CSUN Selects New President

California State University – Northridge has chosen Erika Beck as its president, the college announced Thursday.Beck currently serves as president for California State University – Channel Islands in Camarillo. She will assume her new role in Northridge on Jan. 11, replacing President Dianne Harrison who previously announced her retirement.Under Beck’s leadership, the four-year graduation rate for first-year students at CSUCI reached an all-time high, the university system said. Prior to Channel Islands, Beck served as provost and executive vice president for Nevada State College.“In a short period of time, Dr. Beck has quickly steered CSUCI to unprecedented heights,” Debra Farar, chair of the CSUN search committee, said in a statement. “Her extensive knowledge of the CSU and California ensures that she will build on the successful work of outgoing CSUN President Dianne Harrison.”“While it is bittersweet to leave CSU Channel Islands where working together with faculty, staff, students and community we have made significant progress, I am thankful for this opportunity to join the talented CSUN faculty, staff and students to ensure that all Matadors rise,” Beck said in a statement.Channel Islands will be announcing its interim president next week, along with details on a national search for Beck's successor.