California State University, Stanislaus
Kenni Friedman is a longtime resident of California's Central Valley. She is a visionary community leader who has dedicated her time and talent to improving the region and the lives of its residents.
She began her civic service in Stanislaus county in the early 1990s, serving three terms as a council member for the city of Modesto. During her tenure on the city council, she served on numerous committees, including financial policy, transportation planning, community development and housing, human services, economic development and intergovernmental relations and public safety. In addition, she served as chair of the San Joaquin Unified Air Pollution Control District and Stanislaus County Council of Governments. She has received numerous awards and accolades for her civic engagement, including the Stanislaus County Bar Association Liberty Bell Award. The award honors an outstanding citizen who, through mostly volunteer efforts, fosters a greater respect and better understanding of the laws and legal systems that contribute to the effective functioning of institutions of government.
In addition to her meritorious civic service, Ms. Friedman's philanthropic and community engagement is extensive, bringing attention to and rallying support for a plethora of noteworthy causes. For instance, her volunteer roles with Salvation Army, United Way, Rotary International and Boys and Girls Club of America are indicative of her genuine care and concern for humanity and the well-being of families and children.
As a member of the President's Community Advisor Council at Stanislaus State University,
Ms. Friedman provides a unique and valuable perspective on the value of public higher education. As a graduate of California's public university system, she offers a holistic perspective on issues affecting access to education and understands the CSU's role in
improving the social and economic conditions of its students, particularly in the Central Valley. Ms. Friedman represents the humane values that are consistent with the California State University, and the region served by Stanislaus State has significantly benefitted from her endeavors.
In recognition of her significant civic service and dedication on behalf of the citizens of the Central Valley, the Board of Trustees of the California State University and California State University, Stanislaus are proud to confer upon Kenni Friedman the honorary degree of Doctor of Humane Letters.