Contra Costa Herald

News Of By and For The People of Contra Costa County, California

Three San Ramon students win at National Speech & Debate Tournament

By Leave a Comment

2026 Middle School National Champions

By Shelby Young, Marketing & Communications, National Speech & Debate Association

The National Speech & Debate Association is proud to announce the 2026 Middle School National Speech & Debate Champions! Three students from Windmere Ranch Middle School Argumentative Debate and Academic Competition Club (ADACC) in San Ramon. Lillian Liu won the Congressional Debate competition, and Zidaan Barodawala and Iris Ai won the Public Forum Debate competition. The school is in the San Ramon Valley Unified School District.

Around 1,000 middle school students from 39 states and six countries traveled to Richmond, Virginia to compete in the National Speech & Debate Tournament, the “superbowl” of academia.

“Speech and debate equips students with skills that will serve them for a lifetime—confidence, communication, critical thinking, and the ability to engage respectfully with different perspectives,” said J. Scott Wunn, Executive Director of the National Speech & Debate Association. “These skills help students succeed not only in school, but also as future leaders, professionals, and active members of their communities.”

2026 Middle School National Speech & Debate Champions:

Congressional Debate

Lillian Liu of Windmere Ranch Middle School ADACC, San Ramon, California

Public Forum Debate

Zidaan Barodawala and Iris Ai, Windmere Ranch Middle School ADACC, San Ramon, California

Declamation

Leah Domar, Gutierrez Middle School of Arts & Sciences, Texas

Dramatic Interpretation

Lauren Elliott, Gutierrez Middle School of Arts & Sciences, Texas

Duo Interpretation

Lauren Elliott & Vesper Garza, Gutierrez Middle School of Arts & Sciences, Texas

Humorous Interpretation

Tiegen Fryberger, Duluth Marshall School, Minnesota

Impromptu Speaking

Taj Brown, The Village Middle School, Texas

Informative Speaking

Aivah Dauzart, David Thibodaux STEM Magnet Academy, Louisiana

Lincoln-Douglas Debate

Bailey Wong, El Roble Intermediate, California

Mixed Extemporaneous Speaking

Liam Sahli, Friendly Hills Middle School, Minnesota

Original Oratory

Maahi Ailawadhi, Alice B. Landrum Middle School, Florida

Original Spoken Word Poetry

Damilola Adeoshun, E. A. Olle Middle School, Texas

Poetry

Cetlalli Valenzuela Gonzalez, Edgewood Middle School, California

Policy Debate 

Tariq Abdul-Jami and Nicholas Hinkhouse, Solar Preparatory School for Boys, Texas

Program Oral Interpretation

Vesper Garza, Gutierrez Middle School of Arts & Sciences, Texas

Prose

Madden Davis, LaRue County Middle School, Kentucky

Storytelling

Lauren Elliott, Gutierrez Middle School of Arts & Sciences, Texas

World Schools Debate

Team China Gold

Ryan Yan, Miranda Chen and Yunran Geng, Dialogy, China

With more than 100,000 student members across the country, the NSDA is the premier platform for speech and debate, preparing generations of young people to engage in the public sphere through academically rigorous speech and debate training, competitions, and education.

Over the next five years, the NSDA has a goal to double the number of students involved in speech and debate to 200,000 students across the country.

The 2027 National Tournament will be held in Phoenix, Arizona, from June 13–18, 2027. To learn more about Nationals, visit www.speechanddebate.org/nationals.

About the National Speech & Debate Association

The National Speech & Debate Association is the authority on public speaking and debate in the United States. The Association builds the infrastructure for speech and debate competitions around the world by providing topics, educational resources, and training for students and coaches. For 100 years, the National Speech & Debate Association has built a platform for youth voices that culminates in the National Tournament, the largest academic competition in the world. For more information, visit www.speechanddebate.org.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Monte Vista High student is National Speech & Debate Tournament champion

By Leave a Comment

Anadita Upadhyaya is a 2026 National Speech & Debate Champion. Photo: LinkedIn

By Shelby Young, Marketing & Communications, National Speech & Debate Association

After five days of rigorous competition at the National Speech & Debate Tournament, six students have earned the title of national finalist in the Rep. Barbara Jordan Congressional Debate – House competition. Anadita Upadhyaya, a sophomore at Monte Vista High School in Danville, is the National Champion. The competition is part of the 2026 Main Debate Event.

The Tournament, presented by the National Speech & Debate Association (NSDA), is the world’s largest academic competition. More than 7,000 students from 48 states, the District of Columbia, two U.S. territories, and eight countries traveled to Richmond, Virginia, to compete this past week.

“Speech and debate equips students with the skills to engage meaningfully with the world—to question, advocate, understand diverse perspectives, think critically, and communicate with purpose,” said J. Scott Wunn, Executive Director of the NSDA. “These students are the next generation of leaders and changemakers, and their voices will build a stronger future.”

Congressional Debate is a group debate event simulating the U.S. legislative process. Students meet in chambers and debate legislation over a session typically lasting two to three hours.

Source: NSDA

The NSDA is proud to recognize the top six students in the country in the Rep. Barbara Jordan Congressional Debate – House:

National Champion

Anadita Upadhyaya

Monte Vista High School, California

According to her LinkedIn profile she wrote, “A high school sophomore driven by a curiosity for how AI and innovative technology can solve real-world problems. Whether I’m diving into STEM projects, breaking down complex ideas into engaging stories through public speaking, or practicing discipline on the martial arts mat as a third-degree black belt, I love taking on new challenges. Always open to public speaking opportunities and eager to connect with peers, mentors, and innovators!

Anadita has been a member of the California Scholarship Federation Danville, is currently the On-site Co-President beginning this month and served as the Director of Student Activities from June 2025 to May 2026.

She is a Third Degree Black Belt in Taekwondo and has worked as a referee for World Taekwondo in the San Francisco Bay Area since August 2024.

2nd Place

Alysia Aldea

Medina Senior High School, Ohio

3rd Place

Chaith Mittal

Archbishop Mitty High School, California

4th Place

Enan Khan

American Heritage Schools, Palm Beach Campus, Florida

5th Place

Hayley Fung

Los Osos High School, California

6th Place

Vedant Hathalia

Bellarmine College Preparatory, California

These students represent the top 1% of speech and debate competitors in the National Speech & Debate Association. Students must compete in local, regional, or online district competitions throughout the school year to qualify for the National Speech & Debate Tournament. Finalists are selected after multiple rounds of competition with students from across the country.

See more about the various competitions and the finalists on the NSDA Facebook page.

The NSDA is the largest speech and debate organization in the United States, supporting interscholastic tournaments, schools, coaches, and students since 1925. For more than 100 years, the NSDA has prepared generations of young people to engage in the public sphere through academically rigorous speech and debate training, competitions, and education.

The NSDA plans to expand access to this life-changing activity through the National Speech & Debate Initiative. Over the next five years, the NSDA has a goal to increase participation in speech and debate to 200,000 students by 2030. To learn more about the NSDA, visit www.speechanddebate.org.

The 2027 National Tournament will be held in Phoenix, Arizona, June 13-18, 2027. To learn more about Nationals, visit www.speechanddebate.org/nationals.

About the National Speech & Debate Association

The National Speech & Debate Association is the authority on public speaking and debate in the United States. The Association builds the infrastructure for speech and debate competitions around the world by providing topics, educational resources, and training for students and coaches. For more than 100 years, the National Speech & Debate Association has built a platform for youth voices that culminates in the National Tournament, the largest academic competition in the world. For more information, visit www.speechanddebate.org.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

 

 

Free college access program opportunity for high school juniors and sophomores

By Leave a Comment

Source: 10,000 Degrees

To support students from low-income backgrounds

At SF State July 18 – Limited spots available, first come, first served! 

By Rachel Clark, Senior Marketing & Communications Manager, 10,000 Degrees

The 10,000 Degrees College Access Program presents The Summit, a FREE one-day, in-person summer event on Saturday, July 18 | 9:00 – 5:00 PM, where students will visit San Francisco State University.

Lunch and transportation will be provided for FREE.

Open to Juniors and Sophomores who attend a high school in the following counties: Contra Costa, Sonoma, Lake, Napa, Marin, San Francisco, San Mateo and Santa Clara.

Students will: Dive into action-oriented college workshops. Get an insider’s look at SF State. Explore essential student resources at a resource fair. Connect with the 10,000 Degrees team and learn about our scholarship. Bonus: Win raffle prizes.

About 10,000 Degrees College Access Program

We are dedicated to helping high school students from low-income backgrounds get to college, whether you enroll at a four-year university or community college. Students at our partner schools can receive support from Fellows right on campus and attend financial aid and college readiness workshops and events all year.

Our College Access Program for high school students starts with The Summit, an incredible college immersion program held in the summer before your senior year. You can participate in our programming as early as the spring of your junior year by checking out our program application! From there, we provide informational, action-oriented workshops to help you explore your college options, apply for free financial aid and the 10,000 Degrees Scholarship, complete college application, and more. Throughout your senior year, we also offer comprehensive college support at our partner high school directly on campus.

Limited spots available for The Summit college tour – first come, first served!

For more information visit https://10000degrees.org/students-alumni/high-school-students/#summit.

Dana Eaton seeks promotion to Contra Costa County Superintendent of Schools

By Leave a Comment

Source: Eaton campaign

Brentwood Union School District Superintendent will apply his student-centered approach countywide

“We have a moral responsibility to make sure our children’s education is better than the one that we received,” – Dr. Dana Eaton

By Lisa Tucker

BRENTWOOD – In January, Dana Eaton launched his candidacy for Contra Costa County Superintendent of Schools.  This is an open seat.

“Students and learning are at the center of my work as superintendent of schools for the Brentwood Union School District and in my previous roles as a teacher and principal,” said Eaton.  “I have consistently championed early literacy, student mental health, supporting the whole child, and school safety as foundational priorities, and will continue to do so as Contra Costa Superintendent of Schools.”

Dr. Eaton is serving his 13th year as superintendent of schools for the Brentwood Union School District and his 17th year as a superintendent overall.  According to his LinkedIn profile, he previously worked as Superintendent for the Jefferson School District in Tracy from 2009 to 2013. Eaton has a nearly 30-year career in education including as a teacher and principal.

He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies from San Francisco State University, a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Saint Mary’s College of California and a Doctor of Education – EdD degree in Educational Leadership from the University of La Verne.

Dr. Dana Eaton with his wife, Renee and their children, James and Emily. Source: Eaton campaign.

Eaton currently serves on the Fiscal Crisis and Management Assistance Team State Governing Board, the state’s school finance oversight organization; the California Collaborative for Educational Excellence Superintendent Advisory Panel, the state’s support provider to school districts in need of academic assistance; and, is state president of the Association of California School Administrators (ACSA) Superintendency Council, where he advocates on behalf of students, teachers, and educational leaders at the state and federal level.

“This experience has prepared me to help districts maintain sound fiscal practices and improve their Local Contral and Accountability Plans (LCAPs) to provide outstanding educational opportunities to every student,” said Eaton.

Current Contra Costa Superintendent of Schools, Lynn Mackey, is retiring and will not run for re-election. She has endorsed Eaton, stating “Dana is a highly experienced, well-respected superintendent here in Contra Costa County.  He is deeply committed to public education, understands the role of the County Office, and brings steady, student-centered leadership.”

During a campaign fundraiser on April 7th, the candidate said, “I really believe in the power of public education. At the same time, I think we’re in a time when we are at risk for our children and our children’s children having an inferior education. I think that as adults who have benefited from a public education that we have a moral responsibility to make sure our children’s education is better than the one that we received. And that’s why I’m running for County Superintendent of Schools.”

Dr. Dana Eaton speaks during a campaign fundraiser at McCauley Estate Vineyards in Brentwood on April 7, 2026. Photos by Allen D. Payton

In recognition of Eaton’s leadership, he was named ACSA Superintendent of the Year for Alameda and Contra Costa Counties in both 2016 and 2023.  He was also named Brentwood Citizen of the Year in 2019 by the Brentwood Chamber of Commerce.

“As Superintendent, I will work to attract and support high-quality teachers and prioritize student success and learning whether in general education, special education, or alternative settings,” said Eaton.

Eaton comes from a long line of educators. His grandparents, mother, sister and wife, Renee, all served their communities as teachers. Eaton lives in Brentwood with his family.

The primary election is in June in which he faces one opponent. Whoever receives a majority of the vote wins and will begin their term in December.

For more information about Dr. Eaton and his campaign visit www.eatonforschools.com.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Opinion: CoCoTax says vote no on Measure G – a $1.88 billion burden Contra Costa can’t afford

By Leave a Comment

All graphics & charts source: CoCoTax

By Mike Arata

On June 2, Contra Costa County voters will decide whether to saddle themselves — and their children — with the largest bond debt in the history of the Contra Costa Community College District (4CD). Measure G asks for $920 million in new borrowing. With interest, the true cost climbs to $1.88 billion, with final payoff projected in 2059. CoCoTax has opposed this measure in official ballot arguments, in public presentations, and in a detailed response to a recent article in the Contra Costa College Advocate.

The case against Measure G is straightforward: it is far too much money, sought too soon given outstanding bond debt, by a district that hasn’t demonstrated the fiscal discipline to deserve it.

Already Drowning in Debt

4CD still owes on three bond measures as is:   2002’s Measure A ($120 million), 2006’s second Measure A, ($286.5 million), and 2014’s  Measure E ($450 million) —  totaling $856.5 million in principal alone. County taxpayers still owe nearly $727 million on those existing obligations, with the final payment on Measure E not expected until 2039. Measure G would pile $1.88 billion more on top of all that. If it passes, total bonded indebtedness reaches $2.61 billion, secured by Contra Costa County property values — with no senior exemption.

Enrollment Is Down 28% — Yet They Want to Build More

4CD advertises “nearly 50,000 students,” but that figure is misleading. California’s actual funding metric is Full-Time Equivalent Students (FTES). According to the State Chancellor’s October 2025 FTES Report, 4CD’s count was just 21,940 — down 28% from 30,648 when Measure A passed in 2002. Expanding costly new facilities while enrollment trends sharply downward is the opposite of responsible stewardship.

“Deferred Maintenance” — Deferred Forever?

Roofing repairs, seismic retrofits, HVAC upgrades, and electrical work appear repeatedly in 4CD bond project lists going back to 2002. How many bond measures must pass before these basics get done? There’s a core problem: 4CD’s maintenance budget has crept from just 0.10% to 0.20% of Plant Replacement Value over the past decade, when the commercial building standard is 2–5%. Routine maintenance gets deferred so the general fund can support other priorities — including lavish administrative compensation — and then bond money pays for the fixes, with interest on top.

Executive Pay That Outstrips the Governor’s

While seeking $920 million in new principal from taxpayers, 4CD’s Chancellor drew a $404,238 salary (as of 2024) — plus $130,674 in benefits, for total compensation reaching $548,112. That salary alone exceeds the official pay of the President of the United States and far surpasses Governor Newsom’s $245,929.  Vice Chancellors, College Presidents, and Directors also earn hundreds of thousands in total compensation. Lavish pay and lean maintenance are two sides of the same General Fund coin.

Who’s Funding “Yes on G”?

The pro-Measure G campaign has raised nearly $400,000 so far — with the bulk coming from the tax-exempt Contra Costa College Foundation ($100,000), the DVC Foundation ($50,000), and multiple construction unions (IBEW Local 302, Plumbers Local 159, Sheet Metal Workers Local 104, and others). Contractor unions have a direct financial interest in a $920 million construction program. Ordinary property-tax-paying residents have no equivalent organized voice — a textbook example of what economists call “Public Choice Theory.”

The Bottom Line

Property owners already pay an average of $13.97 per $100,000 of assessed value toward 4CD’s existing bonds. Measure G adds another $10 — and that rate could rise if the county’s assessed values don’t grow at the 4% annual pace 4CD projects, projections that, by 4CD’s own admission, “are not binding upon 4CD.”

4CD should maintain its existing buildings with its existing budget rather than repeatedly turning to taxpayers for borrowed billions. Vote NO on Measure G.

More information: NOonMeasureG.info

Arata is an Executive Committee member of the Contra Costa Taxpayers Association

Upcoming Events

CoCoTax Lunch, June 26: Former State Senator Steve Glazer Discusses BART Accountability
Friday, June 26, 2026 | 11:45am – 1:15pm PDT

CoCoTax Lunch, July 24: County Budget Overview with County Administrator Monica Nino
Friday, July 24, 2026 | 11:45am – 1:15pm PDT

For more information about the Contra Costa Taxpayers Association visit cocotax.org.

Ceremonial Indigenous-led cultural burn at Cal State East Bay Concord June 6

By Leave a Comment

Photos: mak-warép Ohlone Land Conservancy

Led by the mak-warép Ohlone Land Conservancy at the tuuštak Ecocultural Garden

By Kimberly Hawkins, Senior News and Media Manager/PIO, Cal State East Bay

On Saturday, June 6, the mak-warép Ohlone Land Conservancy, in partnership with Cal State East Bay, Concord Center, CAL FIRE, Contra Costa County Fire Protection District and the Contra Costa Resource Conservation District (CCRCD), will conduct a ceremonial cultural burn of less than one acre at the Cal State East Bay Concord Center.

This event continues the restoration of Indigenous-led fire practices in the East Bay, reaffirming cultural traditions and supporting ecological health on Ohlone homelands. The project is designed to reduce invasive grasses, improve soil health and restore native plants important for food, medicine and basketry.

100 Acres at the tuuštak Ecocultural Garden at Cal State East Bay in čupkan/Concord

According to the mak-warép Ohlone Land Conservancy website, “We restore and steward 100 acres of oak woodland, highland chaparrel and the Gallindo Creek riparian corridor at the base of our most sacred mountain, tuuštak—Mt. Diablo.

“In this beautiful place, mak-warép Ohlone Land Conservancy works in partnership with Cal State East Bay Concord and our dear friends from Terremoto Landscape to restore a landscape that teaches of the abundance of the East Bay while actively repairing former cattle-grazed landscape for the benefit of all those living on this land.

“Here, we implemented our first cultural burn in at least two generations, with seasonal burns to come every year, paired with constant monitoring of the soil for the benefit of the landscape to alleviate overgrowth that leads to wildfires and to encourage constant regeneration of the plants that do best here.

“’It’s a way of giving back to the land,’ Auntie Dottie, 95, told us while she was there for our first renewed burn in generations.”

What to Expect 

  • Smoke may be visible near the CSU East Bay Concord Center (4700 Ygnacio Valley Road) between 9:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m., weather and air quality permitting.
  • The invitation-only event begins with a private Ohlone ceremony, followed by a controlled cultural burnled by Ohlone firekeepers under cultural protocols.
  • Fire personnel and equipment from CAL FIRE and Contra Costa County Firewill be on-site throughout the day.
  • The project will only proceed on a permissive burn day, as determined by the Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD).

Safety Measures

  • Public safety is the highest priority. The burn will be conducted under a strict, approved burn plan that considers fire behavior and weather conditions.
  • Fire breaks, water supply and suppression equipment will be established on-site.
  • Crews will remain until the fire perimeter is fully secured and declared out.
  • The burn will not proceed if wind, humidity, or other conditions make it unsafe.

Air Quality Compliance 

This project qualifies as a ceremonial fire under BAAQMD Regulation 5. It is exempt from open burn notification and fees, with the only condition being that the burn will not proceed on a Mandatory Burn Ban (Spare the Air Alert) day.

Public Information 

For updates on the burn, please visit:

About the mak-warép Ohlone Land Conservancy

The mak-warép Ohlone Land Conservancy works to reacquire, restore, and steward Ohlone ancestral lands through Indigenous-led ecological restoration, hyper-localized land management, and the practice and transmission of traditional culture. Our work strengthens Ohlone relationships to land, supports access to traditional foods, medicines, and basketry materials, and engages the public in understanding Ohlone history, culture, and place-based knowledge. For more information visit www.ohloneland.com.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

In CCC Superintendent race Lathan uses photo of school board colleague who withdrew endorsement

By Leave a Comment

Cobos Smith text to Lathan rescinding her endorsement on April 19, 2026, and Lathan’s campaign Facebook page post on May 19, 2026, showing Cobos Smith (in yellow circle) included. Source: Olga Cobos Smith

“This is literally the unilateral decision making that has frustrated me for months now.” – Antioch Trustee Olga Cobos Smith

By Allen D. Payton

In a post on her official Facebook page on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, Antioch School Board Area 4 Trustee Olga Cobos Smith complained about the use of her photo in a Facebook post promoting the campaign of her colleague, Board President and Area 2 Trustee Dr. Jag Lathan, who is running for Contra Costa County Superintendent of Public Instruction. The post of Lathan’s endorsements was shared on her campaign Facebook page, earlier that day, according to Cobos Smith but has since been removed.

It read, “Dr. Jag has built a coalition of educators, families, students, and elected officials across the State and County who care deeply about the education and wellness of our students and the educators that serve them. This multigenerational, multi-ethnic, and multi-religious rich coalition of leaders demonstrate her gift to bring people together for one purpose: our children.”

Screenshots of Cobos Smith’s Facebook post on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, which includes Lathan’s post from earlier in the day.

Her post also showed photos of 14 people, including Cobos Smith, Contra Costa DA Diana Becton and District 5 Supervisor Shanelle Scales-Preston.

In response, Cobos Smith shared screenshots of both Lathan’s post and text messages between the two and wrote, “Today I was notified of an image dated today (5/19/2026) circulating with my likeness on it promoting the campaign of Dr. Jag Lathan, AUSD Board Member, Area 2. I was deeply offended by the lack of respect it took to post my picture in campaign materials as I explicitly asked on April 19, 2026 for my image to be removed from all such materials. This is literally the unilateral decision making that has frustrated me for months now.”

Screenshot of Lathan’s response post on her official Facebook page on May 19, 2026.

Later in the day, Lathan responded in a post on her official Facebook page. It included a photo of Cobos Smith, Lathan and a man taken inside Cobos Smith’s bookstore in Antioch with Lathan holding her campaign sign. The candidate wrote, “I’m sorry to hear that you were upset by the image showing your support of my candidacy. You were one of the very first people to host an event for my campaign, and I have always appreciated your support and valued the relationship we have shared as colleagues. It was never my intention to cause harm or disrespect you.

“More importantly, I sincerely wish you healing, strength, and peace during this time, and I will continue to keep you in my prayers.

“I also believe that, as board members, our focus must remain on working together to continue improving our district and supporting the students, staff, and families we serve. Our students deserve nothing less.”

Screenshot of Lathan’s response on Cobos Smith’s official Facebook page on May 19, 2026.

That comment has since been removed. But Lathan then posted the same comment on Cobos Smith’s Facebook page below the post about the matter, and again included the photo inside Cobos Smith’s bookstore.

Screenshot of announcement of Cobos Smith’s endorsement of Lathan posted on the candidate’s campaign Facebook page on March 20, 2026.

Endorsement Announced March 20th, Rescinded April 19th

On March 20, Lathan announced Cobos Smith’s endorsement in a campaign Facebook post, which was still up as of Tuesday, May 19, 2026. That post reads, “We’re proud to share that Olga Cabos Smith, School Board Trustee for Antioch Unified School District, has endorsed Dr. Jag Lathan for Contra Costa County Superintendent.”

But on April 19th, Cobos Smith sent a text to Lathan writing, “Good morning. (Smiley face emoji) I have an ask: if my name, image, or likeness is on any of your campaign imagery please pull it. I am rescinding any endorsement of your campaign. I am now undecided.”

Cobos Smith Offers Reasons for Rescinding Endorsement

When reached for comment about the matter Cobos Smith said, “I didn’t want to make a spectacle of it. At first, I assumed it was something old. I was told it was posted a few hours ago.”

Asked why she rescinded her endorsement and if it’s due to the recent challenges on the Antioch School Board, the first term trustee said, “There are challenges with all of us. The leadership is obvious. I literally asked her, ‘could we please work as a team?’ As board president, she should be working to coalesce us as a team. I don’t feel like I’m getting the answers to my questions. We bring things up we want to discuss… Mary said it the other day, ‘I don’t know what I have to do to get these numbers out of you.’”

“If I can’t trust somebody’s leadership at this point, how can I endorse them for an even more intense leadership position?” Cobos Smith asked rhetorically. “I was not trying to put my thumb on the scale. I did not say I was endorsing Dana Eaton. But I have to say, I’ve watched some videos of him and I’m impressed.”

“This shows me the lack of respect for my boundaries and personhood,” she stated. “I shouldn’t have had to make a public statement.”

“You can’t even unify your five-member board. How are you going to unify the community?” Cobos Smith asked, again, rhetorically.

Lathan Does Not Answer Questions

Multiple efforts to reach Lathan were unsuccessful prior to publication time. She was asked if the endorsement announcement posted on her campaign Facebook page was a flier printed before April 19th, if she saw the text from Cobos Smith that day, if she was aware Cobos Smith’s original endorsement post was still up and why Lathan still used her photo a month after her colleague rescinded the endorsement.

She was also asked what she meant by, “I sincerely wish you healing, strength, and peace during this time.”

Lathan faces one opponent in the race, Brentwood Union School District Superintendent Dana Eaton. Whichever candidate gets a majority of votes in the June 2nd Primary will be elected.

Please check back later for any updates to this report.

Cal State East Bay President Cathy Sandeen to step down

By Leave a Comment

CSU East Bay President Cathy Sandeen. Photo: Cal State East Bay

CSU Chancellor Mildred García issues statement

By Amy Bentley-Smith & Warren Robak, Media Relations & Public Affairs, The California State University

On May 20, 2026, California State University, East Bay President Cathy Sandeen announced that she will step down from the presidency at the end of the 2026 calendar year. Sandeen is the university’s sixth president and has served in the role since 2021.

In her announcement, Sandeen wrote:

“Dear Cal State East Bay community, friends and supporters,

The end of this calendar year will mark my sixth year serving as your president, and my thirteenth year overall as a university president or chancellor. Those years have been filled with unforgettable moments, extraordinary people, and the profound privilege of serving students whose determination and dreams inspire me every day.

“As we reflect on the hope, pride, and joy that filled our recent commencement ceremonies, I want to share some deeply personal news with you. There is no easy way to say this because this community has meant so much to me, but after a great deal of reflection and consideration, I have made the decision to step down as president of Cal State East Bay at the end of 2026. This was not a decision I arrived at lightly.

“I joined Cal State East Bay in January 2021, in the depths of the Covid-19 pandemic, before vaccines were widely available. You welcomed me into this community (on Zoom, mostly!) and together we emerged from the pandemic united in our mission to serve local East Bay students. Over the years we have worked hard to adjust to declining enrollments and reduced state budget allocations all the while maintaining and even improving student success metrics, like graduation and retention rates and achieving the Seal of Excelencia.

“We brought the campus back to life while also retaining flexible learning options through online and hybrid programs. We enhanced the sense of belonging for all students through our various student success and support units. We opened two new buildings: the impressive CORE Library and the fully donor-funded Braddock Center. We created a College of Health. Our faculty developed new degrees and refined existing programs. The new BS in Civil Engineering and the online MS in Speech-Language Pathology, among others, come to mind.

“Our marketing teams elevated the awareness and reputation of the university and we all welcomed Perry the Peregrine Falcon as our new mascot. We built stronger partnerships with our surrounding community. The many new MOUs with our local school districts are a shining example. Enrollments have improved. Spirits have improved. We are on steady footing because at Cal State East Bay, when confronted by challenges, we take action.

“This clarity and focus, as reflected in our Future Directions strategic plan, caught the attention of MacKenzie Scott’s foundation culminating in a $50 million gift to our Educational Foundation last November.

“Between now and the end of December, our work will continue and I remain fully committed to building on current progress. We will check in on our Future Direction priorities as well as our planning for the upcoming WSCUC special visit. We will continue our efforts to increase enrollments and generate new non-state, non-tuition revenue streams. We will launch our brand new Staff Council, expanding shared governance to staff members. I am confident in our ability to maintain our positive momentum before “passing the baton” to the next leader.

“As a first-generation college graduate, born and raised in the East Bay—and a double CSU alum—it has been the honor of a lifetime to bring the experience I gained throughout my career right back home where I got my start. In my Commencement remarks this weekend, I shared what has been deeply true throughout my time here: it has been an extraordinary privilege to be part of our students’ educational journeys. Watching them grow, persevere, and achieve their dreams has been one of the greatest privileges of my life. It has also been a true gift to work alongside so many talented, compassionate, and dedicated people who care so deeply about our mission and each other. Together, we have changed lives in ways that ripple far beyond our campus.

“I look forward to working with purpose and determination from now until the end of December, because what we do matters immensely. No one creates life-changing opportunities for students, families, communities, and our region the way we do. This place will always hold a special place in my heart—I am Pioneer for life.

“With deepest gratitude to all of you,

Cathy Sandeen

President

——–

In response, CSU Chancellor Mildred García issued the following statement:

“Since joining Cal State East Bay in January 2021, President Sandeen has led with clarity, resilience and purpose, while positioning the university for long-term growth, regional impact and deeper community connection.

“Under her leadership, Cal State East Bay has strengthened enrollment, elevated its brand identity, revitalized campus pride and advanced a clearer sense of the university’s distinctive role in the East Bay region and beyond. President Sandeen has also strengthened the university’s academic mission and alignment with regional workforce needs through the creation of new academic programs and the expansion of pathways that prepare students for high-demand fields.

“During her tenure, the university also opened two new buildings and has seen consistent growth in sponsored programs and private giving, culminating in the landmark $50 million gift from MacKenzie Scott in November 2025 – one of the largest in CSU history.

“Guided by a deep commitment to student success, particularly those who are the first in their families to attend college, President Sandeen’s proactive and thoughtful engagement has fostered a more inclusive and equitable campus community and expanded meaningful connections across the East Bay region. This includes her instrumental role in re-energizing collaboration with the city of Hayward to foster a college-going culture in marginalized communities.

“President Sandeen will leave Cal State East Bay stronger, more connected to its community and better positioned for the future. On behalf of the entire California State University, I offer my deepest gratitude for her partnership, her integrity and her unwavering commitment to student success.”

The CSU will soon launch a national search for Sandeen’s successor. Under university policy, the chair of the CSU Board of Trustees and the chancellor will select a committee comprised of campus and community stakeholders to lead the search.

About Cal State East Bay

Cal State East Bay serves the East Bay through its Hayward campus and Concord center. The university was originally named the State College for Alameda County when it was officially established by the California State Assembly in 1957. The first academic year began in 1959. The university expanded its reach to Contra Costa County in 1992, opening a branch in Concord. The university changed its name to California State University, East Bay in 2005 to reflect its new regional service to Alameda and Contra Costa counties.

For nearly 66 years, Cal State East Bay has served the Bay Area as part of the California State University system, providing access to higher education for a diverse student body and advancing regional engagement through its academic programs and leadership. The university is a federally designated Asian American, Native American, Pacific Islander Serving Institution (AANAPISI) and Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI).  Cal State East Bay has been recognized from everything from its diversity and social mobility potential to its business school and online education. For more information visit www.csueastbay.edu.

About the California State University

The California State University is the nation’s largest four-year public​ ​university system, providing transformational opportunities for upward mobility to more than 470,000 students from all socioeconomic backgrounds. More than half of CSU students are from traditionally underrepresented backgrounds, and more than one-quarter of undergraduates are first-generation college students. Because the CSU’s 22 universities* provide a high-quality education at an incredible value, they are rated among the best in the nation for promoting social mobility in national college rankings from U.S. News & World Report, the Wall Street Journal and Washington Monthly. The CSU powers California and the nation, sending more than 123,000 career-ready graduates into the workforce each year. In fact, one in every 20 Americans holding a college degree earned it at the CSU. Connect with and learn more about the CSU in the CSU newsroom.

*Transition to 22 universities in progress (Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and Cal Maritime integrating)—​official fall 2026​.​

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

 

Diablo Valley College to celebrate Class of 2026 during 74th graduation ceremony Friday, May 22nd

By Leave a Comment

Photo: DVC

To be held at Concord Pavilion

By Diablo Valley College

Congratulations Class of 2026! DVC is honored to celebrate our graduating students at an in-person 74th Annual Commencement Ceremony on Friday, May 22, 2026.

We’re excited to announce that commencement is moving to the Toyota Pavilion at Concord, giving our graduates and their guests a bigger, more comfortable, and truly celebratory experience worthy of this milestone moment!

  • Spacious, covered seating so guests can relax and enjoy the ceremony in comfort
  • More restrooms and amenities, including concessions, for a smoother, stress-free experience
  • A professional stage, sound, and video setup so every name is clearly heard and every smile seen
  • Experienced event staff on site to ensure a seamless, well-organized celebration from start to finish

Source: DVC

Graduation Ceremony Event Details

  • Location: Toyota Pavilion at Concord, 2000 Kirker Pass Road, Concord
  • Date: Friday, May 22, 2026
  • Time: 6:00 p.m.
  • 4:00 p.m. – Parking Lots Open / Early Arrival Encouraged – Graduates and guests are encouraged to arrive early to allow sufficient time for parking, entry, and seating.
  • 4:30 p.m. – Venue Gates Open – All guest entrances open. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • 5:45 p.m. – Processional Begins
    Graduates, faculty, and platform party begin the formal processional into the venue.

See digital Commencement Program.

Events at the Pavilion are rain or shine.

Free Parking

Guests should plan ahead for parking at Toyota Pavilion at Concord and arrive early, as lots fill up closer to the ceremony. Multiple entrances off Kirker Pass Road will help with traffic flow. Carpooling or ridesharing is encouraged. Parking is free for the event.

Watch Live Online

A live video feed will be available on the day of the ceremony. Visit Commencement Ceremony | Diablo Valley College on May 22 for the feed!

About DVC

For over 75 years, Diablo Valley College has provided quality education to the community it serves. A million students later, enrolling at DVC is one of the best ways you can ensure acceptance at a four-year college. DVC is not only recognized as one of California’s best community colleges, but it also leads the state in transfer to four-year institutions. For more information visit www.dvc.edu.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Surprise! The Contra Costa College Foundation erases debt of nearly 200 graduates

By 1 Comment

Photo: CoCoCollege

Applies to all Contra Costa College Spring 2026 graduates

Graduation this Friday, May 22nd

By Contra Costa College

Nearly 200 Contra Costa College students woke up to a surprise on April 12, 2026: A text informing them that the CCC Foundation has paid off their outstanding fees and tuition.

This initiative applies to all Contra Costa College Spring 2026 graduates who qualify for California residency under California’s tuition structure. That includes refugees and other immigrants who qualify for in-state tuition under California law.

International and out-of-state students, who are enrolled under a different tuition model, were not able to be included in this effort. Neither are high school students, who already qualify for free tuition and fee waivers.

Full-time students can also qualify for free tuition at the college. Many students, however, have work and family obligations that prevent them from attending full time.

The move will allow impacted students to receive their diplomas and certificates, access other college services, and request the transcripts they need to transfer to a four-year university or get certain jobs.

More importantly, it is one less bill to pay in a challenging economic environment. On average, each student carried about $173 in remaining debt. While that amount may seem small, for many students balancing school, work, and family responsibilities, this relief represents something much bigger: a clean slate.

“The foundation has had a good year, philanthropically,” said Contra Costa College Foundation Executive Director Sara Marcellino. “And the cost of living is exceptionally high right now, particularly in the Bay Area. Our donors and board wanted our graduates to leave knowing their community is behind them, investing in their success, and celebrating everything they’ve accomplished.

The largest debt owed was $980; the smallest was just $2.

“We know that life is expensive,” said Contra Costa College President Dr. Kimberly R. Rogers. “Our students work, they have families, yet at the same time they still come to school. Sometimes, you find yourself in debt, and the last thing we want is for our students to graduate and still owe money to the college. As someone who had a lot of student loans, if I’d had this opportunity, it would have made such a difference in my life. And to work at this institution, to work with people who truly believe in education and in supporting students is just an amazing thing to be a part of. I’m grateful to be here, and I know our graduates won’t ever forget this moment in their lives.”

Rogers points to a similar effort undertaken five years ago by Marcellino and previous CCC President Dr. Damon A. Bell for laying the groundwork for this project.

Contra Costa College serves a diverse student population, and is officially designated a Black Serving Institution, an Hispanic Serving Institution and an Asian American, Native American, Pacific Islander-Serving Institution. It also boasts one of the most diverse faculties in the nation, according to the Chronicle of Higher Education.

It has long prioritized affordability and access, with 99% of students graduating without ever taking out a student loan.

The college is also increasingly known for academic excellence. CCC was recently named an Achieving the Dream campus, as well as NASA’s only Northern California Aerospace Scholars campus. It is home to the most-awarded two-year college media outlet in US history, and this year instructor Mark Wong was named one of five national finalists for Faculty Member of the Year by the Association of Community College Trustees.

2026 Graduation

Congratulations, Class of 2026! The 2026 CCC Commencement Ceremony will be held at 4:00 p.m., Friday, May 22, 2026, at the Contra Costa College Football Stadium, 2600 Mission Bell Drive, San Pablo. Gates open to guests starting at 3:00 p.m. For more information visit www.contracosta.edu/admissions-records-office/graduation-requirements/graduation-ceremony/.

About the Contra Costa College Foundation

We at the Contra Costa College Foundation believe that every person, regardless of resources, should have access to a meaningful education and training at Contra Costa College.

That’s why our 501c(3) nonprofit organization has been working since 1967 to increase financial support for CCC students as well as to help ensure the long term stability of Contra Costa College.

Research shows that completing college courses increases employment and learning opportunities as well as fosters safety and economic growth in our local communities, but tuition along with living expenses, textbooks, and transportation can cost students up to $24,000.

For more information visit Foundation – Contra Costa College.

About Contra Costa College

Contra Costa College (CCC) has served the dynamic and diverse communities of West Contra Costa County since 1949. A proud Hispanic-Serving Institution with a commitment to equity, student success, and community empowerment, CCC offers strong academic support, small class sizes, and career-connected programs. The college is also home to nationally recognized programs, including its Middle College High School partnership, award-winning student newspaper, and NASA-affiliated STEM initiatives.

The college is located on 83 acres of a beautiful, naturally landscaped site accentuated by Wildcat Creek running through the rolling hills of San Pablo and Richmond.

CCC affirms that all individuals have inherent worth and dignity and are entitled to develop their full potential. The college is an integral part of the greater community and serves as a model of excellence providing education to help its students fulfill their dreams. The college maintains that its students will enjoy an improved quality of life, that communities will prosper economically and socially, and that families and neighborhoods will be strengthened when residents share a commitment to lifelong learning.

To learn more visit www.contracosta.edu.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.