Board Members

Board Handbook

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Susan Donaldson - President
Contact: susan.donaldson@emeryusd.org
Term ends 2026

​Thank you for trusting me with this important responsibility.  As a parent of a child that has spent their entire elementary school years in the district, I think I have a unique perspective that will make my service invaluable.  I have an intimate knowledge of the school from my years as a PTO officer and volunteer.  My Masters degree in Sustainable Business helps me to understand our schools from a systems mindset, as interconnected with our local and global community – particularly in that our campus is the Emeryville Center for Community Life.  My restorative justice and non-profit training as a board member with the Bay Area Girls Rock Camp has also prepared me to work with diverse students and stakeholders.  I am excited to take my dedication to children and public schooling to the next level.

Brynnda Collins - Vice President
Contact: brynnda.collins@emeryusd.org
Term ends 2026

I established residency in Emeryville over 13 years ago. During this time, I worked for our school district and our city. I am the proud parent of 24 year old and past School Board Trustee Brittany Collins-Rogers who was educated through the EUSD system. While raising my daughter as a single parent, I completed course work with Harvard University receiving a certificate of completion in “Teaching for Understanding”. My character and leadership – both, courageous and strong, ensure that I will positively impact the students, staff and families of EUSD.
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I am passionate about serving our children and building the capacity of others to create positive change. Using a proven track record for building networks and effective relationships, I am poised to facilitate courageous conversations and take action addressing issues.such as student achievement, and civic engagement. Bridging the gap between city, schools and community across divides like class, generation and race, Iam focused on moving our district forward in a progressive manner.

John Van Geffen - County Representative
Contact: john.vangeffen@emeryusd.org
Term: 2020-2024

​An Emeryville resident since 2014, John T. Van Geffen is an Aviation Attorney with specialization in litigation, business transactions and regulatory compliance. As the father of an Emeryville kindergartner, John takes great pride in accepting the awesome responsibility of providing leadership and citizen oversight of the Emery Unified School District’s schools and looks forward to working with the Superintendent, staff and public to set a direction for the District establish policies, ensure accountability and provide community leadership on behalf of the District and public education. 

Regina Chagolla - Member
Contact: regina.chagolla@emeryusd.org
Term ends 2026

Regina Chagolla has lived in the Emeryville community since 2014. She has a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Wisconsin - Madison, a Master's degree in Education from UC Berkeley, and a multiple subject teaching credential. Regina is a proud recipient of the Posse Foundation Scholarship and a Ronald E. McNair Scholar. She has worked at the Lawrence Hall of Science in curriculum development and implementation for 6 years. Regina has been a classroom teacher at Berkeley Unified School District for 6 years, and is currently a third grade teacher. She is a proud product of the K-12 public schools and universities and is committed to bring her experience and passion for working with students and families, along with a leadership background to the board.

Kimberly Solis - Clerk
Contact: kimberly.solis@emeryusd.org
Term: 2020-2024

Kimberly Solis has been an Emeryville resident since 2007 and is an Emery Unified School District alum. Currently they are working on their B.A. in Ethnic Studies and Political Science from UC Berkeley as a recipient of the Fiat Lux Scholarship. When Kimberly was a high school student in the district, they were part of the School Board as a Student Representative throughout their junior and senior years. Their commitment to supporting the district is nothing new. As a Board member now, they aim to further support and uplift EUSD students in an equitable and transparent manner.