Cal State LA honored at 2025 Eddy Awards for leadership in regional economic development

Cal State LA was honored at the 30th annual Eddy Awards on Wednesday, Nov. 5, for its leadership in advancing inclusive economic growth, workforce development, and innovation across the Los Angeles region.

Presented by the Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation (LAEDC), the Eddy Awards celebrate individuals, organizations, and educational institutions that demonstrate exceptional contributions to positive economic development in the region.

This year's Strategic Engagement Award recognized Cal State LA along with Cal State Dominguez Hills, Cal State Fullerton, Long Beach State, Cal State Northridge, and Cal Poly Pomona for their shared commitment to excellence and innovative approaches to fostering sustainable prosperity.

"Cal State LA stands as a catalyst for transformation-driving inclusive growth, cultivating a skilled and diverse workforce, and igniting innovation that uplifts every community across the Los Angeles region," said President Berenecea Johnson Eanes. "Together, we are shaping a future where opportunity, creativity, and prosperity are shared by all."

Cal State LA's recognition underscores the university's role as an anchor of economic mobility and community transformation. Through initiatives that link classroom learning with real-world experience and partnerships that align academic programs with industry needs, Cal State LA continues to empower students and strengthen the region.

The Eddy Awards brought together leaders from the region's top business, government, education, and community organizations for an evening of celebration and collaboration. The event supports LAEDC's mission to reinvent the regional economy and advance growth and prosperity for all.

Former NBA star Metta World Peace presented the Eddy Award to California State University (CSU) Chancellor Mildred García on behalf of the six CSU campuses during the ceremony at the Rose Bowl Stadium in Pasadena. His participation was especially meaningful, given his connection to Cal State LA as a volunteer coach for the Golden Eagles women's basketball team.

Chancellor García also delivered remarks during the evening program, highlighting the CSU system's ongoing commitment to innovation, expanding access to higher education, and deepening community engagement across California. Eanes and the five other CSU presidents joined García on stage during the awards presentation.

Additionally, the LAEDC honored Porto's Bakery and Cafe with the 2025 Small Business Award as part of the event. The beloved Southern California bakery, run by siblings Betty, Raul Jr., and Margarita Porto-all Cal State LA alumni-was recognized for its success and community impact.

Cal State LA is the premier public university in the heart of Los Angeles. Recognized as the No. 1 university in the nation for upward mobility, the university transforms the lives of its students and strengthens communities through academic excellence, community engagement, and inclusive opportunity.

The LAEDC is a nonprofit organization dedicated to equitable economic growth in the Los Angeles region. It uses research to advance key industries, provide business assistance, collaborate with educational institutions to develop a robust workforce, and equip government officials with economic data to ensure the continued growth of L.A. County.

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California State University, Los Angeles is the premier comprehensive public university in the heart of Los Angeles. Cal State LA is ranked number one in the United States for the upward mobility of its students. Cal State LA is dedicated to engagement, service, and the public good, offering nationally recognized programs in science, the arts, business, criminal justice, engineering, nursing, education, and the humanities. Founded in 1947, the University serves more than 22,000 students and has more than 270,000 distinguished alumni.