William C. "Bill" Allen

Civic Leader/Businessman/Education Advocate

California State University, Northridge

The achievements and leadership of Mr. William C. "Bill" Allen embody the excellence and ideals of the California State University and California State University, Northridge, and the university's aspirations for its diverse student body.

Mr. Allen is the president and CEO of the Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation (LAEDC), Southern California's premier economic development corporation. He served as the first CEO of the Economic Alliance of the San Fernando Valley. In 2000, he was named California's Civic Entrepreneur of the Year by the California Center for Regional Leadership. He is a noted civic and business leader who has served as a trustee or board member at higher education institutions and in entertainment industry and media arts organizations. He is a veteran television network and studio executive, having served as the director of the CBS Comedy Program Development Department, and as president of MTM Television, founded by Grant Tinker and Mary Tyler Moore. Mr. Allen is the owner of Meadowlane Enterprises, Inc. and Meadowlane Music, Inc. He has been recognized for his work in business assistance and his efforts on behalf of workers in the region, including re-training.

Mr. Allen has long been a supporter, collaborator, champion and friend to CSUN. His extraordinary efforts at both the regional and national levels were instrumental in keeping CSUN open after the 1994 Northridge Earthquake. His introduction of the College of Education to the Michael D. Eisner family resulted in major donations to the university. He has served on the advisory board of the San Fernando Valley Economic Research Center at CSUN. He continues to work with CSUN in developing and implementing programs and services that will foster innovation and entrepreneurship on campus and among students, as part of his vision to enhance the capacity and reputation of greater Los Angeles as a hub of creativity and innovation across industries.

In recognition of his distinguished career, his numerous contributions to the economic development of the region, including CSUN, and his extraordinary community service, the Board of Trustees of the California State University and California State University, Northridge are proud to confer upon William C. "Bill" Allen the honorary degree of Doctor of Humane Letters.