California State University, Chico
Steve G. Nettleton has distinguished himself for his exemplary involvement in and support of California State University, Chico and the city of Chico. He is a prominent community leader, businessman, philanthropist, tireless volunteer and major supporter of numerous community organizations.
A basic desire to help others has led Steve Nettleton to contribute his talent and time to many civic organizations, including the Governing Board of Chico Community Hospital and the Enloe Health Systems Board of Governors. His leadership skills were put to use when he served as president of the Chico Rotary Club and president of the Chico Chamber of Commerce, and he has served as Chairman of the Board of North State National Bank since 1982.
Numerous organizations have benefited from Steve Nettleton’s generous nature and charitable spirit. These include the American Red Cross, American Lung Association, American Cancer Society, Boy Scouts of America, United Way, Salvation Army, Chico Boys and Girls Club, and California State University, Chico.
A lifelong interest in baseball and dream to own a baseball team came to fruition when he bought and brought to Chico a Western Baseball League franchise, the Chico Heat. CSU, Chico greatly benefited from his construction of a new baseball stadium (the “Net”), used jointly by the Chico Heat and the Chico State Wildcats.
Steve Nettleton has additionally supported CSU, Chico as a member of the College of Business Advisory Board; the University Advisory Board; the Board of Governors of the University Foundation; and the Business Advisory Board of Students in Free Enterprise. He co-chaired the recent Fulfilling the Promise Scholarship campaign which exceeded its $10 million goal by $6 million.
In recognition of his personal and professional achievements and meritorious service to society, the Board of Trustees of The California State University and California State University, Chico are proud to confer on Steve G. Nettleton the honorary degree of Doctor of Humane Letters.