Remembering President Emeritus Dr. Suzuki, 1936-2024

Dear Campus Community, 

It is with a heavy heart that I announce the passing of Dr. Suzuki, former president of Cal Poly Pomona. He passed away on May 1, 2024, surrounded by his wife Agnes Suzuki, their children and grandchildren.  

Dr. Suzuki served as President of Cal Poly Pomona from 1991 until he retired in 2003. Prior to joining our university, Dr. Suzuki served as Dean of Graduate Studies and Research at California State University, Los Angeles from 1981 to 1985, and as Vice President for Academic Affairs at California State University, Northridge from 1985 to 1991.  

As president of Cal Poly Pomona, he oversaw several development projects including the construction of our engineering building, and expansions of The Collins School of Hospitality Management and the Rain Bird BioTrek learning center. Most notably, he is responsible for the Aratani Japanese Garden where students, faculty and staff can retreat to experience tranquility and beauty throughout the day.   

Like my dear friend Ed Sasaki, Dr. Suzuki was a victim of the WWII Japanese Internment Camps as a young child. And I believe that experience, along with the experiences of his family members and loved ones, drove him to become an agent of change. He devoted himself to civil rights and enhancing the lives of under-represented communities. He championed Asian Americans and elevated their stories, experiences and triumphs. And he advocated for justice daily through his work and words.  

Dr. Suzuki was a visionary leader, a mentor and role model to many. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather and a kind friend.  

He was a helpful advisor when I reached out, and one of the most gifted minds on multicultural education, international education and educational equity in our world. His mark on Cal Poly Pomona and the CSU system is indelible, his legacy remarkable, and his passing too soon.  

I will cherish and miss his helpful advice, his brilliant mind and his generous spirit. If you have a moment this week to walk through the Aratani Japanese Garden, I hope you think of Dr. Suzuki and his life of service.  

I have contacted his wife, Mrs. Agnes Suzuki, and expressed condolences on behalf of the Cal Poly Pomona community. I know that you join me in celebrating President Emeritus Suzuki's life and honoring his contributions to this great institution.   

We will share details of arrangements to memorialize Dr. Suzuki when they are confirmed.  

Sincerely,

Soraya M. Coley, Ph.D.
President