Dr. Denise Richardson

On October 9, the club was pleased and honored to induct Dr. Denise Richardson, President of Berkeley City College (BCC), as a new club member. Her career in the Peralta Community College District has spanned over two decades, marked by continuous growth and leadership. Starting as a faculty member at Laney College in Oakland in 2001, she progressed through various roles including Political Science instructor, Social Sciences Department Chair, and Dean of Math and Sciences.

Dr. Richardson earned her Doctorate in Educational Leadership at Mills College where she wrote a narrative dissertation that examined success strategies of Black American males who completed STEM degree programs at California Bay Area community colleges. She also holds an M.A. Degree in Educational Leadership from Mills, an M.A. Degree in Political Science from San Francisco State University, and a B.A. in Communication from Oakwood University [a Historically Black College] in Huntsville, AL.

In March 2020, Dr. Richardson became Vice President of Instruction at Merritt College. Her expertise and dedication led to her appointment as Interim President of Berkeley City College (BCC) on July 1, 2023. In­ October 2023, she was named the permanent President of BCC. This appointment recognizes her long-standing commitment to education and her effective leadership within the Peralta Community College District.  

Dr. Richardson moved to the Bay Area from Connecticut about 40 years ago, and after a career in advertising decided she wanted to do something that really had an impact. She found that with the community colleges--where, as noted, she made quite an impact. She loves the way community colleges are not just a first option, but a place for people to find a 2^nd or 3^rd option for success. (And at just $46 a credit!) Her three children groaned when she urged them to start at the community college level, saying “No Mom, that’s your thing,” but her third child did start there, and made a very successful transfer to UC Berkeley.

Dr. Denise Richardson is bringing a lot to Berkeley Rotary, and we hope we can support her and involve her successfully in this community!