Corvallis, Oregon, United States, June 2026 — Oregon State University (OSU) has appointed Lori Blodorn as Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO), strengthening the university’s leadership as it continues to foster an inclusive, people-centered environment that supports academic excellence, research, and innovation. Bringing nearly three decades of leadership experience spanning higher education, public education, human resources, employment law, and organizational leadership, Lori will lead the university’s human resources strategy, focusing on talent, organizational effectiveness, leadership development, employee engagement, and workforce excellence.
Prior to joining Oregon State University, Lori Blodorn spent nearly six years at California State University, Bakersfield, where she most recently served as Vice President of People and Culture. Before assuming the vice presidential role, she served as Associate Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer, leading the university’s human resources function and advancing strategic initiatives across workforce planning, employee relations, organizational development, and institutional culture. Her leadership played an important role in strengthening people practices and supporting the university’s long-term strategic priorities.
Before joining California State University, Bakersfield, Lori served as Director of Human Resources at Kern Community College District, where she led human resources operations for one of California’s largest community college systems. Earlier, she was Chief Human Resources Officer at Taft Union High School District, providing strategic HR leadership across talent management, labor relations, compliance, employee engagement, and organizational development within the K-12 education sector.
Earlier in her career, Lori served as Human Resources Manager and School Board Member for the School District of Menomonee Falls, combining executive HR leadership with public service. She also practiced law as Owner and Attorney of the Law Office of Lori A. Blodorn, P.C., following her role as an Associate at Testa, Hurwitz & Thibeault, LLP. She began her legal career as a Judicial Intern to Hon. William G. Young at the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts, building a strong legal foundation that has complemented her distinguished career in human resources leadership.
With extensive expertise in human resources strategy, organizational development, employment law, employee relations, talent management, leadership development, labor relations, and higher education administration, Lori is well positioned to support Oregon State University in advancing its people strategy while fostering a culture of collaboration, inclusion, and excellence across its academic community.
About Oregon State University
Oregon State University (OSU) is a leading public research university recognized for its commitment to innovation, academic excellence, and societal impact. Serving students from all 50 U.S. states and more than 100 countries, the university offers nearly 200 degree programs across 11 colleges, supported by two campuses, 11 experiment stations, and Extension programs serving all 36 counties in Oregon.
As one of only three universities in the United States designated as a land-, sea-, space-, and sun-grant institution, Oregon State University combines world-class teaching, research, and community engagement to address global challenges while creating opportunities for students, faculty, staff, and communities to thrive.
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