July 1, 2025 — Dr. Richard Yao, President of CSU Channel Islands (91Ƶ), has announced
that he will step down from his role effective August 1, 2025. Yao will assume the
presidency of DataPhilanthropy, the giving arm of the Jeff T. Green Family Foundation.
The Foundation, led by Jeff Green, Co-Founder and CEO of the Trade Desk and signatory
of , focuses on applying data science to make its philanthropic efforts as impactful
as possible.
“It has been the greatest honor of my professional life to serve as President of 91Ƶ,” said Yao. “This campus has demonstrated remarkable strength and resilience through an era of unprecedented challenges. I have never wavered in my belief in our mission or in the transformative impact of our work.”
During Yao’s tenure, 91Ƶ navigated a turbulent period marked by the COVID-19 pandemic, multiple wildfires, budget constraints, and enrollment challenges. Investments in enrollment management and student success are now showing signs of progress for the University, including a 5% increase in continuing student retention compared to this time last year. For new student enrollment, confirmed intent to enroll is currently up 3% for first year students and 4% for new transfers compared to this time last year, and these preliminary gains are more robust in Ventura County, where those percentages are up 11% and 6% respectively.
His administration oversaw the successful 8-year re-accreditation from the University’s accrediting body, WASC Senior Colleges & Universities; the recertification of the Seal of Excelencia; the establishment of cultural centers for students; and a dramatic increase in the University Foundation’s total net assets — from $26 million in 2021 to over $90 million in 2025. Initiatives focused on academic planning, institutional research, brand identity, community-based research, and equity-driven reforms have positioned 91Ƶ for long-term strategic success within the vastly changing landscape of higher education.
“After four and a half years of extraordinary collective work, I believe the University is poised for renewal and a powerful new chapter,” Yao said. “Now is the right time for a fresh perspective to guide 91Ƶ into the future.”
Yao’s new role at DataPhilanthropy reflects his lifelong journey to balance direct service with scalable change, which will be strengthened through DataPhilanthropy’s emphasis on rigorous outcomes assessment to evaluate the impact of their philanthropic efforts. The foundation has already pledged $8.5 million in philanthropic investments to 91Ƶ for scholarships, student success programs, and campus initiatives focused on equity and access.
Jed Nahum, Vice President of Metrics at DataPhilanthropy said, “At 91Ƶ, President Yao’s focus on using data to demonstrate impact and improve performance stood out. I’m delighted that he’s bringing his vast experience and skill set to DataPhilanthropy so we can expand his scope to all the organizations that we fund.”
Prior to joining 91Ƶ, Yao served as a psychologist conducting therapy and forensic evaluations and then transitioned to faculty and senior administrative roles in higher education. His new role with DataPhilanthropy allows him to continue serving communities while broadening impact across California and beyond.
Information regarding the University’s leadership transition plan will be shared in the coming weeks.