Former Fresno State President Joseph Castro died Sunday at 58 years old. Castro was born in Hanford and was the ninth president of Fresno State, where he served from 2013 to 2020. Photo via Fresno State

Former Fresno State President Joseph Castro died Sunday at 58 years old after battling cancer, Mary, his wife of 33 years, announced on Facebook Monday morning. 

Castro was born in Hanford and was the ninth president of Fresno State, where he served from 2013 to 2020.

“As his family, we take comfort in knowing that Joe’s life was guided by a desire to open doors of opportunity for others. From his days as a young child in Head Start to his later years in higher education, he held fast to the belief that education could strengthen families and transform communities,” his family wrote in the announcement of his death. “His influence continues in the many people he encouraged, supported, and inspired along the way.”

Flags on the Fresno State campus were lowered to half mast Monday in Castro’s honor.

Following his stint as president, Castro served as California State University Chancellor from 2021 until his resignation in 2022, stemming from controversy regarding his handling of sexual harassment complaints during his time at Fresno State. 

He was the first Mexican-American chancellor in CSU history as well as the first Mexican-American president of Fresno State. 

“Dr. Castro’s journey — from a small town in the Valley to leading the largest public university system in the nation — inspired many. Our hearts are with his wife Mary, their children, and all who are grieving,” current Fresno State President Saúl Jiménez-Sandoval wrote in a statement. 

Castro had several accomplishments during his tenure as president, including being named Fresno’s “Man of the Year” for District 4 in 2018.

In his seven years leading the university, the percentage of Hispanic students increased from 40.5% in 2013 to 53.3% in 2020, according to The Collegian. 

The family shared their gratitude for the support of the community during this time. 

“We are profoundly grateful for the outpouring of love during this difficult time,” they wrote. Joe touched countless hearts, and we find solace in knowing his spirit will live on in the students, colleagues, friends, and loved ones who carry forward his example. Thank you for keeping our family in your prayers.

Huron Mayor Rey León wrote, “Mis condolencias. May brother Joe rest in peace. Much love for Joe and the whole family. En paz descance.” 

It was announced on Friday that Castro was placed in hospice care. 

“I’m deeply saddened to hear of the passing of my dear friend, Joseph Castro,” Fresno Mayor Jerry Dyer said in a statement. “He was a visionary in the education sector whose leadership and dedication opened doors for countless students and families across our community. He always encouraged students to ‘Be Bold!’ and that spirit will live on through the lives he touched. His legacy of service and passion for creating opportunities will continue to inspire us all. My thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time.”

Castro is survived by his wife, his sons, Isaac and Jess, his daughter, Lauren and his daughter-in-law, Marilyn.