Francesco "Frank" Battaglia Admin Service Team Member Frank works with the Diablo Valley College Foundation while pursuing studies in Finance and Economics. As a dedicated student leader, he co-founded The Viking Fund Club to provide peers with practical financial experience useful at any level of expertise. At the Foundation, Frank focuses on digital management and operations. This role mainly involves managing the organization's website and utilizing CRM software to assist other school facilities in establishing their donation and event pages. <- Back to Roster

Board Membership Without our board we cannot succeed. The work we do as a foundation is only possible with the strategic support we receive from our board leaders. Each year members of the community dedicate unpaid time to direct the work of the foundation and ensure that we are fulfilling our mission to support the students and programs of Diablo Valley College. The broader the base of our board leaders, the better equipped we are to ensure that the entire community is represented in the work we do. Please consider submitting a board application and joining us in this work. Let’s Work Together First name* Last name Email Phone Multi-line address Country/Region Address City Zip / Postal code Company name Position How did you hear about the DVC Foundation?* Are you an alum? If so, when did you attend and what was your focus?* Have you served on a nonprofit board before? If yes, which one(s)?* Why would you like to serve on the DVC Foundation board?* Beyond the board fiduciary responsibilities, all board members are expected to lead giving with membership to the President's Circle ($1,000 minimum gift each year.) Are you willing to commit to this requirement?* Yes No Regular meeting participation is necessary for the Foundation to succeed in it's mission to serve the students and programs at DVC. Are you willing to commit to attending monthly board and committee meetings? * Yes No Submit

< Back From an Idea to International Attention June, 2026 The Pleasant Horn Showcases the Power of Experiential Learning Sometimes great opportunities begin with a simple conversation. Earlier this spring, Trish Snowden, CEO of Visit Pleasant Hill, stopped by the DVC Foundation office with an idea. As Pleasant Hill prepared to celebrate the upcoming World Cup, she envisioned creating a unique community symbol inspired by the famous stadium horns heard at international soccer matches. What happened next demonstrated the power of partnership and experiential learning. A short walk to the DVC Music Department helped shape the concept. Soon afterward, DVC engineering students were brought into the project to design and build what would become the “Pleasant Horn.” Over the next seven weeks, students transformed an idea into reality. Led by engineering student Ayomi Ikutiminu, the team collaborated, designed prototypes, solved technical challenges, and ultimately created a working instrument that celebrates both Pleasant Hill and the spirit of the World Cup. The project provided students with hands-on experience that cannot be replicated in a classroom alone. They worked with a community partner, managed deadlines, solved real-world problems, and delivered a finished product that captured public attention. Their efforts have already been featured multiple times on local television news broadcasts and in the San Francisco Chronicle. Most importantly, the project demonstrates what happens when community partners, faculty, students, and the Foundation come together around a shared idea. A simple question—“Can DVC help?”—became an opportunity for students to learn, create, and showcase their talents on a regional stage. Be sure to watch the short video linked below to see the Pleasant Horn story and hear directly from the students who helped bring it to life. Watch the video here Previous Next

< Back DVC Alumni Spotlight: Brandon Brookshire Journey November, 2025 From veteran, to DVC, to banking and board member: Brandon Brookshire. I recently had the pleasure of interviewing Brandon Brookshire, a DVC alum with a fascinating journey from military service to banking and higher education. Brandon's story is a testament to the transformative power of education and community. After serving in the Air Force, Brandon found himself at a crossroads. He came to DVC looking for direction and discovered a supportive veteran’s community that helped him navigate his benefits and pursue his goals. From there, he went on to earn multiple advanced degrees and build a successful career in banking. What struck me most about Brandon's story was his hunger for continuous learning and growth. Even as he balances a demanding career and growing family, he's pursuing an MBA and considering future academic endeavors. His perspective on the balance of work-life, gained from experiences abroad, was particularly insightful. Brandon's journey from struggling veteran to thriving professional and lifelong learner is truly inspiring. His story highlights the lasting impact DVC can have in launching students toward their dreams. I invite you to listen to the full interview to hear Brandon's insights on everything from the banking industry to studying abroad in Barcelona. His story is a powerful reminder of how education can open doors and transform lives. Tune in to DVC Alumni, where every story inspires the next. Brandon's Journey may just motivate you to take the next step in your own educational and professional development! Previous Next

< Back Legacy Giving: The Charitable Gift Annuity Learn how you can influence DVC for generations to come! This Veterans Month, we’re reminded that service takes many forms. A Charitable Gift Annuity is one way to continue a legacy of giving—offering you lifelong income and tax benefits while ensuring future students at Diablo Valley College have the opportunity to learn, grow, and serve in their own ways. It’s a gift that honors the past and invests in the future. Here's why a Charitable Gift Annuity may be the right giving option for you—and how it helps Diablo Valley College students... What is a Charitable Gift Annuity? A Charitable Gift Annuity (CGA) is a simple agreement between you and the Community College League of California. In exchange for your gift of cash, stock, or other assets, you receive fixed payments for life. At the end of the contract, the remaining funds go to the Diablo Valley College Foundation, ensuring your legacy supports local students for years to come. Why Choose a CGA? Income for Life – guaranteed payments for as long as you (or you and a spouse) live. Tax Benefits – a significant portion of your gift qualifies for a charitable deduction, and much of your annuity income may be tax-free. Flexibility in Giving – fund your annuity with cash, CDs, or appreciated securities. Donating stock may allow you to avoid or defer capital gains taxes. Accessible – a CGA can be established with as little as $10,000. Make the Most of your Retirement Funds If you are age 73 or older, you are required to take annual Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) from your traditional IRA. These withdrawals are taxable and can increase your annual income tax liability. By directing all or part of your RMD to fund a Charitable Gift Annuity, you can: Reduce Your Taxable Income – the charitable deduction from establishing the annuity can offset some of the taxable impact of your RMD. Convert Retirement Assets into Steady Income – instead of a one-time taxable withdrawal, you receive fixed payments for life. Leave a Lasting Legacy – the residual value of your annuity supports Diablo Valley College Foundation programs and scholarships long after your lifetime. Real Benefits at Every Age The payout rate increases with age. For example, a $10,000 gift from a 70-year-old donor could provide $470 annually, with a large portion tax-free, plus an immediate charitable deduction of more than $4,000. Why DVC? By choosing the Diablo Valley College Foundation as the beneficiary of your Charitable Gift Annuity, your generosity directly impacts students in our community. Your support funds scholarships, academic programs, and initiatives that open doors for students of every background. A CGA is more than a donation—it’s a partnership. You gain peace of mind through reliable income and tax advantages, while creating long-term opportunities for DVC students to achieve their educational and career goals. To learn more about establishing a Charitable Gift Annuity that benefits the Diablo Valley College Foundation, please contact DVCFoundation@dvc.edu or visit the Community College League of California at www.ccleague.org . < Previous Next >

News and Articles Campus Wide Impact Stories Learn how your donations impact our campus! From scholarship developments to new student initiatives, learn how your support fosters creativity! View All Student Success Stories Get updated on students who have received scholarships! We follow up with many of our students to see how your support has helped them! View All News Stories Get updated on Upcoming events heading your way and see how you can grow your connections. View All See events for the DVC Retirees' Association! Event Calendar

Tyson Sullivan Board Member, Finance Committee | Agent at New York Life Insurance Company Tyson serves on the Board of Directors within the finance committee for the Diablo Valley College Foundation and is a Financial Services Professional with New York Life Insurance Company. With a diverse background in business development and sales management, he specializes in helping families and business owners create and preserve wealth through comprehensive financial strategies. Tyson holds a BBA from the University of Georgia and brings over a decade of operational leadership experience from the construction and title industries. A dedicated community advocate in San Ramon, he currently serves as President of the California High School Athletic Booster Club and previously led the Bollinger Canyon Little League through a successful merger. <- Back to Roster

Anthony Redondo Board Member, Finance Committee | VP of Global Accounting at Blackhawk Network Anthony serves on the Board of Directors in the finance committee for the Diablo Valley College Foundation and is the VP of Global Accounting Operations, Treasury, and Internal Audit at Blackhawk Network. With over two decades of experience in finance and operations, he specializes in steering complex global teams and optimizing organizational efficiency. Anthony holds a Certified Internal Auditor credential and has built a robust career, including leadership roles at Protiviti and PWC. A dedicated community leader, he also serves on the Executive Board of the Innovation Tri-Valley Leadership Group, working to create a thriving ecosystem for local business and education. <- Back to Roster

Thomas "Thom" Martin Development Officer Thom Martin serves as the Development Officer for the Diablo Valley College Foundation. As an experienced non-profit executive and cause-driven leader, he brings a wealth of expertise in fundraising, staff development, and strategic planning. Thom has a proven track record of leading diverse teams and implementing successful major gift strategies for organizations across the Bay Area. He is dedicated to driving results that support community programs and enhance organizational impact. <- Back to Roster

Reconnect with the vibrant DVC alumni network! Join us for events, mentorship, and more. Discover the power of DVC alumni connections. DVC ALUMNI: What We Are About Join us for vibrant reunions, career-boosting networking events, and a variety of both on-campus and virtual gatherings. Whether through mentorship programs or regional meetups, DVC connections are always within reach. Best of all, joining takes just a click, offering a world of opportunity and connection with no fees attached. Since 1949, DVC has been a starting point for over 1.5 million stories, including yours. Now, the revitalized Alumni Association aims not only to preserve those stories but to enrich them, weaving a tapestry of shared experiences and dreams fulfilled. Don't hesitate; rekindle your DVC connection and become part of something bigger today. Join the all-new DVC Alumni Association and connect with fellow alumni now. Step back into the heart of Pleasant Hill, CA, where your academic journey at Diablo Valley College (DVC) first began. The DVC Alumni Association beckons you to reconnect not only with the campus that witnessed your growth but also with a community of former peers who shared your journey. It's a bridge between past and present, students and alumni, aspirations and achievements. Join Now!

Student Opportunites Ready to build your resume and gain a competitive edge? The DVC Foundation now offers unique, project-based opportunities designed to provide students with direct, hands-on experience. Explore the projects listed below to develop the valuable skills employers are looking for and add practical experience to your resume! What to Expect How You'll Grow Our projects are designed to mirror the challenges and workflows you'd find in a professional setting. Each opportunity is a self-contained, short-term project that allows you to contribute to a meaningful outcome for the Foundation or a partner organization. You might be asked to help with anything from market research and social media content creation to event planning and data analysis. This is your chance to move beyond theory and apply your classroom knowledge to solve real-world problems, building a portfolio of work that demonstrates your capabilities. The primary goal of these opportunities is to equip you with the skills that employers value most. While working on these projects, you will inherently practice critical thinking, teamwork, and professional communication. Depending on the project, you can also gain specific technical skills relevant to your field of study. Upon completion, you will have a concrete experience to add to your resume and specific accomplishments to discuss in job interviews, giving you a clear advantage as you begin your career. How it Works It's as easy as ... 1. Browse Take a look at our current list of available projects. Each post includes a clear description of the project's goals, the skills involved, and the expected time commitment so you can find the perfect match for your schedule and career interests. 2. Apply Found an opportunity that excites you? The next step is to fill out a straightforward application. This is your chance to tell us a bit about yourself, your skills, and why you're interested in the project. 3. Begin Once you are selected, you’ll be connected with the project lead to get started. You will be on your way to gaining valuable hands-on experience, building your professional network, and adding a significant accomplishment to your resume. See Our Available Projects Below! TikTok Brand Ambassador Become a TikTok Ambassador for the DVC Foundation! We are looking for a creative student(s) to manage our TikTok account and engage with the campus community. This is a fantastic opportunity to gain hands-on social media marketing experience and build your portfolio. Learn more about the role, time commitment, and the valuable skills you'll develop. Placeholder Project Become a TikTok Ambassador for the DVC Foundation! We are looking for a creative student(s) to manage our TikTok account and engage with the campus community. This is a fantastic opportunity to gain hands-on social media marketing experience and build your portfolio. Learn more about the role, time commitment, and the valuable skills you'll develop.

< Back Campus Corners: The Student Veteran's Resource Center (SVRC) Let's take a visit to one of the most resourceful places on campus... Our path today takes us just across from the Library, at the base of Science Hill, to the Student Veterans Resource Center (SVRC) on the Diablo Valley College campus. In Contra Costa County alone there are over 53,000 veterans living in our community. Across California, more than 55,000 veterans, active‑duty service members or dependents are enrolled in community colleges each year. These figures remind us that the SVRC serves not only a classroom, but a chapter of lives in transition. When I stepped inside the SVRC, I was greeted by Marine veteran Andres Garcia, who shared: " The SVRC has given me purpose and made it possible to be involved both in the community and on campus. It has also connected me with incredible resources and services that help me succeed.” Nearby, another Marine veteran, Jose Maya Magdalena, didn’t hesitate:“I truly believe I would have dropped out if not for the SVRC. The community and safe space it provides keeps me going.” Their words resonate because they reflect the heart of the SVRC’s mission: a place of support, connection, and academic renewal. As I walked among the study nooks, resource stations and informal gathering areas, it became clear the center is more than a facility—it’s a community anchor. Here at DVC, we cultivate a campus where veteran students are seen, supported and celebrated. And as the data show, the numbers matter: not only for the veterans themselves, but for the strength and diversity they bring to our collective educational experience. Designate your Donation to the SVRC! Next month, our walk will carry us to the center of student life—the Student Union. Stay tuned! < Previous Next >