The first time that Cesar Mendoza stepped into the Associated Students Inc. boardroom for a board of directors meeting, he watched in awe as students collaborated with university leaders to spark positive change.
“I truly believe that student government is a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” said Mendoza, who joined the ASI board of directors last year as a representative for the College of Business and Economics.
Mendoza was elected ASI president for the 2026-27 academic year and now oversees a student government organization with a 50-year legacy of serving the campus community through shared governance, programming and funding of campus organizations.
A third-year student studying business administration-finance, Mendoza is on a mission to expand access for all students and maximize opportunities for them to grow academically and personally. His priorities include streamlining reimbursement processes for student clubs and organizations, partnering with the colleges to promote academic advising resources, and amplifying ASI’s second annual Career Week.
Mendoza’s leadership philosophy has been largely shaped by his experience as a first-generation college student. He said his transition to higher education was accompanied by a significant learning curve, but getting involved on campus helped him build confidence and community while he worked toward his leadership goals. Because of this experience, he wants to create similar opportunities for students.
“Everyone has different goals when they come to college. Some people want to find community through social events. Others want to land internships or publish research,” Mendoza said. “I hope to support students in their goals and continue to create safe environments where they know they belong and can succeed.”
Since his first board meeting, Mendoza has approached student government with energy, excitement and a service-oriented mindset, said Dave Edwards, associate vice president and executive director of ASI.
“Cesar has a passion for ensuring students’ voices are heard. His drive to be a student advocate has been a highlight so far in his leadership tenure. He truly believes in the power of the student voice in CSUF shared governance and tries his best to speak for all Titans,” Edwards said.
Through ASI, Mendoza has strengthened his organization, time management and public speaking skills.
“The experience he gains in this role will prepare him to work in any industry that expects effective collaboration, thoughtful communication and strong work ethic,” Edwards said.
As president, Mendoza will continue to champion CSUF’s award-winning programs and resources. This includes the management of campus spaces such as the Titan Student Union, Student Recreation Center and Children’s Center. Supporting these campus spaces is especially significant for Mendoza, since it was the Titan Student Union that sparked his decision to choose CSUF.
“I fell in love with the campus environment first. After learning about the university’s finance program, Titan Capital Management and ASI, my decision was a no-brainer.”
Outside of ASI, Mendoza is fully immersed in CSUF’s active extracurricular scene. He is building his professional skillset in student-led organizations, including CSUF’s chapter of the Association of Latino Professionals For America, Titan Investment Banking Club and the globally recognized Titan Capital Management program. He’s already had a chance to flex those skills at professional internships with Romero Wealth Management and Clera.
Mendoza has also tapped into the College of Business and Economics alumni network, which includes 85,000 Titans.
“Talking to alumni in the industry is what made me realize I wanted to pursue a career in investment banking. It’s a competitive field, but I’ve been able to learn from professionals and start working toward that goal now,” he said.