University President

“In alignment with our living values of inclusion, equity, learning, community and student-centeredness, Cal State Monterey Bay views its core mission as ensuring social mobility by expanding access to affordable, high-quality education and personalized support that empowers students to improve their economic, educational and social well-being.”

- Vanya Quiñones, CSUMB President

About President Quiñones 

Vanya Quiñones, Ph.D., was appointed by the California State University Board of Trustees to serve as the fourth president of California State University, Monterey Bay. She began her term on August 15, 2022, and is focusing on student success in graduation and beyond, making the campus a cultural hub for the region, championing diversity and inclusion, and positioning CSUMB to be a model in public higher education. 

She is also a neurobiologist, biopsychologist, and noted researcher who has published more than 70 peer-reviewed papers. Her 30-plus-year career spans scientific research, academic administration, program- and research-focused fundraising, student success, and diversity in the arts and sciences.

Learn more

Connect with the President

Vanya is an active member of the campus community, and she enjoys connecting with students, faculty, staff, alumni, and friends of the university on and off campus. Learn about opportunities to get to know her below. 

Coffee with the President and Provost

Join the President and Provost Andrew Lawson for a cup of tea or coffee and a conversation. This monthly event is open to all faculty and staff of the university and the University Corporation of Monterey Bay. All sessions will be held in the Administration Building Conference Room, Building 1.

View upcoming events

University Cabinet Office Hours

Students, faculty, and staff are encouraged to stop by and meet one or more members of Cabinet each week to say hello and learn more about their roles at CSUMB and their vision for the future of our campus. One or more members of the Cabinet are present each Thursday from 10-11 a.m. in the Admin Building Conference Room, Building 1.

View upcoming events

Open Houses

Throughout the year, the CSUMB President opens University House, the president’s residence on campus, for many events and engagement opportunities. These occasions include welcome-back events, community holiday celebrations, and times for smaller groups to connect and share ideas for invited groups based on roles, responsibilities, and interests related to the future of CSUMB.

Check the CSUMB events calendar

Request Presidential Participation

Planning a university event? If you would like to request that President Quiñones attend or participate, please fill out the form below to share your information with the Office of the President. 

Submit your request