Richard Carvajal Appointed President of Cal Poly Humboldt

Richard Carvajal has been named the next president of Cal Poly Humboldt, following an announcement made during the California State University Board of Trustees meeting on Wednesday morning. Carvajal, who will assume the presidency on January 20, 2026, most recently held the position of president at Valdosta State University in Georgia for over eight years.

During the meeting, CSU Trustee Jack B. Clarke praised Carvajal’s track record, highlighting significant enrollment growth at Valdosta State driven by his focus on recruitment, retention, and strategic academic planning. Clarke expressed gratitude to interim president Michael E. Spagna, who took over after Tom Jackson stepped down in July 2024.

Carvajal’s local roots in Humboldt County add a personal dimension to his new role. In a prepared statement, he expressed his long-held aspiration to attend Cal Poly Humboldt, formerly known as Humboldt State. “Growing up in Humboldt County, I often dreamed of attending Cal Poly Humboldt — then Humboldt State — but never imagined I would one day become its president,” Carvajal stated. “To return to my roots in this role is a true honor.”

He emphasized the university’s potential to impact the residents of California’s north coast and noted that its polytechnic designation would enhance its reach across the region and the state. “I look forward to proudly joining the Cal Poly Humboldt faculty and staff in their work educating learners and taking the institution to new heights,” Carvajal added.

Carvajal’s appointment brings a wealth of experience and a vision aimed at fostering community engagement and expanding educational opportunities. His leadership style is expected to resonate with both students and faculty as Cal Poly Humboldt prepares for a new chapter under his guidance.