Cynthia Azari is an educator with 35 years of experience, during which time she has worked with numerous institutions. Throughout her career Cynthia Azari has drawn on a strong academic foundation, having initially graduated from Huston College in 1974 with a bachelor of arts in secondary education and government.

Following this, Dr. Azari attended West Virginia University and earned a master’s degree in educational administration. She also holds a master's in industrial relations from the same university. After over a decade in education, she pursued a doctorate in educational leadership from Seattle University, graduating in 1996.

Cynthia Azari spent several years working with Fresno City College, initially serving as its vice-chancellor for workforce development and educational services and as president from 2007 to 2011. She subsequently returned as interim president for the 2014 to 2015 academic year.

In the role, Dr. Azari oversaw 650 employees, including 340 full-time faculty members. In addition, she managed a budget of $140 million.