News Update

Cal State LA president announces retirement

California State University, Los Angeles President William Covino announced his retirement Thursday.

“I’m honored to have had the opportunity to serve as president of Cal State LA for 10 years,” Covino said. “To offer students a transformative education, one that forever changes their lives, the lives of their families, and their communities, is a high aspiration. At Cal State LA, we hit the mark day after day, year after year.”

Covino’s retirement will be effective June 30, 2023.

In a statement, CSU Interim Chancellor Jolene Koester said: “Under President William Covino’s leadership, student achievement has reached unprecedented heights at California State University, Los Angeles. The university has made remarkable progress by more than doubling the four-year graduation rate for first-year students. Students coming from community colleges are achieving similar success, with their graduation rates reaching all-time highs, as well. These success measures demonstrate just a few of the ways that Dr. Covino has positively impacted the university.”

Covino joined Cal State LA as the university’s seventh president in 2013. He’s worked in higher education for more than 40 years, including at Fresno State, San Diego State and Stanislaus State universities.

Koester said the CSU trustees will launch a national search for his replacement soon.