August 20, 2015

Dear Friends:

At this morning’s Fall Convocation, I announced to the CSU Channel Islands community that I will be retiring at the end of this academic year. Over my tenure as President of CSU Channel Islands, I have been immensely impressed and humbled by the tremendous difference each of you has made in the creation of this highly collaborative, impactful and transformative University. Your support, engagement and ongoing efforts have led to the growth of a university that is addressing the needs of our students, their families and our entire community.

Very few individuals have had the opportunity to do what we have done…create a university! We have taken risks, initiated innovative practices, opened facilities, cultivated meaningful partnerships and engaged our students in a manner that has changed the trajectory of their lives. As I reflect on my now 15 years serving as CI’s President, I am incredibly grateful for each of you and proud of the University you have participated in bringing to life.

As we enter the new academic year, please join me in progressing forward with even greater energy in sustaining this dynamic and transformative university experience. Thank you for your friendships, partnerships and collective belief in our students. Because we have believed, we have changed students’ lives as well as our own.

Sincerely yours,

Richard R. Rush
President