Rob Wilcox authored this piece for CVIndependent.com and published on April 15, 2025:
Edna Martinez holds the title of associate vice president and administrator in charge of California State University, San Bernardino’s Palm Desert Campus. But when she introduces herself, even to students, she simply says, “Call me Edna!”
“I do that to break power dynamics, especially with 82% of our students being first-gen,” Martinez said.
Though she embraces a down-to-earth approach, Martinez is well aware of the inspiration she provides as the first Latina to lead the CSUSB Palm Desert Campus in its nearly 40-year history.