The Cal State Fullerton College of Natural Sciences & Mathematics mourns the loss of three extraordinary individuals in 2024, each leaving indelible legacies that inspire all who knew them, learned from them, or benefited from their generosity. James Friel, professor emeritus of mathematics; John Mathews, professor emeritus of mathematics; and Gareth C.C. Chang, distinguished alumnus, will be remembered not only for their academic achievements but for their unwavering commitment to our college community and the advancement of their fields. Their passion for teaching, research, and community service exemplifies the very best of academic excellence and will continue to inspire future generations of students and faculty alike.
James Friel: An Inspired Leader in Mathematics
Friel’s career at Cal State Fullerton spanned more than three decades. Hired in 1973, Friel played a pivotal role in developing the undergraduate statistics program, laying the foundation for a thriving department in applied mathematics and statistics. His 24-year tenure as department chair (1980–2004) was marked by exceptional leadership, fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation.
Under his leadership, the department introduced graduate programs in applied mathematics and teaching mathematics, expanding opportunities for students to deepen their knowledge and further their careers. Even after his retirement in 2009, Friel remained an active and beloved member of the CSUF community.
He continued to support the department, offering mentorship and sharing his wisdom with former colleagues and new faculty.
A dedicated philanthropist, Friel and his wife, Betty, recently established the James Friel Family Award Endowment to fund a student scholarship, further solidifying his commitment to supporting future generations of students. He personally awarded the first scholarship in April 2024, a poignant reminder of his enduring connection to the university and his dedication to its students’ success.
John Mathews: A Mentor, Educator, and Scholar
Mathews, an esteemed professor in the Department of Mathematics, leaves behind a profound legacy of academic excellence and community involvement. A Cal State Fullerton educator for 38 years, he was known for his dedication to both research and teaching. He made significant contributions to the fields of complex analysis and numerical analysis, authoring influential textbooks and publishing over 60 scholarly articles. His books Complex Analysis for Mathematics and Engineering (1982) and Numerical Methods Using MATLAB (1998) remain widely respected in the academic community and continue to serve as vital resources for students and educators alike.
Mathews was renowned for his ability to make complex concepts accessible to students, earning him admiration as both an educator and mentor. His commitment to teaching extended beyond the classroom, as he was deeply involved in mentoring students and guiding them through their academic journeys. He was a community leader, volunteering for the Boy Scouts and the Orange County Science Fair, demonstrating his dedication to fostering education and intellectual curiosity in both academic and extracurricular settings.
Mathews’ passion for mathematics and his deep connection to his students and colleagues ensured that his influence extended far beyond his retirement in 2007. His contributions to CSUF, both academically and personally, will be remembered with great fondness.
Gareth C.C. Chang: A Visionary Who Bridged Academia and Industry
Chang’s passing marked the loss of a trailblazer who not only excelled in his career but also made a lasting impact on the world of education. A Distinguished Alumnus of Cal State Fullerton, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in mathematics and physics in 1985, he went on to become a prominent figure in international business and technology. His impressive career included leadership roles at companies such as News Corporation, Hughes Electronics, and McDonnell Douglas, where he led groundbreaking initiatives in satellite television, aerospace, and technology.
Throughout his career, Chang remained committed to education, sharing his expertise and insights with students and educators around the world. He served as an adjunct professor at prestigious institutions and was passionate about fostering international collaboration in education. His honorary doctorates and numerous academic accolades were a testament to his profound influence in both the business and educational spheres.
Chang was a staunch supporter of Cal State Fullerton and its mission. His legacy is immortalized by the Gareth Chun-Chung Chang Scholars Endowment, a scholarship fund established in his honor to support future leaders in the fields of mathematics, science, and technology. Chang’s legacy is one of innovation, leadership, and an enduring belief in the power of education.
To make a donation to support the legacy of these three outstanding individuals, please use one of the following links or contact Toni Miller, senior director of development, at tamiller@fullerton.edu or 657-253-3308 for more information.
Support the legacy of James Friel.
