Leslie E. Wong
President, San Francisco State University
Leslie E. Wong was appointed as the 13th president of San Francisco State University effective August 1, 2012. Previously, he served nine years as president of Northern Michigan University in Marquette, Michigan.
Dr. Wong is actively committed to student success and to fostering an institutional environment that is adaptable to the needs of 21st century students. He encourages students at San Francisco State University to “own their own minds” by developing their ability to independently evaluate information in an increasingly partisan world. As the leader of a campus that is deeply invested in its community, Dr. Wong invites students to find their voices, though he cautions that being remembered is more important than being heard. As president, he leads a talented group of faculty and staff committed to social justice, equity and making public higher education an essential asset to our collective future.
Academic Experience
- San Francisco State University. President, August 1, 2012 - present
- Northern Michigan University. President, 2004-2012
- Valley City State University in North Dakota. Vice president for academic affairs, 1999-2004
- University of Southern Colorado, Pueblo. Provost and academic vice president, 1996-99; interim president, Jan. 1 to June 30, 1997
- The Evergreen State College in Olympia, Wash. Academic dean, 1990-96; faculty member, 1988-1996
- Pierce College in Tacoma, Wash. Psychology instructor, 1974-1988; women’s varsity tennis coach, 1975-1981
Education
- Ph.D. Educational Psychology, Washington State University.
- M.S. Experimental Psychology, Eastern Washington University.
- B.A. Psychology, Gonzaga University (Spokane, Wash.).