"Women are often hidden treasures. The most experienced, creative and innovating women are now serving in all aspects of California Government
as appointees in the Governor's administration. Women serving in appointed office are instrumental in inspiring other women across the state
in encouraging them to apply, bring their perspective and personal experiences to public policy and allow women the opportunity to give back
at a time that it is most critical".
- Sharon Runner, Appointed to the California Unemployment Insurance Appeals Board, Vice President, CA Women Lead and former California State
Assembly Member
"Serving in an appointed public position is a wonderful opportunity to contribute and to play out your full range of talent and competence.
It is also a wonderful potential training ground for running for elected office."
- Laura Chick, CA Inspector General overseeing the Federal Stimulus Funds, former LA City Controller (first woman ever elected citywide), State
Board Member, CA Women Lead and former LA City Councilmember.
"I believe the strength of California is our diversity and my service is a demonstration of that strength. My appointment allows me
the honor to contribute to our great state and the opportunity to indulge my passion of public service."
- Debbie Manning, Appointee, California Emergency Management Agency's California Council on Criminal Justice
"What's important to me as a Californian is that our state government reflect the rich diversity of its citizens. Serving on a state
commission provides an opportunity for me to speak to the issues concerning all women, and also to assure that there is a voice for the
many women who often are not heard. Women can play an important role as appointees in all areas of State Government!"
- Elmy Bermejo, Appointee, California Commission on the Status of Women
"Serving as a commissioner gives the private citizen a chance to work on issues, improve the community and give back to California. It
is a rewarding way to participate directly in government and make a positive difference in the lives of all Californians. Any woman who
aspires to make California a better place, to make the California dream come true for all of us, can contribute by serving as an appointed
member on one of California's many important commissions."
- Lindy DeKoven, Appointee, California Commission on the Status of Women and California State Parks and Recreation Commission
"Making important decisions on the Board of Guide Dogs for the Blind is rewarding when I am able to make good laws that affect guide dogs
and their users. I am able to combine my passion about animals with my policy background."
- Belinda Barragan, Board of Guide Dogs Commission
"As a mother of three children in our public school system, I am passionate about our youth and their education, and I am proud to serve as an appointed
member of the Statewide Pupil Assessment Review Panel. This opportunity has allowed me to participate in the process of State government and I
have a real sense of giving back to the State of California. Serving as an appointed member on one of California's many important commissions,
boards, and panels is a rewarding experience. I am proud of the women in our great State who participate in these important roles."
- Rita Gallardo, President, CA Women Lead Las Angeles County Chapter
Top Ten Tips for Women Seeking Government Appointments
- Make sure your resume is up to date.
- Look within your networks for people who can support your appointment and ask them for a letter of recommendation (you only need 3!)
- Don't be afraid to try an issue area you may not feel comfortable in – you might surprise yourself and find you really like it!
- Know who your colleagues on the board or commission will be – you will be seeing these people often!
- Ask yourself if you are comfortable in the public eye. Being appointed is about transparency and you never know when someone might ask a question
(or print an article about an issue you are working on).
- Make sure you have the time to commit to being on the committee.
- Know the power of being a "public member." Boards and commissions need women who have a good head on their shoulders and can make
good decisions – you don't have to be an expert!
- Be professional with the appointments staff, but remember they are dealing with thousands of appointments and applications.
- Remember that there are politics involved with appointments, if your appointment gets caught up in a political "web" realize it
has nothing to do with you. Don't take it personally!
- When women get appointed you never hear "what was I thinking?," Instead, most women agree being appointed is one of the most rewarding
ways you can give back to your community and state! And to yourself!
By Rachel Michelin, Executive Director/CEO of CA Women Lead and serving her first term as an appointed member of the Private Security Disciplinary
Review Committee – North.
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