Courtesy photo.
CAMARILLO — California State University Channel Islands (CSUCI) is proud to announce the appointment of Jessica Lavariega Monforti as its new Provost, effective immediately. Lavariega Monforti has served as Interim Provost since Fall 2024 and brings with her a distinguished record of academic leadership and a profound commitment to inclusive, student-centered education.
A first-generation college graduate and former community college transfer student, Lavariega Monforti exemplifies the mission and values of CSUCI. Her extensive leadership experience includes previous roles as Vice Provost and Accreditation Liaison Officer at CSUCI, Dean of the College of Arts & Sciences at California Lutheran University, Chair of Political Science at Pace University, and Associate Dean for the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences at the University of Texas–Pan American.
“Dr. Lavariega Monforti is a dynamic and visionary academic leader,” said CSUCI President Richard Yao. “Her permanent appointment as Provost comes at a time when her clarity, compassion, and vision are more vital than ever to our continued growth and success.”
During her tenure as Interim Provost, Lavariega Monforti led key institutional initiatives, including implementation of CSUCI’s Academic Master Plan, advancement of the University’s strategic vision, and successful reaffirmation of WSCUC (WASC Senior College & University Commission) accreditation. Her leadership has been marked by thoughtful collaboration, transparency, and responsiveness to the needs of students, faculty and staff.
With over 50 scholarly publications and more than $10 million secured in grant funding to support student achievement, faculty research, and institutional transformation, Lavariega Monforti is a nationally recognized advocate for equity in higher education. She is a past president of the Western Political Science Association and co-founder of the national Women of Color in Political Science Workshop.
Lavariega Monforti holds doctoral and master’s degrees in Political Science from The Ohio State University and a bachelor’s degree in Political Science and Women’s Studies from Florida State University.
Reflecting on her new role, Lavariega Monforti shared: “Guided by a student-centered philosophy, a commitment to ethical decision-making, and a collaborative leadership style, I am deeply honored to continue serving the CSUCI community,” said Lavariega Monforti. “Together, we will advance innovation, promote student success, and expand pathways to social mobility.”
President Yao extended his gratitude to the search committee and all who contributed to the selection process. “I look forward to all we will accomplish together under Provost Lavariega Monforti’s leadership.
CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY CHANNEL ISLANDS
California State University Channel Islands?(CSUCI) is Ventura County’s only public university and opened in 2002 as the 23rd campus in the?CSU system. CSUCI is located between Camarillo and the Oxnard Plain, midway between Santa Barbara and Los Angeles.
The campus is nestled against the foothills of the Santa Monica Mountains and is a 10-minute drive from the Pacific Ocean. With more than 4,880 students, 29,000 alumni, and 1,000 employees, CSUCI is poised to grow in size and distinction, while maintaining one of the most student-focused learning environments in public higher education with more than 90 academic degrees, teaching credentials, certificates, and professional and community programs.
CSUCI is a Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI) and as a result of student and faculty research has also earned the distinguished “Research Colleges and Universities” or “RCU” designation from the?Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education.
Connect with and learn more by visiting www.csuci.edu or CSUCI’s Social Media.
The University encourages persons with disabilities to participate in its programs, events and activities. If you anticipate needing any type of accommodation, or have questions about the physical access provided, please contact the respective area below as soon as possible, but no later than seven (7) business days prior to the event/activity:
CSUCI Students: accommodations@csuci.edu
CSUCI Employee and members of the public: angela.portillo@csuci.edu