A powerful celebration of recovery, perseverance, and second chances is coming to downtown Stockton as the Superior Court of California, County of San Joaquin honors 245 individuals graduating from its Collaborative Courts programs.
The graduation ceremony will take place on Thursday, May 7, 2026, at 4 p.m. at the Bob Hope Theatre, 242 E. Main Street in Stockton. Graduates will be recognized for successfully completing programs through DUI Court, Parole Reentry Court, Drug Court, and Dependency Drug Court.
For many of these graduates, the ceremony represents much more than the completion of a court program. It marks a major personal milestone built on commitment, accountability, treatment, and the courage to keep moving forward.
Collaborative Courts, also known as problem-solving courts, are designed to help people address the deeper challenges that may contribute to involvement in the justice system. These specialty courts combine judicial supervision with treatment, education, social services, and ongoing support to help participants work toward long-term stability and healthier futures.
“Recovery is not a straight path,” said Kelly Placeres, Director of Collaborative Courts Programs, in the Court’s announcement. She praised the graduates for their perseverance, courage, and determination, noting that each person being honored made the choice to continue moving forward.
Presiding Judge Jacot also recognized the importance of pairing accountability with opportunity, saying the graduates are proof that real transformation is possible when people are given structure, treatment, and support.
The ceremony will include congratulatory remarks from Congressman Josh Harder, representing California’s Ninth Congressional District, and Assemblywoman Rhodesia Ransom, representing California’s 13th Assembly District, which includes Stockton, Tracy, and Mountain House.
The keynote speaker will be Brett Keleher, a Dependency Drug Court Case Manager and licensed substance abuse counselor who has nine years of recovery experience. The ceremony will also feature graduate speaker Christopher Hill, a Drug Court graduate whose journey reflects the mission of Collaborative Courts. Hill entered Drug Court on January 26, 2024, and overcame early challenges through dedication, treatment, and continued commitment to sobriety and service.
This year’s 245 graduates are being celebrated not only for completing their programs, but for the positive impact their success can have on families, neighborhoods, and the broader San Joaquin County community.
Their accomplishments serve as a reminder that recovery, support, and opportunity can change lives—and that every milestone forward is worth celebrating.