SAN ANTONIO – The Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities has issued the following statement on the passing of Joseph Castro, former Fresno State president and California State University chancellor.
“It is with deep sadness that we mourn the passing of Joseph Castro, a trailblazer in higher education and tireless champion for students across the country,” said HACU Interim CEO David Mendez. “His appointment as the eighth chancellor to lead the CSU was groundbreaking, making him the first Californian as well as the first person of color to lead the system.
“Dr. Castro worked with HACU to advance its mission, serving as a member of HACU’s Governing Board and as chair of the USDA-HACU Leadership Group. Our sympathy goes out to his family, friends and communities who have been affected by his passing.”
The grandson of immigrants from Mexico, and the first in his family to graduate from a university, Dr. Castro served as a tireless advocate for students from underrepresented groups in higher education. His legacy provides inspiration for all of us in continuing the important work dictated by our core mission.
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