I could not think of a more deserving woman to recognize on International Women’s Day than Irene Tovar. Irene is a proud product of the Northeast San Fernando Valley. Born and raised in Pacoima, Irene graduated from California State University, Northridge (CSUN), and currently resides in Mission Hills. Irene continues to be a trailblazer for women and Latinos who paved the way in higher education and in the workplace. While attending CSUN, Irene was one of six Latinos on campus; as motivation to finish her studies, Irene used her struggles to advocate and inspire others to do the same. Irene currently serves as the Chief Executive Officer of the Latin American Civic Association–a non-profit multi-family service agency that focuses on affordable housing and social services programs, was the founder of the San Fernando Valley Neighborhood Legal Services, played a key role in the founding of Los Angeles Mission College, and currently serves on the City of Los Angeles Human Relations Commission.
Last year, Irene received her Honorary Doctorate Degree from her alma mater California State University, Northridge (CSUN), where she continues to serve on the Alumni Association and continues to fight to bring diversity and inclusion to the campus. Irene fights for what is just and what is right and treats everybody with dignity and respect.
I am proud and honored to call Irene my friend, constituent, and trailblazer.
