New Affordable Senior Housing Development Advances Near Laney College

On March 26, the East Bay Asian Local Development Corporation (EBALDC) held a "topping off" ceremony to celebrate progress on the new senior housing complex that is being built across the street from the Laney Campus. The new building will have 97 units of affordable senior housing and commercial space on the lower level.

During the ceremony, it was announced that the building will be named the Clara E. Chan Lee Residences. In 1911, Clara E. Chan Lee was the first Chinese American woman to register to vote in the country. She was an activist in the Chinatown Community and a champion of women's rights.

The photo of the campus is taken from the top floor of the new building and shows a view of the campus that has not been seen before. The rendering of the campus is drawn as if floating above the G quad, facing downtown.

We look forward to collaborations between the college, EBALDC, and the future residents of the building.

Laney Baseball Tailgate Strengthens Campus Community

On Thursday, March 26, Laney College hosted a pre-game tailgate during its baseball matchup against Napa Valley, bringing together students, faculty, and staff at Tom Pearse Diamond for a spirited campus event.

Supported by the President’s Office and the Associated Students of Laney College (ASLC), the event featured free food and was led by ASLC student leaders, with additional support from campus partners, including Facilities.

The tailgate created a welcoming, high-energy environment that highlighted student leadership, school pride, and cross-campus collaboration, reinforcing Laney College’s commitment to community engagement through athletics.

Coach John Beam Honored by CCCAA for Lasting Impact on Student-Athletes

On Thursday, April 2, the California Community College Athletic Association (3C2A) honored Coach John Beam at its annual convention in Burbank, recognizing his profound impact on student-athletes and athletics across the state.

Laney College was represented by Interim Athletic Director Josh Ramos, Interim President Rebecca Opsata, and Cindi Rivera-Beam, who delivered a moving reflection on the importance of athletics in shaping students and strengthening community.

Coaches, athletic directors, and trainers from across California shared tributes, highlighting Coach Beam’s enduring legacy, mentorship, and influence on generations of student-athletes and the broader athletics community.

Laney College Theater Arts Presents The Mothership

Laney College Theater Arts presented The Mothership by Grace Montas, a student-led production directed by Theater Arts Instructor Michael Torres, with performances held March 25–28 and April 7–10 in Eagle Village.

The production explores themes of identity, belonging, and self-expression, showcasing the creativity and talent of Laney students through a bold and imaginative theatrical experience.

The event reflects Laney College’s commitment to the arts, student voice, and providing platforms for creative exploration and storytelling.

Laney Reopens AAPI Student Space to Support Belonging & Success

Laney College officially reopened its AAPI student space, welcoming students back into a vibrant hub for connection, support, and community. Building on the legacy of APASS, the space fosters belonging and student success through culturally responsive programming and services.

Supported by the state’s AANHPI Student Achievement Program, the center offers counseling, community-building opportunities, and college engagement activities. The reopening was made possible through the leadership of AAPI co-coordinators and counselors Cynthia Taing and Minh-An Nguyen, along with Joan Su and dedicated student leaders.

Open Tuesdays and Wednesdays, the space provides a welcoming environment for all students to connect and access resources that support their academic and personal journeys.

Laney Wellness Center Hosts “Pioneers of the Mind: Black Women in Mental Health”

On March 26, Laney College’s Wellness Center hosted an event highlighting the contributions of Black women in mental health. The program featured interactive learning, a panel discussion, and community engagement, providing students with culturally relevant perspectives while honoring leaders in the field.