The following news pieces offer perspectives on Joe’s journey, values, and lasting contributions.
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Aug. 27, 2025
The Fresno Bee
Fresno Latino community memorializes Joseph I. Castro as ‘exceptional’ leader
“I was really proud to have been a trustee at the time that he was president (of Fresno State) and also part of the board of trustees that voted him to be our chancellor. He made history, both as the first Chicano to lead Fresno State and CSU.”
“His focus on students really paid off. He took that message (of seeing themselves in college) to a lot of kids in our Valley. Changed the Valley and changed Fresno State for the better in terms of opportunities for our students at Fresno State and all CSU. Demonstrated what can be done at the CSU.”
—Hugo Morales, co-executive director and founder of Radio Bilingue; California State University Trustee (2012-20)
Aug. 27, 2025
Los Angeles Times
Joseph I. Castro, first person of color to lead CSU, dies at 58
“He really did create a pathway that hadn’t been there before. For someone like him to rise to being the leader of the largest public education system in the country was unimaginable when he was growing up, and it was really a special thing for him to achieve.”
— Dr. Michael V. Drake, University of California President (2020-25)
Aug. 26, 2025
The Fresno Bee
Opinion: Joseph I. Castro, a son of the Valley, took Fresno State in a bold direction
Here’s a Greek proverb that explains who Joseph I. Castro was: “A society grows great when old men plant trees in whose shade they know they shall never sit.”
We will enjoy that shade for generations to come. Thanks, Joe.
—Juan Esparza Loera, opinion page editor
Aug. 25, 2025
GV Wire
Joe Castro: A Life Cut Far Too Short, but His Legacy Marches On
Many talk about realizing the American Dream, but the words sound hollow, even trite, without see-it, feel-it evidence.
Castro knew this. So he walked the walk.
— Bill McEwen, news director
Aug. 27, 2025
Kings Network News
Remembering Dr. Joseph I. Castro: A Hanford Legacy of Leadership and Hope
On that evening in 2020, when our city honored him, I saw more than an accomplished academic. I saw a man who carried his community in his heart, who had worked tirelessly to open doors for others, and who believed that no student’s background should limit their dreams.
– Francisco Ramirez, Jr., Mayor, Hanford, CA (2020-21)
Dr. Joseph I. Castro In Memoriam 