Pause on the Search for the Vice President for Administration & Finance and CFO

Dear Faculty and Staff,

This spring, we launched a search for the Vice President for Administration and Finance and CFO. At this time of budget uncertainty, I understand how vital this role is for the future of our campus.

While I had initially hoped we would conclude the search for a permanent incumbent before the end of the academic year, I have decided to close the search with plans to begin anew in 2026. An extended timeline will allow the campus to take into consideration several factors that impact this role and that have occurred since the initial search began.

These conditions include continued uncertainty in the state budget and allocation to the CSU with implications for the campus; significant turnover of the CSU financial and administrative leaders at the Chancellor’s Office; and the impact of the voluntary separation incentive (VSIP) program on the organization and operations of the Division of Administrative Affairs. These are all dynamics that influence the position and help to shape the direction of our campus priorities.

Furthermore, given my plans to step down this summer and with the appointment of Dr. Iris Levine as Interim President, reconvening the search when a permanent President may participate in the selection process allows the incumbent to shape their executive team.

I am grateful for Michelle Cardona, who has served in the interim role since January 2025, and who has agreed to continue serving in the interim VP and CFO role until the campus is able to complete the search for the permanent incumbent. Michelle provides important continuity of leadership and has my utmost confidence.

And I also extend my gratitude to the members of the search committee for their time and dedication in evaluating candidates. I have every confidence that they will be faithful stewards of our needs once this search is rekindled.

Sincerely,

Soraya M. Coley, Ph.D. 
President