The Alma Fullerton of Cal, Chris Manriquez, returns to his Alma Mater on August 1 to be vice-president for information technologies and the information director.
“We are impatiently awaiting its leadership in the progression of our infrastructure and technological services,” said CSUF president Ronald Rochon.
Manriquez has more than 25 years of experience in technological leadership in higher education, including 16 years at Cal State Fullerton. Since 2012, he has been vice-president of information technology and information director at California State University, Dominguez Hills.
“Back to Cal State Fullerton to direct computer science is a full moment. It is an institution that helped shape my leadership values, to deepen my commitment to equity and innovation and has favored life dedication to students’ success, “said Manriquez.
“The dynamic, diversified and focused community focused on the CSUF illustrates the evolutionary landscape of higher education, and I am inspired by the opportunity to restore with a goal.”
As the main computer manager of the campus, Manriquez will play an essential role in the formatting and realization of the technological future of the university. It will provide strategic leadership, operational surveillance and prospective innovation through campus, including infrastructure, academic technology, cybersecurity and digital transformation.
His vision focuses on the establishment of people and the goal at the center and the strengthening of partnerships through the campus divisions.
“I can’t wait to work in collaboration to shape a digital environment ready for the future, focused on services and inclusive that positions technology not as an end, but as a bridge to a more connected, inclusive and resilient Titan,” he said.
Manriquez is energized by the opportunity to support and empower university’s computer workforce to cultivate a culture of innovation, professional growth and shared goal.
“I want to make sure that each member of the team is valued, heard and equipped to provide transformer results,” he added.
A graduate of the first generation which grew up in Santa Ana, Manriquez obtained a baccalaureate and a master’s degree in geography by Cal State Fullerton, where he studied geographic information systems. His mother and sister also obtained CSUS diplomas.
“The history of our family testifies to the power of public higher education and its ability to change its life through generations,” he said. “The first generation being stimulates my commitment to design systems and strategies that meet students where they are, reduce barriers and allow all learners to succeed.”
After graduating, Manriquez worked as a systems administrator for a technological company before joining the CSUF in July 1996 and then sat in the academic Senate.
His first university position was director of technical support at the College of Human Sciences and Social Sciences. He has been promoted to other positions, including the director of assistance services, director of office IT and assistance service, and director of the Common Management Systems project.
He crossed the ranks of managers, finally being vice-president of CSUF for information technology and the head of interim information technologies.
Throughout his career, Manriquez has led transformative initiatives in fields such as integration of AI, academic support technologies, cybersecurity, infrastructure and development, project management and e-sport.
A recognized leader in his field, he sits on professional advice and committees, in particular the Committee of Academic Technologies and online education of the CSU and the Committee of Security Operations.