Dr. Mary A. Papazian is a seasoned university president and academic leader with nearly 35 years of experience in higher education. She most recently served as President of San José State University, Silicon Valley’s public university, where she led the institution through the COVID-19 pandemic and major organizational transformations. Before SJSU, she served as President of Southern Connecticut State University and held senior leadership roles at Lehman College (CUNY), Montclair State University, and Oakland University. Her career has been dedicated to advancing institutional excellence, digital transformation, inclusive education, research, and global partnerships.

Dr. Papazian has been an active national voice, serving on the boards of HERS, BHEF, NCAA, APLU, AAC&U, and others. A scholar of Early Modern British Literature, she holds three degrees from UCLA. Deeply involved in Armenian cultural and educational initiatives, she serves as Chair of FAST, sits on Haigazian University's Board of Trustees, and is Vice Chair of the Armenian Society of Fellows. She has received multiple honors, including the Sts. Sahag and Mesrob Medal, the Armenian Diaspora Ministry Medal of Distinction, and honorary doctorates from the Armenian State Pedagogical University.