The RP Group is thrilled to share the following updates on our 2026–2027 Board of Directors.
Dr. P. Marcell Gilmore is stepping into the role of Board President, becoming not only the first classified professional but also the first African American/Black Board President in The RP Group’s history. Dr. Gilmore brings deep expertise in IRPE and is a visionary leader and tireless advocate for equitable student success and for practitioners across the field. His depth of commitment will help shape the future of our organization, and we are honored to have him co-lead The RP Group into this next chapter alongside our Executive Director, Dr. Darla M. Cooper.
We also extend our sincere appreciation to Jake Kevari for his dedicated service as Board President from 2024 to 2026, and we look forward to his ongoing contributions in the coming year as Board Past President. Jake’s leadership and dedication have strengthened The RP Group and the communities we serve.
In addition, please join us in congratulating and welcoming both new and returning Board members, whose terms began on July 1:
New Board Members
- Dr. Diana Lopez, Research Analyst, American River College (Central Valley North, 2026–2028)
- Sam Newman, Research Analyst, West Valley College (At-Large Representative, 2026–2027)
- Dr. Melissa Vang, Senior Research Analyst, Mt. San Antonio College (Los Angeles County, 2026–2028)
- Dr. Vinnie Wu, Research Analyst, Fullerton College (Orange County, 2026–2028)
Returning Board Members
- Caitlin Busso, Research Analyst, Norco College (Inland Empire, 2026–2028)
- Dulce Delgadillo, Director of the Office of Institutional Research and Planning, North Orange Continuing Education (At-Large Representative, 2026–2027)
- Micheline Pontious, Senior Research Analyst, City College of San Francisco (North Bay/Peninsula, 2026–2028)
- Melanie Rogers, Senior Research Analyst, Santa Barbara City College (Central Coast/North Los Angeles, 2026–2027)
Learn more about all our Board members.
Together, this Board reflects the talent and commitment that drive our mission, and we are excited for the year ahead and the opportunity to work alongside this exceptional group of leaders in service to the IRPE community.