Dr. Cynthia Teniente-Matson

Dr. Cynthia Teniente-Matson serves as the 31st president of San José State University. An internationally recognized Latina leader, President Teniente-Matson is a champion of student success initiatives; diversity, equity and inclusion; civic engagement; and experiential learning. A renowned public speaker, she has delivered keynotes at national conferences regarding contemporary issues in higher education, risk management, women’s leadership, and Latinx leadership. Throughout a career that spans more than 30 years in higher education, President TenienteMatson has always put students first, engaging in strategic partnerships and serving on numerous national educational-governing and civic boards geared toward enhancing the student experience. She currently sits on the boards of the American Council on Education and Girl Scouts USA; is a member of the HSI-Educational Testing Service (ETS) Steering Committee and LiftFund; and is a past chair of the Board of Directors for the American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU), a university presidents and chancellors membership association. Prior to her appointment at SJSU in January 2023, President Teniente-Matson led Texas A&M University-San Antonio from 2015 to 2023, and was Vice President for Administration and Chief Financial Officer at Fresno State University from 2004 to 2015. She earned a doctorate in Educational Leadership from Fresno State University, a Master of Business Administration from the University of Alaska Anchorage, and a Bachelor of Arts in Management from the University of Alaska Fairbanks. She and her husband Mike have two sons, Phillip and Wyatt. She enjoys writing, traveling, and outdoor activities such as biking and boating.