Peralta Community College District Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

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

Driven by a commitment to accessible education, Peralta Community College District empowers diverse communities through its four colleges, fostering intellectual growth and career advancement 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
  • Peralta Classified Senate President - Tachetta Henry
  • Named President - Lawrence VanHook
  • President - Ronald Temple
  • Chief Technology Officer - Collis Carkhum
  • Mazie Brewington - Chief Financial Officer

    Mazie Brewington, the Chief Financial Officer at Peralta Community College District, directs all fiscal operations and financial strategy for the district's four colleges. Overseeing budgeting, financial planning, and resource allocation, Brewington ensures the sustainable financial health of Berkeley City College, Laney College, Merritt College, and College of Alameda. This leadership role involves managing investments, optimizing expenditures, and maintaining compliance with all financial regulations. By implementing robust financial controls, Mazie Brewington safeguards district assets and supports the educational mission through prudent fiscal management. The Chief Financial Officer's oversight extends to audit functions and the development of long-term financial models critical for institutional stability and growth.

    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, manages significant financial and operational responsibilities within specific programmatic areas. Castro oversees the financial health and strategic direction for the Amp initiative, ensuring fiscal integrity and operational efficiency. This dual role involves directing financial planning, budgeting, and resource management, while also guiding the operational execution of Amp's objectives across its designated scope. By providing expert financial oversight and strategic leadership, Telly Castro drives the success of the Amp program, contributing to the district's broader mission. The Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, Amp & Director, Amp's focus ensures that specialized initiatives receive dedicated financial and operational support for maximum impact.

    Gregory Nelson - Deputy Chancellor and Chief Operating Officer

    Gregory Nelson, the Deputy Chancellor and Chief Operating Officer at Peralta Community College District, directs the operational execution and administrative functions across the district's educational institutions. Nelson oversees the strategic implementation of policies and procedures that govern Berkeley City College, Laney College, Merritt College, and College of Alameda, ensuring efficient resource utilization and operational excellence. This comprehensive role involves managing facilities, human resources, and auxiliary services, aligning them with the district's overarching educational objectives. By driving operational improvements, Gregory Nelson enhances the overall effectiveness of the district's service delivery. The Deputy Chancellor and Chief Operating Officer's leadership ensures that the district's infrastructure and administrative processes robustly support its academic mission 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 advocates for the classified staff across the district's colleges. Henry leads the Classified Senate in fostering communication and collaboration between classified employees and district leadership, ensuring their voices are heard in policy discussions. This vital role involves championing professional development opportunities and addressing workplace concerns to enhance the employee experience at Berkeley City College, Laney College, Merritt College, and College of Alameda. By promoting a supportive and equitable work environment, Tachetta Henry contributes to the overall well-being and effectiveness of the classified workforce. The Peralta Classified Senate President's dedication strengthens the foundation of the district's operational capacity.

    Lawrence VanHook - Named President

    Lawrence VanHook, the Named President at Peralta Community College District, provides dedicated leadership and strategic direction for a specific college within the district. VanHook oversees all academic and administrative functions, fostering an environment conducive to student success and faculty excellence at the assigned institution. This leadership position involves guiding curriculum development, managing campus operations, and engaging with the local community to advance the college's mission. By championing educational innovation and student support services, Lawrence VanHook ensures the college meets the evolving needs of its student population. The Named President's commitment drives the institution's growth and its contribution to the district's educational goals.

    Ronald Temple - President

    Ronald Temple, the President at Peralta Community College District, leads a specific college within the district, driving its academic vision and operational effectiveness. Temple oversees the strategic planning and execution of all campus activities, ensuring a high-quality educational experience for students. This executive role involves fostering a culture of academic rigor, promoting faculty development, and enhancing student support services across the institution. By cultivating strong relationships with stakeholders, Ronald Temple advances the college's mission and its impact on the community. The President's leadership ensures the college remains a vital center for learning and personal growth, contributing significantly to the district's overall educational portfolio.

    Collis Carkhum - Chief Technology Officer

    Collis Carkhum, the Chief Technology Officer at Peralta Community College District, architects the district's technology infrastructure and digital strategy. Carkhum oversees the implementation and maintenance of all IT systems, ensuring seamless technological support for students, faculty, and staff across Berkeley City College, Laney College, Merritt College, and College of Alameda. This critical role involves driving innovation in educational technology, enhancing cybersecurity measures, and managing the technology budget. By championing digital transformation initiatives, Collis Carkhum empowers the district to leverage technology for improved learning outcomes and operational efficiency. The Chief Technology Officer's vision guides the district's technological advancements, ensuring readiness for future educational demands.

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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, Peralta Classified Senate President, Named President.