California: Governor Newsom announces appointments
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~ SACRAMENTO - Governor Gavin Newsom has announced several new appointments to key positions in California's government. These appointments, made on April 1, 2026, include Deborah "Debbie" Cochrane as the Executive Director of the California Education Interagency Council, Elizabeth Flores to the State Board of Education, and Roque Barros to the California Arts Council.

Deborah Cochrane, a resident of Alameda, has been appointed as the Executive Director of the California Education Interagency Council. Cochrane brings a wealth of experience to this role, having served as Chief of the Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education since 2021. Prior to that, she held various positions at The Institute for College Access & Success from 2007 to 2021. Cochrane's extensive background in education also includes serving as a Policy Analyst at the National Center for Public Policy and Higher Education in 2006. She holds a Master of Social Welfare degree from San Francisco State University and a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Michigan.

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Elizabeth Flores, a resident of Chula Vista, has been appointed to the State Board of Education. Flores is currently Vice President of the Associated Student Body at Otay Ranch High School and is also Founder and Treasurer of the Little Explorers Community Service Club. She has been actively involved in her community through various organizations such as the Black Student Union at Otay Ranch High School and as a Volunteer Member of the Teen Advisory Group at Chula Vista Public Library. Flores' dedication to education and community service make her an excellent addition to the State Board.

Roque Barros, a resident of San Diego, has been appointed to the California Arts Council. With over 30 years of experience in community development and leadership roles, Barros brings a unique perspective to this position. He currently serves as Executive Director at The Imperial Valley Wellness Foundation and previously held positions at The Ford Family Foundation and Southwest Key Programs. Barros' extensive background in community building and his Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from the University of Redlands make him a valuable asset to the California Arts Council.

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These appointments do not require Senate confirmation, except for Roque Barros' position on the California Arts Council. Cochrane's compensation for her role as Executive Director is $220,656, while Flores will receive $100 per diem for her position on the State Board of Education. Barros' compensation for his role on the California Arts Council is also $100 per diem.

In other news, Governor Newsom has proclaimed March 31, 2026 as "Farmworkers Day" in recognition of the vital role that farmworkers play in California's economy. The Governor also announced that since 2021, his border strategy has successfully intercepted 54 million lethal fentanyl pills. This effort was launched to combat drug trafficking and protect Californians from this dangerous substance.

As California celebrates Apple's 50th anniversary, Governor Newsom reflects on the company's impact on the state's economy and its innovative spirit. Founded on April 1, 1976, Apple has been a pioneer in technology and design for five decades.

These recent appointments and proclamations demonstrate Governor Newsom's commitment to education, community service, and protecting Californians from harmful substances. With these individuals in key positions within the government, California can continue to thrive and lead in innovation and progress.

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