BEEVILLE, Texas – As a national search continues to find Coastal Bend College’s newest leader, it has appointed a familiar face in the meantime.
Located in Beeville, Texas, Dr. Cesar Maldonado was announced as Coastal Bend College’s interim president effective Monday, April 7.
Previously, Dr. Maldonado served as Chancellor of Houston Community College for nearly 10 years until board members voted not to renew his contract in 2023. It’s unclear why they did so, but years before his contract ended, Dr. Maldonado faced a $100 million lawsuit alleging racial discrimination against employees.
MORE: Houston Community College board votes not to renew Chancellor Cesar Maldonado’s contract
The 2020 lawsuit claimed that under his leadership as Chancellor, Dr. Maldonado—and the Human Resources Director Janet May—Hispanic people received preferential treatment. It also alleged he purposefully demoted African American employees.
Dr. Maldonado will now serve as interim president for Coastal Bend College through August 31, 2025.
“I’m honored to serve Coastal Bend College during this pivotal time,” Maldonado said in a news release statement. “Together with the board, faculty, staff, and community, I look forward to strengthening our commitment to student achievement, community engagement, and academic excellence.”
“The Board is confident that Dr. Maldonado will provide steady leadership, clear communication, and a collaborative spirit as we continue advancing the college’s mission,” Mr. Jeff Massengill, the Board, Chair of the Coastal Bend College Board of Trustees added. “We’re also excited to begin a national search for the college’s next permanent president and believe Dr. Maldonado will help lay a strong foundation for that transition.”