Stanislaus State is preparing for a moment steeped in both tradition and possibility. On Friday, Oct. 3, 2025, the University will formally invest Britt Rios-Ellis as its 13th president during a ceremony that honors the past, embraces the present and sets a course for the future.
The Investiture ceremony, part of a time-honored academic tradition, will be held at 1 p.m. in the Ed & Bertha Fitzpatrick Arena with representatives from the California State University system, civic leaders, guest speakers, alumni, faculty, staff, students and community partners in attendance.
The theme, “Leading with Cariño, Rising with the Pulse of Possibility,” reflects Rios-Ellis’ vision of Stan State as a University rooted in equity and the Central Valley, advancing student success, cultural celebration and community engagement through a cariño-centered approach to leadership. Cariño is a culture of care, making people feel seen, valued and included.
The Investiture also signals Stan State’s forward trajectory, defined by academic excellence that uplifts students and, in turn, strengthens families and communities across the Central Valley.
Since beginning her presidency in July 2024, Rios-Ellis has emphasized belonging, academic excellence and regional transformation as guiding pillars for Stan State.
“With the pulse of possibility and the power of cariño, we will rise and thrive,” she said, as the University prepares for a monthlong series of events designed to showcase its vibrancy, regional connections and commitment to transformation.
Registration is required for some events, and details are available on the Investiture Celebration Events page. Please note the film screening of “A Million Miles Away” is already sold out.
Festivities at a Glance
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Theatre Production: “The Sins of Sor Juana”
Sept. 26, 27; Oct. 2–4 at 7:30 p.m.; Sept. 28 and Oct. 5 at 2 p.m. — Mainstage Theatre
A play centered on 17th-century poet Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz, exploring her pursuit of knowledge, love and resistance of societal and religious expectations. Open to the public. -
Coffee with Cariño
Wednesday, Oct. 1, 11 a.m.–12:30 p.m. — MSR 130 and Lawn Area
Faculty and staff are invited to an informal gathering hosted by Staff Council, with a coffee bar, light music and mingling with President Rios-Ellis. Campus employees only. -
“A Million Miles Away” — Film Screening and Q&A (SOLD OUT)
Wednesday, Oct. 1, doors open at 7 p.m., movie starts 7:30 p.m. — Snider Music Recital Hall
A screening of “A Million Miles Away,” followed by a Q&A with former astronaut and 2025 Stan State honorary doctorate José Hernández. Presented by Mocse Credit Union and the University Student Center as part of the Presidential Celebration Series. This event is sold out. -
Benefit Dinner
Thursday, Oct. 2, doors open at 5:30 p.m. and program begins at 6 p.m. — University Event Center
A business-formal dinner to support presidential initiatives. Tickets and sponsorships available for purchase to the public. -
Investiture Ceremony and Reception
Friday, Oct. 3, doors open at noon, ceremony at 1 p.m., reception 3-4 p.m. — Ed and Bertha Fitzpatrick Arena/University Student Center
The formal installation of Britt Rios-Ellis as the 13th president, with academic procession, cultural performances and reflections, followed by a community reception. Open to the campus community and public. -
Noche de Banda
Friday, Oct. 3, 8–11 p.m. — Main Dining
A celebratory evening of Banda music featuring La Afirmativa and DJ Jerm, playing hits from Banda El Recodo, Banda MS, La Arrolladora, Banda Limón and more. Free with Warrior ID. -
Ninth Annual Indigenous Peoples Day
Tuesday, Oct. 14, noon-2 p.m. — Event Center
Honoring Native American communities with speakers, storytellers, healers and artists, spotlighting sovereignty, culture and resilience. Open to the public. -
Social Justice in the Central Valley Conference
Oct. 22–25 — Various locations and livestream
A multi-campus conference addressing structural inequalities via the theme “Wealth, Water and Health: Navigating Political Economies in California’s Central Valley.” The event includes panels, workshops, performances and interactive sessions. Free and open to the public.
