The Peralta Community College District (PCCD) and the entire East Bay community are mourning the loss of a true civic giant, the Honorable William “Bill” Patterson, who passed away following a remarkable career spanning more than seven decades. A close friend and mentor to many, Bill’s life was a testament to public service and an unwavering fight for equity and opportunity.
BCC Celebrates Graduates “Blooming in Resilience” at 2025 Commencement
Over 150 graduates of Berkeley City College’s Class of 2025 gathered with family, friends, faculty, and staff on a warm Spring day at the Laney College football field to celebrate this year’s commencement ceremony themed “Blooming in Resilience.”
Sadly, our community recently lost three amazing women associated with the Peralta Community College District, including student Ginger Coplan, former counselor and dean Susan Cota, and longtime counselor Alze Mae Roberts.
On May 25th, former Peralta Community College District Chancellor, Dr. Donald H. Godbold, passed away. He was 95 years old.
Former Merritt College President Dr. Robert "Bobby" Adams has passed away
Current Merritt College President Dr. David M. Johnson shared this message with the Merritt Community:
It is with a heavy heart that I share some very sad news. Our former Merritt College President Dr. Bobby Adams passed away this weekend. Dr. Adams served this college faithfully from 2007 until his retirement in 2012. I do not have any additional details at this time but will share them as more information is made available.
As shared at the March 28th Board meeting, Laney mourns the passing of one of its long-time Art faculty members, Leon Dockery.
On November 1, Laney College honored our late colleague Rene Rivas with a ceremony that officially named the 6th floor Classified Employee Lounge after him. Family, friends, and colleagues gathered for a reception, lunch, and ceremony, first in the Tower lobby and culminating on the 6th floor with a ribbon cutting and sharing of mementos that will remain in a space that henceforth will carry his name.
It is with great sadness we share that Loretta Newsom passed away Friday, September 23rd in Oakland at the age of 91.
