Block 1
Moving California Forward: The California State University
Higher Education Access & Student Success
This session will explore the CSU’s guiding principles and Student Success Vision, highlighting how a student-centric, equity-driven, data-informed, collaborative, and transparent approach can shape decision-making and strengthen outcomes across the 22 CSU campuses. Participants will reflect on how personalized support, inclusive learning environments, and meaningful curricular and cocurricular pathways can advance academic success, career readiness, economic mobility, and lifelong engagement for CSU students and graduates. The session will also touch on the recent CSU Economic Impact Report, which highlights the CSU’s industry workforce impacts throughout the state.
David Gamboa
David Gamboa serves as Assistant Vice Chancellor for Strategic Engagement at the California State University, where he leads systemwide efforts to strengthen partnerships, align strategic priorities, and represent the CSU across key constituencies. With nearly two decades of experience in public higher education, he previously served as Senior Associate Vice President of External Affairs and Partnerships at CSU Dominguez Hills, where he advanced community partnerships, government relations, and regional engagement initiatives. David has also held leadership roles overseeing alumni relations, major university events, and communications. He also served as Interim Chief of Staff, advising university leadership on institutional priorities. Prior to CSU, he worked in the office of Congresswoman Juanita Millender-McDonald. He holds a bachelor’s degree in communications and is currently pursuing graduate studies at CSU Dominguez Hills.
Dr. Shonda Goward
Dr. Shonda Goward serves as Interim Associate Vice Chancellor for Student Success at the California State University, Office of the Chancellor, leading systemwide efforts to improve outcomes and close equity gaps across 22 campuses. She oversees key initiatives including the Student Success Dashboard, student success analytics, and academic preparation programs. She also serves as Associate Vice Provost for Undergraduate Student Success at San José State University, where she led the development of 10 student success centers focused on increasing graduation rates and supporting historically underserved students. Dr. Goward’s work centers on advancing equity, retention, and student well-being through data-informed strategies. She holds degrees from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Southern Connecticut State University, and The George Washington University. A first-generation college graduate and California native, she brings a strong commitment to expanding opportunity for all students.
