Community College Trustee, Civic Activist Dobie Gelles, Has Died

CASTRO VALLEY, CA — The Chabot-Las Positas Community College District (CLPCCD) is mourning the passing of Mr. Donald L. "Dobie" Gelles, one of its long-time trustees. Mr. Gelles passed away on Thursday, May 2, 2019.

Mr. Gelles was elected to the board in 1998 and represented Area 4, which included Castro Valley and parts of Oakland. He served as president of the board twice during his tenure. Working alongside his board colleagues, he was instrumental in the passage of Bond Measures A and B to build out and renovate both Chabot College in Hayward and Las Positas College in Livermore. His unified school district experience brought a unique perspective to the board and provided his fellow board members additional perspective when reviewing policies and governing the district.

"Dobie's commitment was first and foremost to students," said Interim Chancellor Ronald P. Gerhard. "He believed deeply in community colleges and gave unlimited amounts of time to our district. We are grateful for his service."

Mr. Gelles was honored as a recipient of the Fulfilling the Trust Award conferred by the Community College League of California, for two decades of service as a California community college trustee.

"On behalf of the Board of Trustees, we are deeply saddened and send our condolences to the Gelles Family. We will remember Dobie for his two decades of service, dedication and leadership to our students and community," said Board President, Mr. Edralin J. "Ed" Maduli.

His dedication to students and his communities was evident through his service. In addition to his governance role with CLPCCD, he served as a K-12 school administrator and was director of the Castro Valley Adult School, a division of the Castro Valley Unified School District.

An armed services veteran, Mr. Gelles served three years in the military and eight years as a reservist.

He served on the Eden Hospital Community Board, Castro Valley Unified School District, and was president of his Rotary and Kiwanis Club chapters.

Mr. Gelles earned his bachelor's degree in science and math from the University of Pittsburgh and his master's degree in counseling from California State University, Hayward.

The Chabot-Las Positas Community College District Board of Trustees will discuss, at their regularly scheduled Board of Trustees meeting, May 21, 2019, next steps related to filling the vacancy. More information will be announced in the coming weeks.

— Announcement from Chabot-Las Positas Community College District

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