Golden State Today

Governor Gavin Newsom has announced several key appointments across various state departments. Corrin Buchanan, from El Cerrito, is appointed as Undersecretary at the Health and Human Services Agency. She has served as Deputy Secretary for Policy and Strategic Planning at the same agency since 2021. Her past roles include Assistant Director for Housing and Homelessness at the Department of Social Services and multiple positions within the Los Angeles County Department of Health Services.

Pete Cervinka, from Sacramento, is named Director at the Department of Developmental Services after serving as Acting Director in 2024. He has been with the department since 2021 in a chief deputy role focused on data analytics and strategy. Cervinka's previous experience includes leadership roles at both the Department of Social Services and California Health and Human Services Agency.

JaRita B. Pichon, based in Rocklin, takes on the role of Chief Equity Officer for Service Access and Equity at the Department of Developmental Services. Since 2018, she has held various positions within the Department of Public Health related to health equity.

Gena Jones from Rancho Cordova becomes Director of the Division of Adult Institutions at the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation. Her background includes serving as Warden of California Health Care Facility since 2023.

Bryan D. Phillips is appointed Associate Director for High Security Males at the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation. Based in San Luis Obispo, Phillips previously served as Warden at a substance abuse treatment facility.

James Harden will serve as Chief of Office Correctional Safety within the same department where he was Special Agent in Charge since 2022.

Chance Andes assumes his new role as Warden of San Quentin Rehabilitation Center after acting in this capacity throughout 2024.

Finally, Travis Pennington is appointed Warden for California Institution for Men after holding several roles there since 2001.

These appointments reflect a range of expertise across different areas critical to state operations.