In a move to bolster the State Board of Education, Governor Katie Hobbs has appointed Northern Arizona University President José Luis Cruz Rivera to the board, an announcement that came through on Tuesday. According to the Office of the Arizona Governor, Gov. Hobbs expressed that with Cruz Rivera’s appointment, his record of leadership at NAU is expected to translate to wider educational improvements across Arizona. Governor Hobbs said, "He has been a steadfast leader for the students and faculty at NAU, and he will bring that leadership to the State Board of Education."
Cruz Rivera, at the helm of NAU since 2021, has a notable history in academia including being president at Lehman College CUNY and serving in administrative roles across several higher education institutions. Under his guidance, NAU saw a significant expansion of access for Arizonan students, something Hobbs remarked, "ensures every Arizonan has a chance to thrive." Dr. Cruz Rivera will be part of an 11-member board that sets regulations and rules concerning the state's primary and secondary public education. His role is significant, as it will not only influence current educational structures, but also shape the policies that will impact Arizona's long-term educational outcomes, as mentioned by the Office of the Arizona Governor.
"A strong educational system, from pre-K through college and beyond, is essential to the future prosperity of the people, communities, and economy of Arizona," Cruz Rivera remarked upon his acceptance of the appointment, affirming his commitment to educational excellence and equity. His experience spans from policy to student affairs, creating a comprehensive view on educational strategy that will be influential in the board's decisions, as detailed by the Office of the Arizona Governor.
Dr. José Luis Cruz Rivera's educational strategies have borne fruit in setting precedents for system-wide collaborations and innovative approaches to learning. At NAU, he introduced new admissions and financial aid practices that have made higher education more accessible. The strategic roadmap, Elevating Excellence, has been a guiding document at NAU under Cruz Rivera’s stewardship and is likely to influence his contributions to the State Board of Education, seeking to elevate educational quality and opportunities for all students in Arizona.
