California State University (CSU) Chancellor Charles B. Reed announced his retirement today via a personal message sent out to CSU employees.
Reed, who has faced both praise and criticism since his tenure began in 1998, has led 44,000 faculty and staff and 427,000 students on 23 campuses and seven off-campus centers throughout California. The past few years have proven difficult, with California’s budget crisis straining the CSU budget to such lows that it has caused massive student entrance denial and furor to rise amongst students and faculty, particularly over the questionable raising of campus presidents’ salaries.
The following message was sent out to CSU employees today:
“Today I am writing to let you know that I have announced my retirement as chancellor of the California State University system. I gave this news to the CSU’s Board of Trustees and to our campus presidents this morning.
“From the very beginning, I was drawn to the California State University system because of my great respect and admiration for its mission. Fourteen years later, I am proud to have served at this great institution through such a dynamic period in its history. The CSU has emerged as a national leader in providing access and support to students from a wide range of socio-economic backgrounds. Our campuses have continued to flourish even in the face of budgetary challenges and tremendous growth. Throughout my time here, the CSU has grown by more than 100,000 students, and I have been honored to sign more than a million diplomas.
“Out of all of the many experiences I have had, what I have enjoyed the most about my time in California is working with so many bright and talented individuals. Some of my favorite moments as chancellor were those I spent learning about the leading-edge research and teaching innovations of our faculty members; the incredible dedication of our staff; and the against-all-odds success stories of our students. I have also had the honor of collaborating with many alumni, community, and business groups across California who have contributed to our universities’ success. Many of you have become close personal friends, and I treasure those connections and relationships.
“Combined with the time I spent as chancellor at the State University System of Florida, I have served as chancellor for more than 27 years. I am now looking forward to retirement as a chance to spend more time with my wife, children, and five grandsons; and to pursue more of the higher education related projects that are my passion.
“I have told the board that I will stay on until a replacement is named. In the meantime, I want you to know how grateful I am for all that you do for the CSU and for its students. It has truly been an honor to work alongside you in serving California and its students through this magnificent university system.”