California Community College Chancellor Eloy Ortiz Oakley, whose six-year tenure was marked by an ambitious agenda to improve student achievement and social justice across a sprawling system, will soon head a foundation dedicated to increasing diversity among the state’s college graduates.
Oakley’s time as chancellor was also hampered by plunging enrollment during the pandemic, clashes with faculty and a series of data problems. He resigned, effective Aug. 1, to become CEO of the Oakland-based College Futures Foundation.
The chair of his new employer praised Oakley for his commitment to diversity and student achievement.
“At College Futures, we believe that securing the college success of students facing the most formidable barriers will help all of us thrive—our communities, economy, and state,” Donna Lucas, chair of the foundation’s board, said in a statement. “Our staff and board are dedicated to ensuring that more students who reflect California’s diversity can complete their postsecondary journeys and access the opportunity for a better life. Eloy Oakley lives this mission every day.”
