Yessenia Resendiz Torres is a first generation Mexican American from Sonoma County. Born and raised in Petaluma, she became a 10,000 Degrees student mentee during her time at Petaluma High School. With their guidance, she got accepted into Sonoma State University where she got her B.A. in Criminology and Criminal Justice Studies. With financial aid from the government, university, and 10,000 Degrees, she was able to graduate debt free.
Yessenia is currently a Field Representative for Assemblymember Damon Connolly, who represents Marin and Sonoma County in the State Legislature. In her role, she serves as a community liaison between the Assemblymember’s office and multiple state and local agencies. She previously worked as a caseworker for Legal Aid of Sonoma County and as an intern for the Community Foundation of Sonoma County.
Yessenia is committed to giving back to her community through public service. She has engaged in multiple volunteer efforts with organizations including Los Cien Sonoma County, NAACP, SRPD C-CAT, Green Latinos, and 10,000 Degrees. Yessenia is passionate about social and environmental justice. She hopes to get her Masters in Public Administration to continue working in public service, championing for working families like hers.