Women in art, business, education, government, health care, law, music, nonprofit, science, sports and more, are contributing to our community and inspiring others every day. In these fields women work to improve life in our community, our region, and our world. Many women in our community are well-known for their endeavors and accomplishments, and those accolades are well deserved! But many more women work behind-the-scenes and below-the-radar.

On March 28, 2024, during Women’s History Month, many of these women were acknowledged, celebrated, and appreciated for their contributions that enhance, improve, strengthen, and beautify life in our County.

"There is no limit to what we, as women, can accomplish."
-Michelle Obama

Click a button below to view the individuals honored and involved in this event:

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Event Details

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Honorees

These ten women were selected from over fifty nominations due to their outstanding work for Santa Cruz County.

Yadira Flores Martinez

Community Mobilization Director with County Park Friends

Yadira is realizing her vision to use parks and nature to heal and nourish her community. She inspires us by leading in developing environmental projects that enable others to enjoy and celebrate nature and community.

Groppi

Associate Faculty at Cabrillo College

Groppi leads and inspires by promoting equity in classrooms and supporting women in science and engineering. She pioneers educational tools, makes time for students and supports the Women in Science and Engineering (WISE) group.

Allison Guevara

Mom / Facilitator / Social Impact Consultant

Allison was instrumental in starting Cradle to Career: her leadership continues in a program that supports parents in learning to advocate for themselves and their children. Cradle to Career now has spread to many other schools as a result of Allison's work.

Rebecca London

Professor of Sociology and Faculty Director of Campus + Community at the University of California, Santa Cruz

Rebecca inspires as a community-engaged scholar focused on actionable outcomes that are responsive to community needs. She bridges the academic and community worlds through her work as founding Faculty Director of Campus + Community at UCSC.

Elizabeth Lopez

Program Specialist, DOJ Accredited Representative

Elizabeth began as a volunteer at CAB to now being the resident expert on naturalization. As an accredited Department of Justice Program Specialist she continues to assist families through the process of becoming citizens, helping more than 400 families to date.

Nancy Macy

Chair Environmental Committee Valley Women’s Club of San Lorenzo Valley

Nancy is inspirational for her environmental work in the San Lorenzo Valley. From river cleanups to recycling, she works for a healthier, happier community for all to enjoy.

Abi Mustapha

Artist in Residence at Housing Matters, Co- founder of the SC Equity Collab

Abi is a founding member of SC Equity Collab working to spotlight areas of inequity within our community and address the need for change. Her work on the BLM mural, large scale portraits and illustrations inspire as they echo her dedication to social justice.

Noemi Romo

Bilingual Community Programs Liaison & Instructor at Life Lab

Noemi is a young woman making a huge difference for children in Watsonville and beyond through running the Emeril Lagasse garden. She creates bilingual curriculum and programs and inspires Cabrillo and UCSC student interns getting work experience at Life Lab school gardens.

Allyson Violante

Chief of Staff, Santa Cruz County Supervisor Zach Friend

Allyson is a community leader in equity, advocacy and public policy for over 15 years, through outstanding and inspiring leadership on the preservation of Watsonville Hospital, advocacy and impact on the Pajaro River Levee, and affordable housing equity.

Rachel Wedeen

CPF® | Managing Director | Financial Advisor | Morgan Stanley Wealth Management

Rachel is a leading philanthropist in the county, contributing to the success of countless students and non-profits throughout the county. Through her support of WES Endowment Fund at Cabrillo College and her leadership as an honorary trustee of the Community Foundation of Santa Cruz County she is an inspiration within and to our community.