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Rico Munn’s Appointment as Chancellor Signals New Beginnings for CSU

Update A New Era for Colorado State University: Meet Chancellor Rico Munn On February 20, 2026, the Board of Governors of Colorado State University (CSU) confirmed Rico Munn as the next chancellor of the CSU System, a role that positions him at the helm of an institution serving over 50,000 students across three campuses. This pivotal announcement is not just a change in leadership, but a moment of transition for the CSU System's governance and community engagement. Leadership with Local Roots Munn brings an extensive background in education, including roles as the former superintendent of Aurora Public Schools and the head of the Colorado Department of Higher Education. His strong ties to CSU span over a decade, having served in various significant positions including chief of staff and interim president of CSU Pueblo. As Board Chair John Fischer noted, Munn's seasoned experience presents a unique asset as he takes on the demands of leadership amid current challenges in higher education. A Controversial Selection Process The path to Munn's appointment was not without criticism. Many faculty members expressed concerns over the hastiness of the search process, which took just seven weeks and received backlash for a perceived lack of engagement with the CSU community during winter break. Faculty representatives voiced their apprehensions, emphasizing the importance of shared governance and involving all stakeholders in significant decisions such as presidential transitions. Rebuilding Trust and Community Engagement Despite these concerns about the selection process, Munn's commitment to enhancing communication within the university is promising. He acknowledged the need for a collaborative approach moving forward, stating that he aims to strengthen the connections between administration, faculty, staff, and students - a critical aspect of university governance. Governor Jared Polis commended Munn's dedication to ensuring educational opportunities for all, a sentiment that resonates with many stakeholders within the CSU community. Looking Ahead: What This Means for CSU As Munn prepares to formally transition into his new role on July 1, 2027, he faces the challenge of not only managing the CSU System effectively but also restoring confidence among faculty and staff regarding the decision-making processes. This leadership change marks a crucial opportunity to foster unity and cooperation, critical for navigating the turbulent landscape of higher education. The success of Munn’s chancellorship may ultimately hinge on his ability to address these ongoing concerns while steering CSU towards a more inclusive and innovative future.