn a college degree. Plus, we have the very special honor of recognizing Astronaut José Hernández and his father Salvador Hernández with honorary doctorates, the highest honor that can be bestowed by Stanislaus State and the California State University.

These moments reflect the heart of our mission and the pride we feel in serving the Central Valley. They remind us that when we uplift students, we uplift families, neighborhoods and entire communities. And when the Central Valley thrives, we all thrive.

This work is deeply personal to me, and I’m more committed than ever to advancing it. Thank you for your belief in Stanislaus State. Your support fuels our continued rise, and I’m proud to walk this journey with you. Your success is our success.

Britt Rios-Ellis, Ph.D. President