Peralta Community College District Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

Peralta Community College District has 7 executives leading key functions including technology, finance, operations, and academic leadership.

Driven by a commitment to accessible education, Peralta Community College District empowers diverse student populations through its four distinct colleges, fostering intellectual growth and community development across northern Alameda County.

Leadership Roles at Peralta Community College District

  • Chief Financial Officer - Mazie Brewington
  • Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, Amp & Director, Amp - Telly Castro
  • Deputy Chancellor and Chief Operating Officer - Gregory Nelson
  • Named President - Lawrence VanHook
  • Peralta Classified Senate President - Tachetta Henry
  • President - Ronald Temple
  • Chief Technology Officer - James Kendrix
  • Mazie Brewington - Chief Financial Officer

    Mazie Brewington, the Chief Financial Officer at Peralta Community College District, manages the district's comprehensive financial operations and fiscal health. This executive oversees budgeting, financial planning, accounting, and treasury functions, ensuring fiscal responsibility and sustainability across all four colleges. Brewington's strategic financial guidance supports the district's educational mission by allocating resources effectively to academic programs, student services, and infrastructure development. The Chief Financial Officer also ensures compliance with all relevant financial regulations and reporting requirements, maintaining transparency and accountability. By developing sound financial strategies, Mazie Brewington enables the district to navigate economic challenges and invest in future growth, thereby strengthening the educational opportunities provided to the community.

    Telly Castro - Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, Amp & Director, Amp

    Telly Castro, the Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, Amp & Director, Amp at Peralta Community College District, directs significant financial and operational initiatives within the Amp division. This multifaceted role involves strategic financial oversight, resource allocation, and the management of key programs designed to advance the district's objectives. Castro's responsibilities encompass ensuring fiscal integrity, driving operational efficiency, and supporting the strategic growth of the Amp division. The Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, Amp & Director, Amp also collaborates with other district leaders to align Amp's activities with the broader mission of Peralta Community College District, focusing on innovation and impactful outcomes. By providing expert financial and operational leadership, Telly Castro strengthens the capacity of the Amp division to serve students and the community effectively.

    Gregory Nelson - Deputy Chancellor and Chief Operating Officer

    Gregory Nelson, the Deputy Chancellor and Chief Operating Officer at Peralta Community College District, oversees the district's day-to-day operations and administrative functions. This critical leadership position involves managing a broad spectrum of services, including facilities, human resources, legal affairs, and campus safety, ensuring efficient and effective support for the district's educational mission. Nelson's operational expertise drives strategic initiatives aimed at enhancing institutional effectiveness and resource management across Berkeley City College, Laney College, Merritt College, and College of Alameda. The Deputy Chancellor and Chief Operating Officer also plays a key part in implementing district policies and procedures, fostering a productive and secure environment for students and staff. By optimizing operational processes, Gregory Nelson directly contributes to the district's ability to deliver high-quality educational experiences and achieve its strategic objectives.

    Lawrence VanHook - Named President

    Lawrence VanHook, the Named President at Peralta Community College District, leads one of the district's key educational institutions, driving academic excellence and student success. This executive role involves setting the strategic direction for the college, fostering a vibrant campus culture, and ensuring the delivery of high-quality educational programs and services. VanHook's leadership focuses on enhancing student learning outcomes, promoting faculty development, and strengthening community partnerships to support the college's mission. The Named President also oversees institutional operations, manages budgets, and champions initiatives that advance the college's reputation and impact. By providing visionary leadership, Lawrence VanHook ensures the institution remains a cornerstone of educational opportunity and community engagement.

    Tachetta Henry - Peralta Classified Senate President

    Tachetta Henry, the Peralta Classified Senate President at Peralta Community College District, represents the interests and concerns of the district's classified employees. This vital leadership position involves advocating for staff development, fair labor practices, and supportive working conditions across all four colleges. Henry works to ensure that classified staff have a strong voice in district governance and policy-making, contributing to a more equitable and effective operational environment. The Peralta Classified Senate President collaborates with district administration to address issues impacting classified personnel, fostering a positive and productive workplace. By championing the needs of classified staff, Tachetta Henry plays an integral role in supporting the overall mission and success of the Peralta Community College District.

    Ronald Temple - President

    Ronald Temple, the President at Peralta Community College District, leads a significant educational institution within the district, focusing on academic innovation and student achievement. This executive role involves shaping the institution's strategic vision, cultivating a culture of learning, and ensuring the provision of comprehensive educational and support services. Temple's leadership prioritizes student success, faculty advancement, and the development of robust community ties to bolster the college's mission. The President also directs institutional operations, manages financial resources, and spearheads efforts to elevate the college's standing and influence. Through dedicated leadership, Ronald Temple ensures the institution continues to serve as a vital center for educational advancement and community enrichment.

    James Kendrix - Chief Technology Officer

    James Kendrix, the Chief Technology Officer at Peralta Community College District, directs the district's technology strategy and infrastructure. Overseeing all IT operations, Kendrix ensures the seamless integration of digital tools and platforms supporting academic and administrative functions across Berkeley City College, Laney College, Merritt College, and College of Alameda. This leadership role involves managing cybersecurity initiatives, optimizing network performance, and driving innovation in educational technology to enhance student learning experiences and operational efficiency. By implementing robust technological solutions, James Kendrix supports the district's mission of providing accessible, high-quality education. The Chief Technology Officer also collaborates with other district leaders to align technology investments with strategic goals, ensuring the district remains at the forefront of digital advancements in education.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Peralta Community College District Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Peralta Community College District?
    Peralta Community College District is led by Mazie Brewington (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Telly Castro (Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, Amp & Director, Amp) and Gregory Nelson (Deputy Chancellor and Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of Peralta Community College District’s executive team?
    The executive team of Peralta Community College District includes leaders such as Mazie Brewington (Chief Financial Officer), Telly Castro (Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, Amp & Director, Amp), Gregory Nelson (Deputy Chancellor and Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Peralta Community College District have?
    Peralta Community College District has 7 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Peralta Community College District’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Peralta Community College District includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, Amp & Director, Amp, Deputy Chancellor and Chief Operating Officer, Named President, Peralta Classified Senate President.