My background is ALAMEDA
I have achieved some success in my life thanks to my amazing Alameda role models. When my grandmother Helen Jensen was widowed at age 40 she raised 3 teenagers (including my mom) while taking care of her invalid father and maintaining the Lincoln Avenue landmark bar that was opened in 1934 by my great-grandfather Magnus Jensen. As a realtor, my mother Jolene brought new families into our community, while my dad Bob Hittle was both a contractor and a commercial salmon fisherman. I am proud of the contributions of teachers, nurses, and small business owners that helped to raise me!
At Alameda HIgh school I learned about politics and communication from my government teacher Don Perata - who eventually took his lessons to Sacramento as the California Senate President Pro Tem. This page is not big enough to list the important ideals that I learned from Alameda's outstanding public school teachers.
My Alameda roots are deep and diverse. I know this island!
In elected office I have been committed to equity for all Alameda residents.
- I faced a recall effort in 2009 for leading the District's adoption of this nation's first lessons to teach elementary students respect for all classmates and families, regardless of gender preference or sexual orientation.
- I am proud to live in one of this country's most ethnically diverse communities and, as the vice president of the County public health system, I advanced health equity, diversity and inclusion at all levels of the Alameda Health System.
- As a City Councilmember I have voted to expand housing opportunities for all - regardless of income, citizenship status or past mistakes.
- Communities thrive when residents feel valued and connected. My experience developing social programs at all levels of government means that I understand how the City Council's decisions translate to housing, jobs, infrastructure and improved conditions for all Alameda residents.
In addition to my work as an elected representative, I support our community in nonprofit leadership roles.
- As an Alameda Soccer Club board member I expanded the soccer options for young girls.
- Since 2013 I've been a board member of Alameda Youth Basketball - ensuring that kids in grades 3-8 have an engaging recreation team experience.
- I serve on the board of YouthALIVE! where I work to address the social causes of gun violence.
