Hi, I’m Xóchitl!

I live in Woodland with my husband, Antonio. We have been married for over 13 years and are Army veterans. I have been dedicated to serving our state and local communities for over 17 years. My parents instilled in me values of integrity, gratitude, and responsibility. These qualities form my moral compass for my work supporting our community.

Yolo County Roots

I was born in St. Helena and grew up in Woodland, the oldest of six siblings. My parents were dedicated farmworkers, and my grandfathers came to the U.S. as Braceros. I’m a product of our public school system, attended Freeman Elementary and Lee Jr. High, and graduated from Woodland High (2001). I am a first-generation college student. I hold dual Bachelor of Arts degrees in International Relations (Peace and Security) and Spanish from UC Davis (2008) and a Master of Arts in Spanish from Sacramento State (2013).

Public Service Roles

My career trajectory in public service includes serving in the Governor’s administration as a veterans deputy secretary at the California Department of Veterans Affairs (2019-25). In this role, I advocated for veterans statewide, reached veterans and service providers in northern rural areas, connected veterans and their families to free legal services, and secured funding for suicide prevention efforts. I also served as the agency’s tribal advisor.

I was honored to serve as mayor and council member of Woodland, where I championed initiatives contributing to our quality of life (2016-20). My priorities included infill housing fitting our community’s lifestyle, reducing homelessness, road repair and maintenance, youth and senior programs, and funding public safety and first responders. I engaged in proactive outreach to help establish trust between public servants and our communities.

I also dedicated over a decade to our state legislature. In my different capacities, I promoted equity in state boards and commissions and advised legislators in environmental protection, health, housing, public safety, and veterans’ affairs (2012-19). I was also a field representative in Los Angeles (2014-15). In this role, I participated in the Exide Community Advisory Group, tasked with the mediation, safe closure, and clean-up of the Exide battery recycling plant. I began my career at the State Capitol with the Chief Clerk’s Office, the parliamentary branch of the State Assembly (2008-12).

Military Service

My service in the U.S. Army Reserve is a testament to my dedication to our country. I’m a Staff Sergeant and I’ve supported numerous combat field exercises, including a bilateral exercise with the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force with the 362nd Medical Company (2013). As an Operation Iraqi Freedom veteran, I served a tour overseas with the 481st Heavy Boat Transportation Company (2004-05). My service was recognized with the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, and the Armed Forces Reserve Medal w/M Device.

Community Service

I recently joined the American Leadership Forum Mountain Valley Chapter as a Class XXX Fellow. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity and plan to make the most of this experience, which will help me build on my work serving our community.

Out in the community, I can be seen working for and representing:

• Yolo Federal Credit Union Volunteer Board since 2023
• Holy Rosary Spiritual Stewardship Council since 2022
• Woodland Luna Vista Rotary since 2022, President-Elect for 2026-27
• Woodland Police Chief’s Advisory Board since 2022
• UC Davis Mondavi Center Advisory Board since 2021
• American Legion Yolo Post 77 since 2016

Xóchitl’s Core

I cherish moments with my family, exploring new cultures through travel, and staying active with running. You might often see me in photos with my nieces and nephews, sharing the joy of our adventures. Some of the most memorable moments with my husband, Antonio, include our travels to Spain, Chile, Mexico, and Japan. Italy is still in the books, and we hope to return to Japan again. Until then, I’m looking forward to my next run! – No pun intended.