Fresno City College President Carole Goldsmith was named chancellor of the State Center Community College District during a Nov. 29 meeting of the district’s Board of Trustees, putting an end to a comprehensive national search. 

She was selected in a 6-1 vote. 

State Center Community College District Board President Annalisa Perea announced Goldsmith’s appointment, which is subject to the final approval of an employment contract during a Dec. 14 open forum and will be effective Jan. 1, 2022.

Goldsmith will replace Interim Chancellor Douglas Houston as the leader of the district’s four colleges in Fresno, Clovis, Reedley and Madera.

Prior to her presidency of FCC, Goldsmith served as president of West Hills College, Coalinga.

Following the announcement, Goldsmith shared that as a child she overcame a learning disability and became the first in her family with college education.

She compared her experience to other students who are struggling to complete their education.

“Don’t let somebody else’s opinion of you define who you are because you are definitely created to do something great and I believe education is the path to help you find what that greatness is within you,” Goldsmith said.

She said her experience over the last five years as FCC’s president will ensure a smooth transition.