SDBJ Award Recognizes Director of EOP, Project Rebound

Justin Lewis, Cal State San Marcos' director of the Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) and Project Rebound, has been recognized as a 2025 Nonprofit Board Leader of Influence by the San Diego Business Journal.

The nomination of Lewis noted that he “is a transformative leader in higher education, philanthropy and social justice.”

In his roles at CSUSM, Lewis oversees programs expanding access to education for low-income and justice-impacted students, creating pathways to opportunity.

“His leadership extends beyond academia, shaping initiatives that drive economic mobility and equity,” the nomination said.

As a board member for Episcopal Community Services, Lewis supports the Resource Development Committee, advancing fundraising efforts for early childhood education, mental health and substance use recovery programs. He also played a key role in St. Paul’s Cathedral’s major gifts campaign, helping raise over $2.5 million.

A North San Diego NAACP lifetime member and longtime Williams College mentor, Lewis has a deep commitment to community impact, the nomination noted. As one colleague said: “Justin is a great leader and mentor. His knowledge of business proved invaluable during and after my internship. With 30-plus years of volunteer experience, his vision, fundraising expertise and dedication to social justice make him an outstanding candidate.”

Media Contact

Eric Breier, Interim assistant director of editorial and external affairs
ebreier@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7314