1983, August
Sub-Series
Scope and Contents
From the Collection:
This collection documents Jack O'Connell's political career from 1983 to 2002, encompassing his service as a California State Assemblyman, State Senator, and Superintendent of Public Instruction. It includes a diverse range of materials such as press releases, articles, editorials, general legislation, committee and subcommittee appointments, speeches, awards, scheduling books, handwritten notes, photographs, physical artifacts, and correspondence. The collection highlights O'Connell's legislative work and advocacy on issues ranging from community safety, environmental protection, public health, women's rights, animal welfare, LGBTQIA+ rights, the rights of older adults and people with disabilities, criminal justice reform, to education. Key education-related achievements include his leadership in championing the California High School Exit Examination (CAHSEE), his efforts to increase class sizes, and his role in establishing California State University, Channel Islands (CSUCI). Environmental highlights focus on his work in the Santa Barbara and Ventura counties and the Central Coast region, notably his advocacy for the California Coastal Sanctuary Act of 1994, coastal habitat preservation, and limiting offshore oil leases. His environmental legislation also includes efforts such as the BEACON (Beach Erosion Authority for Control Operations and Nourishment) beach restoration project, and Land Acquisition & Preservation initiatives, notably the protection of the Wilcox/Douglas Family Preserve, Carpinteria Pool, and Carpinteria Bluffs, as well as his work on the Casmalia Toxic Waste Dump Site cleanup and Lompoc pesticides regulation. This collection offers a comprehensive view of O'Connell’s contributions to California’s environmental, educational, and social policies during his time in office.
Dates
- 1983 - 2002
Conditions Governing Access
The collection is available for research by appointment only. Please contact Archives and Special Collections staff in advance to request access.
Extent
From the Collection: TBD Linear Feet (Document cases, oversize boxes)
Language of Materials
From the Record Group: English
Repository Details
Part of the CSUCI Archives and Special Collections Repository