Sacramento State President Alexander Gonzalez is one of the 100 most influential Hispanic leaders in America in 2005, according to the October edition of Hispanic Business Magazine.

Gonzalez, who came to Sac State in 2003, is joined by Hispanics from the fields of government, entertainment, sports, business and academia to be commended for his excellence in leadership. Also in the top 100 are Melquiades Martinez, U.S. Senator from Florida; Eva Longoria, star of ABC’s “Desperate Housewives;” and Jose Huizar, the board president of the Los Angeles Unified School District.

In the article, the magazine mentions “Destination 2010,” Gonzalez’s plan to add to the university’s prestige by taking Sacramento State from a commuter college to a destination university. Building a Recreation, Wellness and Events Center, increasing student housing and adding academic buildings are all elements of this plan revitalize the campus.

“We’re very proud of President Gonzalez for appearing on the list,” said Frank Whitlatch, campus spokesman at Public Affairs. “It speaks of his leadership and vision for the university.”

In a confidential survey taken by the 100 Hispanics honored, “Access to Education” was named the top policy concern. Results also revealed that the leaders reported a decline in discrimination, a shift toward English-language media and increased support for Federally supported healthcare.

The magazine chose the 100 standouts by nominations from readers, Web site visitors, editors, writers and magazine staff.

Previously, Gonzalez served as president of California State San Marcos and vice-president for academic affairs at Fresno State University. He has a doctorate and master’s degree in psychology from UC Santa Cruz.

Now, Gonzalez chairs the board for the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities, is a member of the advisory board for the National Survey of Student Engagement and sits on the board of directors for Valley Vision.

“(Gonzalez) understands that Sac State has a lot of potential to be a better university.” Whitlatch said.

The State Hornet news staff can be reached at [email protected].