Dr. Wise Allen Steps in as Chancellor, Announces Strategic Vision for the Peralta Colleges

Peralta Community College District Chancellor Has a Plan for Success

OAKLAND, Calif., July 12, 2010 – In his first week on the job, the new Chancellor of the Peralta Community College District, Dr. Wise E. Allen, has had to deal with state budget cuts to education, probationary status for his colleges, planning for potential Johannes Mehserle trial demonstrations, a civil grand jury report and dramatically increased educational demand.

It's all in a days work for Dr. Allen, who is well positioned to get the job done for the Peralta Colleges after his appointment as interim chancellor on July 1.  He served as the district's Vice Chancellor immediately prior to his appointment as Chancellor, and is a former President of Merritt College, as well as previously serving as an administrator at each of the other three district colleges: Laney College, Berkeley City College and College of Alameda.  He began at the latter institution as a sociology professor 35 years ago.

As Chancellor, Dr. Allen has laid out his strategic vision: "Our top priority is to keep budget cuts as far away from the classroom as possible.  Our core mission is to provide affordable quality education in a caring teaching environment, so our highly diverse student body can pursue life-changing opportunities. 

"The state no longer provides full funding to teach our local students, so it's a constant challenge to fund our classrooms.  We can accomplish that, both by economizing – for example, we've cut travel expenses by 70 percent – and by finding new money.  That's a major role for us in Peralta Community College District management: we aggressively seek funding to educate as many students as possible.  In the last 18 months, for example, we've secured $14 million in grants from the federal government, plus millions of dollars from other sources to finance our classroom education and vocational training.

"That makes it possible for thousands of local residents of all ages to attend classes which would otherwise not be available to them.  It makes it possible for thousands to change their lives by transferring to a four-year university, getting a job or upgrading their job skills for career advancement. We make a huge difference in people's lives.

"My second priority is to do the administrative work to get us off probationary status with the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges.  We already have a comprehensive plan in place, and a highly qualified senior management team has been working diligently on our financial management procedures and technology since December 2009. 

"Our students and faculty are not affected by the probationary status, because the accreditation of our colleges remains in place.  Classes continue, credits remain transferable to other colleges, and, financial aid is unchanged.  We have to report to the accreditors in October and have until June of next year to correct deficiencies."

"Finally, I want to improve our reputation as one of the finest community college systems in the state.  We've learned from the past, and this district now probably has stronger ethical controls on our leadership than any in the state.  I'll make it a priority to ensure that all the new reforms that we've put into place in the past year will be carried out, and thereby will help build public confidence.  I also have the greatest respect for our board of trustees, who really care about the students.  We do fantastic work for our students, and the general public has no clue.  We have more positive impact on our students' lives than the average four-year university.  It's time we got the word out."

Board President Statement on Alameda County Civil Grand Jury Report

In response to the Grand Jury report released today, Abel J. Guillén, President of the Peralta Community College District Board of Trustees, released the following statement:

I would like to personally thank the Civil Grand Jury of Alameda County for their work to shed light on the issues facing the Peralta Community College District.  I am pleased that the Civil Grand Jury found no complaint with the Peralta Colleges' achievements on our core mission of providing education and job training.  As a trustee, elected to serve the public and ultimately the taxpayers, I will take this report very seriously. 

However, elements of this report are either out of date or clearly inaccurate on first glance.  Starting last year, the Board had already taken proactive steps to address issues in the report, including eliminating personal credit cards entirely, and reducing travel expenses by over 70 percent.  Now the grand jury is recommending all these changes, which we have already implemented.

I also agree with the civil grand jury that transparency on spending decisions should be mandatory.  That is why the trustees under my leadership have taken action to require Board approval at public hearings of District travel and payments, to reduce the possibility of abuses.  We have also required tough reporting mandates, which are stronger than those required by State law, to disclose relationships with contractors.  All of these reforms were initiated on our own, and they are already in place.

And some of the criticism in the report appears misplaced. For example, travel to meet with officials in Washington DC helped generate $14 million in federal grants for education and job training.  The civil grand jury said to save money we should have traveled to Washington before the inauguration of President Obama, which is nonsensical.

I am committed to improving fiscal oversight and avoiding even the appearance of impropriety.  I have followed ethics policies and protected taxpayer funds while on board business.  We will make sure the District responds in writing to this report within 90 days or less.

Abel J. Guillén, President
Peralta Community College District Board of Trustees
July 7, 2010

Statement Concerning the Alameda County Civil Grand Jury Report

The Peralta Community College District takes the findings of the Civil Grand Jury report seriously and will give due consideration to any recommendations that we have not already implemented.   Last year, the Peralta Colleges made numerous policy changes to improve transparency and avoid even the appearance of impropriety, rendering much of the report useful, but outdated.  

We are pleased that the Civil Grand Jury found no complaint with the Peralta Colleges' achievements on our core mission of providing education and job training.  Additionally, on administrative matters, it found no violations of law, but merely recommendations for improvement.

On its own accord, the Peralta Community College District Board of Trustees immediately initiated an independent inquiry last July and implemented all "best practice" recommendations after surveying other colleges.  Over the last year, we have already implemented more than half a dozen of the report's recommendations.  For example, the Peralta Board of Trustees revised the District's code of ethics last September and banned personal credit cards in October, and the District has already reduced travel expenses by 70 percent this year.  In any case, less than one-tenth of one percent of the District budget is spend on total trustee and chancellor travel and related expenses.

We respectfully disagree with the Civil Grand Jury on several points where they made errors or misunderstood the facts.  For example, the Grand Jury's recommendation that travel to Washington DC should have occurred "a few months before" President Obama's inauguration makes no sense.  Nothing would have been accomplished by meeting with President Bush's lame-duck administration.

District leaders' travel to Washington helped generate more than $14 million in government grants for education and job training.  The relatively small cost of travel to the presidential inauguration as part of the Colleges’ advocacy efforts pales in comparison.  We think our students who benefit from more classes and better job training would agree that this is an excellent return on investment.

Similarly, the phenomenal return on investment for the international program makes money for the Peralta Colleges. The $6.2 million in fees and tuition paid by out-of-state and international students last year helped subsidize classes and training for local students. The District received more than $40,000 from international application fees alone last academic year, exceeding the entire international travel budget. 

Other Civil Grand Jury errors or misperceptions include recommendations for:

• Annual meetings with outside auditors (already District policy for years);

• Elimination of business expense reimbursement (contrary to law); and,

• Provision of District office space for trustees (not cost effective).

Unfortunately, the Civil Grand Jury elected not to discuss their initial conclusions with the Peralta Community College District beforehand, or we could have pointed out these and other obvious misperceptions, mistakes and contradictions in their report.  Similarly, the Jury refused our offer to tour the Peralta Colleges' classrooms and laboratories to discuss their observations and examine firsthand our successful educational and job training programs.

Other elements of the report were more carefully considered and useful.  The Peralta Colleges are committed to improving programs and fiscal oversight on behalf of our 30,000 students.  We thank the Civil Grand Jury for their evaluation and we will be responding in writing to each recommendation within 90 days or less. 

The Peralta Community College District
July 8, 2010

A Message Concerning Our Accreditation Status From the Chancellor

In my first week on the job as Chancellor, I received an anticipated letter from the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges placing the Peralta Community College District's campuses on probation.

Students Protected

While we work on addressing the Commission's recommendations during the time allotted us in the letter, I want to assure you that the accredited status of our colleges remains in place, and students and faculty are unaffected.  Student classes will continue as before during the probationary period; credits will be received and remain transferable to other colleges; and, financial aid is unchanged. 

The District has known for some time about certain deficiencies in our fiscal procedures, governance and technology as identified by the Commission, so a comprehensive plan is already in place to make the necessary corrections.  Additionally, a highly qualified senior management team has been diligently working on this since December 2009.  We taking this all very seriously and are committed to resolving issues relating to information systems, governance and financial administration procedures.

We Are Making Progress

In fact, the Commission acknowledges our major progress to date:

"The Commission notes that the District undertook significant and important steps to address the serious issues … While the District has made a good beginning to correct its operations, there is much yet to do before sound management is re-established."

The Peralta Colleges are dedicated to following a path to recovery that has been well-traveled by many colleges.  Fully 37 percent of California community colleges were placed on sanctions from 2003 to 2008.  Most community colleges in California have been sanctioned by the accrediting commission at some time, however, only one California community college has had its accreditation revoked.  The Peralta Colleges are committed to follow the same path to restored health as other colleges have followed successfully.

Timeline in Place

Under US Department of Education regulations, institutions have two years to make corrections or else the Commission must take action to terminate accreditation.  Even if accreditation should ever be terminated, accredited status continues during all review and appeal periods.  Probationary status also requires the Peralta Colleges to report back to the Commission by October 15 on our progress in addressing the issues identified. The Commission chose not to impose more serious sanctions than probation, such as an order to "show cause" why accreditation should not be withdrawn. 
The Peralta Colleges have already taken extraordinary steps to address the Commission's recommendations, including:

• Established a Recovery Team to focus on accreditation issues.
• Appointed a new Vice Chancellor of Finance.
• Appointed an Acting Assistant Vice Chancellor for Budget and Finance.
• Conducted staff training to maintain PeopleSoft financial management system.
• Established responsibility for each financial area in the PeopleSoft system to establish accountability and set timelines.

Quality Learning Continues

Thankfully, all of the deficiencies are administrative in nature, and none are in classroom education.  Quality teaching and learning continues at each of our colleges, and thousands of students graduate and receive occupational certificates every semester.  The Peralta Colleges continue to provide affordable, quality education, and we are committed to maintaining classroom excellence while work goes on to meeting accrediting standards for administration. 

The past two years have represented trying times for all community colleges across the state, including the Peralta Colleges.  We have had to cope with the nationwide economic crisis, state budget cuts to education, and increased educational demand as the University of California and the California State University systems have dramatically limited student enrollment.  As we have fought to keep budget cuts as far away from the classroom as possible, administrative tasks have sometimes received less attention.  We are now fully focused on the Commission's requirements as our top priority. 

We are meeting this challenge with the right plan, the right people and the right attitude.  I will continue to keep our community informed on the status of accreditation as corrective programs continue.

Wise E. Allen, Ph.D., Chancellor
The Peralta Community College District
July 8, 2010

Stephanie Casenza, MS, APR, has joined the Peralta Colleges Foundation as its first full-time executive director, according to Karen Friedman, president of the organization's board of directors.

"A viable and stable foundation is essential to the long-term health of the district's four colleges, and the board felt we were long overdue in hiring a qualified, full-time professional to take the foundation to the next level," said Friedman. "We conducted a comprehensive search, and Stephanie was our unanimous first choice with experience in all of the key responsibility areas."

Peralta Colleges Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 1971 to secure funds in support of the mission of the four colleges in the Peralta Community College District. The Foundation's primary purposes are to provide scholarships to students and support excellence in the colleges' diverse professional and vocational training programs.

Casenza brings a broad base of experience in the business and nonprofit worlds to her role as executive director of the Peralta Colleges Foundation. Her skills in management, fundraising, grant-making, marketing, and public relations have been gained through positions in higher education, health care, the arts, and as a consultant.

A native of New Orleans, Louisiana, Casenza has lived in California for much of her adult life. She graduated from San Diego State University and the University of San Diego, where she earned a master's in executive leadership from the School of Business. She is among the two percent of public relations professionals who have earned the universal accreditation from the Public Relations Society of America. A long time volunteer for professional societies and community organizations, she has also taught courses at SDSU, University of California at San Diego, and Nonprofit Management Solutions.

She resides in Oakland with her husband, Kevin McGourty, and their dog, Ginger

Peralta Community College District Announces New Administrators for 2010-11 Academic Year

The Peralta Community College District has announced the appointment of new management personnel in several key leadership positions. These staffing changes within the East Bay district that includes the four colleges of Berkeley City College, College of Alameda, and Laney and Merritt Colleges in Oakland include an interim chancellor and presidents for two colleges. The appointments take effect July 1, 2010.

At the District Office:
Wise E. Allen, Ph.D., Interim Chancellor, was previously Peralta’s Vice Chancellor of Educational Services. Additionally, Allen was formerly, Vice President of Instruction at College of Alameda, Interim President of Berkeley City College and has held many positions at the District.

Debbie Budd, Vice Chancellor of Educational Services, was previously, Associate Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs at Peralta. Budd formerly served as Vice President of Instruction at Berkeley City College, and Vice President of Educational Resources at Foothill College. She has been with the District since 2007.

Ronald Gerhard, Vice Chancellor of Finance, has served as Chief Business Officer at Compton Community College District. Gerhard also formerly served as Business Manager and Internal Auditor at San Bernardino Community College District.

Trudy Largent, Interim Vice Chancellor of Human Resources, has served as Director of Human Resources, Solano Community College. Largent also formerly served as Vice Chancellor of Human Resources at San Bernardino Community College District and Peralta Community College District.

David Betts, Acting Director of Human Resources, was serving as Deputy Director of Human Resources at Peralta. Betts formerly served as a Human Resources Analyst and HR Supervisor at Peralta, and as an Administrative Analyst in Human Resources at UC, Office of the President. He has been with the District since 2004.

At College of Alameda:
Jannett Jackson, Acting President, College of Alameda, previously served as Vice President of Instruction at College of Alameda. Jackson also formerly held the position of Dean, in the Learning Resources Center at Fresno City College. Jackson is also a military veteran with 28 years of service. She has been with the District since 2004.

Rebecca Kenney, Interim Vice President of Instruction, was previously Dean of Instruction at Merritt College. Kenney formerly served as Dean of Continuing Education & Training at Hawaii Community College and Director of Continuing Education, Training & Apprenticeship at Mt. Hood Community College, as well. She has been with the District since 2007.

Gary Perkins, Interim Dean of Instruction, College of Alameda, was previously a Computer Information Systems Instructor at College of Alameda. In addition, Perkins also formerly served as Interim Chief Information Officer for Peralta Community College District. He has been a regular faculty member since 1999.

At Laney College:
Elnora Webb, President, Laney College, was previously Interim President of Laney College. Webb’s former positions include Dean of Instruction and Vice President of Instruction at Laney College. She has been with the District since 2002

Peralta Community College District Trustees Honor Retirees During Final Board Meeting of 2009-10 Academic Year

On Tuesday, June 22, during the final Board meeting of the 2009-10 academic year, members of the Board of Trustees of the Peralta Community College District honored a number of retirees, including Chancellor, Elihu Harris, and paid tribute to the decades of service that have been provided by newly appointed Interim Chancellor, Wise Allen, who will assume the leadership role of this four-college district (Berkeley City College, College of Alameda and Laney and Merritt colleges in Oakland) beginning today, July 1.

Chancellor Elihu Harris received accolades, not only from the Board members, but also the college presidents and others who were present at the meeting.

Board president Abél Guillén thanked Harris for his “counsel and wisdom,” and, noting the difficulties the district and Chancellor have endured over the past year, cited Theodore Roosevelt as he advised all in attendance that individuals in public service are often “beat up” by criticisms coming from those they serve.

“It is not the critic who counts,” quoted Guillén as he addressed Harris, “not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles; the credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, who strives valiantly; who errs and comes short again and again; because there is not effort without error and shortcomings; but who does actually strive to do the deed, who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement and who at the worst, if he fails, at least he fails while daring greatly.”

To the man she considers her “sparring partner,” Trustee Linda Handy praised Harris, pointing out a number of accomplishments incurred, both for the District and the Chancellor, during his seven-year tenure. “The Department of Labor grants were accomplished due to your relationship with our congress person and Washington” said Handy, who thanked Harris for his willingness to go to D.C. and fight for funding.

Reminding the audience of the visit to Laney College last month by the Assistant Secretary Labor, Jane Oates – who specifically stated during a press conference that there was a direct correlation between the visit to Washington earlier in the year by the Peralta contingency and her subsequent visit to see the results – Trustee Handy said of that visit:  “Some may not appreciate the impact of the Assistant Secretary’s presence here, but it will change lives in the community; so Elihu Harris has a legacy here at Peralta.”

Praise was also offered by Trustee Nicky Gonzalez-Yuen, who expressed appreciation for Harris’ commitment to a sustainable future. Recounting one of his first meetings with the Chancellor, Gonzalez-Yuen recalled “You asked what was important to me and I said saving the planet and developing a plan, as a district, for embodying the spirit of a sustainable future. Through your unwavering commitment in words, action and budget, you supported the Sustainable Peralta Initiative through the Chancellor’s Advisory Committee on sustainability, the Annual Sustainability Conference, Facilities development and more.”  Thanking Harris for his service, Gonzalez-Yuen noted “you have an enduring legacy [at Peralta] and a model for other districts and public institutions to follow.”

Harris, himself, shared with attendees his sense of gratitude for support and his appreciation for the dedication the “Peralta family” shows towards students and his faith in their ability to carry the District’s mission forward. He also expressed gratitude to the Board of Trustees in affording him the opportunity to “walk away from the position, rather than be drug out the chair.”  “Even though some trustees got ‘beat up’ by the Bay Area Newspaper Group,” said Harris, “you gave me support when you could have, more easily, sacrificed me on the fire of public opinion.” 

The Board was also unanimous in its glowing appreciation of Dr. George Herring upon his retirement from his second appointment as president of College of Alameda, conferring upon him the honor of “President Emeritus.”  “Dr. Herring brought College of Alameda and the PCCD a lot of prestige,” noted Trustee Marcie Hodge. Added Trustee Bill Withrow, “We were fortunate to have Dr. Herring assume the mantle of president for a second time; he is highly respected in the community.”

Elihu Harris concluded his seven-year tenure as Chancellor on June 30. Harris’s accomplishments include increasing student enrollment 12% between 2005-09; passing a $390 million bond measure to repair old, dilapidated college buildings; enhancing Peralta’s relationships with colleges and universities; expanding and improving Peralta’s community partnerships; through shared governance developing a comprehensive strategic plan; increasing international student enrollment, a major revenue source; increasing grants and funding coming to the Peralta Colleges; and expanding Peralta’s Career and Technical Education opportunities.

Interim Chancellor Wise Allen begins his tenure on July 1.

"Dr. Allen bring a wealth of knowledge and experience – and integrity – to the Peralta Colleges, and is uniquely qualified to lead the District through this transitional period,” Board President Guillén previously said. “His excellence in educational practice and his longtime work at various levels of the District and colleges, cannot be matched. The Board and I look forward to working closely with Dr. Allen.” 

Allen carries the singular distinction of having been an administrator at each of the Peralta College, as well as serving at the District’s administrative headquarters in Oakland. 

Since 1964, the Peralta Community College District – Berkeley City College, College of Alameda and Laney and Merritt Colleges – has served Alameda, Albany, Berkeley, Emeryville, Oakland and Piedmont by providing East Bay students of all ages with a range of educational programs and life-long learning opportunities. To learn more, visit www.peralta.edu.

Peralta Community College District to Receive Jobs-Training Grant

Congress Woman Barbara Lee Instrumental in Securing Funds for Colleges

The Peralta Community College District (Berkeley City College, College of Alameda and Laney and Merritt Colleges in Oakland) announced today that Congresswoman Barbara Lee (CA-09) has secured an award of $2.9 million in funding through the U.S. Department of Labor’s Community-based Job Training grants program. This grant is part of $13.7 million in job-training grants that Labor Secretary Hilda Solis is making available to the state of California.

The $2.9 million grant will support the district’s “Peralta Achievement Collaborative” – a job-training initiative that targets formerly incarcerated individuals, dislocated workers, the long-term unemployed and limited English-proficiency students, training them in the areas of green construction and energy management, transportation and logistics and allied healthcare and human services. The program will receive this funding over a three-year period.

"I am pleased that the Department of Labor is providing this important funding for the Peralta Achievement Collaborative," said Congresswoman Lee. "Support of this program is in keeping with the Obama Administration’s commitment to preparing the American workforce for the next generation of employment opportunities. This funding will allow the Peralta Achievement Collaborative to enhance and expand its important programs designed to prepare people for the jobs of the future."

Said Alameda County Supervisor Keith Carson, "The increasingly competitive Bay Area job market has a number of industries that are expected to thrive in the future. The program designed by the Peralta Achievement Collaborative utilizes proven best practices designed to help those who need to be retrained or have been disconnected from meaningful job training opportunities, so they can access employment that will pay a livable wage well into the future."

The Peralta Achievement Collaborative project expands the capacity of the existing Career Advancement Academy model to recruit, train and place participants in jobs in four targeted industries through a cohort-based program. All students receive a comprehensive career and academic assessment, contextualized basic skills, intensive supportive services, and vocational skills training leading to employer-recognized certifications, internships and jobs in green construction, transportation and logistics, allied health, and social/human services. At least 50 percent of the students enrolled in program are formerly incarcerated citizens.

Out-going Peralta Community College District Chancellor Elihu Harris praised Congresswoman Lee for her continued support of the Peralta Achievement Collaborative. "With so many people coming out of prison lacking the skills to find employment, we need the creative genius of Congresswoman Lee to use federal dollars as the glue to address this issue and find solutions," said Harris. "It is vital program, but one exemplary of the possibilities."

Since 1964, the Peralta Community College District – Berkeley City College, College of Alameda and Laney and Merritt Colleges – has served Alameda, Albany, Berkeley, Emeryville, Oakland and Piedmont by providing East Bay students of all ages with a range of educational programs and life-long learning opportunities. To learn more, visit www.peralta.edu.

Peralta Community College District
Office of the Chancellor

To:                   Peralta Colleges Students and Staff

From:               Wise E. Allen, Chancellor

Subject:             Mehserle Verdict Planning  
__________________________________________________________________________

As you know, the trial of former BART police officer Johannes Mehserle is coming to a close in Los Angeles. A verdict is expected soon.

I wanted to write students and staff of the Peralta Community College District to advise you of our planning for when the verdict is announced and, if needed, to prepare for the possible cancellation of classes and closure of facilities.

It is anticipated that demonstrations will occur within our service area regardless of the verdict reached by the jury. Some of these demonstrations could turn violent, and it is the District’s primary responsibly to protect students and staff should this take place.

With our primary concern being the safety of our students and staff, it may be necessary to cancel classes and close one or more of our colleges (Berkeley City College, College of Alameda, Laney College, Merritt College) and/or the district office. Students and staff will be notified should this take place, but I wanted to give you as much notice as possible that cancellation/closure may be necessary. 

Should I decide that the situation requires cancellation/closure, students and staff will be notified by email, text message and notices posted to Peralta’s Website. Students will be told which classes are cancelled and when they will restart. Should staff be dismissed, you will be informed when you should resume your regularly scheduled workday.  Please note that some staff may be needed for core functions or called upon to perform emergency operations functions. Your supervisor will provide you with guidance should this occur.

We will continue to keep you updated and I encourage you to check with your instructor, department head or supervisor – and monitor Peralta’s Website and the news media – for the latest developments. Please contact Vice Chancellor Sadiq Ikharo if you have any questions or concerns, but, as in the past, I believe the Peralta Family will do all that it can to ensure our safety and that of our students.

Young Vietnamese Named 2010 Laney College Salutatorian

International Student to Study Pre-Med at U.C. Berkeley

“Let your passion guide you. Dream as if you live forever. Live as if you’ll die today,” advised Thy Pham, a young and talented international student.

Even as a young girl, Thy dreamed big.  Her dreams included: exploring culture and history around the globe, acquiring a medical degree from a prestigious university, and providing health care services to residents in Phan Thiet, Vietnam.

These dreams almost died when her father passed away.   Not wanting to leave her widowed mother, Thy cancelled her plans to study in California.  However, with her mother’s continuous encouragement, the 16-year-old eventually reapplied to an Alameda high school in 2005.

“My mother told me I only live once,” Thy recalled.  “She encouraged me to do what I love and to live my life to the fullest.”

After three years at Laney and Merritt Colleges, Thy is graduating with 86 units, two degrees (Associate of Sciences in Biology and Associate of Arts in Liberal Arts) and a 4.0 GPA.

Despite a full schedule, Thy found time to tutor other students in chemistry, biology and arithmetic.  She was also active in the recent student efforts to fight the budget cuts.

“My teachers and friends are always helping me with my English pronunciation, my vocabulary and essay writing,” Thy explained.  “I’d like to give back in whatever way I can.”

Thy will be studying biology and pre-med at U.C. Berkeley.  She is on track to pursuing her dream of becoming a family doctor and helping others.

View Salutatorian Speech

Oakland Resident to Receive Laney College Lifetime Achievement Award

Counselor to Retire after a Distinguished 42-Year Career

For 42 years, Ronald Moore has advised Peralta students on strategies to gain admission to four-year institutions as well as fulfill associate degree and certificate program requirements. His efforts enabled many students to fulfill their academic and professional dreams.  Some of these Peralta alumni, who were lucky enough to have been advised and mentored by Ronald, have returned as employees — further shaping the lives of the next generation of Laney students.

“My job is to provide students with the tools they need to make their own decisions,” said Ronald. “My greatest joy comes when students take control and formulate their own future.”

Ronald first joined the Peralta Team on April 8, 1968.  Armed with a psychology degree and social work experience, he secured a counseling position with the East Bay Skills Center, a manpower program operated by the District.

In 1979, Ronald was assigned to Vista College (Berkeley City College). He transferred to Laney in 1981 and has stayed with the College for more than 30 years.

His many contributions to the counseling department included a leadership role in a 5-year struggle to ensure tenure status for Peralta District counselors.  In 1979, the District revised its policy, in compliance with the California Education code, and began granting tenure to the counselors.

Ronald’s distinguished career at Laney College included many leadership positions: Faculty Senate President, Academic Senate President, District Academic Senate President, and Counseling Department Chair.   However, he found his “greatest sense of fulfillment” in helping students actualize their dreams.

Former Dot.Com Manger Named 2010 Laney College Valedictorian

Fremont Resident to Pursue Green Energy Field

At the height of the dot.com boom, Timothy Spengler was a mid-level project manager of a video game company. His vision of hi-tech fortune appeared as clear as the waters of the Redwood Shores. This ended abruptly when he was laid off amidst the subsequent dot.com implosion.

Spengler tried his hands at various ventures, including operating a handyman business. He also enrolled, and excelled, in a State-funded Regional Occupational Program (ROP) in Fremont. As a matter of fact, it was when Laney College Environmental

Control Technology (ECT) Department Chair Nick Kyriakopedi visited the ROP class that Timothy immediately enrolled in the Laney Career & Technical courses.

"I recognize the value of vocational education and hands-on training," said Spengler, "Laney enables me to pursue a career, not just a job."

During his two-year study at Laney, Spengler completed 75 units while maintaining a 4.0 GPA. He is graduating top of the 2010 class with an Associate of Sciences degree in ECT, specializing in residential and light commercial heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration.

Spengler will deliver the valedictorian speech at College's 2010 commencement ceremony, scheduled for Friday, May 28, 7 p.m., at the newly renovated Fox Theater.

Summer 2010 will be an exciting time for Spengler. He is getting married in June. After honeymooning, Spengler will be looking for a producer/project manager position in the fledging green energy field. And, he plans to take three more classes in the Fall semester to qualify for another AS degree in commercial heating and air conditioning.

Finally, Spengler is transforming his vision of success into reality.

Laney College Graduation

On May 28, at 7 pm, the 2010 graduates of Laney College, together with their families and friends, gathered at Oakland’s Fox Theater to celebrate the occasion. “We have more than 50 different countries representing this year’s graduating class,” Laney College Associated Students President Ju Hong told the cheering crowd, noting some of the countries from which the day’s graduates hailed: “From Russia to Nepal, from South Korea to Mexico, Spain, Kenya, Iran, Mongolia, China Australia.”

Peralta Community College Board of Trustees President Abel Guillén acknowledged the challenging economic times facing the nation, the District, and Laney students. “But in spite of the personal challenges of this economy—delayed financial aid, expensive textbooks—you have persevered in your personal journey to get here today,” he said. 

Outgoing Chancellor Elihu Harris urged students to continue to create lives of which they can be proud. “I want you to be able to look back and say ‘I lived a life of service,’” he said. “’I was an inspiration to others including my children and the children of others.’ And, more importantly, ‘I reaffirmed the dream of King, I reaffirmed the dream of Barack Obama, I lived my dream I made it a reality.’”

At the end of his rousing speech, Chancellor Harris was presented with a Laney letter jacket in honor of his eight years of service to Peralta. Harris then awarded the 2010 Chancellor’s Trophy for Laney to Student Trustee Yvonne Thompson who will continue her studies at Patten University. “Thompson is committed to doing for our community what she did for the Peralta,” said Chancellor Harris. “She is a leader, she is strong, she is sensitive and she has been your advocate.”

Valedictorian Timothy Spengler spoke about his long road to Laney’s commencement podium, which included dropping out of high school in 1981 and a career in what he called the “corporate road to nowhere.” Finding his dream of working in the green energy field did not come easily. “It has taken some 25 years to get here,” he said.

Keynote speaker Paul Brest, president of the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation, spoke about the importance of learning from experience, recognizing that “while experience is inevitable, learning from it is not.” Brest urged students to take calculated risks and be open to the feedback of others. “Understand that it is only through failure that you learn to become better,” Brest said.

Delighted that he will be transferring to UC Berkeley come fall, student body president Hong told about his joy in finding his way to his version of the American Dream. “If you work hard, you will become successful,” he told his graduating peers.

Peralta Community College District Announces New Laney College President

Veteran Laney Administrator Assumes Post on July 1, 2010

Members of the Peralta Community College Board of Trustees have voted to appoint Elñora Tena Webb, Ph.D. as the new president of Laney College. The appointment comes after an extensive national search that identified a number of talented candidates who were considered by the Search Committee, the Board of Trustees, and the internal and external Laney communities.

Dr. Webb will take on the post on July 1, 2010. She has been serving as the Acting Laney College President since January 2010.

"High quality education is the most efficient means to assure transformation of lives, families, communities, and the society in sustainable and healthy ways," said Dr. Webb. "I am committed to providing the highest academic opportunity to all students, especially those who have historically been locked out of sound educational resources."

During her tenure of acting president, Dr. Webb led the development of the 2010 Laney College Educational Master Plan, a multi‐year roadmap to guide the historic Oakland institution's growth and development. She also played a critical role in the College's recent accreditation reaffirmation.

Her strategic advocacy in educational equity is exemplified in Laney's active participation in the Promise Neighborhoods Initiative. Partnering with local organizations -- including East Bay Asian Youth Center, Bay Area Coalition for Equitable Schools, Prescott Joseph, Youth Rising, and Urban Strategies Council -- and in partnership with her colleagues across the Peralta Colleges, Dr. Webb is helping to lead the creation of high-quality, comprehensive projects that transform and improve educational outcomes for East Bay children.

To further her vision of shared solutions for improved communities, Dr. Webb is active in numerous cultural and civic activities. She has joined the City of Oakland, Bay Area Rapid Transit, Oakland Museum of California, and residents of Oakland downtown and Chinatown in the Lake Merritt BART Station neighborhood redevelopment efforts. She is a member of the American Indian Child Resource Center Board. Actively, she supports the African American Chamber of Commerce and Chinese Chamber of Commerce. Additionally, Dr. Webb recently became a member of the Oakland Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce Board.

A veteran Laney administrator, Dr. Webb served as the Laney College Vice President of Instruction from 2005 – 2009, and Dean of Humanities, Language Arts & Social Sciences from 2002 – 2005.

Throughout her 30+ year career as an educator, Dr. Webb has served in a range of instructional, student services, research, and administrative roles within all systems of higher education in California. Those institutions included the Peralta Community College District, University of California at Berkeley and at Riverside, California State University at Sonoma, Stanford University, and Contra Costa Community College District.

Dr. Webb was a member of the Community College Leadership program at U.C. Berkeley and completed her Ph.D. in Education with emphasis in Higher Education Administration/Policy. She also completed all coursework in the Organizational Behavior and Industrial Relations Ph.D. program of the Haas School of Business. She received a Master degree in Educational Administration from the San Francisco State University and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology & Education from U.C. Riverside.

About Laney College:

Laney College, in the heart of vibrant, multicultural downtown Oakland, features the cosmopolitan atmosphere and human energy of a big-city university. Laney is adjacent to the Oakland Museum of California, blocks from historic Chinatown and a pleasant stroll from Lake Merritt.

Since 1948, Laney has provided educational opportunities to students throughout the East Bay and beyond. Serving approximately 14,000 students each semester, Laney reflects the incredible diversity of the community that surrounds it and provides opportunities to traditionally underserved populations. Dozens of languages are spoken on Laney's campus each day.

The school boasts a proven track record of success with exceptional educational programs. The college was given full accreditation by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges (ACCJC) in summer 2009 – a distinction awarded to only five community colleges out of the 27 reviewed that year. In addition, Laney ranks among the top community colleges in California in transferring students to U.C. Berkeley.

Dr. Jannett Jackson appointed interim president of College of Alameda

The Peralta Colleges Board of Trustees at its June 10 meeting appointed Dr. Jannett Jackson to be interim president of College of Alameda. Her term will run from July 1, 2010, through June 30, 2011, or until a permanent president is selected.

Dr. Jackson, currently vice president of instruction at the college, replaces Dr. George Herring, College of Alameda president for the past two years, who will retire at the end of the current fiscal year.

Dr. Jackson joined College of Alameda as vice president of instruction in August 2004.  In this position she has been responsible for all instructional programs at the college as well as the library, instructional computing, audio-visual and media services departments. In addition to being the chief instructional officer, she has worked with the Peralta District Office of Educational Services to refine the district’s integrated planning and budgeting processes and to update the district/college educational master plans.

She chairs several committees on campus including the new construction committee for Building C and D, and she is the college’s accreditation liaison officer.  She serves on the College of Alameda and Peralta District Technology Committees and the district’s Student Success Initiative. She is also involved in the Alameda community as a Board of Directors member for the West Alameda Business Association (WABA) and Alameda Family Services (AFS) organizations.

In addition to her career in education, Dr. Jackson is also a decorated veteran, serving more than 28 years in the military, including eight months as a company commander in Saudi Arabia during the first Persian Gulf War. In 2005 and 2006 she was deployed to Iraq for a second time, as a colonel (O6) commanding the 40th Infantry Division Mechanized, Corps Support Group.  She has been mobilized by the National Guard for local emergencies a number of times: during the med fly infestation of crops, then for the Loma Prieta earthquake in San Francisco, mudslides in Los Angeles, fires caused by the Santa Ana winds, and the Rodney King riots.  When she retired, she was the only African American brigade commander in the California Army National Guard, and its highest-ranking African American woman.

Dr. Jackson received both a bachelor of arts in Liberal Studies in 1980 and a master of education, specializing in curriculum and instruction, in 1994 from Cal State University, Fresno.   In 2001 she received her Ph.D. in Educational Administration with an emphasis in informational technology from the prestigious Community College Leadership Program (CCLP) of the University of Texas, Austin. Prior to her appointment at College of Alameda, she spent six years as Associate Dean of Instruction at Fresno City College, and over twelve years as a faculty member in information systems.

Dr. Jackson says, “I try to look at things from different angles.  Although schools and colleges are experiencing first-hand the debilitating effects of a slow economy and the resultant fiscal hardships, it is also times like these that force us to seek solutions through non-traditional approaches. This year marks the beginning of College of Alameda’s 40th year of providing services to the community.  I feel that we are poised to redefine ourselves, to expand our involvement in work force training programs, to raise the bar on academic excellence and student success, and enhance our collaboration with community and civic organizations.   None of these tasks takes additional funds, only time and commitment, but they can reap enormous rewards. I am excited about the possibilities and I’m glad to be a part of it.”

Peralta Community College District wins lawsuit dismissal

The Alameda Superior Court on Monday dismissed a lawsuit by the Bay Area News Group (BANG) seeking to force the release of an internal draft report by the Peralta Community College District.

Based on Peralta's statements that the draft was a preliminary document meant only to assist an investigation called independently by the District’s Board of Trustees, Superior Court Judge Frank Roesch originally ruled that the conclusions of the report should not be released, although “factual” portions could. However, the Court of Appeal held that he must reconsider whether that could be done without harm to the deliberative process.

On Monday, the judge ruled in favor of an appeal by Peralta, denying a petition by the BANG, which owns the Oakland Tribune, San Jose Mercury News, Contra Costa Times and other area newspapers, for release of any portions of the report, writing that "the entire report is privileged" and therefore should not be released.

"This was an unnecessary and wasteful lawsuit by the Bay Area News Group,” said Peralta spokesperson Jeff Heyman.

“This is a win for the public because requiring the release of draft information would have sent a chilling message to public agencies that every draft document written by every staffer must be perfect and might be subject to undue scrutiny. Public agencies must be able to produce drafts and create policy recommendations without fear that unfinished drafts might be released," he said.

The Peralta Community College District, which includes Berkeley City College, College of Alameda and Laney and Merritt Colleges in Oakland, is committed to transparency and has taken a number of important steps to ensure that the public has access to information. The District has implemented an e-info system, GovDelivery, which provides a subscription service to the community that makes documents and other information readily available. In addition to other measures, the District also provides all of its Board of Trustees’ meetings on the Web for on-demand viewing through the Granicus system, which also contains Board documents for the public’s review. Both systems can be found on the District’s Website at www.peralta.edu.

Peralta Community College District Counsels Continuing Students to Register Early for Classes to Beat Influx of UC and CSU Students

OAKLAND, Calif., June 9, 2010 – The Peralta Colleges – Berkeley City College, College of Alameda and Laney and Merritt Colleges in Oakland – are urging continuing and local new students to register now before classes fill up with students shut out of the area UC’s and CSU’s due to the budget cuts at those colleges that are limiting enrollment.

“Despite our own budget cuts,” advises newly appointed interim chancellor, Wise Allen, “we’re open for business here at Peralta, and while we welcome all, including those students who are being unfairly shut out of the UC’s and CSU’s, classes are still limited at our four East Bay colleges.”  Peralta urges continuing students and those who have just graduated from our local high schools – as well as newly laid off employees seeking career change training – to enroll now, because classes are filling up fast.  “Students who don’t enroll early may not get the classes they need,” warns Allen.

A recent visit to the East Bay College District by Congresswoman Barbara Lee and Assistant Secretary of Employment and Job Training for the U.S. Department of Labor Jane Oates shone a spotlight on the extraordinary programs at Peralta that have been funded by stimulus dollars.  These intensive programs re-train workers quickly – demand is high, so early enrollment is recommended here, as well.

The Peralta Colleges have a wide choice of course offerings; some programs rival that of UC and the CSUs.  Students can choose to pursue an Associate’s Degree or a vocational certification, or take short-term courses to brush up on skills, take the classes they need to, later, transfer to one of those four-year universities they’re being shut out of now (due to enrollment caps), while working students can take classes at night or on the weekend.

The enrollment window at The Peralta District, for new and continuing students, opened May 3rd, and an extraordinary influx of former CSU and UC students have already flocked to these community colleges to pursue their higher education goals.  By going to the Peralta College’s Webpage (www.peralta.edu) and enrolling now, local and continuing students can still get the classes they need, because, despite budget cuts and enrollment limitations of its own, The Peralta Colleges still serve over 30,000 students per year!  With early enrollment and four colleges to choose from, Peralta has room for everyone seeking a quality college education.  Summer classes begin on June 21st, and the fall semester begins on August 23rd. 

Since 1964, the Peralta Community College District – Berkeley City College, College of Alameda and Laney and Merritt Colleges – has served Alameda, Albany, Berkeley, Emeryville, Oakland and Piedmont by providing East Bay students of all ages with a range of educational programs and life-long learning opportunities.  To learn more, visit www.peralta.edu.

College of Alameda graduation

On Friday May 20, the 2010 graduates of College of Alameda gathered in the school’s gymnasium under an arc of blue and white balloons to celebrate their graduation. Sidney Ragland Jr., who recently was awarded a full scholarship to the San Francisco Conservatory of Music, sang the national anthem and COA president George Herring, welcomed the crowd, which included family, friends, instructors, administrators, and staff.

Outgoing Peralta Chancellor Elihu Harris advised to students work hard and follow their dreams. “This is just a milestone in the journey of life that you are traveling,” he said before presenting the District-wide Chancellor’s Trophy Award to Martinet Phan in honor of her academic achievement, community service and leadership.  “She has gone through much in the way of personal tragedy,” said Harris. “But more importantly she has taken the circumstances that have come to her and turned them into triumph.”

Many of those who addressed the crowd talked about the importance of continuing to learn, whether formally in college or informally. “Be proud of yourselves and congratulations,” said Bob Grill, a teacher of Computer Information Systems who is also known as “Cousin Bob,” told the graduates. “And continue your education, because it doesn’t end today.”
           
Keynote speaker and retiring psychology instructor Bishop Scott reflected on his 40 years of service to Peralta and urged students to be their best selves. “Nobody can be you as well as you can,” he said, explaining that this is a lesson he has worked to transmit to his students.  “This is a fantastic moment,” he said to cheers from the students. “You have so much potential, it’s unlimited, you’ve got to tap into it, realize it, know it’s there, let it out, express it!”

Valedictorian Mali Watkins, who will transfer to UC Berkeley in the fall, gave an emotional speech, stopping at times to wipe away his tears and collect himself.  He told of his COA journey, which began in 2005 only to be interrupted mid-semester by incarceration.  Out of prison, the Watkins, a father of seven, returned to school, and began to work hard and embrace his education.  “I want to thank everyone,” he said. “It’s not just me that’s standing here, I’ve had a wonderful, wonderful support system that has held me down and, wow, without them I would be nothing.”

“Congratulations everyone,” he said. “It’s been a beautiful struggle,”

Merritt College graduation

Despite rain earlier in the week and also in the morning, the sky cleared and the sun came out on Friday, May 28 for Merritt College’s 2010 outdoor graduation.  The mood was upbeat as graduates, staff, administrators, faculty, family and loved ones took their seats under white tents. The Oakland Community Women’s Orchestra accompanied Merry Labat as she sang the national anthem.

“This year we have a record-setting number of graduates—over six hundred,” said Eric Gravenberg, Merritt’s vice president of student services.  “And it makes me incredibly happy to see all of you here with your families.”

Merritt President Bobby Adams  welcomed the audience, urging them to shake hands and say hello their neighbors. “Welcome Merritt families,” the crowd called back.  Adams also told a story about calling his pastor to ask for a break in the rain. “I told him, ‘we have a fantastic graduation and a fantastic class and we can’t be rained upon.’”  With the luck to be wearing sunglasses, Peralta Chancellor Elihu Harris urged graduates to remember to be grateful for all the support that they’d gotten along the way to their degree. “None of us gets where we are by ourselves,” he said. “I need you to go back down that hill and change Oakland, change our community, do what you’ve been trained to do, make a difference with your life. That’s what education is about,” he said. “You’ve been blessed now share that blessing with others.”

Merritt 2010 Valedictorian and Chancellor’s Trophy Award winner Sheng Thao spoke about her experience as one of 10 children born to Vietnamese immigrants. On her own at 18, Thao moved from Stockton to the Bay Area. “We are not a typical class of 20 year-olds,” said Thao. “I came to Merritt at the age of 22, a single mother of a one year old and I was living on the couch of stranger,” she said. “I had to fight to get here. And I fought hard. We’ve all fought hard,” she said. “We will leave here stronger, wiser and more determined people.”

Keynote speaker A.G. Kawamura, head of the California Department of Agriculture, spoke about farming, global warming, his dream of ending hunger, and the weather. “It’s a dynamic day for weather,” he said. “And it’s a dynamic day for all of you…congratulations.”  He advised graduates to take the lead in improving the world. “You want to be a compass,” he said.  “You don’t want to be a weather vane.”

Before conferring degrees and certificates on the cheering graduates, Alfreda Lyons-Campbell from Berkeley Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church sang “Amazing Grace” and “In Never Would Have Made It” while many of the students stood, clapped, lifted arms, and sang.

Peralta Colleges Foundation:  Golfing for Good

On Friday May 7, 2010 the Peralta Colleges Foundation hosted its seventh annual scholarship golf tournament at Oakland’s Metropolitan Golf Course on Doolittle Drive near the Oakland International Airport.  The tournament celebrated the 46th year of the Peralta Community College District and included a reception and silent auction the night before at the Claremont Country Club with special guest Dave Clark, KTVU’s morning anchor.  The two-tiered event raised over $59,000 for the Foundation’s scholarship fund, up $2,000 from the 2009 tournament and despite the rough economic times.  One hundred and sixteen golfers participated, enjoying fine weather and a post-tournament dinner and live auction.  The Peralta Colleges Foundation produced a fun-filled event, setting the bar high for next year!

One of the most remarkable aspects of the golf tournament (and the foundation’s annual fundraising dinner) is that every aspect of these events is produced by volunteers who are all Peralta employees.  “This is a unique situation among community colleges in California,” remarks Elihu Harris, chancellor of the East Bay, four-college district.  “No where else will you find community college staff members volunteer – and work hard, too – to raise over $100,000 per year for scholarships.”

The Peralta Colleges Foundation scholarship fund raising events are truly a labor of love for Peralta employees who volunteer on an unmatched scale.  With that kind of momentum behind them, this group of employee volunteers will continue to have success for many years to come, and, perhaps, inspire other community college employees to raise scholarship dollars. 

Peralta Community College District to Hold Student/Community Forum on New Chancellor

OAKLAND, Calif., June 3, 2010 – The Peralta Community College District is holding a community forum for students and the public as an integral part of the search process for the next chancellor of the district that includes Berkeley City College, College of Alameda, and Laney and Merritt Colleges in Oakland. 

Dr. Michael Viera of Community College Search Services will conduct a community forum on Monday, June 7, 2010 from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in the Peralta Community College District Boardroom, 333 East 8th Street, Oakland, Calif.  Students who attend or plan to attend the four colleges and community members from the six cities served by the district – Alameda, Albany, Berkeley, Emeryville, Oakland and Piedmont – are urged to attend.   

Dr. Viera will start the forum by asking students and the public to identify the challenges, issues and opportunities that the district is facing or will face in the near future and over the next five years.

Those unable to attend the forum in person may participate by calling (888) 886-3951 and entering the pass code: 838046.  Viera will also receive written comments from anyone unable to attend this forum.  Please send comments to him at mjv1246@gmail.com.

Berkeley City College graduates embrace the future

A crowd of Berkeley City College graduates, families, instructors and friends turned out at UC Berkeley’s Zellerbach Hall Thursday May 20 to celebrate the college’s class of 2010. The audience cheered and clapped when BCC President Betty Inclan noted that the youngest graduate in the class was only 18 and the “youngest at heart” was 77.  “You represent a diverse tapestry,” Inclan said. “There are 40 countries represented.”

Keynote speaker Noah Alper, founder Noah’s bagels, told the students that they have what it takes to succeed in the future. “You bring a solid background in earning your education through hard work and overcoming significant challenges,” he said. “That perspective will serve you well as you go on from here.” 

Peralta Colleges Chancellor Elihu Harris told students to continue to reflect on three basic questions: How did you get here? Who are you? And where are you going?  “You know the old adage if you don’t know where you’re going any road will take you there,” he said, urging graduates to commit themselves both to life-long learning—“you never know enough”—and also life-long service, “because if you learn things and you don’t apply them then you’ve wasted your life.”

The class had two valedictorians, Sam Barnett and Moriah Pierce. Pierce, who is transferring to CSU East Bay to study accounting, celebrated praised students’ commitment and hard work. “During our studies many of us have had to juggle other responsibilities,” she said.  “For some of us it was holding down a full-time job, for others it’s been caring for kids or other family members, overcoming health problems, or experiencing great loss.  Tonight is proof that we have not let these obstacles hold us back, that we will rise to the occasion and meet our goals no matter what comes our way.”

“I am filled with joy and pride,” said Student Trustee Yvonne Thompson. “It wasn’t easy getting to this point and I want you to know that the best is yet to come!”

12th annual scholarship reception, Peralta Association of African American Affairs (PAAAA) distributed $5,000.00 in scholarships

At its 12th annual scholarship reception, Peralta Association of African American Affairs (PAAAA) distributed $5,000.00 in scholarships to ten Peralta students. This year’s event was held on Friday, May 21, at Laney College in its newly refurbished Laney Bistro.

Each college had two recipients that were awarded $500.00 scholarships. “It’s a great way to honor our students for the academic achievements,” stated Anita Black, who serves as PAAAA’s president.

This year’s recipients are:
Berkeley City College: Nimota Abina and Lauren Lindo
College of Alameda:  Jurena Storm and De'Mel Bullock
Laney College: Ahmed Akbar and Evelyn Kahsay
Merritt College: Victor Nunley, Jr. and Harold Woodard

Laney instructor David Simon has a $500.00 scholarship in honor of his mother, which is awarded to African students, and Leulekal Kassaye and Jocelyne Fadiga were this year’s recipients.

Since 1998, PAAAA has distributed over $40,000 in scholarships to Peralta students, who have demonstrated high academic achievement and leadership skills.

“We are very proud of our students, and wish them much success as they matriculate to 4-year colleges across the state, and around the country,” replied Black.

Peralta Colleges Trustee Wins Seat on State-Wide Community College Board of Trustees

OAKLAND, Calif., May 27, 2010 – The Peralta Community College District is pleased to announce that Cy Gulassa, current member of The Peralta Colleges Board of Trustees, has just been elected to the California Community College State Board of Trustees.  In a runoff election, Mr. Gulassa was elected to the seventh seat of this year’s board.  Pursuant to the Governing Policies, the seat was filled by secret ballot of the twenty sitting members of the incoming board, according to CCCT President, Walt Howald.

Gulassa a member of the Peralta Board for six years, has been active in community college politics for over 30 years and has been honored by the state legislature and former U.S. President Bill Clinton for his leadership.  “I’m delighted to be a member of CCCT,” Gulassa said.  “It’s the graduate school of trusteeship, a great place to debate governance, policy, standards and take action on educational issues.” 

The Peralta District includes the four East Bay community colleges of Berkeley City College, College of Alameda and Laney and Merritt Colleges in Oakland.  During his tenure, Trustee Gulassa has served as both Board President and Vice President, as well as on several board-related committees, such as the Policy Review Committee (Chair), Audit and Finance Committee and Standards Committee.  Mr. Gulassa has also been a member of The Peralta Colleges Foundation Board.

Mr. Gulassa, has a long history of dedication to higher education.  Other organizations with which he has been associated include the Faculty Association of California Community Colleges (FACCC); President of the Bay Faculty Association; member of the panel to review the Master Plan for Higher Ed; chair of the State Task Force (AB1725) on Reform of CC Personnel; member of the California Community College Coalition; and accreditation team member to four different community college districts.  Civic and community affiliations include member of the Rockridge Community Planning Council (eight years during a time period from 1997 – 2008) and 10 years as Chief Editor of the “Rockridge News.”  Mr. Gulassa holds a B.A. Degree in English from St. Joseph’s College of Indiana and an M.A. in English from UC Berkeley.  Since 1964, the Peralta Community College District – Berkeley City College, College of Alameda and Laney and Merritt Colleges – has served Alameda, Albany, Berkeley, Emeryville, Oakland and Piedmont by providing East Bay students of all ages with a range of educational programs and life-long learning opportunities.  To learn more, visit www.peralta.edu.

Alamedans gather at COA to honor Harvey Milk

A host of local politicians and community members gathered Saturday, May 22, 2010, in the College of Alameda’s student lounge to celebrate the State of California’s first Harvey Milk Day.  Milk, who was the first openly gay elected official in California and a campaigner for civil rights, would have been 80 on Saturday.
College of Alameda’s Jannett Jackson welcomed the crowd, which included Assembly member Sandre Swanson, Betty Yee from the State Board of Equalization, Alameda Mayor Beverly Johnson, as well as Alameda council members Lena Tam and Frank Matarrese. Matarrese, who cosponsored the event with COA and several other community organizations, called the celebration “a call for people in California to reflect on the life and political courage of Milk.”
Campbell Mayor Evan Low delivered a rousing keynote speech. Low, who is in his 20s, says in many ways that in his generation “change is already here” and many young people already practice “acceptance not just tolerance.” A fourth generation Californian, Low traced the different sorts of discrimination his family has faced over generations: Great grandparents who contended with the Chinese Exclusion Act, grandparents who were forbidden from owning property, parents who struggled with laws against interracial marriage, and his generation, in which he is denied the right to marry the person he loves. “The discrimination ends with this generation of Californians,” said an inspired and inspiring Low.

Milk and cookies were served, the East Bay Gay Men’s Chorus opened the events with the national anthem and ended with “What a Wonderful World.” There were also two short videos, reflections by Alameda’s Temple Israel Rabbi Allen Bennett on his friendship with Milk and the other a brief documentary of Milk’s life produced by Darrel Vaughn. More on the event here.

Graduate profile: Berkeley City College’s Kristen Kristiansen-Kayser

Twenty-one-year old Kristen Kristiansen-Kayser, a May 2010 Berkeley City College graduate, has moved 18 times in her life. Worst move? Getting evicted one snowy winter in 1994 from the family’s home in Washington State. Another challenge? Switching schools three times between ninth and twelfth grade.
But Kristen graduated from Albany High School in 2007, and now, the proud first generation America (her mother is from Peru, her father from Hungry) has built a record of achievement for herself at BCC, where she’s been on the Dean’s List, was a 2009 EOPS Scholar, and a member of Phi Theta Kappa.
This fall, the culmination of a long-standing dream, Kristen will enroll in at the University of California at Berkeley. “Always when I walked on campus,” says a happier-than-happier Kristen. “I would think, ‘This is what I want.’” Now Kristen will join her sister, Grace, who finished up at BCC last year.  Kristen’s mother, Elizabeth, will be graduating at the age of 50 with a bachelor’s degree in Latin American Studies.

Elizabeth does not mince words with regard to the support her daughter has given her: “Kristen has been instrumental to my success,” says Elizabeth. Ever since she began taking English classes at an adult school in Fresno 13 years ago, Kristen helped her mother with everything from filling out forms to reading documents—she even helped her with tricks for memorizing times tables.

For her part, Kristen is grateful for the model of hard work and determination mother has provided. “I think that if my mom didn’t go to school I probably wouldn’t have done anything with my life,” says Kristen. “I’d probably be working in McDonald’s—that would be my career. She made me see it was possible.”
This year, Kristen edited her mother’s honors thesis and her personal statements for graduate school, and this fall Elizabeth Kayser will move to Indiana to start a Ph.D. program in Latin American studies at Notre Dame where she’ll be studying women who have migrated in order to support themselves and their families.
           
“Seeing how my mom struggled,” says Kristen—her mom very often held multiple jobs to support the family—“I’m really interested in helping people like us get an education.”
             
Last August, Kristen went with Elizabeth on research trip to the Peruvian Highlands. At a community meeting there, she found herself moved to tears by peasants she met, in their 70s and 80s, who longed to learn to write their own names, but had never had the chance. “When schools were built in their towns they were burnt down because landowners didn’t want them to get an education,” said Kristen.  In her career, she plans to work to support educational access for all people.

“Kristen has a big, big heart,” says her mother, Elizabeth. “She is a wonderful person and I am very hopeful about the things she is going be doing in her life.”

Peralta Colleges Board President, Abel Guillén, to meet with young, progressive elected officials in Washington, D.C.

200 progressive elected officials under age 35 will gather to discuss policies, leadership.

OAKLAND, Calif., May 18, 2010 – Abel J. Guillén, President of the Peralta Community College Board of Trustees, will join more than 200 other young, progressive elected officials in Washington, DC this week at the fifth annual convening of the national Young Elected Officials Network.  The Peralta Community College District consists of the four East Bay colleges of Berkeley City College, College of Alameda and Laney and Merritt Colleges in Oakland.

The participants, progressive elected officials from across the country, are all under the age of 35.  The young leaders will meet with a number of national leaders in Washington and share with each other their policy ideas, leadership strategies and best practices.

“I look forward to learning from my colleagues from throughout the United States, best practices around education and access issues to implement them here in the East Bay,” said Guillén. 

Guillén, 34, was elected to the Peralta Community College District in 2006.  At the convening, he will share with other elected officials best practices around “Green Jobs” and educational access issues.

The Young Elected Officials (YEO) Network, organized by the People For the American Way foundation, consists of over 550 young, progressive city, county, state and federal officials from all 50 states.  Most are at the start of their political careers; 89 percent are interested in running for higher office in the future.

“These young elected officials play a critical role in our local, state, and national governments,” said Andrew Gillum, Tallahassee City Commissioner and executive director of the YEO Network.  “They are leaders in policy debates around the country, and manage billions of dollars in public funds.  They are passionate, innovative and committed to helping their communities be places of freedom, fairness and opportunity.  The YEO Network National Convening is a great way for them to work together to share ideas and empower each other as they continue their careers in public service.”

Since 1964, the Peralta Community College District – Berkeley City College, College of Alameda and Laney and Merritt Colleges – has served Alameda, Albany, Berkeley, Emeryville, Oakland and Piedmont by providing East Bay students of all ages with a range of educational programs and life-long learning opportunities.  To learn more, visit www.peralta.edu.

Dr. Wise E. Allen, long-time Peralta administrator, chosen to fill-in as interim Chancellor for the east bay, four college district

Dr. Wise E. Allen has been named interim Chancellor of the Peralta Community College District (Berkeley City College, College of Alameda and Laney and Merritt Colleges in Oakland), Peralta Board of Trustees President, Abel Guillen, announced.  Allen, well known and respected in higher education circles, replaces Elihu Harris, who is leaving the post after seven years. 

 “Dr. Allen brings many years of experience and an in-depth understanding of both California’s community college system and the Peralta Colleges,” Guillen said.  “We’re pleased that he is able to serve in this important leadership role while we conduct a nationwide search for a new Chancellor.”

Allen carries the singular distinction of having been an administrator at each Peralta College, as well as the District’s administrative headquarters in Oakland -- and has served at every level from faculty to College President and Vice Chancellor, and now Chancellor -- during his tenure at Peralta.  His long and distinguished career in higher education began more than 35 years ago at College of Alameda (CoA), where he taught sociology.

During his years with Peralta, Allen was at various times an instructor, a Division Dean at CoA and Laney College; Vice President of Instruction at CoA and BCC; President of Merritt College and BCC; Associate Vice Chancellor; and Vice Chancellor of Educational Services, twice, for the Peralta Community College District – both before and after his retirement from Peralta in 2001.  At one point, he served as Merritt College’s President and as a Peralta Vice Chancellor at the same time. 

An innovative thinker, Allen’s path to a career in higher education can best be described as eclectic.  Born in Texas, he moved with his family to West Oakland and graduated from Oakland High School.  Allen attended San Francisco State University, where his contemporaries at the time included individuals whose names would one day be part of the Bay Area’s political elite, like Former San Francisco Mayor and Speaker of the California State Assembly, Willie Brown, and John Burton, who served in the U.S. House of Representatives and the State Assembly.  “While I was in college,” recalls Allen, “I had a draft deferment and graduated from S.F. State with a double major in sociology and psychology; then I was accepted to Hastings Law School in San Francisco.”

Plans for law school were put on hold, however, when the U.S. Army called.  When he completed military service, Allen took a job with Alameda County where he worked as a social worker for several years.  After earning a Master’s Degree in social welfare from Washington D.C.’s Howard University, Allen was selected to fill one of several new positions as hearing officers (now called Administrative Law Judges) for the State, where he worked for several years hearing cases throughout Northern California and, at times, in Los Angeles. 

Allen received his Ph.D. in Social and Clinical Psychology from the Wright Institute in Berkeley and is a licensed Clinical Psychologist.  A long time resident of Berkeley, Allen served as Berkeley City Manager in the 1980s.  He also had a private practice as a Clinical Psychologist during periods between positions in higher education and post retirement, before again returning to serve at Peralta in 2005. 

Allen’s philosophy of higher education observes that significant change must take place in the state’s educational delivery systems, in order for it to grow with and serve California.  “We must change to meet the needs of diverse student populations,” he said. “We should rethink our calendars, and how, when, and where we offer courses, and place greater emphasis on distance education and scheduling year-round classes.” 

Allen’s professional affiliations include the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, American Psychological Association, the National Association of Social Workers, the Applied Psychology Association, the International City Managers Association, the American Society of Clinical Hypnosis, the International Association of City Managers, Association of California Community College Administrators (ACCCA) and the Presidents’ Round Table.  He is a Board Member of the East Oakland Counseling Center, Berkeley Support Services, and the Oakland Rotary Club.

The Peralta Community College District – Berkeley City College, College of Alameda and Laney and Merritt Colleges – has served Alameda, Albany, Berkeley, Emeryville, Oakland and Piedmont since 1964, by providing East Bay students of all ages with a range of educational programs and life-long learning opportunities.  To learn more, visit www.peralta.edu.

Four-year degrees at community colleges?

A proposed new law sponsored by San Diego Assemblymember Marty Block would pilot a program offering some four-year degrees at a limited number of California community colleges. With ongoing budget cuts and limited slots at state colleges and universities, community colleges students are having more difficulty transferring. Awarding bachelor’s degrees through community colleges could reduce some of the pressure, says Block. Nationwide, eleven states offer bachelor’s degrees through their community colleges.
Asked about a four-year degree option, Marcela Alfaro, 21, a psychology student at College of Alameda who plants to transfer next year, said if there were a bachelor’s option COA she would probably stay on. “If it were cheaper, definitely,” she said.  “Not a lot of people can afford to go a prestigious school.” 
Jacob Selph, 25, who is studying diesel mechanics at COA, said the opportunity to get a bachelor’s degree at a local community college might make a difference for some students.  “If school is close to home and close to work that’s good,” said Selph. “Cost for most people is the main issue.” Rahman Harden, 32, who is also enrolled in COA’s diesel mechanics program, agreed that having a more affordable option for a 4-year degree might be the difference for some students. Pressure to pay for a traditional college is prohibitive for many, he says. “You sit there and wonder where you’re going to get all this money,” said Harden.
“If I could have stayed I would have,” said Cal State East Bay senior Anisa Hassan, 21, who was back on COA’s campus for a class. “Because it’s closer and cheaper.”
But COA general education student Bianca Jauregui, who is transferring to Sacramento State next year, says she would want to transfer no matter what.  “I want the full college experience,” she said.  “Living away from home, dorms, everything.”

Graduate profile: Berkeley City College’s Carlos Gonzalez

Growing up in Berkeley, says 34-year-old, soon-to-be Berkeley City College liberal arts grad Carlos Gonzalez, he didn’t have any particular ambitions or plans for his future. “I was barely getting through high school,” says Carlos, who spent many years involved with gangs. “I didn’t have any goals and I didn’t have any dreams.” 

His parents, who emigrated from Mexico when he was four, spoke very little English, had only second grade educations, and had very little understanding of the school system in the United States. Finishing up high school in 1994, Carlos took a few college courses, but drifted out of school and into more trouble. His older brother has been in and out of prison since he was 18. “He’s been in trouble so long,” said Carlos. “It kind of doesn’t hit me anymore.” Carlos worked in construction installing hardwood floors. But three years ago, inspired by his then-girlfriend (now wife), Carlos returned to school, enrolling in classes at BCC. 

“I wanted to do something else,” he says.  “I wanted a career.” 

After a few courses, he learned from a friend about BCC’s Program for Adult College Education (PACE). PACE, with its support for adult students, evening and weekend classes, and accommodations for working parents (Gonzalez is the proud father of two-year-old), turned out to be a great fit. “It’s education for adults,” says Carlos. “PACE helps speed up the process while you’re working and living your life.”

But PACE is also extremely demanding, says director and BCC history professor David Johnson.  “It requires a special sort of dedication and commitment to work all day and then to rush over to BCC by five o’clock and start taking a class that runs until 10.”  Johnson says he has been continually impressed by Carlos’ dedication and attitude. “Here’s a guy that if you looked at him on paper you wouldn’t think he would be successful, but it was quite the opposite,” said Johnson. “He came through and was a model for other students—he’s got a huge heart and he’s good guy through and through.”

Carlos’ current goal is to complete a bachelor’s at Cal State East Bay and get a teaching credential.  He plans to teach grade school so he can give back to the community. And he firmly believes it’s never to late to change something in your life.  “When I started going to school, that’s when the goals started setting in,” says Carlos.  “You start thinking about the future and everything you’ve been through doesn’t matter anymore.”

Carlos is proudly looking forward to graduation and to providing his young daughter with the support that he did not have. “I’ve been through a lot. I am an immigrant child, I was in gangs when I was a young teenager, and I went through the system,” he said. “It’s been a long hard battle and the feeling of graduation is a lot better than the other options.”

“Never think change is impossible,” he says.

Merritt College hosts Mas Man, a film about carnival costume designer Peter Minshall

On Saturday, May 22, 2010, Peralta’s Merritt College will host the west coast movie premiere of Mas Man, a documentary about the life and work of Trinidadian Carnival artist and Emmy Award-winning costume designer Peter Minshall. The film, created by journalist and filmmaker Dalton Narine, highlights Minshall’s work on carnival attire and also his work as a designer for three Olympic opening ceremonies, Barcelona, Atlanta and Salt Lake City. Mas Man screens at 8 p.m. in Merritt’s Newton/Seale Student Lounge and will be followed by a Q & A with the filmmaker.  The ‘evening of film and Carnival Culture’ also features a performance by Mas Makers Massive, an Oakland-based carnival folk arts performance group.

SingleStop USA opens at Peralta’s Laney College

Wondering if you might be eligible for food stamps? Interested in helping a student access childcare or housing assistance? In April 2010, SingleStop USA opened its doors in the Laney College Student Center, Room 310A. Five days a week you can find Counselor Brandon Pangburn helping students learn about and access benefits to which they maybe be entitled.  “It’s not only telling the person they seem to be eligible for X, Y or Z,” said Palak Joshi, a senior program officer for SingleStop USA.  “But saying you will need the following documents, and then providing them with the overall support they need until they receive the benefit.”  Though housed at Laney, SingleStop welcomes all Peralta students. Programs that can be accessed include federal and state subsidies for childcare, housing assistance, welfare-to-work initiatives and tax credits. Financial counseling in is also available in areas such as debt management, budgeting, and student loans. Find SingleStop USA in Laney Student Center’s Room 310A.  Walking is fine, or, better, call 986-6945 to schedule an appointment.  “We’re here to see if we can help students get through whatever they’re going through,” said Pangburn.

Congresswoman Barbara Lee celebrates Peralta’s Green Technology programs

It was a bright, clear morning when the Congresswoman and the Assistant Secretary of Employment and Job Training came to Laney College. And Patty Moore, among dozens of others, was there.

Moore, 52, enrolled in Laney College’s Building Performance and Energy Efficiency Program, one of several Peralta green job training programs funded in part by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, after she lost her job as a quality assurance manager for a software developer last year. “It was time to do something that mattered to me,” said Moore, who says she’d been interested in environmental sustainability for many years.  “Because how else are we going to reduce our carbon footprints?” she pondered.  “It’s got to be in part through the trades.”

Now Moore, who will complete her program this month, has spent last year getting hands-on training in everything from plumbing, heating and air conditioning to the performance of comprehensive home energy audits. “It’s exciting to be here because I’m so interested,” said Moore.

College of Alameda student Manuel Rivas was laid off last year from his job as a driver at the Port of Oakland. Now Rivas is learning the skills he needs to be a green diesel mechanic through CoA’s ATLAS program, which teaches students preventative maintenance and inspection for diesel engines. “I have learned more about truck mechanics in the last five weeks,” a pleased Rivas told the crowd at a press conference at Laney with Congresswoman Barbara Lee and US Department of Labor Assistant Secretary of Employment and Job Training Jane Oates, “then I did in my last 21 years of being a truck driver.”

On Monday, May 3, 2010, Lee and Oates toured some of Laney’s workshops, admiring the innovation and energy behind Peralta’s green job training programs. “It’s wonderful to see our tax dollars at work,” said Lee. “You’re pushing the edge on curriculum and education for this 21st century,” teaching about cutting edge technologies while launching students into good jobs. “This is what really needs to happen,” Lee said.

Secretary Oates praised Peralta staff and faculty for “making sure that young—or not so young—people who come here get the highest quality education possible.”

“The skills we’re teaching are not job specific training only,” said Laney College’s Acting President Elnora Webb.  “At the end of the day it’s about empowerment and it’s about preparing adults to take control of their lives.”  More about Peralta’s green training programs here, here and here.

Photos of the event can be seen here.

Documentary Japanese American civil rights activist Richard Aoki screened at COA

On Thursday, May 6, 2010 at 12 p.m. there will be a screening of the documentary film Aoki, sponsored by the Associated Students of College of Alameda and Asian Pacific American Student Success. The film traces the life of Richard Aoki, a third generation Japanese-American who was interned as a child during WWII and then went on to become a civil rights activist and one of the founding members of the Black Panther Party.  Richard Aoki was also featured in Peralta TV’s 2008 documentary, Merritt College: Home of the Black Panthers. Thursday’s screening will be followed by a Q & A with directors Ben Wang and Mike Cheng and is presented in celebration of COA’s 40th Anniversary and Asian Pacific Islander Heritage Month.

Merritt College Ceramic Arts Students exhibit work in Davis

Nineteen Merritt College students had their creative work on display at the California Conference for the Advancement of Ceramic Arts in Davis, California April 30 – March 2. The CCACA is an annual celebration of student and professional ceramic work from across the state with exhibits as well as hands-on workshops and lectures. Merritt College Ceramic Sculpture Instructor Susannah Israel was a lecturer at the conference, speaking on collaborative work. Now in its 21st year, the conference featured the work of student artists from over 50 California schools. More about the conference here.  

Congresswoman Barbara Lee to Tour Laney College to Evaluate Green Job-Training Programs

OAKLAND – Congresswoman Barbara Lee (CA-09) will tour Laney College, located at 900 Fallon Street, Oakland, CA, on Monday, May 3, 2010 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 noon to assess Peralta Community College District’s Green Jobs Program and its Alameda Transportation and Logistics Academic Support (ATLAS) Program.

Congresswoman Lee will be joined on the tour by Jane Oates, Assistant Secretary of Employment and Training for the U.S. Department of Labor, Peralta Community College Chancellor Elihu Harris, Laney College President Elnora Webb and College of Alameda President George Herring. The press is welcome to accompany the Congresswoman on the tour.

Congresswoman Lee, Assistant Secretary Oates, Peralta Community College officials and students will discuss the impact the job-training programs have had on providing students with a pathway into the many employment opportunities offered by the burgeoning Green Jobs economy during a press conference in the Laney College Courtyard at 11:15 a.m.

The U.S. Department of Labor provided $2.5 million in grant support for the ATLAS Program at the College of Alameda. The ATLAS Program targets low-income, unemployed and under-employment individuals and provides them with training in warehouse logistics and transportation industry. Peralta Community College District received an additional $1 million in ARRA funding to support its Green Jobs Program at Laney College. The program trains students in energy efficiency, renewable energy and water-installation practices, skills necessary for them to gain employment in the residential plumbing industry.

Sustainable Peralta: “Ideas for Action” Conference

On Friday, April 23, Sustainable Peralta hosted a conference, “Ideas for Action.” Activist Kari Fulton addressed the group from Boliva where she is attending the People’s World Conference on Climate Change. Oakland Councilwomen Jean Quan and Rebecca Kaplan and Peralta Trustee Nicky González Yuen attended in person. “It was exciting looking back over five years,” said González Yuen, “and seeing the actions we’ve taken as a District toward a more environmentally sustainable future.” Since the first conference, recycling has been institutionalized at all four Peralta campuses, students have universal access to bus passes, and solar projects are in development at Laney and Merritt and in the planning stages at College of Alameda and Berkeley City College. A self-guided tour of Laney highlighted the incorporation of sustainability across the college: new designs in the machine shop, green job training programs, and the infusion of environmental concepts by instructors into curriculum across the disciplines. “We are creating a sustainable future,” said González Yuen. “The ideas have been diffused and infused throughout the District.”

Peralta supports and develops its own employees

At its April 13, 2010 meeting the Board of Trustees granted certificates of completion to a second class of graduates from Peralta’s “Grow Your Own” Leadership Succession Program. Launched in 2007, the management training and mentoring program is designed to foster the talents and leadership abilities of current Peralta employees and support them in moving into positions of greater responsibility within the District. “We know we have really talented people already here,” said Peralta General Counsel Thuy Thi Nguyen. “And this program is to develop that talent so they can help lead the district in the future.” Participants are assigned a mentor, attend a two-day management college, and participate in monthly skill-building workshops. And there has been success: of the eleven graduates in the first class, six have already found positions of greater responsibility within the District. “And the most recent graduating class looks very promising as well,” said Nguyen. For more about Peralta’s Leadership Succession Program go here.

California law would make transfer to 4-year colleges easier

A new law introduced in the California Senate by San Fernando Valley Senator Alex Padilla would simplify the transfer process between the community college system and the California’s public universities. Currently, California is one of the few states without uniform policies governing transfers, and so colleges have negotiated transfer agreements individually and the guidelines are often unclear and inconsistent. Senate Bill 1440, also called the Student Transfer Achievement Reform Act, would standardize the transfer relationship and also guarantee community college graduates a place at a California State University. On April 21, the Senate Education Committee approved the law by an 8-0 vote and it will now head to Senate Appropriations.

Peralta trustees approve interim chancellor

On April 13, 2010, the Peralta Board of Trustees appointed Dr. Wise Allen as Interim Chancellor for the Peralta Community College District, starting July 1, 2010.  Dr. Allen began his career at Peralta as sociology instructor at the College of Alameda. He has since served in a variety of administrative roles for the District, including as Presiden t of both Merritt College and Berkeley City College. Most recently, Allen served in district offices as Peralta’s Vice Chancellor for Educational Services. Allen holds a bachelor’s degree from San Francisco State University, a master’s in social work from Howard University, and a doctorate in social and clinical psychology from Berkeley’s Wright Institute. 

In another action, the district board approved R. Michael Lenahan as acting District Chief Financial Officer, and Trudy Largent was reinstated as Vice Chancellor of Human Resources.  Watch last week’ board meeting – and all other Peralta board meetings here.

Institutional Research data—and more data

Curious to compare transfer rates across the colleges? Or examine post-job training employment rates? You can find data, data, and more data about Peralta students, faculty and employees at the Peralta Institutional Research website. Headed by statistician

Dr. Michael Orkin—formerly Dean of Business, Math and Science at Laney—the Data Research Group tracks everything from student performance to faculty demographics to the productivity of class sections. The Institutional Research site is a treasure trove of information that is used to manage the individual colleges and the district as a whole, apply for grants, and develop student programming. “And right now this data is super important,” says Orkin. In an era of tight funding, administrators are working to make budget cuts as strategically as possible. Peralta’s Institutional Research Data is here.

Financial aid reform press conference

On Tuesday, April 13, 2010, Organizing for America hosted a news conference at Laney College to spotlight the benefits to students of the just-passed Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act. While health care reform captured almost all the headlines about the bill, the law will also have a major impact on student financial aid. New federal rules will eliminate banks as lenders in student loans and allocate more money for Pell grants and student loans. At the Tuesday lunchtime event, Laney’s Acting President Dr. Elñora Webb, Peralta Associate Vice Chancellor James Bracy and Peralta students discussed how financial aid reform will impact District students. Public response to a San Francisco Chronicle article about BCC/Laney College student Esteem Brumfield’s struggle to attend college, led the Peralta Foundation to establish a fund to help him pay for school. Look for more information about financial aid reform here.

Accreditation teams on campuses April 12 – 19, 2010

Accreditation teams will be visiting all four Peralta Colleges during the week of April 12 – 19, 2010. The accreditation team is made up of administrators from other California community colleges including Mendocino, Oxnard and San Mateo and is headed by Don Warkentin, the president of West Hills College Lemoore, located just south of Fresno. The visiting administrators will meet with representatives at District offices, Laney, Merritt, College of Alameda and Berkeley City College to assess the colleges’ progress in several areas including staff evaluations, program review and the district’s financial management system. Accreditation is an evaluation process designed to assure that the quality of educational institutions and programs meet or exceed stated criteria for educational quality. The Peralta Colleges are accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

Peralta students begin to enroll for 2010 summer and fall

All continuing Peralta students can begin enrollment in summer and fall classes starting on Wednesday, April 14. (The 2010 summer and fall schedules are here.) EOPS, DSPS and veterans began priority enrollment on April 12. For students new to the Peralta Colleges, enrollment opens on Monday, May 3. All course registration is done online and students who need assistance can get help from Student Ambassadors in Admissions and Records offices. With state budget cuts impacting higher education across the state, competition for sections at Merritt, Laney, College of Alameda and Berkeley City College is expected to be tight. Students denied access to the University of California and California State University systems will likely turn to community colleges for the credits they need. Continuing students should register ASAP in order to have the best chance of getting the classes they need.

April 6, 2010

On March 23, 2010, the Peralta Community College District Board of Trustees presented a proclamation to Laney College professor Earl Robinson upon his induction into the Pac-10 Hall of Honor. A video of the Board's presentation can be seen on the Peralta TV's YouTube channel here. Congratulations professor Robinson, you are one of the Peralta Colleges' true legends!

Budget cuts continue to challenge all public schools, the Peralta Community College District

With California’s ongoing and unrelenting budget crisis, public schools at all levels, from kindergarten to the University of California, Berkeley, continue to feel the pinch. According to a recent Contra Costa Times article, about one-quarter of the East Bay K-12 school districts are on the state's "watch list" for insolvency. In February, in an effort to put a stop to ongoing deficit spending, Cal State East Bay gave layoff notices to 100 employees. Forty other employees were offered reassignment or part-time positions. Furloughs have hampered the educational system at many institutions, including Cal. A March 30 “Fiscal Alert” notice from Peralta Community College District Chancellor Elihu Harris announced a range of cost-cutting measures, including a hiring freeze, a plan for across-the-board, system-wide cuts in the 2010-2011 fiscal year, and a freeze on several types of spending, including travel. Other possible cost cutting measures noted by Chancellor Harris include incentives for early retirement, voluntary workload reductions, and an increase in employee contributions to health care. “The California Community Colleges are facing the worst state financial crisis in recent history,” wrote Harris.

Merritt Track and Field team running strong

“The season is going great,” reports Head Track Coach Brock Drazen, who says his team is looking forward to competing in upcoming championships. “Starting in late April we have the conference championship, Northern California and then state,” he said. Top season performers this year, says Drazen, include sophomore Ray Stewart, the defending state champion in the 110-meter hurdles. Stewart has signed with the University of California, Berkeley for the fall. Pearson Crichlow, with the fastest 100-meter and the second fastest 200-meter times in Northern California, has several options for 4-year colleges for the 2010-11 school year and is still deciding. Also notable: at the March 26 - 27 Stanford Invitational, Tirrell Day clocked a personal best in the intermediate hurdles and earned himself a fourth place state ranking. Both the 4 x 100 meters and 4 x 400 meter relay teams are also running strong, says Drazen. Check out this video of Merritt running the 4 x 100 meter rely at the Stanford Invitational. Find a host of other Merritt Track and Field videos here.

All Merritt Track and Field Videos here
March 27, Stanford Invitational, 4 x 100m relay here

Federal financial aid reform: More money for community colleges and for students

The federal Student Aid and Fiscal Responsibility Act signed into law on March 30, 2010 by President Barack Obama has less than the 10 billion originally slated for community colleges across the nation. But, as written, 2 billion is headed for a competitive grant program for community college job training and education programs in order to help meet President Obama’s ambitious goals for dramatically increasing the number of community college graduates in coming years. The Act’s overhaul of the federal student loan system means students will now borrow directly from the government, cutting out the banks as middlemen, and yielding a windfall for schools and students in fees once paid to private banks. Sallie Mae and other banks spent millions lobbying to prevent the changes. The law also increases the maximum Pell Grant size in order. More information on Pell Grants and how to apply for them can be found here.

César Chávez birthday celebrations

Wednesday, March 31 is the birthday of union organizer and civil rights activist César Chávez. Chávez is best known for fighting for immigrant farm workers’ rights. In California, his birthday is a state holiday and in 2009, the Laney Faculty Senate passed a resolution in support of making Chávez’s birthday into a Peralta holiday.  The resolution reads, in part, “the Laney College Faculty Senate requests that the Peralta Community College District honor César E. Chávez for his tireless, transformative work on behalf of the citizens of the State of California.” On Tuesday, March 30, Dr. Salvador Murillo, will speak about Chávez’s accomplishments at COA’s Building F at 12 p.m. On Wednesday, there will lunchtime events honoring Chávez at Laney’s Quad and in Merritt’s Newton/Seale student lounge. 

Federal Student Aid and Fiscal Responsibility Act: New Aid for community colleges

Two new billion dollars for the nation’s community colleges and Pell grants will no longer flow through private banks to students, are some of the changes in a new federal student aid law that is working its way through congress.  President Barack Obama, who is expected to sign the legislation on Tuesday, March 31, praised the legislation in his weekly radio address. “This reform of the federal student loan programs will save taxpayers $68 billion over the next decade,” Obama said.  California’s Chancellor for Community Colleges Jack Scott told the Chronicle of Higher Education that the new grants are "very important at a time when there's high unemployment and need for retraining."  Scott said he expects California colleges to use the funding to expand career technical programs. More here.

COA Instructor Ralph Marinaro featured in Alameda Journal

A long-time College of Alameda Instructor was featured in a front-page article in the Friday, March 26, 2010 Alameda Journal. Marino, who was also honored as “Best Actor in 2009,” by Castro Valley's Chanticleers Theatre where he performs regularly, has been teaching communications and business courses in the Peralta system since 1977. “He's really got a legacy here," said one current student, whose uncle took a class from Marino decades ago. The whole story is here.

California community college students missing out on federal
grant money           

Peralta community college district provides subscription
service for website users

Students and the public can now receive up-to-the-minute information

OAKLAND, Calif., March 22, 2010 – The Peralta Community College District – Berkeley City College, College of Alameda and Laney and Merritt colleges in Oakland – is announcing the availability of a new digital subscription feature on its website, www.peralta.edu. The Peralta Colleges has added this email subscription service to its website to keep people up-to-date on news and information.

Chancellor Elihu Harris said “The service allows students, faculty, staff and especially the public to subscribe to topics of interest and receive instant, automated email or wireless notification whenever PCCD posts new information.” The notices include links that take subscribers directly to the updated content for more detail. “At Peralta, we believe proactive communication makes it easier for the community to stay informed,” added Harris.

The service is easy to use. With a few clicks, anyone with web access can sign up for updates on hundreds of different topics like class schedule changes, job postings, board meetings, construction projects, general news, college events or just about anything. Subscribers can also tailor the frequency at which they receive notices: immediately upon posting, daily, weekly or monthly.

Signing up is free, easy and risk-free. Visitors to the Peralta community college district website can click on the “Subscribe” icon on the site’s homepage, enter their email address and then review a list of pages that are available for subscription and sign up. The only information that is required is an email address, plus subscribers can change their subscription choices or cancel the service at any time.

The new service will benefit both the community and the college district, itself. The Peralta Colleges can improve responsiveness both internally and externally, interact more effectively through proactive communication and will reduce paper use and delivery costs by sending information digitally instead of on paper. Ultimately, residents, students and Peralta staff will stay better informed about subjects that are important to them, get information immediately and save time looking for information on the website.

Since 1964, the Peralta Community College District – Berkeley City College, College of Alameda and Laney and Merritt Colleges – has served Alameda, Albany, Berkeley, Emeryville, Oakland and Piedmont by providing East Bay students of all ages with a range of educational programs and life-long learning opportunities. To learn more, visit www.peralta.edu.

March 22
       
Pablo “Mezcla” Menendez with the latin jazz All-Stars to perform Merritt College

Pablo “Mezcla” Menendez, an Oakland native who has lived most of his adult life in Cuba, will perform Friday, April 2, at Merritt College’s Newton Seale Student Lounge. In a concert presented by the Associated Students, Menendez will bring his unique Latin Jazz fusion to Merritt, playing songs from his latest release, “I’ll See You In Cuba.” Menendez and the All-Stars will be joined on stage by special guests Avotcja and Modupue.  On Wednesday, March 31 from 2 pm to 4 pm Menendez will give a lecture, sponsored by Merritt’s African American Studies Department, on the topic of “What Keeps Us Apart?”  Also in the Seale Student Lounge, the lecture is free and open to the public. Friday night concert tickets can be purchased through Brown Paper Tickets for $22 ($25 at the door).

BCC hosts California budget forum

You’re unlikely to find anyone willing to argue that the California budget system is running like clockwork. But how exactly does it work/not work? This coming Saturday, March 27, Berkeley City College hosts a discussion, “Everything you ever wanted to know about California’s budget woes but were afraid to ask” with Assembly member Nancy Skinner and Jean Ross, Executive Director of the non-partisan California Budget Project. Co-sponsored by Berkeley City College, Berkeley City College Civic Engagement Club, Greenlining Institute, Berkeley Federation of Teachers, Berkeley Schools PTA, United in Action, Peralta PTA and the Cal Dems, the discussion will be held in BCC’s auditorium from 2 pm to 4 pm.

Laney summer youth music camps

March 16, 2010

Peralta Television offers sports ‘on demand’

Starting now you can watch Peralta baseball and basketball games ‘on demand’ on PeraltaTV’s Web site. (Click on PTV Sports Videos, then select your sport, then chose a game.) Each game is available in its entirety—you can track the Lady Eagles basketball team’s road to the California Community College Association championships. Starting next fall, in addition to live Peralta TV coverage, look for on demand availability of football, volleyball, soccer, water polo and track. PTV Sports uses state-of-the art equipment to generate high-end production unmatched at the junior college level. The TV station is here.

Enrollment rising

The number of students taking classes in the Peralta Community College system is on the rise throughout the district. Merritt College has had the sharpest increase, with a 25 percent spike in enrollment. Alameda has had a 20 percent rise, and BCC has seen a 15 percent uptick. Laney is up seven percent, for a district-wide jump in enrollment of 13 percent. But due to the state budget crisis, funding continues to drop. “We’re serving 3,000 full-time students that we’re not getting paid for,” said Peralta Vice Chancellor Wise Allen—a funding gap that adds up to a loss of $12.6 million dollars. “We’re serving more students with less,” said Allen. Check out this Los Angeles Times article on the rising demand for seats in college-level classes across the state.

Earl Robinson Pac-10 Hall of Honor induction

On Saturday, March 13 in Los Angles, Laney College Professor Earl Robinson was inducted into the Pac-10 Hall of Honor. Robinson, a communications professor, was a baseball and basketball star at UC Berkeley in the 1950s. Graduating in 1958, he went on to play for the Los Angeles Dodgers, where his signing bonus the highest-ever for a black player. Then from 1961 to 1964 he played for the Baltimore Orioles, returning to Cal as an assistant basketball coach. In 1966, Robinson was named head coach at Merritt, becoming the first African American head basketball coach in the California junior college system. “Please join me,” said Laney College President Elnora Webb, who traveled to Los Angeles with Peralta Board of Trustees President Abel Guillen for the celebration, “in celebrating the considerable achievement of such an skilled and accomplished man.”

March 15, 2010

The spring edition of the Peralta Vision community newsletter is now
available on our Web site

Peralta Vision contains stories about our students, colleges and some unique grant opportunities at the Peralta Colleges. Please follow the below link to the newsletter: Click here.

If you have not already signed up for automatic Peralta Colleges email updates, please do so today. It's the perfect way to keep up with what's happening at the Peralta Colleges. Follow this link to sign up now: Click here.

Berkeley City College Celebrates Women’s History Month

Join Berkeley City College in recognizing Women’s History Month starting Monday, March 8 at 12:30 p.m. with a screening of Going on 13, a documentary film chronicling the coming of age stories of four Bay Area girls. After the screening, join director Kristy Guevara-Flanagan for a Q & A in the Berkeley City College Auditorium. Stay put for a panel discussion: “If Women Ran the World: Meet & Talk with Bay Area Women in Public Office” from 4:15-5:45 p.m. Look for other upcoming BCC Women’s History events—sponsored by BCC’s Women’s Studies Program, the Humanities Program and the Women’s Empowerment Alliance—on the BCC home page.

Laney College Lady Eagles advance to state basketball tournament

On Saturday, March 6, Laney College’s Lady Eagles defeated the San Joaquin Delta College at home in the finals of the California Community College women's basketball northern region tournament.  The Eagles’ 56-54 win brings their season record to 25-5 and propels them on to the state finals this March 11-14 at Cal Lutheran University in Thousand Oaks. Heading South to the championship, Laney is looking for its 21st consecutive win. More tournament details here.

Peralta students rising

California Highway Patrol Officer Rick Weaver signed up for an American Sign Language course at BCC at the urging of deaf friends. Now he’s the lead ASL communicator for the CHP. “I love the language and the culture,” Weaver says. Photographer Ray Chavez credits Laney College for kick starting his career. “At Laney, faculty and staff mentored me – now I am a mentor to others.” Shelia Lau transferred from COA to Cal. State East Bay earning a BA in psychology and then a MA in counseling psychology from University of San Francisco. She recently returned to COA as Transfer Center Director. Brett Sweeny came to Merritt with a 1.6 GPA. Through the Maximum Achievement Project, Sweeny supported other African American students, working as an academic tutor and peer advisor. Sweeny graduated two years later with honors and a full academic scholarship to UC Berkeley.

Peralta earns green grants!

The Green Job Corps was recently awarded a half million dollars from the Employment Development Department in order to provide job training for solar and construction jobs. The Corps provides training in solar installation, energy auditing, energy efficiency and green construction. KTVU has a story here. The National Science Foundation granted Laney $900,000 to support its Environmental Control Technology program, preparing student for work in the growing field of ‘energy management.’  Green Grants to Peralta also support training in electric vehicle control systems and the troubleshooting and control of building heat and cooling systems.

Peralta Colleges Board Elects New Officers, Including First Latino, Youngest President

OAKLAND, Calif., December 18, 2009 – The Peralta Community College District’s Board of Trustees, at its annual organizational meeting held on December 15, elected a new slate of officers. Abel J. Guillén, who has represented Area 7 since 2006, was elected president and Dr. William “Bill” Riley, who is serving a third term representing Area 5, was elected vice president of the nine-member board.
The first in his family to attend college, Guillén, 34, is the board’s first Latino president and the youngest elected to serve in the leadership position. READ MORE...

$1 million CIRM grant allows Berkeley City College to train future stem cell researchers

Berkeley, Dec. 16—Berkeley City College (BCC) was awarded a $1,093,500 grant from the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine’s (CIRM) Bridges Program, Dr. Betty Inclan, president, announced.
Berkeley City College has an excellent science faculty and bioscience curriculum,” Inclan said. “I was quite confident that with Dr. Barbara Des Rochers writing this grant, we would have an opportunity to involve our biotechnology program in one of the cutting edge areas of scientific research.” READ MORE...

College of Alameda Auto Tech Department Awards
Four Daniel Gilbert Memorial Scholarships
Four College of Alameda Automotive Technology students were awarded Daniel Gilbert Memorial Scholarships in a ceremony at the college on December 1, 2009. Recipients of this semester’s $300 scholarships were Calvin Maglaya, Alex Leate, Adam Leate and Travon Murphy. Adam Leate is receiving the scholarship for the second consecutive semester. READ MORE...

Peralta TV’s Oakland Holiday Parade Broadcast Seen on 150 PBS Stations, Worldwide On the Armed Forces Network

OAKLAND, Calif., November 30, 2009 – Peralta TV, the cable television station of the Peralta Community College District, which includes Berkeley City College, College of Alameda and Laney and Merritt colleges in Oakland, will provide not only national, but worldwide coverage of the 2009 annual Oakland Children’s Holiday Parade, a favorite Oakland tradition. READ MORE...

Peralta Colleges Student Wins 2009 Best Short Drama Award at New York International Film Festival

OAKLAND, Calif., October 6,, 2009 – Former Laney College student and Peralta TV intern, Sandra Smith, wants to change the world through the lens of her camera by producing movies and shows that will inspire and encourage young adults to change their lives.  And Smith has done it.  Her short film, “The Sealed Letter,” has won the Best Short Drama award at the New York International Independent Film and Video Festival.
READ MORE...

Peralta TV’s Groundbreaking Black Panther Documentary to Be Screened at the United Nations

OAKLAND, Calif., March 16, 2009 – “Merritt College: Home of the Black Panthers,” the groundbreaking documentary produced by Peralta TV that has been generating considerable interest in the Bay Area, has caught the eye of the United Nations.

Each year the United Nations marks the “International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade” with a series of events. This year, Peralta TV’s new documentary about the Black Panther Party is going to be screened as one of three keynote films presented at UN Headquarters in New York. READ MORE...

Thirty Two Newly Tenured Faculty Honored

The Peralta Community College District Board of Trustees honored 32 newly tenured faculty members on the evening of Tuesday, April 22, 2008.  Peralta’s president of the District Academic Senate, Joseph Bielanski, formally introduced each faculty member, who were then congratulated by Peralta Colleges presidents and others. A short reception in honor of the faculty members and their families followed. READ MORE...

College of Alameda Sisters Win Statewide Academic Honor

Sisters Su Zhen Cai and Su Hua Cai, both College of Alameda students, have been selected for the 2008 Phi Theta Kappa All-California Academic First Team. The award, given annually by the community college honor society, Phi Theta Kappa, recognizes outstanding students from two-year colleges throughout the United States. READ MORE...

Peralta TV wins National Award for Documentary on Race Relations

OAKLAND, Calif., March 24, 2008–Peralta TV, the college television station of Berkeley City College, College of Alameda and Laney and Merritt Colleges in Oakland, won a Gold Paragon Award for the best college video program in the country.

The award, presented by the National Council for Marketing and Public Relations, is the first national award for the cable television station, which has previous won a number of state and regional awards for its programming. Read more.

Oakland Holiday Parade on Peralta TV, PBS

Weren't able to make this year’s Oakland Holiday Parade, which was hosted by Peralta TV's very own Anthony Cooper and Charity Tooze, above, or just want to watch it again from the comfort of your living room? Read more.

Laney College Eagles Achieve Bowl Victory – Head Coach Uchiumi Wins Mid-Empire Conference “Coach of the Year”

OAKLAND, Calif., November 29, 2007 – The Laney College football team once again achieved a winning season, topping off their 10-1 record with a bowl game victory in Modesto.

Under the leadership of Head Coach Jay Uchiumi, the Eagles whipped the Modesto Junior College Pirates in the 15th Annual Graffiti Bowl. Laney overcame a 21-14 halftime deficit to keep the Pirates scoreless in the second half, ultimately pulling in a 42-21 win. This year’s Laney victory echoed the 2006 Graffiti Bowl, when the Eagles bested the Pirates 34-28. Read more.

Dr. Betty Inclan Named President of Berkeley City College
New CEO Assumes Post Jan. 1, 2008

Berkeley, CA- Peralta Community College District trustees at their regular board meeting Tue., Nov. 13 chose Dr. Betty Inclan as Berkeley City College’s new president, Chancellor Elihu Harris announced. Inclan assumes her new post beginning Jan. 1.

Berkeley City College Biology major wins Coca-Cola
Foundation Scholarship

BERKELEY, Aug. 17 - Fatima Bensadek, 23, is a winner of a 2007 Coca-Cola Foundation Scholarship. The $1,000 award was presented in August to the Berkeley City College biology major. The money will go toward books and college fees.
"When I came here, I was 19, and I looked at all options," says the future physician. "In my country, you have to stand on your own; there are no scholarships, and few people get help from the government; you have to pay on your own." Read more.

Peralta's Reggie James Elected to the California Community College Board of Directors

Reginald James, Student Member of the Peralta Community College District Board of Trustees, was elected to the California Community College Trustees (CCCT) Board of Directors at the League's Student Trustee Workshop, August 10 - 11. Read more.

Enrollment Campaign in Full Swing

The Peralta Colleges' fall 2007 enrollment advertising campaign is in full swing with a combination of direct mail, community billboards, television spots and student ambassadors on the streets urging new students on. And the effort seems to be having its effect: Enrollment jumped 5% in three days as the campaign hit its stride. Read more.

Peralta College Faculty retire

Recently, a number of Peralta Colleges faculty retired. Here is Academic Senate President Joseph Bielanski’s (pictured) tribute to those faculty members who served Peralta Colleges’ students for so many years. Read more.