This article is reposted from calstate.edu.
At the 30th Annual Eddy Awards on November 5, the Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation granted the Strategic Engagement Award to six local CSUs: Dominguez Hills, Fullerton, Long Beach, Los Angeles, Northridge and Pomona.
“On behalf of the Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation, we’re so excited to honor the six CSUs of Southern California for the Strategic Engagement Partner of the Year Award,” said Stephen Cheung, LAEDC CEO and President. “This is an amazing opportunity for us to thank and celebrate the CSU system for all they’re doing for the community and for our entire economy.”
The award recognizes the universities’ collective and coordinated leadership in driving workforce development, regional partnerships and economic transformation.
“Together, we are committed to supporting every student to and through graduation and into a meaningful career or graduate school,” Chancellor Mildred García said during her remarks at the gala for the honorees. “We are focused on bolstering the diverse and highly educated workforce that drives innovation and powers our Golden State in every field. And we are proud to partner with like-minded organizations like LAEDC, connecting education, industry and community to shape the next 30 years of growth, opportunity and economic mobility for Los Angeles County and beyond.”
The chancellor was joined at the gala by the presidents of the six honored CSUs as well as members of the Board of the Trustees and other university representatives.
The award reaffirms the critically important work being done across the CSU to drive equitable economic growth and prosperity—transforming the lives of students and their families and communities. With nearly 125,000 students graduating each year, the CSU is one of California’s greatest economic assets, preparing the next generation to lead the state to a brighter future.
Former professional basketball player Metta Sandiford-Artest—who is also a CSUN alumnus and volunteer basketball coach at Cal State LA—announced the award.
“The Strategic Engagement Award recognizes an institution that plays a critical role in strengthening Southern California’s economy by supporting the industries that drive it—such as the Lakers and the Dodgers,” he said. “The California State University system prepares the workforce of tomorrow, equipping students with the skills and knowledge that power our healthcare, bioscience, aerospace, digital media, entertainment, trade and logistics, and clean energy industries. With their strategic partnerships with businesses, hands-on training and innovative programs, the CSU ensures that these sectors have the talent and leadership they need to grow, compete and thrive.”
Watch this video to learn more about why the CSU received LAEDC’s Strategic Engagement Award.
