Letter to the Editor of GV Wire:

The decision by California State University (CSU) leadership, under Chancellor Mildred García, to remain silent following the passing of Dr. Joseph I. Castro on Aug. 24 is appalling. At a moment that called for compassion and respect, the absence of a public statement diminishes both Dr. Castro’s legacy and the institution he once led.

Dr. Castro was born and raised in Hanford, the grandson of Mexican immigrants and the first in his family to earn a college degree. He went on to become the first San Joaquin Valley native to serve as president of Fresno State, where he inspired thousands of students from all walks of life. Under his leadership, graduation rates rose significantly, philanthropic support expanded, and the university earned national recognition for advancing social mobility. Fresno State students and families knew him as a president who was present, caring, and deeply invested in their success.

In 2021, Dr. Castro became the first Mexican American and first California native to serve as chancellor of the CSU, the nation’s largest and most diverse public university system. Leading nearly half a million students, he secured historic state support, launched programs to close the digital divide, and forged new public-private partnerships that continue to strengthen the CSU today.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Dr. Castro was admired for his servant leadership, humility, and compassion. He never forgot his Valley roots and carried them into every role he held. Fresno State students, alumni, and the broader community know how deeply he cared about lifting others up through education.

Leadership is measured not only in moments of triumph, but also in how institutions honor those who shaped them. By failing to publicly acknowledge Dr. Castro’s passing, CSU leadership missed the opportunity to pay respect to a leader who gave so much to the Valley, to Fresno State, and to California. His family and the community he served so faithfully deserved better.

— Patti Waid, Fresno State alumna (1991)

GV Wire welcomes Letters to the Editor of up to 350 words on local, state, national and international topics. Email letters for consideration to billmcewen@gvwire.com.