Sen. Dodd Names Rebecca Barrett Contra Costa Woman of the Year

MARTINEZ – Rebecca Barrett, president of the Contra Costa County Community College District board and champion of public education, the underserved and first-generation college students, has been named Contra Costa County Woman of the Year by Sen. Bill Dodd, D-Napa.

“Rebecca has an impressive track record of supporting young people from all backgrounds as they fulfill their educational goals,” Sen. Dodd said. “She’s been a staunch advocate for justice, equity, diversity and inclusion, and has worked tirelessly to improve our campuses and make them accessible to everyone. I’m proud to recognize her for her many achievements.”

“The Contra Costa Community College District changes lives,” President Barrett said. “I know because it profoundly changed mine. This award is a testament to the collective efforts of everyone who believes in the transformative power of education. I am proud to be part of a community that values and supports the vital role of community colleges in shaping the future. Together, we can continue to make a meaningful impact, providing opportunities and empowering individuals through accessible and quality education.”

Rebecca grew up in North Concord and is a product of Contra Costa County schools. She graduated from Concord High in 2007 and attended Diablo Valley College, transferring to UCLA, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in political science. She credits smaller class sizes at Diablo Valley for giving her the support she needed for dyslexia.

After college, she worked for the California Department of Education, rising to the role of special advisor for state Superintendent of Schools Tom Torlakson. She went on to become deputy district director for U. S. Rep. Mark DeSaulnier, and later, communications director for California Emerging Technology Fund. Last year she took on the same role at Contra Costa Labor Council. 

In 2018, Rebecca was elected to the Contra Costa Community College Board, where she is the only woman of Mexican heritage. She has made it a priority to support first-generation college students, ensuring access to counseling, low-cost textbooks and food assistance. She fought to ensure students have access to high-quality career education that will prepare them for good-paying careers. 

Rebecca lives in Martinez with her husband, just a short drive from the home where she grew up.

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Senator Bill Dodd represents the 3rd Senate District, which includes all or portions of Napa, Solano, Yolo, Sonoma, Contra Costa, and Sacramento counties. You can learn more about the district and Senator Dodd at www.sen.ca.gov/dodd.