Meet Nora Vargas

Fighting For Everyone’s Healthcare

Working as a healthcare advocate, Nora Vargas has been in some tough fights. She won’t back down when it comes to making sure we all have access to healthcare. In her position as Vice President of Community & Government Relations for Planned Parenthood of the Pacific Southwest, Nora has championed expanded healthcare services, women’s reproductive rights and health education for youth and families.

Delivering Opportunities For Our Youth

Serving on the Southwestern Community College Board is personal for Nora. It’s where she went to college before going on to obtain her bachelor and master’s degrees. Nora believes that getting a foot in the door is all that most people need. It’s why she fights for all students to have access to affordable education and job training, from recent high school graduates, to our veterans, to returning students and our DREAMers.

Making Smart Financial Decisions

On the Southwestern Community College Board, Nora has balanced tough budgets, increased transparency and strengthened community partnerships. She also serves as a Governor Brown appointee to the California State Teachers Retirement (CalSTRS) Board, the largest teacher retirement system in the nation. On the board, Nora focuses on policy to ensure that CalSTRS investments are socially responsible and financially sound.

Empowering The Next Generation

Those that get to know Nora will tell you one thing: she never slows down. It’s because she’s committed to doing good work and getting others, especially young people, involved in public service. Nora has served on numerous boards and commissions, including Hispanas Organized for Political Equality (HOPE) and Run Women Run, where she worked to recruit and train young women to become community leaders and run for elective office.

Growing Up With South Bay Roots

Nora Vargas attended South Bay public schools and Southwestern Community College before completing her degrees. For more than 20 years, Nora has worked tirelessly to break down barriers and promote opportunities in our communities. It’s no wonder that Assemblymember Lorena Gonzalez honored Nora Vargas as her 2018 Woman of the Year, saying, “Nora has been fighting to empower the South Bay’s working families throughout her career.” Nora wants to keep fighting for us on the San Diego County Board of Supervisors.