On June 5, a virtual gathering of over 90 guests marked a momentous occasion as Cal State Fullerton celebrated the achievements of its spring 2025 Leadership Development for Public Agencies certificate program graduates. This prestigious program, offered through CSUF University Extension, empowers emerging public leaders with the skills and styles needed for successful leadership.
The ceremony spotlighted 37 exceptional students from 14 agencies who demonstrated outstanding accomplishments throughout the semester-long training. Sean Walker, deputy provost, and Rob Thompson, general manager of the Orange County Sanitation District, delivered inspiring congratulatory remarks. Walker expressed the university’s pride in the graduates’ achievements and emphasized the importance of their continued professional growth. Thompson echoed these sentiments, praising the dedication and perseverance of the graduates. Both speakers emphasized the importance of strong partnerships between public agencies and CSUF, and highlighted how these collaborations enhance student experiences and strengthen the wider community.
Participating agencies for the spring 2025 cohort included both longstanding partners and new collaborators, such as the city of Downey and the city of Fountain Valley.
Participating agencies for the spring 2025 cohort included the cities of Anaheim, Costa Mesa, Downey, Fountain Valley, Fullerton, Garden Grove and Tustin as well as Golden Empire Transit District, Irvine Ranch Water District, Mesa Water District, Municipal Water District of Orange County, OC San, Orange County Transportation Authority and South Coast Water District.
Since its inception in 2007, the Leadership Development program has collaborated with more than 30 public agencies across California, providing public employees with essential leadership skills to effectively serve their communities. As the fall 2025 cohort commences on Aug. 26, interested individuals are encouraged to visit the Leadership Development for Public Agencies website for more information about this transformative program.
For inquiries, contact CSUF University Extension representatives by selecting “Contact Us” at the top of the page or reach out to your agency’s human resources department.