Born and raised in Merced County, Areias went on to represent the region in the California State Assembly and helped lead the legislative effort to establish a University of California campus in the San Joaquin Valley — an effort that ultimately resulted in the creation of UC Merced. He also carried legislation establishing California State University, Monterey Bay.
Areias is the first person from Merced County to be confirmed by the California State Senate as a gubernatorially appointed member of the UC Board of Regents.
“Helping bring a University of California campus to the San Joaquin Valley was one of the most meaningful efforts of my time in the Legislature,” Areias said. “To now have the opportunity to serve the University of California as a Regent is an extraordinary honor. I look forward to working to ensure that students from every part of our state have access to the educational opportunities and excellence that the University of California represents.”
Governor Gavin Newsom appointed Areias to the Board earlier this year, recognizing a career of public service spanning the California Legislature, state government and decades of work on issues affecting communities throughout California. His Senate confirmation completes the appointment process for a term extending through March 1, 2037.
The appointment represents a particularly meaningful full-circle moment in Areias’ long involvement with California higher education. During his 12 years in the California State Assembly, Areias led the legislative effort to establish a new University of California campus in the San Joaquin Valley — an effort that ultimately resulted in the creation of UC Merced. He also carried legislation establishing California State University, Monterey Bay.
Areias represented portions of Merced, San Benito, Santa Cruz, Monterey and Santa Clara counties in the Assembly from 1982 to 1994. He later served as Director of the California Department of Parks and Recreation and as a member and chair of the California Coastal Commission.
Areias has been a Partner at California Strategies since 2002, advising clients on complex public policy, government relations and strategic issues throughout the state.
From helping bring a University of California campus to the San Joaquin Valley to now helping govern the UC system, Areias’ confirmation marks another significant chapter in a career dedicated to public service and to expanding opportunities for Californians.
Congratulations, Rusty, on this historic and well-deserved confirmation.
