Sacramento State's New President: Luke Wood Brings Equity Focus to the Role
Published on: 6/9/2025
J. Luke Wood is the ninth president of Sacramento State. Prior to his appointment, he was chief diversity officer and vice president for Student Affairs and Campus Diversity at San Diego State. At San Diego State, Wood co-directed the Community College Equity Assessment Lab, focused on reducing equity gaps between students of color and their peers. He also served as a lead co-sponsor of California Assembly Bill 740 through the Black Minds Matter Coalition. In 2023, he was appointed to the California Racial Equity Commission by the California State Senate.
Wood's background includes experience as a former ward of the court and foster child. He earned his B.A. in Black History and Politics from California State University, Sacramento; an M.A. in Higher Education Leadership in Student Affairs from California State University, Sacramento; an M.A. in Curriculum and Instruction in Early Childhood Education from Arizona State University; and a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies from Arizona State University.