Corporate engagement is one of the key tools CalSTRS uses to influence change in the marketplace.

Each year, Corporate Governance staff, under direction from the Teachers’ Retirement Board, determines key issues to engage portfolio companies on over the next fiscal year. Each issue must be consistent with the CalSTRS Corporate Governance Program and Portfolio Policy and its 21 Risk Factors for assessing environmental, social and governance risk.

CalSTRS prefers engagement over divestment as it upholds our rights as a shareholder and allows us to discuss issues with companies that impact the long-term value of the fund. The board will consider divestment as a last resort, but only after pursuing engagement and conducting careful financial analysis.