Governor Newsom announces new appointments to state boards

Governor Gavin Newsom has announced several appointments and reappointments to various state boards and commissions. Neal Payton from Santa Monica has been appointed to the State Historical Resources Commission. Payton, a Senior Principal at Torti Gallas + Partners since 1996, previously served as an Associate Professor of Architecture at The Catholic University of America. He holds degrees from Syracuse University and Carnegie Mellon University. This role does not require Senate confirmation, with compensation set at $100 per diem.

Yong Ping Chen from Camarillo has been reappointed to the California Acupuncture Board, where she has served since 2020. Chen is a Professor at Alhambra Medical University and runs her own clinic. Her past roles include Director of the Experimental Acupuncture Teaching Department at Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine. She holds multiple degrees in medicine from Chinese institutions. This position requires Senate confirmation, with compensation of $100 per diem.

Hyun “Francisco” Kim from Fremont has also been reappointed to the California Acupuncture Board, serving since 2018. Kim works as an Acupuncture Practitioner and Clinic Director while teaching as an Adjunct Clinical Instructor at Touro University California. His educational background includes a Master’s degree in Oriental Medicine and Acupuncture from South Baylo University.

Gregory Leung from San Francisco continues his service on the California Acupuncture Board after being reappointed. Leung's career includes various roles within the California Department of Public Health and experience as a nurse in different capacities. He holds degrees in Accounting and Nursing.

Justin Huft from Colton remains on the California Board of Behavioral Sciences after his reappointment. A Marriage and Family Therapist by profession, Huft also lectures part-time at El Camino Community College and California State University, Fullerton. His academic credentials include Master's degrees in Marriage and Family Therapy and Sociology.

Kelly X. Ranasinghe from El Centro is reappointed to the same board where he serves as Deputy County Counsel for Imperial County Counsel’s Office since 2020. Ranasinghe's previous roles include Managing Partner at Henderson and Ranasinghe LLP and Senior Program Attorney for juvenile court judges.

Annette Walker from Corona continues her tenure on the board following her recent reappointment. As Founder and CEO of ReinventU!, Walker brings experience as a Diversity Consultant and former Director of Graduate Admissions at CSU East Bay.

All positions except Payton's require Senate confirmation with each receiving $100 per diem compensation.