Last month, three Peralta student leaders, Kosi Ugeh (Merritt College), Davina Malbrough (Merritt College), and Njemah Khan (College of Alameda), participated in the 2025 Congressional Black Caucus Foundation Annual Legislative Conference in Washington, D.C. In addition to meeting with Peralta’s federal lobbyists, our student delegation toured Howard University, Bowie State University, the National Museum of African American History and Culture, and the U.S. Capitol.

All three students reported strengthened civic engagement, clearer career goals (including law and policy), and a deeper understanding of Black history and democratic processes. They also expressed profound gratitude for the District's investment in their leadership development. Finally, we are happy to share that one student is now applying to Howard University as a direct result of the trip. Go Merritt!!

Merritt Cybersecurity Career Fair Inspires Students with Industry Insights and Community Impact

Merritt College recently hosted two outstanding events that underscore our commitment to preparing students for success beyond their time with us. On Friday, October 3rd, the Computer Information Systems (CIS) Department held its Cybersecurity Career Fair that brought together students, faculty, and industry professionals for a day focused on the future of digital security and technology careers. We were honored to welcome Chaim Sanders, Chief Information Security Officer at Lyft, as our keynote speaker.

Mr. Sanders shared invaluable insights drawn from his extensive experience in cybersecurity leadership, offering students practical, real-world examples and actionable advice to help them navigate this growing and ever-changing field. The event also featured a surprise visit and inspiring remarks from Oakland Mayor Barbara Lee, who emphasized both the immense need and the unique opportunity for Merritt College students to contribute their IT and cybersecurity skills right here in their own communities—strengthening Oakland’s digital resilience while advancing their own careers.

Merritt Transfer Day Empowers Students to Explore Four-Year University Pathways and Future Opportunities

Last Wednesday, Merritt College hosted its annual College Transfer Day, a dynamic event designed to connect our students with the next stage of their educational journey. More than two dozen representatives from four-year universities met with students to share information about transfer pathways, academic programs, and scholarship opportunities. While national trends suggest declining interest in traditional four-year degrees, Merritt College remains steadfast in its commitment to helping students understand the long-term value of post-secondary education as a powerful tool for economic mobility and financial stability.

Both of these events reflect Merritt College’s dedication to creating pathways to prosperity for our students and would not be possible without the continued support of our dedicated faculty, classified professional staff, and administrators. As such, I want to acknowledge in particular Beverly Brooks, Jim Cates, Angela Khoo, Skye Nikaidoh, and the Counseling Faculty!

Merritt College Welcomes Civicorps for Campus Tour and Career Exploration in the Green Economy

Recently, we were honored to welcome Merritt alumnus and current Dean of Students of Civicorps, Mr. Rodney Dunn, back to our campus along with his class (Corpsmembers) for a tour and informational session. The event was the result of collaboration between the College, Civicorps, and the Alameda County Office of Education’s Opportunity Academy. Civicorps was established to provide at-risk young adults (18-26) living in Oakland with high-impact job training, education, and wraparound support that helps them heal from trauma, build upon positive assets, and lead fulfilling lives. One of their specific goals is to strengthen their career readiness acumen as they train for upwardly mobile careers within the emerging green economy. So it was very fortuitous that the Corpsmembers were able to tour the new Landscape Horticulture Building and engage our staff regarding educational and future career opportunities in the field!

This article is taken from the President’s Report, written by Dr. David M. Johnson, Merritt College President, that was presented to the PCCD Board of Trustees during their regular meeting on Tuesday, October 14, 2025. To view it as a PDF, click here.