Amir Dabirian’s colleagues call him a staunch supporter of students and a futuristic leader who’s shaped Cal State Fullerton’s academic and technology vision over the past 41 years.
Dabirian, a two-time alum, has stepped down as provost and vice president for academic affairs after serving in the top leadership post for the past three years.
Since 1985, after earning his bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering at CSUF, he has held various administrative roles in the Division of Information Technology, including serving as chief information technology officer.
He rose through the IT ranks and, in 2008, was appointed vice president for information technology and chief information officer.
“This campus has been an integral part of my life,” said Dabirian, who also earned a master’s degree in electrical engineering in 1988 from CSUF and a master’s in computer science from UC Riverside.
“When people talk about the ‘Fullerton Way,’ it’s about the people and what we do together. It’s also not about the buildings, the university, or its name; it’s about what we do for our students.”
Over the decades, Dabirian helped transform Cal State Fullerton into a model 21st-century learning environment.
“Amir has been a tireless advocate for academic excellence, innovation and student success,” said CSUF President Ronald Rochon. “His leadership has left an indelible mark on our campus — fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, advancing high-impact practices, and expanding equitable access to technology and resources for all Titans.”
While Dabirian is stepping away from leadership responsibilities, he will continue to be involved on campus.
Dabirian is returning to the classroom as a faculty member in the College of Business and Economics to teach marketing courses. During his time at CSUF, he has taught 38 different courses across disciplines at the undergraduate and graduate levels.
“I am passionate about my work, and I want to continue to serve this campus and contribute to the success of students, the university and the California State University system.”
At a campus event in March to celebrate Dabirian’s decades of service — attended by faculty, staff, university administrators, students and supporters — Academic Senate Chair Matthew Jarvis called Dabirian a “true, lifelong Titan.”
“Amir’s leadership, vision and ability to juggle about 12 things at once have been nothing short of legendary,” said Jarvis, associate professor of politics, administration and justice. “Whether it was transforming our campus technology, championing academic excellence, or just keeping us all on track, Amir has done it all with style, grace, and most importantly, humanity.”
Haneefah Syed, president of Associated Students Inc., shared that Dabirian has been an advocate for student leadership and a supporter of initiatives that expanded students’ opportunities, including access to technology.
“Student leaders often talk about how approachable he is, how he always greeted them warmly, took time to listen and made them feel like their ideas mattered,” said Syed, an English major. “The legacy he leaves behind is not just one of programs or policies, it’s a legacy of opportunity for students to succeed.”
Dabirian’s Titan legacy also includes serving 19 terms on the Academic Senate, 12 on the Executive Committee, and 20 on the Planning, Resource and Budget Committee. He has also been a key member of the University Strategic Planning Committee, helping develop current and previous strategic plans.
For Dabirian, who holds a doctorate in industrial economics and management from KTH Royal Institute of Technology in Sweden, what’s been most rewarding for him over his CSUF career is watching students graduate.
“There’s nothing more gratifying than seeing their success,” he said.