Dr. Beth Lesen named new VP of Student Affairs

Dr. Beth Lesen has been named vice president for Student Affairs, taking over a division encompassing 30 programs and a host of campus events and services.

Lesen comes to Cal State Long Beach from Sacramento State, where she served as associate vice president of Student Affairs/Dean of Students. Her responsibilities included academic advising, housing and residential life, student organizations and leadership, Basic Needs and several centers. Those included the Career Center, Multicultural Center, Women’s Resource Center, PRIDE Center and Testing Center.

President Jane Close Conoley said Lesen brings “breadth and depth of experience across the student affairs portfolio, a strategic and future-oriented vision, a passionate voice for student access, support and success.”

Conoley also pointed out Lesen’s record of working collaboratively and effectively with faculty, staff, students and community members.

Lesen was involved in the planning and construction of a new $54 million, 420-bed residence hall and new ADA appropriate campus Testing Center during her 14-year tenure at Sacramento State. She also began a comprehensive integrated advising model in collaboration with Academic Affairs that led to a 127% increase in four-year graduation rates. Dr. Lesen created the University Behavioral Intervention Team, and originated an award-winning campus basic needs program.

Before joining Sacramento State, Lesen served as interim assistant vice president of Student Affairs at The City College of New York. Before that she served in director and coordinator roles at Kingsborough Community College and the University of Buffalo, respectively.