Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Languages
LEADERSHIP & COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
Timeline
Generic

Vanessa Barraza

Chowchilla,CA

Summary

Dynamic and adaptable professional with a proven track record of serving diverse communities throughout California's Central Valley via the California State Assembly. Expertise in constituent casework, event planning, state agency navigation, and policy-driven community engagement, supported by a strong foundation in critical issue areas such as agriculture, environmental health, public health, and labor. Demonstrated success in executing high-impact events, securing necessary permits, and fostering cross-sector partnerships to enhance community resources. Committed to leveraging skills and experience to drive professional growth while making a meaningful impact in the Central Valley.

Overview

9
9
years of professional experience

Work History

Field Representative

California State Assembly – Assemblywoman Esmeralda Soria AD-27
Merced, CA
09.2024 - Current
  • Serve as the primary district contact for constituents in Madera, Chowchilla, Los Banos, Dos Palos, Fairmead, La Vina, and Parksdale.
  • Plan and lead district events from start to finish; managing logistics, outreach, permitting, and day-of coordination and execution.
  • Manage constituent casework, including intake, research, and resolution through direct coordination with state agencies such as EDD, DMV, etc.
  • Cultivate strong relationships with local governments, school officials, chambers of commerce, nonprofits and advocacy organizations.
  • Track and engage on key regional issues, including agriculture, public health, environmental issues, labor and employment, women’s initiatives, and higher education with a focus on Community Colleges.

Student Activities – Office Assistant

SCCCD - Madera Community College
Madera, CA
08.2022 - 08.2024
  • Managed daily office operations, ensuring efficient workflow and organizational effectiveness.
  • Coordinated scheduling of meetings and events, optimizing time management for faculty and staff.
  • Assisted in the preparation of reports and documents, contributing to streamlined communication across departments.
  • Trained new staff on office systems and protocols, fostering an environment of collaboration and support.

Library Aide

Library
Madera, CA
08.2017 - 11.2018
  • Assisted patrons in locating resources and utilizing library systems effectively.
  • Organized and shelved library materials to maintain inventory accuracy and accessibility.

Education

Bachelor of Arts - Sociology

California State University, East Bay
Hayward, CA
05-2028

Associate of Arts - Sociology, Social Science

Madera Community College
Madera, CA
05-2024

Associate of Science - Biological Science

Madera Community College
Madera, CA
12-2023

Skills

  • Goal-oriented mindset
  • Client relations management
  • Effective public speaking
  • Event coordination
  • Local government relations
  • Interpersonal relationship building

Languages

Spanish
Native or Bilingual

LEADERSHIP & COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT

United Hands Project 501(3)(C) - Co-Founder/Secretary

Chowchilla, CA | July 2025 - Present

Co-founded nonprofit focused on community support and local engagement. Lead administrative operations, including governance, records management, and meeting coordination. Support outreach and partnership development to expand program impact and strengthen community services.

Madera Community College – Associated Student Government (ASG)

President (2023–2024) | Secretary (2022–2023)

Madera, CA | Aug 2022 – May 2024
Served as Secretary then President, serving in executive leadership roles overseeing ASG operations, governance, and compliance with college policies and state laws. Led and facilitated ASG meetings, reviewed and approved agendas and minutes, and ensured proper documentation and distribution. Represented student body on College Council and District 5 Delegate assignments, and served on Program Review Committee advocating for student interests. Collaborated closely with ASG Advisor on daily operations, supporting organizational continuity and student engagement.

Timeline

Field Representative

California State Assembly – Assemblywoman Esmeralda Soria AD-27
09.2024 - Current

Student Activities – Office Assistant

SCCCD - Madera Community College
08.2022 - 08.2024

Library Aide

Library
08.2017 - 11.2018

Associate of Science - Biological Science

Madera Community College

Bachelor of Arts - Sociology

California State University, East Bay

Associate of Arts - Sociology, Social Science

Madera Community College