Cal State Long Beach President Jane Close Conoley has announced her plans to retire on June 30, 2025, concluding an 11-year tenure marked by growth, community engagement, and a commitment to educational access and inclusion. Conoley’s departure will close a chapter in the university’s history, during which it gained national recognition for academic excellence and social mobility.

A Historic Presidency

Conoley, the first woman to hold the presidency in CSULB’s 75-year history, described her time at The Beach as the “honor of my career.”

“In the months to come,” Conoley said, “I anticipate making many expressions of thanks to this remarkable community. Serving as your president has been the honor of my career and a beautiful capstone for a 49-year professional life I’ve devoted to education.”

Her leadership has left an indelible mark on the university. During her tenure, CSULB achieved high-research R2 status, received the prestigious Seal of Excelencia for its dedication to Latine students, and expanded its student population by 12%. Conoley also oversaw two record-setting fundraising campaigns and cultivated partnerships with city leaders and businesses, enhancing pathways for student internships and employment.

Praise from CSU Leadership

California State University Chancellor Mildred García commended Conoley for her visionary leadership and dedication to advancing social mobility.

“Throughout her tenure, President Conoley has demonstrated herself to be an exceptionally skilled, highly principled, and truly visionary leader — a person of wisdom, thoughtfulness, empathy, and compassion,” García said. “Cal State Long Beach is a stronger and more vital institution for her service.”

A Legacy of Campus Transformation

Conoley’s presidency saw significant physical and programmatic enhancements to the university. She championed the construction of the Anna W. Ngai Alumni Center, the College of Professional and Continuing Education building, and the Shakarian Student Success Center. Housing projects like Parkside Village North, the first residence hall in 34 years, and Hillside Village Commons, an eco-friendly building, addressed pressing student needs.

Other notable accomplishments include the expansion of the Carolyn Campagna Kleefeld Contemporary Art Museum and the introduction of cutting-edge spaces like the Innovation Space (ISPACE) in the University Library.

Continuing Service and the Path Ahead

Conoley plans to remain engaged with the university community through the end of the academic year, delivering her 11th and final commencement address. In a gesture of gratitude, she announced that she would personally match up to $25,000 in donations to the President’s Scholars Program on Giving Tuesday, Dec. 3. The scholarship, a hallmark of her predecessor Robert Maxson’s presidency, celebrates its 30th anniversary next year.

The search for Conoley’s successor will begin this winter, led by a committee appointed by the CSU chancellor and Board of Trustees. Stakeholders will have opportunities to provide input, with the next president expected to assume the role by July 1, 2025.

“I am filled with gratitude,” Conoley said in a recorded video message. “Through both our trials and triumphs, I’ve immensely enjoyed being part of this community, and I am so proud of all we’ve done together.”