WATCH: Rep. Jim Costa Pays Tribute to Dr. Joseph I. Castro on the Floor of the U.S. House of Representatives

September 3, 2025 Press Release WASHINGTON – In a heartfelt tribute, Congressman Jim Costa (CA-21) honored the life and legacy of Dr. Joseph I. Castro, a trailblazing educator and leader who broke barriers as the first Latino Chancellor of the California State University (CSU) system. Dr. Joseph I. Castro, a Hanford native and first-generation Mexican-American college graduate, rose from professor to President of Fresno State and ultimately became the first Latino Chancellor of the California State University system, the largest four-year public university system in the nation. His leadership opened doors for thousands of students, particularly first-generation and underrepresented students, creating new pathways for success. Dr. Castro's story has been formally entered into the Congressional Record, the official journal of the United States Congress, ensuring that his remarkable contributions to higher education and the San Joaquin Valley will be preserved permanently in the Library of Congress. This formal recognition is one of the highest honors a Member of Congress can bestow. Watch his full remarks HERE . Issues : Education