The Peralta Colleges Foundation hosted a vibrant and inspiring "Spring Forward Meet and Greet" on Tuesday evening, April 29th, in downtown Oakland, bringing together students, alumni, educators, and community leaders to celebrate the Peralta Community College District and the vital role the Foundation plays in supporting its students.
The evening, held at a beautiful venue courtesy of Behring Co.'s STAK Space at 1900 Broadway, served as a platform to introduce the Foundation's new Executive Director, Lamar Thorpe, and to express heartfelt gratitude to outgoing Executive Director LaNiece Jones for her dedicated service.
The event buzzed with energy from the moment the doors opened. Guests were treated to the smooth sounds of a talented Laney College student musician, setting a warm and welcoming atmosphere. A delectable grazing table and refreshments, generously underwritten by Marina Security Services and catered by the local, women-owned Blackberry Soul Fine Catering, provided the perfect backdrop for networking and connection.
Peralta alum Adrien Abuyen, a proud product of the district, skillfully guided the program as the evening's emcee. He kicked off the formal proceedings by emphasizing the spirit of connection, collaboration, and community impact that defines the Peralta Colleges.
A highlight of the evening was the official greetings from the Interim Mayor of Oakland, Kevin Jenkins, also a Peralta alumnus and former Trustee. Mayor Jenkins shared his personal journey through the Peralta system, underscoring the transformative power of the colleges and their importance to the East Bay community. He also took a moment to recognize the dedicated work of Peralta Community College District Chancellor Dr. Tammeil Gilkerson and the Board of Trustees.
The program featured special remarks from several key figures. Dr. Bill Riley, Board Chair of the Peralta Colleges Foundation, and Chancellor Tammiel Gilkerson both shared their vision and commitment to the continued success of the District and its students. Dr. Riley also acknowledged the dedicated Foundation staff members, Riki White and Margie Platero, and officially welcomed the new Executive Director, Lamar Thorpe.
Attendees also had the privilege of hearing from inspiring Peralta alumni. Nema Link, a Berkeley City College graduate, shared his personal story of growth and opportunity made possible by his time at Peralta. The audience also got to meet current PepsiCo Uplift Scholars, introduced by Dr. Lawrence Van Hook, who expressed their gratitude for the support from the Foundation.
In his closing remarks, Adrien Abuyen beautifully summarized the evening's sentiment, reminding everyone that "when we invest in students, we’re not just supporting individuals — we’re uplifting families, communities, and the future of the East Bay and beyond." He encouraged attendees to continue their support and engagement with the Peralta Colleges Foundation. Donations can be submitted here.
The "Spring Forward Meet and Greet" was a resounding success, fostering a sense of community and renewed enthusiasm for the mission of the Peralta Colleges Foundation. For more photos from the event, visit https://peraltacolleges.smugmug.com/PCF-Spring-Forward-Meet-and-Greet/n-GBKFzH.