FOUNDED: 1861 as Hesperian College in Woodland by members of the Christian Church. Changed name in 1934 in honor of Charles C. Chapman, its primary benefactor, longtime board chairman, successful businessman and first mayor of Fullerton. Moved to Orange in 1954. Became university in 1991.
LEGACY LEADERSHIP: James L. Doti took over as president when the school was struggling. Ran it for 25 years, expanding with several new buildings named after prominent donors like George Argyros and Paul Musco. Is expert at fundraising; the college’s endowment surpassed $1B this year. Experienced steepest ever 25-year climb in the U.S. News and World Report college rankings. Started law and film schools. Brought back football. Started first ever forecast on OC economy.
QUOTABLE: “My new book, ‘Using Data Analytics to Drive Transformational Change,’ opens with the statement, ‘Most strategic plans are a waste of time – a drain on precious assets.’ That view is based on my belief that comprehensive strategic plans usually promise positive outcomes for everyone. As a result, these broad-based plans become vapid wish lists rather than action plans rooted in economic reality.” — Jim Doti Leader Board
FUN FACT: Between 2004 and 2016, The Chapman Economic Forecast’s accuracy in predicting real U.S. GDP ranked No.1 in the nation.
