​Colleen Bjerknes, ARM
SWACC JPA Manager at Keenan
Colleen has been with Keenan since 2001 and has maintained overall responsibility for the servicing and administration of a number of JPAs, including the Statewide Association of Community Colleges (SWACC) for the past 24 years. In 2018, Colleen entered her role as the SWACC JPA Manager.
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She graduated from California State University, Long Beach with a bachelor’s degree in psychology and has received her Associate of Risk Management (ARM) designation.
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Jessica Blushi
Vice President of Property & Casualty Marketing at Keenan
Ms. Blushi has been helping California public agencies manage their risks for over 20 years. Jessica specializes in the areas of insurance, reinsurance, self-insurance, risk management and risk pooling. Jessica works with insurance markets to deliver quality ancillary coverages to Keenan’s JPAs and their members and provide traditional brokerage service to Keenan’s non-program clients.
Prior to joining Keenan, Jessica’s industry experience included serving as an insurance account manager, specializing in large municipal accounts. Jessica’s experience in the risk pooling and risk management areas was further developed when she served as the underwriting manager for a large property and casualty risk sharing pool. In her capacity as underwriting manager, Jessica supervised an underwriting staff, provided oversight of prospective member underwriting and cost allocation models, and provided risk management consulting and other member services. Jessica has also served as a contract pool administration and risk management consultant for multiple California JPAs. Jessica studied Business Administration at California State University, Fullerton, maintains a Fire and Casualty Insurance Broker’s license and an Associate in Risk Management for Public Entities designation.
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Mark R. Bresee
Partner at Atkinson, Andelson, Loya, Ruud & Romo
Mark Bresee represents California public school and community college districts and county offices of education. His areas of practice include all aspects of labor and employment law, student issues including attendance and discipline, constitutional issues related to staff and students, the Brown Act, charter schools, statutory writ proceedings, and Public Records Act compliance. He has broad litigation experience in state and federal courts and with the Office of Administrative Hearings and the Public Employment Relations Board. Mr. Bresee is also skilled in arbitrating collective bargaining agreement disputes and has served as the Chief Labor Negotiator for numerous districts in collective bargaining with certificated and classified employee organizations.
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Prior to joining Atkinson, Andelson, Loya, Ruud & Romo (AALRR), Mr. Bresee served as General Counsel for the San Diego Unified School District (SDUSD), where he provided day-to-day advice to the Board of Education and administrative staff in all areas of school and public agency law. Prior to his position with SDUSD, he was counsel at the Orange County Department of Education (OCDE), where he provided legal services to the county office, school and community college districts, regional occupational programs, and Special Education Local Plan Areas. Before working at the OCDE, Mr. Bresee spent 12 years in private practice representing school districts and county offices of education throughout California. Mr. Bresee began his post-college career as a high school U.S. History and Government teacher and Student Activities Director in the Los Angeles Unified School District.
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Meredith E. Brown
Partner AALRR
Meredith Brown has more than 30 years of experience representing public agencies and private institutions on matters involving local government law, construction law, business litigation, public contracts and procurement, and workplace investigations.
Ms. Brown provides general advice for community college districts as well as public and privates schools and special districts and businesses. Ms. Brown has litigated and negotiated settlements for disputes involving multi-million-dollar construction projects and drafted procurement policies and contract general conditions. She has also provided claims avoidance counseling and defense for public entities conducting large capital programs involving multiple complex construction and joint development projects. Ms. Brown has resolved construction bid protests; and trained school public entity staff on contract administration procedures. She has experience drafting and negotiating leases, joint use agreements, and memoranda of understanding for public entity clients with a heavy construction and procurement volume.
In addition to serving as a legal advocate, Ms. Brown has extensive adjudicative experience, having served as an Alameda County Limited Jurisdiction Judge Pro Tem Ms. Brown as an elected community college trustee for eight years and currently serves on a community college retirement board and volunteers as board president for a non-profit organization serving transition aged youth.
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Amy Brandt
Partner at Liebert Cassidy and Whitmore
Amy Brandt is a Partner in Liebert Cassidy Whitmore’s San Francisco office where she provides advice and counsel to clients in all matters pertaining to education, labor, and employment law. Amy works closely with community college and school district boards and administrators on various issues including HR matters like investigations, employee discipline, leaves, contracts, evaluations, layoffs and workforce reductions. In addition, Amy represents community colleges and schools in matters including arbitrations, defending claims of discrimination, harassment, retaliation, and advising on Public Records Act compliance. Amy regularly represents clients before the California Civil Rights Department, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, California Office of Administrative Hearings, California Public Employee Relations Board, the Office for Civil Rights, and the California Unemployment Insurance Appeals Board. Amy also has a breadth of experience supporting districts on student matters including discipline, appeals, and civil rights issues.
Amy has extensive experience providing counsel on matters related to governance, labor negotiations, contracts, Board self-evaluation, Chancellor/Superintendent evaluations, Brown Act compliance, policies and procedures, ethics and conflicts of interest.
Amy also serves as lead negotiator for clients at the bargaining table. She has experience drafting and reviewing CBAs and MOUs, as well as managing bargaining unit grievances, including responses, mediations, arbitrations, and settlements.
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Israel Class
Chief Technology Officer at Palo Verde College
Israel Class is an information technology professional with more than 30 years of experience in turning cutting-edge technological developments into innovative solutions. Israel is proficient in domestic and international IS/IT operations, customer support, quality assurance, and he delivers complex, technical solutions on time and according to specifications. Prompt service and customer satisfaction are his motivations and he has a proven track record for improving efficiency and reducing costs through process engineering and systems implementation/integration. His excellent communication skills enable him to convey complex technological concepts to clients of all aptitudes.
Currently, he is the Chief Technology Officer for Palo Verde College. His work history includes Chief Information Officer for educational, non-profit community, healthcare and technical organizations in New York, Michigan and Arizona. Most recently he was the Director of IT for GateWay Community College in Phoenix, AZ; Director of IT for Apex Parks Group in Aliso Viejo, CA; Chief Information Officer for Valley of the Sun YMCA in Phoenix, AZ; Chief Information Officer for the Leona Group, LLC in East Lansing, MI; Director of Information Technology for North America for CEMUSA Inc; and Director of Information Services for Buena Vida Continuing Care & Rehabilitation Center in Brooklyn, NY.
A U. S. Army veteran, Israel is affiliated with the Project Management Institute (PMI), Prospanica (Formerly The National Society of Hispanic MBA’s (NSHMBA)). He currently has certifications in ITIL v3 and MCP. He is also a Computerworld Premier 100 IT Leader Honoree.
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Nicole Fayaz
Director of Account Management at Keenan
Nicole Fayaz has been with Keenan since 2011. Starting as an Account Coordinator, she quickly moved up the ranks to Account Manager, Senior Account Manager, Team Leader and now Director of Account Management. Nicole is a graduate of the University of La Verne with a bachelor’s degree in public administration. In her capacity as Director of Account Management, Nicole is responsible for processing renewals, responding to client coverage inquiries, endorsing policy changes, assisting in JPA management and overall client management for K12 districts and community colleges. In addition to client support, Nicole is responsible for supervision as well as playing a huge role in the development of statewide department projects, resources, training, mentorship and team consistency. She is a licensed Fire & Casualty Agent/Broker and obtained her Certified School Risk Manager designation in 2015.
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Tim Femister
Managing Principal at Firestorm Global LLC
Tim Femister is the Managing Principal of Firestorm Global, a trusted cybersecurity firm. He is an experienced industry executive and thought leader with deep domain expertise in information security, specifically in public education. As a frequent speaker and presenter, he is comfortable addressing large audiences on complex and emerging topics. He has been featured in Forbes, NBC, Lifetime, CRN, CIO Dive, and other media outlets, as well as at various industry conferences. Tim’s most recent Forbes article is entitled, “The Rising Threat of Cyber Attacks on K-12 Schools.” Previously, he was the CEO of a private equity-backed technology services firm and a corporate executive for a ~$2B IT solutions provider. A Southern California native, Tim is fiercely passionate about helping education organizations establish secure digital experiences that empower safe learning.
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Ann-Marie Gabel
Vice Chancellor of Business Services at South Orange County Community College District (SWACC President)
Ann-Marie Gabel is the Vice Chancellor of Business Services for the South Orange County Community College District (SOCCCD), where she oversees all district business departments including fiscal services, accounting, budgeting, payroll, benefits, internal audit, facilities planning, purchasing, contracts, risk services, warehouse, and mailroom services. She provides leadership for all partnership negotiations related to the Advanced Technology and Education Park and chairs the district’s committees responsible for developing procedures for the allocation of general fund resources, capital outlay projects, and reviewing board policies and administrative regulations.
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Previously, Ms. Gabel was the Executive Vice President of Finance, Facilities, and Technology Services at Long Beach City College (LBCC). During her tenure at LBCC she also held the positions of Acting Superintendent-President, Vice President of Administrative Services, and Interim Vice President of Student Support Services. Ms. Gabel also worked in the fiscal departments at Rancho Santiago Community College District and North Orange County Community College District. Ms. Gabel, a certified public accountant, started her career as an auditor with Vicenti, Lloyd & Stutzman, LLP (currently known as Clifton Larsen Allen), where she worked with several community colleges and K-12 districts.
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Ms. Gabel is active in several state organizations in support of community colleges. She was appointed by Governor Brown to the Community College Student Success Funding Formula Oversight Committee. She is the President of the Statewide Association of Community Colleges (SWACC), a statewide joint powers authority responsible for property and liability coverage. Ms. Gabel also chairs the Facilities Advisory Committee for the Association of Chief Business Officials (ACBO) and is a member of the ACBO Board and the state Chancellor’s Advisory Workgroup on Fiscal Affairs. Ms. Gabel serves as the Treasurer for the Community College Facilities Coalition (CCFC) board. She was recently appointed to the Advisory Committee on Legislation (ACL).
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Ms. Gabel earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from California State University, Fullerton, and a master’s degree in educational management from the University of La Verne.
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Andrew Martinez
Senior Director of Government Relations at Community College League of California
Andrew Martinez has served as the Senior Director of Government Relations for the League since May of 2020. As the Director, Andrew is responsible for budget and policy analysis, strategy development, and engaging the legislature and administration on issues critical to the community colleges.
Prior to joining the League, Andrew served as a Senior Legislative Advocate for the California State University (CSU) System. In that capacity, he was the lead advocate before the state legislature on numerous policy issues for the system, including labor relations, contracts, student affairs, public safety, auxiliaries and foundations, and athletics.
Before joining the CSU, Andrew Martinez worked in the State Capitol for more than a decade. During his time in the legislature, he worked for two Speakers of the State Assembly and the Chair of the Assembly Appropriations Committee. Mr. Martinez is a graduate of California State University Fresno and Moorpark Community College.
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Randy Parent
Of Counsel AALRR
Randy Parent represents public and private clients for their facilities, construction, and property needs. Mr. Parent’s practice involves all aspects of construction law and public contracting law for a variety of matters involving construction contracts, business contracts, bidding and RFP procurement documents and processes, sole source procurement negotiations, claims defense and resolution, litigation, mediation, and arbitrations, board governance issues, facilities use, and non-profit entity establishment and governance.
Prior to joining AALRR, Mr. Parent spent 15 years as a Deputy City Attorney for the City and County of San Francisco. Randy served as the lead construction attorney for the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission, and provided legal counsel for the San Francisco International Airport, the Municipal Transportation Agency, the Public Works department, and the City Administrator.
Mr. Parent also previously served as the Executive Director and CEO for the California Alumni Association at UC Berkeley for 6 years, and built the award-winning music program at James Logan High School in Union City during his 6 years as the director of bands and fine arts department chair, and 6 years as the New Haven Unified School District’s Coordinator of the Arts and Athletics.
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Eric Preston
Senior Vice President of Property & Casualty at Keenan
Eric has been with Keenan since 2004 where he started as a Loss Control Consultant. He received a Bachelor of Science degree in Management and Human Resources, with emphasis in Human Resource Management, from California State Polytechnic University, Pomona.
Eric earned his Associate in Risk Management for Public Entities (ARM-P) designation in 2008, his P&C broker license in 2011 and his CSRM designation in 2014. Eric works closely with some of the state’s largest JPAs to help them manage their losses and implement risk management best practices both directly and through the Loss Control department’s staff of 52 Safety and Risk Management professionals. Eric has expanded specialties in the areas of campus security, school site design, fire sprinkler systems, aerial lifts, behavior-based safety, vocational art shop safety, as well special education safety.
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Jaime Ruggles
Associate Vice Chancellor, Finance at Los Rios CCD
Jamie A. Ruggles is a seasoned financial and operational leader with two decades of progressively responsible experience spanning governmental, nonprofit, and corporate sectors. Currently serving as Associate Vice Chancellor of Finance for the Los Rios Community College District, she manages multi-million-dollar budgets, negotiates collective bargaining agreements, addresses contract related issues, and oversees compliance with complex state and federal regulations—among many other responsibilities central to the District’s success. In this role, she oversees fiscal services, accounting, grants, contracts, purchasing, accounts payable, benefits, payroll, and risk management. Driven by a commitment to student success, Jamie strives to optimize resources, promote inclusive strategies, and strengthen the educational experience for all. Prior to joining higher education, she spent over 15 years as a Senior Manager at a CPA firm, specializing in audits, compliance, strategic planning, and financial process improvement for numerous government agencies and educational institutions. Recognized for her adaptability, she views change as a natural part of any organization and leverages it to drive positive outcomes. Jamie’s broad background and collaborative leadership style have earned her a reputation for developing staff into successful leaders, facilitating equitable solutions, and creating thriving workplaces for both employees and stakeholders.
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Kaitlyn Sherer
Confidential Administrative Assistant at Los Rios CCD
Kaitlyn Sherer is an accomplished contract specialist at Los Rios Community College District with four years dedicated to contract management and an additional six years as a paralegal. She collaborates closely with legal counsel, risk management, and a variety of vendors to ensure every agreement is sound and serves the best interests of Los Rios CCD. Kaitlyn's responsibilities encompass a wide range of tasks, including negotiating favorable terms with vendors, scrutinizing contract language for clarity and compliance, and proactively addressing potential risks or compliance issues that may arise. Her attention to detail and strategic foresight are invaluable assets in her efforts to protect the interests of Los Rios while fostering strong relationships with external partners.
In addition to her contract management duties, Kaitlyn serves as a vital resource for employees across Los Rios CCD. She is dedicated to guiding them through the intricacies of the contract process, providing clarity and support as they navigate unique or complex situations. Her approachable demeanor and willingness to assist have established her as a trusted resource within the organization, enabling colleagues to feel empowered and informed when dealing with contractual matters. Kaitlyn's commitment to professional development is evident in her continuous pursuit of knowledge and expertise in her field. She remains updated on the latest trends and changes in contract law, ensuring that her practices align with current standards and best practices.
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Dennis Walsh, Esq.
Attorney at Walsh & Associates, APC
Dennis has been practicing law in California for 40 years. Mr. Walsh has his own firm, Walsh & Associates, APC where he and his associates represent public entities in constitutional and civil rights litigation, tort liability, employment litigation and educational law matters.
He has successfully defended various public agencies at trial in these practice areas. He has argued before the California Appellate Courts and the California Supreme Court on school issues. He has handled several lawsuits and trials that have received national media attention. He frequently speaks on these issues as well as provides training and education on handling various employment issues.
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Cindy Vyskocil
Vice Chancellor, Human Resources at South Orange County Community College District
Dr. Cindy Vyskocil is the Vice Chancellor of Human Resources at South Orange County Community College District (SOCCCD), where she serves as the district’s chief human resources officer and negotiator and oversees all aspects of labor relations and employment services. With 28 years of service in the public sector, including 23 years in community college administration, Dr. Vyskocil is well-known for her experienced human resources leadership at both multi-college and single-college districts.
Before joining SOCCCD, Dr. Vyskocil was the Vice Chancellor of Human Resources at Coast Community College District, Associate Vice President of Human Resources at Long Beach Community College District, and Director of Equity and Diversity at North Orange County Community College District, respectively. She holds a doctorate in educational leadership from the University of California, Irvine; an M.P.A from California State University, Fullerton; and two bachelor’s degrees from Arizona State University.
Dr. Vyskocil has served as both President and Past President of the Association of Chief Human Resource Officers (ACHRO), and she currently serves as the chair of the Human Resources Committee for the Statewide Association of Community Colleges.
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Duetta Wasson
Director of Safety and Risk Management Administrative Services at Mt. San Antonio College
Duetta has 40 plus years of experience in the insurance industry. Duetta initiated her career out of college at Travelers Insurance and then Fireman’s Fund Insurance. In 2000, Duetta started a successful career with Keenan, holding multiple position ending with a Southern California Regional Property and Casualty Manager position. Duetta left Keenan in 2011 to return to her home state of Colorado and was a risk manager for a city north of Denver. There, she found her passion leveraging her insurance experience and management background to affect change and develop their risk program. One of her most proud moments was implementing a safety program at the city that reduced their losses by 43%.
Returning to California in 2016, taking a position at Mt. San Antonio CCD as the Director of Risk and Safety. In addition to participating in SWACC, Duetta currently also sits on the PIPS Board of Directors. Duetta has completed her CSRM designation. She has a passion and love for family and the country's way of life, and still actively participates in Equine events.