Dr. Francine Oputa, who retired from Fresno State in 2020 after a long and distinguished career, died unexpectedly on Sept. 14 in Fresno at the age of 70.

Her time at Fresno State — most recently as the director of the Cross Cultural and Gender Center — spanned more than 30 years, during which she led a tremendous body of work across campus in the areas of human relations, equity, conflict resolution and diversity. For most of her time on campus, she worked in the Division of Student Affairs, where her legacy is still felt on campus today. She was a champion not only for staff and faculty, but had a profound impact on the innumerable students she advised, counseled and mentored.

"Dr. Oputa was Fresno State's unwavering champion for diversity, equity and inclusion, serving as the guiding light for discussions on challenging issues with integrity, resolve and visionary leadership,” said President Saúl Jiménez-Sandoval. “Her impact on our campus community, both personally and professionally, is immeasurable. Dr. Oputa was a mentor and a source of inspiration to many of us. While we are collectively heartbroken over this tremendous loss, we are also deeply grateful for Dr. Oputa’s legacy of bridge-building, dialogue and fellowship.”

Visit Fresno State News to read more about Dr. Oputa.

The community is invited to the following events to celebrate the life of Dr. Francine Oputa:

Dr. Oputa's Celebration of Life
Date: Thursday, Sept. 28
Time: 2 p.m.
Location: Family Community Church, 2434 E. Nees Ave., Fresno
The color scheme for the services will be purple and white

A Praise Party for Dr. Oputa — Memorial Tribute Concert
Date: Friday, Sept. 29
Time: 5 p.m.
Location: Resnick Student Union, Ruiz Ballroom

Dinner and Open Tributes
Date: Friday, Sept. 29
Time: 7 p.m.
Location: Resnick Student Union, Ruiz Ballroom
Join us for a meal and time to share memories and continue to pay tribute.

For more information and other tributes, visit this memorial website.