Dianne Harrison

President Emerita, California State University, Northridge

Dianne Harrison is the fifth president of California State University, Northridge and began her appointment in June 2012. From 2006 to June 2012, she served as president of California State University, Monterey Bay. She served for nearly 30 years at Florida State University in various capacities, first as a faculty member, then as dean of social work, associate vice president for academic affairs, dean of graduate studies and vice president for academic quality and external programs. She is known for her commitment to students, academic excellence and strategic leadership. She holds a Ph.D. in social work from Washington University in St. Louis and a Master’s of Social Work and a bachelor’s in American Studies, both from the University of Alabama. A prolific researcher and writer, Harrison has published dozens of articles and two books. She served as a WICHE Commissioner from May 2011 until May 2020.