About Me
I’m proud to call East Palo Alto home, with deep family roots that stretch back to the 1960s. Growing up in a military family, I had the opportunity to live in different places, but East Palo Alto has always been where my heart is. Watching my mother serve as a director for the East Palo Alto Sanitary District inspired me to give back to the community that shaped me.
Professionally, I’ve had the privilege of working at the intersection of public health and technology. After earning my undergraduate degree in psychology, I worked in research at places like Stanford Research Institute and Merck, and later at Genentech in digital pathology and personalized healthcare. Most recently, I served with the California Department of Public Health, helping analyze vaccine distribution during the pandemic. I’m also the founder of DigPath, a digital pathology startup aimed at providing international access to world-class diagnostic expertise.
Now, I’m running for a seat on the East Palo Alto City Council to bring that same balance of tradition and innovation to my community. My top priorities are affordable housing, youth empowerment, economic development, and maintaining independent control over critical services like the sanitary district. I make data-driven decisions and focus on evidence-based solutions to ensure East Palo Alto grows while preserving the culture and people that make it special.
My Plan for East Palo Alto
As a candidate for East Palo Alto City Council, my plan focuses on addressing the key challenges our community faces while building a sustainable and inclusive future. I believe that through thoughtful action and community-driven solutions, we can uplift all residents and create opportunities for generations to come. My plan centers on five core areas:
Affordable Housing & Preventing Displacement
- Expand Affordable Housing: I will work to increase the availability of affordable housing at all levels to ensure our community remains accessible to everyone, from low-income families to working professionals.
- Support Community Land Trusts: By supporting community land trusts, we can prevent displacement, ensuring that local residents can stay in their homes and benefit from future developments.
- Prioritize Mixed-Use Development: I advocate for high-density housing projects that include retail and business spaces, providing residents with both housing and job opportunities.
Economic Development & Job Creation
- Create Business Incubators: I plan to establish business incubators that nurture locally-owned businesses, providing resources, mentorship, and funding opportunities for entrepreneurs in our community.
- Partner with Tech Companies: I will collaborate with nearby tech companies to offer job training, internships, and employment opportunities for residents, ensuring East Palo Alto is a hub for economic growth.
- Support Small Businesses: I will prioritize local businesses in new developments, helping entrepreneurs thrive and making sure our community benefits from economic growth.
Youth Empowerment & Education
- Expand After-School Programs: Our youth need access to quality after-school activities that foster personal growth and academic success. I will work to expand these programs across East Palo Alto.
- Mentorship Opportunities: I am committed to creating mentorship programs that connect young people with professionals and community leaders, offering them the guidance and support they need to succeed.
- Invest in Local Schools: I will advocate for increased funding and resources for our local schools to ensure all children receive the education they deserve.
Parking & Traffic Solutions
- Implement a Residential Parking Permit Program: To address parking congestion in our neighborhoods, I will work to establish a residential parking permit program that ensures residents have priority access to parking near their homes, especially in high-density areas.
- Increase Parking Availability: Beyond the permit program, I will explore creative solutions, such as additional parking structures or shared spaces, to meet the growing demand for parking in our community.
- Reduce Traffic Congestion: I will push for traffic flow improvements and advocate for expanding public transportation options to reduce congestion and improve accessibility.
Public Safety & Community Well-Being
- Improve Public Safety: By working closely with law enforcement and community leaders, I will advocate for a balanced approach to public safety that keeps our neighborhoods safe while building trust and accountability.
- Support Green Initiatives: I plan to promote the use of solar energy, electric vehicle infrastructure, and other sustainable solutions that contribute to a cleaner, healthier environment for East Palo Alto.
- Maintain Local Control of the Sanitary District: I will continue to fight for community oversight of the Sanitary District, ensuring that residents' interests come first and services remain affordable and reliable.
Endorsements
