May 24, 2012
TO: CSU Employees
FROM: Chancellor Charles B. Reed
RE: A Personal Message
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.
