[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 56 (Wednesday, March 25, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E269]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        HONORING MARISA ALCORTA

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. MIKE THOMPSON

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, March 25, 2026

  Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Marisa 
Alcorta. I have named Mrs. Alcorta as the California 4th Congressional 
District's Woman of the Year for Yolo County. This honor recognizes 
women who have made important contributions to California's 4th 
Congressional District in Arts and Culture, Professional Achievement, 
Entrepreneurship and Innovation, or Community Services.
  Mrs. Alcorta was born and raised in Austin, Texas. She earned her 
Bachelor of Science in Plant Sciences, with a focus on Sustainable 
Agriculture and International Development from Cornell University. Mrs. 
Alcorta went on to receive her Master of Science in Horticulture and 
Agronomy. Marisa is also a Fellow of the California Agricultural 
Leadership Program, a highly selective statewide program that brings 
together agricultural leaders to deepen their understanding of public 
policy, leadership, and the challenges and opportunities shaping 
California agriculture.
  Marisa Alcorta has played a leading role in strengthening 
agricultural education and workforce development in Yolo County. At the 
Center for Land-Based Learning, she developed and expanded programs 
that prepare agricultural employees for leadership and management roles 
on farms and ranches. She designed the AgHiRE workforce development 
program, which equips experienced Spanish-speaking agricultural 
employees with the communication and supervisory skills needed to 
advance in their careers. She also founded California's first 
registered agricultural apprenticeship program, creating a structured 
pathway for aspiring farm managers to gain hands-on training and formal 
recognition of their skills. Through these initiatives, she has helped 
build stronger career pathways while supporting the long-term 
succession of farms and agricultural businesses in the region.
  Within our community, Marisa actively contributes to broader efforts 
that support farmers and agricultural communities throughout 
California. She serves on the Board of Directors of California FarmLink 
and has previously served as Chair of the Board, helping guide the 
organization's strategic direction and expansion of programs that 
support family farmers and improve access to land and capital. She also 
serves on the Farm Advisory Council for the California Climate and 
Agriculture Network, contributing agricultural practitioner 
perspectives to statewide policy conversations on climate resilience 
and sustainable agriculture.
  Today, Mrs. Alcorta and her husband, Paul Underhill, live and farm in 
Yolo County. They maintain a close connection to the agricultural 
community as co-owners of an organic farming operation in the Winters 
area.
  Mr. Speaker, Mrs. Alcorta's passion, leadership, and determination 
have profoundly impacted our Yolo County community. It is with great 
honor and deep appreciation that we recognize her invaluable 
contributions here today.

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