Carole Goldsmith, chancellor of the State Center Community College District, announced her retirement after a three-decade career in education. The announcement was made during a news conference at the district office in Downtown Fresno. Goldsmith has served as chancellor for the past four years and will remain in her position until September 2026.
“I’ve decided this time is right for me to retire, and it’s been after a lot of reflection and prayer, and this decision comes with a great sense of gratitude, conviction and completion,” Goldsmith said.
Danielle Parra, president of the district’s board, acknowledged Goldsmith’s contributions. “Under Chancellor Goldsmith’s guidance, the district has achieved remarkable progress,” Parra said. “She led the successful passage of Measure Q, ensuring nearly $700 million in new investments in our facilities.”
Ashley Swearingen, former Fresno mayor and CEO of Central Valley Community Foundation, commented on working with Goldsmith over the years. “Dr. Goldsmith is one of the most talented and dedicated public leaders I’ve had the privilege of working alongside for more than 20 years,” Swearingen said in a statement. “Whether it was collaborating on workforce innovation grants when she was Vice Chancellor at West Hills Community College District, securing the West Fresno Center in Southwest Fresno through the Transformative Climate Communities program as president of Fresno City College, or leading the charge on Measure Q as chancellor of the District, Dr. Goldsmith has shown up, served and delivered big for our region – consistently and for decades.”
Goldsmith reflected on her time as chancellor. “We’ve leaned into future higher education with courage and creativity, advancing competency based education and credit for prior learning so students can move at their own pace,” she said. “Because we believe in honoring lived experiences, whether returning vets, first generation students or agricultural workers whose labor has long cultivated this Valley to be something great.”
Parra stated that preparations for leadership transition will begin soon.
Goldsmith also highlighted her efforts to promote kindness throughout her career: “I may not know you by name, but I do love you,” she said. “I think we need to say those words more often today.”
Earlier this year an ethics complaint was filed against Goldsmith by faculty members alleging she directed $161,000 worth of mediation contracts to someone described as her goddaughter.
