Class of 2026
Aaron Hernandez
Transportation Planner
Transportation Agency for Monterey County
Aaron serves as a Transportation Planner with the Transportation Agency for Monterey County. At TAMC, he works on a variety of programs such as Safe Routes to School, Senior & Disabled Transportation, the Regional Development Impact Fee, and Transit Funding. Born and raised in South County, he is most passionate engaging with the local community and empowering residents in understanding complex planning processes. He began serving on the San Ardo Water District Board of Directors after the major 2023 flooding event to assist in post-storm recovery efforts. On his free time, he enjoys riding his e-bike, explore the remote areas of Monterey County and learn about urbanism issues.
Adriana Gonzalez Sebastian
Director of Communications
Soledad Community Health Care District
Adriana is a bilingual communications professional with expertise in public relations and community engagement. At the Soledad Community Health Care District, she focuses on strengthening outreach and communication efforts to support community health initiatives. With experience crafting clear messaging for diverse audiences, Gonzalez Sebastian is dedicated to advancing healthcare access and equity through effective stakeholder engagement and strategic communications. She brings strong Spanish-English communication skills and a commitment to connecting community members with vital resources and services that enhance wellbeing.
Alison Imamura
Principal Engineer
Monterey One Water
Alison is an environmental engineer with extensive experience in the utilities sector, currently serving as a Principal Engineer at Monterey One Water. She brings strong expertise in project development, environmental planning, grant writing, compliance, and construction management. Imamura is recognized for her ability to lead multidisciplinary teams and deliver solutions that support sustainable water and wastewater services. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Civil and Environmental Engineering from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo and a master’s in Environmental Engineering from the University of California, Berkeley. Her work reflects a deep commitment to environmental stewardship and resilient infrastructure.
Blair Limon
Natividad Medical Center
Therapy Services Director
Blair is the Therapy Services Director at Natividad Medical Center, leading physical, occupational, and speech therapists. She is a licensed physical therapist with 15 years of clinical experience, and 10 of those years in the director role. She has led multidisciplinary teams, expanded rehabilitation service lines, and played a key role in advancing proactive discharge planning initiatives to improve care transitions and patient outcomes. With a Master’s degree in Healthcare Administration, Blair combines frontline clinical expertise with strategic oversight in operations, process improvement, and team development. She is passionate about building high-performing teams, aligning clinical excellence with organizational strategy, and driving sustainable improvements in healthcare delivery. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her husband and three kids exploring, and playing sports.
Brenda Rivas
Meals on Wheels of Salinas Valley
Program Coordinator
Brenda Rivas began her work with Meals On wheels of Salinas Valley in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic. She coordinates senior meal services, volunteers, and senior social events across Salinas and rural communities, and finds the greatest joy in connecting seniors with resources and seeing their smiles at community gatherings. Born and raised in El Salvador, Brenda holds a degree in Architecture and has some years of experience in architecture and design in El Salvador. She later expanded her professional background with studies in AutoCAD, interior design, and a successful career in the insurance industry. Brenda has been an active member of the Salinas Steinbeck Rotary Club since 2019 and served as Club President in 2022–2023. She remains deeply committed to local & international community service through Rotary, her church (Madonna del Sasso Pastoral Council member), and local organizations. Outside of work, Brenda enjoys traveling and spending time with her husband, a U.S. Marine veteran, her daughter, a UCLA graduate, and their two dogs, Princess Lilly and Sergeant Coco.
Brandon Sharpe
Rayne Technology Solutions
Business Development Executive
Brandon Sharpe is a technology strategist and business development leader known for bridging advanced engineering expertise with high‑impact commercial growth. His career began in the United States Navy, where he spent nearly a decade as a Fire Control Technician operating and maintaining some of the military’s most sophisticated radar and weapons systems. Following his service, Brandon attended Western Governors University, transitioning into software development with a focus on data engineering and artificial intelligence. His talent for solving complex technical problems quickly propelled him into lead AI/ML engineering roles for multiple Fortune 50 organizations, where he helped design and deploy enterprise‑scale data and machine‑learning solutions. Brandon joined Rayne Technology Solutions in October 2025, bringing a rare combination of military precision, deep technical acumen, and business‑centric innovation.
Brian Constable
Monterey County Bank
Executive Vice President and Chief Credit Officer
Brian oversees credit administration, portfolio management, and risk oversight at Monterey County Bank. With a strong focus on relationship banking, operational excellence, and community engagement, Brian collaborates across the organization to support responsible growth, strengthen lending practices, and enhance the overall client experience. Throughout his career, Brian has earned a reputation for thoughtful leadership, integrity, and a collaborative, solutions‑oriented approach to problem‑solving. His work regularly intersects with community initiatives, business development efforts, and strategic planning throughout Monterey County. As a member of the Leadership Monterey County 2026 Cohort, Brian looks forward to deepening his understanding of regional issues, strengthening civic and community partnerships, and contributing to sustainable economic growth across the county.
Carlos Acosta
Salinas Police Department
Police Chief
Police Chief Carlos Acosta is a highly accomplished law enforcement professional with over 26 years of distinguished service, including seven years as a police commander actively leading and mentoring teams while fostering strategic community partnerships. Since November 2024, he has proudly served as the Chief of Police for the City of Salinas, bringing visionary leadership, operational expertise, and a steadfast commitment to public safety. Chief Acosta is deeply invested in community engagement and professional development. He is a Spanish for Law Enforcement P.O.S.T.-certified instructor, and a Procedural Justice Instructor committed to equitable and fair law enforcement practices. As a Spanish language Academy Instructor, he has actively promoted inclusivity and trust-building within law enforcement and community relationships. As co-founder of TWINS4TOYS, a nonprofit organization supporting underprivileged children, he received numerous accolades, including recognition from NBC3, NFL, Raiders Organization, and the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. Chief Acosta holds a Master’s in Public Leadership (USD) and completed POST Executive Development, SMIP, Tools for Tolerance®, and Silicon Valley Chamber leadership programs.
Christopher Tomlinson
Stanford University’s Hopkins Marine Station
Operations Manager
In his role as Operations Manager, Christopher supports marine research by leading the station’s scientific diving and boating programs and overseeing core station operations. He manages the station’s scientific diving and boating programs and oversees the station’s daily operations, working closely with researchers, students, and staff to support marine research, outreach, and a strong, inclusive station community. Christopher brings a collaborative, solutions-driven approach to leadership, with a focus on enabling people and programs to thrive
Christopher Dwight
City of Monterey
General Services Superintendent
Christopher Dwight serves as the General Services Superintendent for the City of Monterey, where he provides strategic and operational leadership for facility maintenance operations across a diverse 2.75 million square foot portfolio that includes municipal assets and U.S. Army partner facilities. He leads a 60-person multidisciplinary team responsible for preventive and corrective maintenance, custodial services, and overall service delivery across administrative, operational, and specialized-use buildings. As the City’s liaison under its Intergovernmental Support Agreement (IGSA) with the U.S. Army, Christopher ensures alignment on scope, performance standards, and operational expectations while driving continuous improvement in workforce effectiveness, asset reliability, and long-term infrastructure performance. With more than 20 years of progressive leadership experience in large-scale manufacturing and operations, Christopher brings deep expertise in operational strategy, capital planning, organizational development, and performance optimization.
Denise Gomez
Bay Federal Credit Union
AVP, Branch Manager
Denise began her career with Bay Federal Credit Union nine years ago. Throughout her tenure, she has remained passionate about team development, operational excellence, and delivering exceptional member service. Denise takes pride in coaching and mentoring her team, fostering an environment built on accountability, collaboration, and high performance. Over the years, Denise has held multiple roles within the organization, gaining a well-rounded understanding of branch operations, member lending, and service delivery. Denise values building meaningful connections both inside and outside the branch, recognizing the important role financial institutions play in supporting local communities. Outside of work, Denise enjoys spending time with her family and is a proud mom who values setting a strong example of resilience, integrity, and dedication for her daughter.
Emily Jane Freed
University of California Cooperative Extension
Area Director
Emily serves as Area Director in Monterey, Santa Cruz, and San Benito Counties, advancing research and education in sustainable agriculture, environmental stewardship, and food security across the Central Coast. She provides strategic leadership to multidisciplinary teams supporting farmers, families, and communities through science-based programs that strengthen regional resilience.
Previously, Emily was Supply Chain Director at Second Harvest Food Bank Santa Cruz County, overseeing distribution of 11 million pounds of food annually in partnership with more than 100 agencies. She also held key leadership roles during major emergencies, including the 2023 Atmospheric River storms, the 2020 CZU Fire, and the COVID-19 pandemic. Emily holds a Master of Science in Emergency Services Administration from CSU, Long Beach, focusing on disaster preparedness for farmworkers, a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism & Communications and Spanish from the University of Oregon, and a certificate in Ecological Horticulture from UC Santa Cruz.
Faith Babalon
Montage Health
Assistant Director, Human Experience & Enterprise Delivery
Faith leads enterprise-wide transformation initiatives focused on improving caregiver and patient experience and strengthening organizational execution. She also serves as Chair of the Employee Activity Association, planning engaging events that foster connection and morale across the organization. Outside of work, she serves as a board member and K9 handler with Monterey Bay Search Dogs, supporting search and rescue efforts throughout California. She is excited to join Leadership Monterey County and connect with fellow leaders committed to strengthening the region.
Greg McDanel
City of Seaside
City Manager
Greg McDanel serves as City Manager of the City of Seaside, California, a role he assumed in March 2025. With more than 20 years in local government and serving as a City Manager since 2009, he brings experience in economic development, infrastructure investment, downtown revitalization, and university–community partnerships. An ICMA-Credentialed Manager, Greg has been recognized for his leadership in public service, receiving the 2016 Public Service Award from the Northwest Missouri State University Alumni Association and being named one of the “50 Missourians You Should Know” and a member of the “40 Under Forty” Class of 2020 by Ingram's Magazine. He serves as President of the International Town & Gown Association and as a member of the National League of Cities University Communities Council. Greg holds a Bachelor of Science in Geography from Northwest Missouri State University and a Master of Public Administration from University of Missouri–Kansas City with an emphasis in Urban Management.
Jake Stroud
County of Monterey
Treasurer-Tax Collector
Jake Stroud serves as the Treasurer-Tax Collector for the County of Monterey, safeguarding public funds and advancing transparent, accountable government for residents, schools, and special districts. Appointed unanimously by the Board of Supervisors, he oversees the collection of more than $1.1 billion annually in property and business taxes and manages the County’s $3.5 billion Treasury Investment Pool, ensuring prudent investment, strong liquidity, and regulatory compliance. With over 15 years in public finance and tax administration, Jake brings expertise in treasury operations, fiscal policy, and government modernization, including leadership in improving Minnesota’s statewide tax e-services. He holds CCMT, CPFIM, and CGIP designations and executive leadership credentials. An engaged Monterey County resident, he serves on the CalTRUST Board and volunteers locally.
Jason Wilfong
DeVeera Inc.
Chief Executive Officer
Jason Wilfong is the Chief Executive Officer of DeVeera Inc, a technology company focused on making IT easy and accessible for clients. In his leadership role, Wilfong drives business strategy, operational excellence, and customer-centric solutions that support digital transformation and efficiency. He is known for his entrepreneurial mindset and commitment to building strong client relationships while delivering reliable, innovative technology services. Outside of his executive duties, Wilfong engages with the broader business community and contributes to collaborative initiatives that support regional economic growth and professional networks.
Jennifer Rivas
Monterey County Health Department
Management Analyst II
Jennifer is a public health professional and Management Analyst II with the Monterey County Health Department, where she leads the design, implementation, management and sustainability efforts of Community Health Worker (CHW) services and equity-driven health promotion initiatives. She collaborates with community-based organizations to expand CHW capacity, strengthen partnerships, and advance long-term sustainability efforts. Jennifer supports policy interpretation and implementation, strategic planning, and grant management. Her work supports countywide efforts to improve access to health particularly for historically underserved communities. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Health Science from California State University, Long Beach.
Jessica Macias
YWCA of Monterey County
Chief Executive Officer
Jessica brings a deep commitment to advancing the YWCA's mission of eliminating racism, empowering women, and promoting peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all. A California native, Jessica brings more than 20 years of experience in education, nonprofit leadership, and community advocacy. Her career has been dedicated to creating opportunities, resources, and safe spaces for individuals and families to thrive. She is passionate about equity, inclusion, and ensuring that every voice is heard and valued. Jessica’s leadership style is rooted in collaboration, transparency, and community partnership. She looks forward to working alongside staff, board members, volunteers, and community partners to strengthen and expand YWCA’s impact across the county.
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Jessica Ruiz
CSU Monterey Bay
Director of Development
Jessica is a dedicated leader who drives initiatives that empower youth through strategic event planning, mentorship, and public speaking. She is passionate about equipping young people with the confidence, skills, and resources to pursue their educational and career goals. Prior to her role at CSU Monterey Bay, Ruiz strengthened her nonprofit leadership experience at the American Cancer Society, refining her expertise in brand positioning, audience engagement, and advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion. Her bicultural communication abilities enhance community outreach and ensure that diverse voices are heard and supported
John Gaglioti
Piazza Portola Capital
Principal
John Gaglioti is a renewable energy developer and public servant with deep ties to the Monterey Bay region. He was the founding developer of the California Flats Solar Project, a significant utility-scale solar energy initiative in Monterey County that advanced local clean energy infrastructure. Gaglioti also serves on the Board of Directors of the Monterey Peninsula Airport District, representing Division 2 for the 2024–2028 term, where he contributes to regional aviation governance and community planning. His work reflects a commitment to sustainable development, community infrastructure, and public engagement.
Kelly Donlon
County Counsel & Risk Management
Chief Assistant Counsel
Kelly assists the County Counsel in overseeing all operations of the office. In addition, Ms. Donlon advises the Monterey County Water Resources Agency and the Monterey Bay Air Resources District. She also works on a variety of other matters at the direction of the County Counsel including advising the Board of Supervisors, County Administrative Office, and other departments on water, land use, finance, conflict of interest, real property, public contracts, and numerous other issues. Ms. Donlon previously practiced in Colorado working for a private firm that represented municipalities around the state. Prior to her practice in Denver, Ms. Donlon practiced in San Francisco representing corporate and public entity defendants in insurance defense litigation, including products liability and premises liability cases. She earned her J.D. from Santa Clara University in 2005, and her B.A. in Economics from University of Colorado in 2002. She is admitted to practice law in California and Colorado.
Kirk Edwards
Sales Manager
Alvarez Technology Group
Kirk leads client engagement and cybersecurity-focused technology strategy across the Central Coast. A Salinas native with a degree in IT Support, he has built a career centered on helping organizations make smart, secure technology decisions. Kirk is deeply rooted in community service, volunteering for more than 14 years with the California Rodeo Salinas and over a decade with the Salinas International Airshow. His blend of leadership, technical expertise, and long-standing civic involvement reflects his commitment to strengthening Monterey County.
Leah Hudkins
Montage Health
Assistant Director of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology
Leah Hudkins provides strategic leadership and operational oversight for imaging services at Montage Health. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Medical Imaging Technology and a Master’s degree in Radiology Management, reflecting her strong academic foundation and commitment to advancing excellence in healthcare imaging. Leah began her career as an x-ray and MRI technologist in Indiana, gaining valuable frontline clinical experience that continues to inform her leadership approach today. After relocating to California in 2015, she and her husband quickly fell in love with the Monterey Bay area and chose to make it their permanent home. With over a decade of experience in medical imaging, Leah is known for her collaborative leadership style, dedication to patient-centered care, and passion for supporting high-performing teams. Outside of work Leah enjoys the coastal lifestyle, living aboard a boat in the Monterey Bay with her husband and their two small rescue dogs.
Leonie Gray
Office of Supervisor Glenn Church
Policy Analyst​
​Leonie works as a Policy Analyst for Monterey County Supervisor Glenn Church, covering matters related to health, social services, homelessness, water, animal services, transportation, and illegal dumping. She likes to find creative solutions to problems that we face in our community and she is passionate about helping connect residents with the resources they need. Born and raised in Salinas, Leonie moved back to Monterey County after graduating from the University of California, Berkeley with her BA in Sociology. In her free time, Leonie enjoys spending time outdoors, reading, and hanging out with friends, family, and her dog.
Dr. Meena Pai
Kaiser Permanente
​​Physician in Chief
Dr. Meena Pai, MD is a board-certified pediatrician and physician in chief for the Kaiser Permanente Greater San Jose Area, where she leads clinical care delivery and supports a large team of physicians serving communities in San Jose, Gilroy, and Santa Cruz. A compassionate clinician and leader, she has been with The Permanente Medical Group since 1996 and has held key roles in quality, patient safety, and pandemic response efforts. Dr. Pai earned her medical degree in India and completed her pediatric residency at Loma Linda University Medical Center. She is dedicated to advancing access to high-quality care and mentoring colleagues across the region.
Monica Sanchez Hale
Office of Supervisor Chris Lopez
Policy Analyst
Monica Sanchez Hale has been with the County for over a decade, including five years in her current position. In her role, she supports initiatives across South Monterey County with a focus on housing, water, and advancing community needs through an equitable lens. Monica enjoys coordinating special projects such as community Listening Sessions, the South County Young Leaders program, and Operation Santa, and is especially passionate about connecting residents to resources through constituent services. She values collaborative leadership that centers community voice and impact. Beyond her work, she enjoys volunteering and opening her home to foster dogs, combining her love of service with her compassion for animals.
Nathan Kieu
City of Salinas
Deputy Director of Economic Development
Nathan Kieu serves as Deputy Director of Economic Development for the City of Salinas. A mission-driven local government leader and U.S. Air Force veteran, he brings nearly a decade of experience advancing real estate development, investment attraction, business support, and cross-sector partnerships. In Salinas, Nathan leads efforts to catalyze strategic development projects, attract new investment, and strengthen support systems for local businesses. He works to enhance city processes, streamline development and permitting, and foster a more business-friendly environment that encourages sustainable economic growth. His collaborative approach focuses on aligning public and private partners to create long-term community impact. He holds a bachelor’s degree in economics from the University of California, Riverside, and dual master’s degrees in Public Administration and Urban Planning from the University of Southern California.
Omar Perez-Sandovol
Joby Aviation
Workforce Development Associate
As the Workforce Development Associate at Joby Aviation and a Monterey County native, Omar is committed to advancing economic mobility through aerospace and advanced manufacturing careers. Drawing from his experience in advanced manufacturing, aircraft maintenance, and flight operations, he understands firsthand the value of technical education and strong industry alignment.
A certificated pilot, Advanced Ground Instructor, and Light Sport Repairman with a Maintenance Rating, Omar combines aviation expertise with strategic program development, community partnerships, and grant-funded initiatives. His work focuses on creating inclusive career pathways that empower individuals, strengthen regional industries, and position Monterey County for long-term growth.
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Richard Morales
Hartnell College
Director of Communications, Marketing & Public Relations
Richard is an accomplished communications and marketing leader with over 16 years of experience and a proven track record in strategic brand and audience engagement. He leads marketing initiatives that elevate Hartnell's mission, amplify its impact, and strengthen community partnerships. At Hartnell, Morales oversees comprehensive communications strategies, high-impact campaigns, and creative storytelling that connects diverse audiences with key educational programs. His expertise spans branding, event management, content development, and internal communications. He holds advanced and undergraduate degrees in leadership, management, and marketing.
Tara Clemens
Fenton & Keller
Associate Attorney
Tara represents clients in a broad range of matters, with a primary focus on trusts and estates issues, and related corporate transactions at Fenton & Keller P.C. She enjoys combining her litigation, corporate, and transactional experience with a thorough knowledge of probate law to provide comprehensive representation of professional fiduciaries, personal representatives, conservators, trustees, beneficiaries, heirs and other interested parties in a full range of contested and uncontested matters involving the administration of trusts and estate. Tara also provides estate planning services. Fully committed to serving the local community, Tara is a current board member and secretary for Legal Services for Seniors and volunteers through her church involvement and other local organizations, including the Lyceum Monterey County Annual Mock Trial. In her leisure time, she enjoys hiking, travel, and exploring the opportunities life along Monterey Bay has to offer.
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Yadira Sandoval Hobby
Natividad Medical Foundation
Director of Philanthropy
Ms. Sandoval Hobby leads donor relations, stewardship, and strategies to strengthen philanthropic support for enhancing services at Natividad hospital. A proud Salinas native, she is dedicated to improving the well-being of children, youth, and families throughout Monterey County and building meaningful partnerships between donors and the community. She served in the U.S. Navy from 1999 to 2004, shaping her leadership and commitment to service. She holds an MBA from California State University, Monterey Bay, and is a Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE), reflecting her commitment to ethical fundraising practices, thoughtful donor stewardship, and trusted relationships that advance community impact.
Dr. Zandra Jo Galvan
Salinas Unified High School District
Superintendent
Dr. Zandra Jo Galván is a respected bilingual Superintendent with more than 30 years of service in California public education. A proud Central Coast native, she holds degrees from Hartnell College, CSU Fresno, CSU Monterey Bay, San José State University, and a Doctor of Education from the University of Southern California. Her career spans teaching, coaching, administration, and nearly a decade as superintendent, leading transformative work focused on equity, innovation, and student voice. Nationally recognized for her leadership and mentorship, she has earned multiple honors and continues advancing strong systems, thriving school communities, and meaningful opportunities for student success.
