EASTVALE, CA — Today, California State Senator Steven Bradford officially announced his endorsement of Oliver Unaka for the Riverside County Board of Education, Trustee Area 1. Senator Bradford, a veteran legislator known for his commitment to equity and educational excellence, cited Unaka’s proven track record of stabilizing school districts and delivering results for students and taxpayers alike.

Senator Bradford highlighted Unaka’s critical leadership during a pivotal moment for the Inglewood Unified School District as a primary reason for his support.

"I am honored to endorse Oliver Unaka for the Riverside County Board of Education," said Senator Steven Bradford. "My commitment to Oliver dates back to when he stepped up to help the Inglewood Unified School District manage a complex crisis through receivership. At the same time, he managed a much-needed bond measure to restore and revitalize campuses throughout the district. Not only did Oliver succeed in that endeavor, but that campaign was an astounding success, receiving the top voter approval among all other races on the ballot that year. Oliver is true to public education, and he is an unstoppable force for ensuring that teachers and students receive the very best."

Unaka’s work in Inglewood is part of a career-long dedication to educational advocacy. During his tenure managing bond measures for both Inglewood and Pomona Unified School Districts, he helped secure approximately $500 million for public education, ensuring that aging infrastructure was modernized to meet 21st-century learning standards.

"Receiving the endorsement of Senator Bradford is a profound honor," said Oliver Unaka. "The Senator has spent his career fighting for the resources our communities deserve. In Inglewood, we saw what happens when you pair a clear vision with hard work—you get safer schools and better opportunities for students. I am running for the County Board of Education to bring that same tenacity and experience to Riverside County families."

Oliver Unaka is an experienced educational leader and Eastvale resident since 2008 running for the Riverside County Board of Education, Trustee Area 1, with a career spanning decades in TK-12 and higher education. A product of South Central Los Angeles public schools and a honors graduate from UC Santa Barbara, Unaka has secured approximately $500 million for public education through the management of successful bond measures for the Inglewood and Pomona Unified School Districts. He currently serves as a board member for the California State Bar Association and the California Association of Black School Educators. His candidacy is centered on ensuring safe schools, high-quality instruction, and clear pathways to college and career opportunities for all students.

The election for Riverside County Board of Education, Trustee Area 1, will be held on June 2, 2026.