University of California Office of the President, Vice President, Systemwide Human Resources

We are pleased to announce that the University of California, Office of the President has appointed Dianna E. Henderson as vice president of systemwide human resources. In this senior leadership role, Henderson oversees a broad, systemwide HR portfolio and serves as the principal human resources advisor to the UC Board of Regents, the UC president, campus chancellors, medical center CEOs, and other senior leaders across the UC system.

Henderson brings more than 15 years of experience within the University of California and is widely recognized for her collaborative, people-centered leadership. Prior to her appointment, she served as deputy chief HR officer and chief of staff to the vice president of HR and most recently as interim chief HR officer for UCOP. Her work has spanned labor relations, total rewards, HR policy development, organizational and leadership development, and finance and administration, with a consistent focus on aligning HR strategy with UC’s mission.

Throughout her career, Henderson has led complex, systemwide initiatives, including efforts to modernize HR services and expand UC’s Catastrophic Leave Donation Program to support employees impacted by natural disasters. Having begun her UC career in labor negotiations and policy development, she brings deep institutional knowledge and a steady leadership approach that positions UC to advance equitable, responsive, and future-focused human resources strategies for its workforce.

Henderson earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Xavier University and her MBA from Holy Names University.

Read the full press release here.

Becca Kennedy and Cati Mitchell-Crossley led this search with Carley Davenport and Thea Kosmack.