Cynthia Teniente-Matson is the first Latina and fourth woman to serve as San Jose State University president since the university was founded in 1857. She grew up inspired by her mother’s strong work ethic and compassion for others.

New San José State University president takes the helm and opens her ears to students and staff eager to put tumult and turnover behind them. Many are hopeful that Teniente-Matson will bring increased stability, trust and accountability to the university.

President Teniente-Matson sits down for an interview with Update News on a special edition of the newscast.

San José State’s new president is getting to work and with that comes stability for the school. Now both the new president and the student body say they’re ready for a new era.

For the first time in its 166-year history, San José State University has a Latina president. Cynthia Teniente-Matson knows there’s a responsibility that comes with being the first Latina president at the university, a role she’s already embraced.