Devorah Lieberman

Background

About Devorah Lieberman

Dr. Devorah Lieberman, President Emerita-University of La Verne, is a distinguished executive, scholar, and changemaker with a passion for leadership and service. A dedicated advocate for inclusivity and diversity, Lieberman broke barriers as the first female president of the 132-year-old University of La Verne. She has a reputation as an influencer in education, business, and health care sectors. During her 12 years as president of the University of La Verne (2011-2023): • BUDGETING: The budget nearly doubled ($118m to $220m), with a budget surplus every year; • FUNDRAISING: The endowment quadrupled ($36m to $151m); • FUNDRAISING: Completed and surpassed two campaigns, raising $175m • CRISIS MANAGEMENT: Led crisis management through the COVID-19 pandemic; • DIVERSITY, EQUITY, INCLUSION: Established the university as a federally designated Hispanic/Minority Serving Institution (HSI/MSI)/ 70% minority serving; • WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT: Advanced the university’s reputation launching underserved students into successful careers; • WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT: Established a college of Health and Well-Being; • WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT: Organized advocacy and action to assist the state of California in education and workforce needs; • STRATEGIC VISIONING: Completed two successful multi-year strategic plans She has extensive board leadership experience, which includes board membership: Inland Empire Economic Partnership, Los Angeles Chamber of Commerce, Orange County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities, Casa Colina Hospital and Rehabilitation. Throughout her career, Lieberman has been recognized for her leadership. This includes being named Woman of Distinction by Senator Portantino (2023), CEO of the Year by the San Gabriel Valley Economic Partnership (2021), and, the Ellis Island Award (2016). She has also received several honorary doctorates. Lieberman has published extensively on leadership, diversity, and, institutional transformation. These include five books/monographs, 16 book chapters, 30 articles and editorials, and nearly 100 scholarly presentations. Prior to assuming the presidency at the University, Lieberman spent more than two decades at both Wagner College in New York and Portland State University serving as provost and VP for academic affairs, vice provost, and a tenured full professor. She holds a PhD in Intercultural Communication from the University of Florida, an MA in from San Diego State University, a BA from Humboldt State University, and an AA from Mt. San Antonio Community College.