Heather (she/her) has a broad background in public policy, research, and communication. She currently serves on the Board of Trustees for MiraCosta Community College District, representing Area 7 in Oceanside. She also serves as the Deputy Director of Policy, Outreach, and Data for the County of San Diego’s Department of Planning & Development Services, where she helps guide strategy and supports planning efforts for unincorporated County land use and sustainability projects. Heather has over 15 years of experience in public policy and communication. She previously served as a District Director with the California State Assembly, where she worked collaboratively with local, state, and federal leaders on legislation and projects, and built relationships with the community. Through her diverse background, Heather has experience across various policy areas, including climate change, environmental sustainability, agriculture, housing, and higher education. Heather’s interdisciplinary education and experience includes graduate level training in social and behavioral research, with a specialization in research methods. Her areas of interest include climate change/environmental attitudes (social psychology), science communication, leadership, and social entrepreneurship. She enjoys sharing about these topics and has given talks for business, academic, and community audiences, including the American Association for the Advancement of Science and TEDxTemecula.