December 2025 Round-Up
December was a month of remembrance, celebration, and shared values across California. We began by honoring Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day, paying tribute to the lives lost and the service members whose sacrifice continues to shape our nation’s resilience.
We also celebrated the 389th birthday of the National Guard, recognizing their unwavering service to our state, from responding to natural disasters to supporting communities in need. Their dedication reminds us what it means to step up for one another.
Throughout the season, Californians came together to observe Hanukkah, Christmas, and Kwanzaa, reflecting the rich diversity that makes our state so special. From the Festival of Lights to the seven principles of Kwanzaa, these moments reminded us of the importance of resilience, unity, and compassion.
We also recognized International Migrants Day, honoring the migrants whose contributions strengthen our communities and fuel California’s world-leading economy.
As we close out 2025, I am deeply grateful to serve as California’s Lieutenant Governor. I look forward to continuing this work in the year ahead, grounded in hope, guided by our shared values, and inspired by the people of California.
Eleni Kounalakis
Lieutenant Governor of California
County Visits: Sierra & Nevada
Continuing my commitment to visit all 58 counties, I spent time this month in Sierra and Nevada Counties in December. In Sierra County, I met with local officials at the historic Downieville Courthouse to discuss priorities including the economy and tourism, wildfire protection and insurance, housing, and the need for public policy that fits the unique needs of rural communities. These conversations reinforced how critical it is to listen to local leaders and understand the challenges they face firsthand.
In Nevada County, I toured Empire Mine State Historic Park, learning about its Gold Rush heritage and the park’s ongoing preservation efforts, before meeting with city officials in Nevada City to discuss housing, economic growth, and wildfire preparedness. The visit concluded with a stroll through Nevada City’s Victorian Christmas celebration, highlighting how local traditions support small businesses and community spirit. These visits reminded me how important it is to show up across California and work together to address local needs while celebrating the rich history and resilience of our communities.
Governing Board for Black-Serving Institutions
I was proud to chair the inaugural meeting of California’s first-ever Governing Board for Black-Serving Institutions (BSI), a historic effort to recognize campuses that excel in supporting and advancing Black student success. Created by SB 1348 (Bradford, 2024), the BSI designation establishes a statewide framework to identify colleges and universities making meaningful progress in retention, graduation, representation, belonging, and closing equity gaps for Black students. During the first meeting, the board approved 31 campuses statewide for initial designation, including UC, CSU, community college, and private institutions.
Read the full press release.
State Lands Commission Meeting
In December, I chaired my final meeting as Chair of the California State Lands Commission, concluding my seventh year of service on the Commission. I am deeply proud of the work we accomplished together, supporting legislation to protect California’s coastlines, advancing environmental stewardship, decommissioning legacy oil infrastructure, and expanding public access to our shared lands and waterways. I am grateful to the dedicated Commission staff whose leadership and expertise made this progress possible. I look forward to continuing to serve on the Commission in 2026 and building on these efforts to protect California’s natural resources for generations to come.