James Milliken

James B. Milliken was named the 22nd president of the University of California, effective August 1, 2025. Currently serving as chancellor of the University of Texas (UT) System, Milliken brings over 30 years of leadership in public higher education, including roles at the City University of New York, the University of Nebraska, and the University of North Carolina. Notably, Milliken has a demonstrated track record of expanding access, improving affordability, and driving student success. His leadership at UT also includes record-setting enrollment levels, low college debt, and almost $5 billion in annual research expenditures. Milliken holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and a J.D. from New York University School of Law.

Alberto J. Román

Dr. Alberto J. Román has been appointed Chancellor of the Los Angeles Community College District (LACCD), the nation’s largest community college system, serving over 194,000 students. An immigrant and first-generation college graduate, Dr. Román brings more than 25 years of experience in education, having held roles from faculty to Vice Chancellor of Human Resources. He previously served as President of East Los Angeles College and Interim Chancellor of LACCD. His leadership is marked by a deep commitment to equity, student success, and community engagement. A champion for accessible education, Dr. Román has led transformative initiatives in dual enrollment and workforce development, reflecting his belief in education as a pathway to opportunity and social mobility.

Kevin D. Howell

Kevin D. Howell has been appointed as the 15th chancellor of North Carolina State University, effective May 5, 2025. A distinguished alumnus and former student body president, Howell previously served as chief external affairs officer at UNC Health and the UNC School of Medicine. He brings decades of leadership in higher education and public service, including roles as vice chancellor for external affairs at NC State. Howell holds a bachelor's degree in political science from NC State and a J.D. from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Jesse M. Bernal

Jesse M. Bernal has been named president of Western Connecticut State University, effective July 11, 2025.Currently vice president for Strategy and chief of staff to the president at Grand Valley State University, Bernal has led transformative initiatives advancing equity and innovation in higher education. A first-generation college graduate and Latino leader, he brings over 25 years of experience in student success and institutional excellence. Bernal holds a bachelor's degree from Westmont College and both a master's and Ph.D. in education from UC Santa Barbara.