We Are LA: Empowering Dreams, Transforming Lives
Save the Date
August 18, 2025 | 9 a.m.
UNIVERSITY CONVOCATION
Luckman Fine Arts Complex
Including the Investiture of
BERENECEA JOHNSON EANES, PH.D.
as the Ninth President of
California State University, Los Angeles
Message:
May 6, 2025
Dear Golden Eagles,
This semester began under clouds from the disastrous LA wildfires alongside uncertainties in state and federal support and actions. I am deeply grateful for the resilience you have shown and continue to show. One might ask why we keep our traditions – like Commencement, Convocation, and Investiture – in such trying times. I would argue that tradition both remembers and honors our past, while loudly declaring that we still stand, together we rise, and the future is ours to make.
In that dawning light, I am delighted to share that this year’s University Convocation will take place on Monday, August 18, 2025, at the Luckman Fine Arts Complex. All are invited as we honor past Convocation traditions and create new ones. As you may also remember, I delayed my planned Investiture this spring as we focused on wildfire recovery efforts. I have now asked that Investiture be included with the Convocation proceedings. Combining events will provide a cost-effective approach to celebrating multiple traditions.
This University Convocation and Investiture will serve as a celebration and ceremony to signify the start of the 2025-26 academic year, with a new vision that leans into our proud history. The event will continue to honor faculty who have received Outstanding Professor and Lecturer Awards. The event will also recognize the tremendous achievements of staff and students. The occasion gathers our proud community in pride of place and purpose, stating clearly and loudly “Together; We Are LA.”
My very best to all those finishing term papers and finals. My appreciation to our faculty and staff who have dedicated themselves to the success of our students. May those heading off to summer have a restful and recharging break. Thank you to all those remaining with us to support summer classes or to prepare for the fall semester.
I’m particularly thrilled for those preparing to walk in Commencement. I’ll be cheering loudly for you, alongside your friends, family, faculty, and staff.
In resilient and resplendent celebration,
Berenecea Johnson Eanes, Ph.D.
President
About the President
Berenecea Johnson Eanes was appointed by the CSU Board of Trustees to serve as president of California State University, Los Angeles. Her tenure began January 8, 2024. Eanes is Cal State LA’s ninth president and the first woman to serve in the position.
Under her leadership at Cal State LA, the University is in the process of developing a comprehensive strategic enrollment plan, centering greater engagement with LA’s historically marginalized communities as well as a retention mindset to minimize the loss of students who stop-out mid-journey. Enhancing student success is also a key area of focus for the president, acknowledging the benefits that flow from timely graduation for individuals, families, and the region. The leadership team is additionally working to develop a facilities plan that will ensure the University meets today’s and tomorrow’s educational needs. Lastly, the president is building new bridges aligned with the idea that “We are LA,” a city and region of tremendous culture, creativity, and transformation.
Eanes previously served as president of York College, City University of New York, where she provided strategic leadership and counsel to approximately 1,100 faculty, staff, and administrators beginning in 2019. Eanes also served as a professor in the Department of Social Work at York. Her appointment as president of Cal State LA marked a return to the CSU for Eanes, who previously served as vice president for Student Affairs at California State University, Fullerton from 2012 to 2019, where she delivered leadership and oversight for myriad student success programs, as well as new campus infrastructure and the university’s strategic plan.
Eanes earned a bachelor’s degree in public health from Dillard University, a master’s degree in social work from Boston University, and a doctorate in social work from Clark Atlanta University.
Hotel Reservations
Plan ahead and book your stay nearby. Convenient hotel options include the Courtyard by Marriott in Monterey Park and The Westin in Pasadena—both just a short drive from campus. Secure your reservation early to ensure availability.
The Westin [Host Hotel] (Pasadena) - Deadline: July 25 by 5 p.m.
The Courtyard Marriot (Monterey Park) - Deadline: July 16