​Jack Raymond

Chariman and CEO, Raymond Companies

California State University, San Marcos

John Raymond has three lives that intersect in ways that passionately benefit the greater community: he is an extraordinary businessman, philanthropist and volunteer. A native of Colorado who received his Bachelor of Science degree from Cornell University, he was raised in Escondido and is the Chairman and CEO of the Raymond Companies, an Escondido-based firm engaged in real property development, investment and management.

Raymond is Chair of the San Diego Foundation Board of Governors, which helps citizens find ways and resources to address community problems. He is immediate past Chair of the North Inland Civic Alliance which also works to inform citizens of issues, and he was the founding Chair of the Escondido Charitable Foundation. He has also been actively involved with the San Diego Regional Economic Development Corporation, LEAD San Diego, Escondido Education Foundation and the Escondido Chamber of Commerce. He is the recipient of the San Diego Corporate Director of the Year for Nonprofits; Escondido Business Leader of the Year; and Escondido Volunteer of the Year.

A retired officer in the U. S. Army Reserve, Raymond had long ties to California State University, San Marcos as a member of the President’s University Council since it was the San Diego State’s Advisory Board charged with bringing a new campus to North San Diego County. Called a longstanding voice of reason and advice to the university, Raymond is a dedicated volunteer and philanthropist who has given generously of his time, expertise, and financial resources to bring California State University, San Marcos into existence.  He received the President’s Distinguished Service Award in 2000 for his tireless efforts to provide opportunities for access and quality education in the county and for his advocacy efforts with state and federal elected officials on behalf of the campus.

In recognition of his outstanding service to the region and his commitment to the university and higher education, the Board of Trustees of the California State University and California State University, San Marcos are proud to confer upon John “Jack” Raymond the honorary degree of Doctor of Humane Letters.