Stanislaus State University will formally install Britt Rios-Ellis as its 13th president on Friday, October 3, 2025. The investiture ceremony will take place at 1 p.m. in the Ed & Bertha Fitzpatrick Arena and is expected to draw representatives from the California State University system, local civic leaders, alumni, faculty, staff, students, and community partners.
The theme for the event is “Leading with Cariño, Rising with the Pulse of Possibility.” According to university officials, this reflects President Rios-Ellis’ vision for Stanislaus State as an institution grounded in equity and regional engagement. The approach emphasizes a culture of care—referred to as cariño—where people feel seen, valued, and included.
Since assuming her role in July 2024, Rios-Ellis has focused on fostering belonging, academic excellence, and regional transformation at Stanislaus State. “With the pulse of possibility and the power of cariño, we will rise and thrive,” said Rios-Ellis as preparations continue for a series of events marking her investiture.
A variety of activities are scheduled throughout late September and October to highlight campus life and community connections. These include a theatre production titled “The Sins of Sor Juana,” which explores the life of poet Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz; an informal gathering called Coffee with Cariño for faculty and staff; a benefit dinner supporting presidential initiatives; and Noche de Banda featuring live music. The film screening of “A Million Miles Away” is already sold out.
Other notable events include the Ninth Annual Indigenous Peoples Day on October 14 honoring Native American communities with speakers and artists. Later in October, Stanislaus State will host the Social Justice in the Central Valley Conference focusing on issues such as wealth inequality, water access, and health disparities across California’s Central Valley through panels and workshops.
Registration is required for some events. Additional details can be found on the Investiture Celebration Events page.
“We will rise and thrive,” said Rios-Ellis about her vision for Stanislaus State’s future.
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