OAKLAND, Calif., June 12, 2024 – At their regular meeting last night, the Peralta Community College District (PCCD) Board of Trustees unanimously approved the appointment of Melanie Dixon as the new president of the College of Alameda, effective July 15, 2024.
Ms. Dixon is a seasoned higher education leader with a proven track record of success in promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. In her previous roles, she has championed student success and fostered open, transparent communication within a collaborative learning environment.
“We are thrilled to welcome Melanie Dixon to the Peralta Community College District," said PCCD Chancellor Dr. Tammeil Gilkerson. "Ms. Dixon’s depth and breadth of experiences in the California Community Colleges system, her laser focus on student basic needs and success, and her demonstrated commitment to leading from an authentic grounding in diversity, equity, and inclusion, are what COA and the Peralta District need at this time to inspire students to fulfill their highest aspirations and to ensure the college and community continue to thrive.”
Ms. Dixon previously served as the President of American River College, where she oversaw all aspects of the college's instruction and operations. Prior to that, she held the position of Associate Vice Chancellor of Educational Services and Student Success at Los Rios Community College District, a multi-college district in the Sacramento area.
“I am super excited about coming to College of Alameda. The local community thinks highly of the College. Our Career Education programs are premier, from aviation and automotive technologies to apparel design, COA prepares students for successful careers. And COA is already one of the top Bay Area colleges for students accepted into the University of California and Cal State University systems,” Melanie Dixon commented. “But there’s more work to be done, particularly with an equity lens. I believe in the California community college system as the great equalizer as it relates to economic status in our communities. I pour my heart and soul into that economic empowerment. It's my life’s purpose. I am thrilled to live that purpose with you here in the East Bay”.
In her new role, Ms. Dixon will be responsible for providing strategic leadership for the College of Alameda, ensuring its continued growth and success. She will work closely with faculty, classified professional staff, administrators, and students, both within the College of Alameda, and with the other Peralta Colleges including Berkeley City College, Laney College, and Merritt College, to create a vibrant and inclusive learning environment that prepares students for transfer to four-year universities or successful careers in their chosen fields.
Dr. Gilkerson concluded, “I’m confident that Ms. Dixon's leadership will be instrumental in advancing the College of Alameda's mission of providing high-quality educational opportunities for all students.”
