Laleh Graylee has been appointed interim vice president for administration and finance and chief financial officer for Cal State Fullerton, effective Nov. 3.
Most recently, Graylee served as senior associate vice president for financial services, providing executive leadership and strategic direction for the university’s financial operations. In this role, she oversaw a $712 million operating budget and led a team of more than 80 finance, technical and administrative professionals who advise fiscal strategy, budget governance and operational effectiveness in support of the university’s mission.
Graylee has served in the California State University system for more than three decades, bringing expertise in higher education finance, capital resource planning and long-term fiscal strategy. She has designed financial models that integrate operating and capital planning to ensure that every dollar invested supports student success.
Among her many accomplishments are leading the financial strategy and securing the CSU Chancellor’s Office approval for bond financing of such major campus projects as the Eastside Parking Structure and student housing.
“I want to thank Laleh for stepping up to serve as interim vice president for administration and finance. Her deep experience and commitment to our Titan community make her an outstanding choice to lead the division,” said President Ronald Rochon. “I am also grateful to everyone across the university for your partnership and support as we move through this transition together.”
Prior to joining Cal State Fullerton, Graylee served in leadership roles at the CSU Chancellor’s Office, where she designed systemwide financial reporting frameworks (FIRMS) and led efforts to improve fiscal transparency across the 22 CSU campuses and auxiliary organizations. She is regarded as a trusted financial adviser and strategist throughout the CSU network.
Graylee’s leadership philosophy centers on public stewardship, fiscal responsibility, integrity and collaboration. She holds an executive MBA from Pepperdine University’s Graziadio Business School and a bachelor’s degree in computer science from California State University, Dominguez Hills. She continues to give back through her leadership in the CSU Financial Officers and Budget Officers Associations, where she currently serves as chair. She has also served the broader community as a commissioner for the city of Anaheim’s Budget, Investment and Technology Commission.
“I am humbled and honored to serve as the interim vice president for administration and finance under President Rochon’s leadership and look forward to partnering with our executive team, faculty, staff and students to advance the university’s strategic priorities,” said Graylee. “Together, we will build a strong foundation that supports student success, strengthens fiscal sustainability and ensures the responsible stewardship of university resources.”