Fresno State President-Designate Joseph I. Castro announced he will create a transition team to assist in his move into the presidency on Aug. 1 and his first six months in office.

Castro has asked California State University Trustees Peter G. Mehas and Hugo Morales, both of Fresno, to co-chair the team. Mehas chaired the committee searching for a new Fresno State president to succeed Dr. John D. Welty, who will retire July 31. CSU trustees selected Castro on May 22.

“I will ask a small group of talented, experienced and diverse representatives from across Fresno State – students, faculty, staff and alumni – as well as business, government and community leaders from Central California and throughout California to help me make a smooth transition,” Castro said.

“I value input from all constituents as I begin this momentous journey,” he said.

Castro expects to have the team assembled by mid-June.

A native of Hanford, Castro returns to the Valley following a 23-year administrative and academic career with the University of California. He held leadership positions at three UC campuses and in its system-wide office. He current is Vice Chancellor for Student Academic Affairs at University of California – San Francisco.