San Jose State University is led by a Latina for the first time in its 166-year history.
As the university's first Latina president, Cynthia Teniente-Matson is aware of the responsibility that comes with the position, which she has already accepted.
"Certainly pride, honor, humbleness, and the importance of being a visible role model in the Latina and Latino community," she said. "I’m delighted to be the first and know I will not be the last," NBC Bay Area reports.
Texas A&M University-San Antonio's previous president was Teniente-Matson. She served as Fresno State University's vice president for administration.
She promises to work hard to support the success of first-generation college students. She is the granddaughter of Mexican immigrants.
"It is a priority for me to ensure that we are focused on equity and focused on inclusion," she said.
Every student can compete and achieve owing to equity and inclusiveness, she asserted, especially in the tech capital of the world. She said another priority is meeting with student-athletes off the field to reestablish trust between them and the administration.
"No matter where in the world you might live, Silicon Valley is still the golden ring," she said.
The U.S. Department of Justice discovered in 2021 that San Jose State had neglected to effectively address complaints of sexual harassment and assault of female athletes by a former athletic trainer for more than a decade. Following such revelations and a $1.6 million compensation for harmed students, the former university president abruptly announced his resignation.
"I applaud the brave women and people who came forward with their concerns," Teniente-Matson said. "The university has responded to that and we need to keep moving forward. My commitment to that remains unwavering."
She acknowledged that the journey ahead would be difficult, but she vowed to do it with optimism and an open-door policy that includes letting each student approach her directly on social media.
"I’m accepting all invitations to be out and about," she said. She stated that she'll also be meeting with student leaders outside.
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