California State University Chancellor Mildred García Receives Prestigious Hesburgh Award for Exceptional Leadership

Celebrating Leadership in Higher Education

In a monumental recognition of outstanding leadership, Chancellor Mildred García of California State University has been awarded the 2025 TIAA Institute Hesburgh Award for Leadership Excellence in Higher Education. This prestigious honor reflects her remarkable journey and commitment to enhancing academic success and social mobility for students throughout the CSU system.

A pioneer in her own right, Chancellor García is not only the first Latina to lead a four-year public higher education system in the United States, but she is also a first-generation college graduate who has championed accessible education for underrepresented populations. This accolade comes from a long-standing history of advocacy for heightened graduation rates and the promotion of policies aimed at making college more affordable for all students.

A Trailblazer's Journey

Mildred García became the 11th chancellor of the California State University system in 2023, at a groundbreaking time for many aspiring college students. Her tenure has been marked by initiatives that focus on equitable access to education, ensuring that students from diverse backgrounds have the tools and resources they need to succeed.

According to Surya Kolluri, Head of TIAA Institute, the 23 institutions under the CSU umbrella are recognized nationally for making strides in affordability and promoting social mobility. Chancellor García's leadership has played a significant role in these achievements. "Her life story and career path exemplify the transformational power of education, a value that Rev. Hesburgh held dear," Kolluri stated, highlighting the deep impact of García's work in higher education.

Before her position as chancellor, García served as President of CSU Fullerton, where she initiated several successful programs to improve graduation outcomes. Her efforts at CSU Fullerton included nearly tripling philanthropic gifts committed to the institution and spearheading various partnerships aimed at improving academic results. García’s previous role as the first Latina president of CSU Dominguez Hills further showcased her leadership prowess, where she tackled budget deficits and enhanced enrollment figures.

Commitment to Supporting Undocumented Students

In her efforts to create a more inclusive educational environment, Chancellor García inaugurated the first Dreamer Center at CSU Fullerton in 2014. This center is dedicated to assisting undocumented students and their families, reflecting her belief that education should be accessible to everyone, regardless of their legal status. Through these initiatives, García has sought to increase retention rates and provide a support system for mixed-status families within the CSU network.

García's influence extends beyond just administrative achievements; she has inspired countless students, particularly those from first-generation and underrepresented backgrounds. Her recognition emphasizes not only her accomplishments but also her role as a mentor and a beacon of hope for many aspiring leaders in education.

A Legacy of Educational Excellence

Receiving the Hesburgh Award, which honors the memory and spirit of Rev. Theodore M. Hesburgh, is a significant milestone for García. Her dedication to student success aligns closely with the vision Hesburgh had for higher education — a vision that encouraged leaders to act as advocates for their students.

In her acceptance of the award, Chancellor García expressed profound gratitude, stating, "I am deeply honored and profoundly humbled to receive this prestigious award. It is especially meaningful given that Reverend Hesburgh so wonderfully embodied the core values that I hold dear, and that I will continue to aspire to on behalf of the diverse and talented students I so proudly serve."

Established in 1993, the Hesburgh Award recognizes leaders in higher education who exhibit commitment to institutional advancement and social good. Chancellor Mildred García’s unwavering support and advocacy for democracy in education shines as a beacon for future generations, fostering pathways not only for academic success but also personal growth and societal contribution.

As we look forward to future developments in her tenure, Chancellor García remains committed to innovation, access, and community engagement within the California State University system, reminding us all of the impact education can create in transforming lives.