Dr. Federico Zaragoza has extensive experience in higher education & workforce development
LAS VEGAS, May 11, 2018 – The College of Southern Nevada announced today the appointment of Dr. Federico Zaragoza as its ninth president.
Zaragoza has been the vice chancellor for economic and workforce development at Alamo Colleges District in Texas since 2004. He will begin his tenure at CSN on August 15.
“CSN is positioned to really be an institution of greatness and prestige,” Zaragoza said. “I feel privileged and honored to be given this opportunity. I want this community college to be the best in the country.”
Zaragoza was recommended to the Board of Regents by a Nevada System of Higher Education presidential search committee and an advisory committee comprised of CSN students, faculty and staff, as well as community members. The Board unanimously approved the recommendation today.
CSN faculty, staff and stakeholders overwhelmingly said Zaragoza would be a good fit for the college presidency after a series of on-campus forums this week, describing him as driven, passionate and approachable. He succeeds Acting President Dr. Margo L. Martin. Martin, who has served since the retirement of President Dr. Michael D. Richards in February, will return to her position as vice president for academic affairs.
Zaragoza comes to CSN with more than 30 years of experience in higher education and workforce development. In his current position, he has focused on ensuring that programs at the Alamo College District’s five colleges align with industry demand in the San Antonio area. He is credited with helping to more than double the graduation rate in the district.
Born in Mexico City, Mexico and raised in the United States, Dr. Z, as he is often called, earned a bachelor’s degree in sociology, a master’s degree in vocational education, and an educational specialist degree in industrial and technical education from the University of Wisconsin-Stout, and a doctorate in urban education and administrative leadership from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.
He and his wife Laura have two children and two grandchildren.