CSUSM's Chief Financial Officer Receives Top National Award
Leon Wyden, Cal State San Marcos' vice president of Finance and Administrative Services and chief financial officer, has received the highest annual honor from the National Association of College and University Business Officers (NACUBO).
Wyden was named the winner of the 2025 Distinguished Business Officer Award as NACUBO recognized six business and finance leaders and one university during its annual meeting, which started Saturday in Washington, D.C.
“This recognition holds profound meaning for me – not only as a personal milestone, but as a testament to the collective efforts, encouragement and wisdom I have been fortunate to receive throughout my career,” Wyden said at the awards ceremony. “This award is more than a professional achievement; it is a reflection of the values and community that NACUBO represents. To be recognized by peers and leaders whom I so deeply respect is both inspiring and humbling. It reaffirms my belief in the transformative power of collaboration and service in higher education.”
Wyden was honored for his significant positive impact on advancing business and finance administration in higher education and on the association. Since joining CSUSM in 2021, he has had wide-ranging impacts on campus, from expanded student housing and dining facilities to sustainable energy practices and streamlined business operations.
Wyden is active in NACUBO, has served as a board member for regional affiliate EACUBO and has been a peer evaluator for the Middle States Commission for Higher Education, among many other volunteer engagements.
“Throughout his four-year tenure at CSUSM, Leon has accomplished what would take many others decades to achieve,” CSUSM President Ellen Neufeldt said. “He exemplifies the very essence of strategic leadership, fiscal stewardship and innovative thinking, significantly advancing the financial and administrative excellence of our institution and the broader higher education landscape. Leon has been instrumental in transforming CSUSM’s financial operations, leading with integrity, vision and a steadfast commitment to student success.”
CSUSM is the latest stop for Wyden in a distinguished career spanning institutions such as Howard University, Upper Iowa University, Tiffin University, the University of Findlay and Frostburg State University.
NACUBO, founded in 1962, is a nonprofit professional organization representing chief administrative and financial officers at more than 1,700 colleges and universities across the country.
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