Governor Newsom Appoints CSUSB Alumnus as CSU Student Trustee

A Voice for Nearly Half a Million Students

Governor Gavin Newsom has appointed Carson Fajardo, a recent graduate of California State University, San Bernardino (CSUSB), as a student trustee to the California State University Board of Trustees. In this new role, Fajardo will represent the more than 450,000 students across the 23-campus CSU system, one of the largest public university systems in the United States.

The appointment marks a significant achievement for the Inland Empire native and highlights the increasing visibility of CSUSB alumni in statewide leadership.

Academic and Student Leadership Credentials

Fajardo earned his Bachelor’s degree in Administration (Management) from CSUSB’s Jack H. Brown College of Business and Public Administration in May 2025. This fall, he will begin the university’s Master of Public Administration program.

During his undergraduate years, Fajardo was a prominent student leader:

• Served two terms as President of Associated Students Incorporated (ASI) at CSUSB
• Sat on the Cal State Student Association Board of Directors
• Participated in the University Honors Program and was named a Presidential Academic Excellence Scholar
• Attended the UC Summer Institute for Emerging Managers and Leaders and the Panetta Institute for Public Policy

His leadership extended into student life, having previously worked as the Programming Coordinator for the Residence Halls Association and as a Housing Representative on the ASI Board.

A Statement of Purpose and Representation

In a written statement following the announcement, Fajardo emphasized the weight of the responsibility:

“This appointment is a privilege and a profound responsibility. As student trustee, I will join a dedicated group of leaders in making critical decisions that shape the future of the CSU—from its fiscal health and long‑term planning to its policies, priorities, and overall direction.”

Fajardo also expressed his commitment to ensuring the CSU remains accessible and responsive to the needs of its diverse student body:

“I am grateful for this opportunity to contribute to the stewardship of an institution that has shaped my path. I look forward to listening, serving, and helping to ensure that the CSU remains strong, sustainable, and impactful for generations of students to come.”

CSUSB Community Reacts with Pride

CSUSB President Tomás D. Morales praised the appointment, calling it a reflection of Fajardo’s leadership and dedication to higher education:

“We are extremely proud of Carson. His selection to this important position speaks to his exceptional leadership, dedication to student advocacy, and commitment to public service. We are confident he will be a strong voice for students across the CSU system.”

Fajardo’s rise to a statewide platform reinforces CSUSB’s reputation for nurturing student leaders who go on to shape California’s educational future.

Role and Responsibilities of a CSU Student Trustee

The California State University Board of Trustees comprises 25 voting members, including two student trustees who are appointed to represent student perspectives. One student trustee serves as a voting member in the second year of their term.

Fajardo was sworn in at the July 2025 CSU Board of Trustees meeting and will immediately begin participating in discussions and decision-making on systemwide issues, including:

• Tuition and budget allocation
• Strategic planning and enrollment
• Campus infrastructure and sustainability
• Equity and student success initiatives

Looking Ahead

Fajardo’s appointment underscores a broader trend of Inland Empire students stepping into roles of statewide significance. As the CSU system faces key challenges—ranging from enrollment recovery to financial planning—his voice on the board will be vital.

His tenure will last two academic years, concluding in 2027.