May 13, 2008

Fresno State is poised to lead the New California as it grows in population and economic clout, university President John D. Welty told members of the California Public Employees’ Retirement System (CalPERS) Board of Administration on Monday.

Welty shared his vision for the Central Valley during a dinner he hosted at the University House. Guests enjoyed Fresno State wine, a four-course meal and a performance by Tony Oliveira’s Country Western Band.

With California’s population projected to grow by 25 million people by 2032 – many of them in inland regions – Fresno is one of the last frontiers for development in the state. Welty said the university is in a unique position to help Central California recreate itself to effectively manage change.

CalPERS provides retirement and health benefits to about 1.5 million public employees, retirees, and their families. It is the nation’s largest public pension fund with more than $250 billion in assets.

Caption:  Dr. Welty greets guests at a Fresno State hosted dinner with the

California Public Employees' Retirement system board (CalPERS) at University House.