Mark Allan Takano is an American politician and academic who has served in the United States House of Representatives since 2013, representing California's 41st congressional district from 2013 to 2023, and the state's 39th congressional district since 2023. A member of the Democratic Party, Takano became the first gay person of Asian descent in Congress upon taking office. Born December 10, 1960, Takano is a supporter of transgender rights, supports gun control efforts, endorsed Bernie Sanders in the presidential primary election, saying Sanders "has a bold vision" and "can get things done". After Sanders dropped out of the primaries, Takano endorsed Democratic nominee Joe Biden, and supported both impeachments of Donald Trump.
Dr. Douglas Mitchell, a stalwart of the UC Riverside Graduate School of Education for four decades, has left an indelible mark through his pioneering research and leadership roles. As a former president of the Politics of Education Association and the Sociology of Education Association, he has shaped discourse in education policy and politics. With over 100 publications to his name, Dr. Mitchell's work spans crucial topics such as legislative decision-making and school program analysis. Together with his wife, Dr. Tedi Mitchell, they have collaborated to advance educational research. This endowment ensures their enduring impact by providing essential financial aid to graduate students in line with University policies.