LAKE CHARLES, La. (KPLC) – Loren J. Blanchard was appointed by the California State University Board of Trustees as president of California State University, Long Beach (CSULB).
“I am deeply honored and profoundly humbled to be named Cal State Long Beach’s next president,” Blanchard said. “CSULB is renowned for being a student-centered university that fosters a culture of holistic support, community engagement and inclusive excellence. I look forward to joining The Beach community in the transformational work it does every day to turn dreams into reality for thousands of diverse and talented students.”
CSU Trustee Christopher Steinhauser, who chaired the president search committee expresses his faith in the new president.
“The committee was impressed with Dr. Blanchard’s demonstrated strategic and inclusive leadership style and strong commitment to student success,” Steinhauser said. “We have every confidence that he will lead Cal State Long Beach adeptly, collaboratively, and with integrity and vision.”
Blanchard’s higher education career in spans 35 years. He served as President of Houston-Downtown for 5 years.
Blanchard is a first-generation graduate of McNeese State University, Xavier University, and University of Georgia. He will assume his presidency May 1, 2026
Blanchard will assume the university presidency on May 1, 2026.
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