Phenicia McCullough was appointed Cal State Fullerton’s vice president for human resources and inclusive excellence following a national search. A human resources professional with more than 20 years of experience, McCullough is dedicated to fostering a universitywide culture of care and belonging.
McCullough has served in this role on an interim basis since April 2024, leading with integrity, vision and a deep commitment to advancing the university’s mission and strategic plan. She will continue to lead the Division of Human Resources and Inclusive Excellence, which provides services and support to meet the needs of the Titan community and retain a high-quality faculty and staff.
Under her direction, Cal State Fullerton has become a gold standard of excellence in human resources innovation and services across the California State University system.
“This is a well-deserved appointment for a leader who has served our campus with integrity, care and compassion. As a trusted adviser and a champion for our students and employees, Phenicia embodies the spirit of collaboration and excellence that defines our Titan community,” said President Ronald Rochon. “We are fortunate to have her expertise and leadership to advance our shared mission.”
McCullough’s leadership continues to shape a high-performing campus where every member of the Cal State Fullerton community can thrive. Her accomplishments include expanding faculty and staff connection through a strategic series of community-building events that engaged more than 17,000 participants, and founding the university’s first-ever LeadHERship Women’s Conference. McCullough also spearheaded initiatives that increased under-resourced staff representation by 12.5% and faculty representation by 10.1%.
Additionally, she oversaw the realignment of the division for greater impact by integrating eight Diversity Initiatives and Resource Centers and establishing the Office for Civil Rights and Equity. Under her leadership, CSUF became the first campus to deploy the Common Human Resources System, establishing a new model for HR technology.
McCullough reengineered human resource operations to achieve a 202% increase in HR operational capacity with minimal headcount growth, and oversaw a 62% rise in staff recruitments and a 16% rise in faculty hiring. With a focus on employee wellness and retention, she secured more than $2.2 million in external funding to sustain and expand key wellness and recognition programs.
McCullough holds a Master of Science degree in human resources development from The University of Texas at Tyler and a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Argosy University. Before joining the Titan community, she served at California State University, Dominguez Hills, and the CSU Chancellor’s Office.
“I am honored to continue serving our Titan community,” said McCullough. “HRIE is a strategic engine for transforming culture, developing talent and driving excellence. I look forward to this appointment and am grateful for the opportunity to advance our shared mission and move Fullerton Forward.”