Risa E. Dickson Unanimously Chosen University of La Verne President

Risa E. Dickson will continue serving as president of the University of La Verne following a unanimous vote of confidence from the university’s Board of Trustees (ULV Photo/Brandon Le).

Trustees say Dickson’s leadership will help guide the university through a pivotal moment for higher education

The University of La Verne has announced that Risa E. Dickson will continue serving as president following a unanimous vote of confidence from the university’s Board of Trustees. 

Dickson stepped into the role as interim president in August 2024. The board’s recent vote affirms its support for her leadership as the university advances key priorities and initiatives. 

“I am truly honored and humbled to continue serving as President of the University of La Verne,” Dickson said. “I want to express my sincere gratitude to our Board of Trustees and the entire university community for their support and for the confidence they have placed in me.” 

Before reaching its decision, the Board of Trustees spent several months gathering input from across the university community, including faculty, staff, students, alumni, local legislators, and key donors. Feedback was collected through seven meetings, a campus town hall attended by nearly 100 participants, and 95 survey responses. 

“Upon reviewing this feedback, the Board concluded the University’s best interests are best served with Dr. Dickson as president,” said Tony Revier, chair of the University of La Verne Board of Trustees.   

Trustees said several themes consistently emerged from the feedback process, including the need for experienced leadership, continuity for major institutional initiatives, stability across the university, improvements in campus culture, and stronger trust, transparency, and communication. 

Dickson, who has served the university in multiple leadership roles, said the institution is well positioned for its next chapter. 

“This is an exciting moment for the University of La Verne,” she said. “What excites me most is the work we will do together to strengthen La Verne’s academic excellence and expand opportunities for our students. Our faculty are accomplished scholars and mentors, and alongside our dedicated staff and community partners, they create transformative learning experiences every day.” 

“In the years ahead, we will invest in academic excellence, strengthen community partnerships, and create new pathways that connect learning with real-world impact,” she said.