Commissioner Profile: Alma D. Martinez

A native of Los Angeles, Martinez graduated from the University of California at Los Angeles with a bachelor's degree in political science. Soon after she was awarded a State Assembly Fellowship, which allowed her to work for then State Assemblywoman, Gloria Molina.

Martinez continued her career with Molina, serving as her chief of staff when Molina became an L.A. City Councilwoman, and again, in 1991, when Molina became a member of the L.A. County Board of Supervisors, overseeing the first supervisorial district.

During her career in public service Martinez fought for equal access and resources for the community-at-large. She was actively involved in the legendary battle to keep a prison out of East Los Angeles as well as the successful quest to preserve the LAC-USC Medical Center.  She also oversaw the creation of child care centers, parks and important social services.

In 2005, Martinez became a visiting scholar for the David and Lucile Packard Foundation where she conducted research on California term limits and elected official leadership development. That same year, Martinez was also a member of a California State Assembly Speaker's delegation to study model universal preschool programs in Stockholm, Sweden and Paris, France.

Alma is married to Antonio Gonzalez, president of the Southwest Voter Registration and Education Project, and the proud parent of two daughters. Appointed by Supervisor Molina in January, she represents the first district on First 5 LA's Board of Commissioners.

What makes you happy?

Spending time with family, travelling and, oh - the Lakers!

Which historical figure do you admire most and why?  

Eleanor Roosevelt - the woman behind the man. She provided a powerful voice for the civil rights movement at a time when women's voices were typically silenced. 

What is your favorite way to spend time with an important child or children in your life?

It's the ordinary moments of the day when you are just there to listen.

What is your idea of a perfect world?

All children having access to quality education, healthcare and open spaces to enjoy nature.

Mediocre public schools.

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