[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 59 (Thursday, April 12, 2018)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E449]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 TRIBUTE TO GLORIA SOTO--CALIFORNIA'S 24TH CONGRESSIONAL WOMAN OF THE 
                                  YEAR

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. SALUD O. CARBAJAL

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, April 12, 2018

  Mr. CARBAJAL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Women's History 
Month. Every year, we dedicate the month of March to give special 
recognition to the accomplishments and sacrifices made by America's 
women. I consider it an honor to highlight the extraordinary women who 
are making a difference in my District. I would like to recognize one 
outstanding woman, Gloria Soto, of Santa Maria, California.
  Gloria Soto was born and raised in the Santa Maria and Guadalupe 
areas of Santa Barbara County. She comes from an immigrant family who 
instilled the value of hard-work and determination, and made numerous 
sacrifices to ensure she would have a chance at a better life. Gloria 
took advantage of every opportunity and graduated from Pioneer Valley 
High School, Allan Hancock College, and then from Bradman University 
all while working full time.
  Gloria started out as an educator about 6 years ago where she built 
up educational programs from Lompoc to Paso Robles. She initiated Young 
Advocates groups in Santa Maria and San Luis Obispo that encourage 
young people to speak up for reproductive rights. Gloria now works in 
the development department of Planned Parenthood of the Central Coast 
where she strives to protect and expand access to reproductive health 
care in her community. She also educates donors about the importance of 
their continued support.
  In addition to her work for Planned Parenthood, Gloria also serves on 
the board of Future Leaders of America where she volunteers hundreds of 
hours training youth leaders and directing week-long youth leadership 
camps. She is also a board member of the Fund for Santa Barbara, a 
member of the Activist-Led Grant Making Committee, and a key organizer 
for the Latino Legacy Awards in Santa Maria.
  Gloria's contribution to social justice for a more just community are 
immeasurable, she is not afraid to get her hands dirty and understands 
the importance of taking leadership roles in organizations so they can 
better serve our community. She is a champion for youth, immigrants, 
and women, and we are lucky to have her in our district.
  I ask all Members to join me today in honoring an exceptional woman 
of California's 24th Congressional District, Gloria Soto, for her 
incredible service to her community.

                          ____________________