Welcoming Two New Members to the FIRST 5 Commission

FIRST 5 Santa Clara County is pleased to welcome Alma Burrell and Melissa Roth to the FIRST 5 Commission.

Both bring extensive experience in health, early childhood education, and community leadership, along with a shared commitment to creating stronger systems and opportunities for children and families across Santa Clara County.

Meet Alma Burrell

Alma Burrell is the Chief Administrative Officer for Roots Community Health Center, a nonprofit health organization serving communities across the Bay Area.

Prior to joining Roots, Alma spent nearly 20 years with the Santa Clara County Public Health Department, where she managed a variety of maternal, child, and adolescent health programs. Throughout her career, she has advocated for families, assessed community needs and strengths, and helped design and implement programs that support the health and well-being of children and families.

Meet Melissa Roth

Melissa Roth is the Director of Programs for Palo Alto Community Child Care (PACCC), where she provides executive leadership for a comprehensive system of early learning and school-age programs serving children and families throughout Palo Alto.

Melissa also serves as co-chair of the Santa Clara County Local Early Education Planning Council (LPC), working alongside community partners to strengthen and expand access to high-quality early care and education.

She is passionate about advancing equitable access to high-quality early learning and creating inclusive environments where every child can learn, grow, and thrive.

Thank You, Cathy

We also extend our sincere thanks to Cathy Boettcher for her dedicated service on the FIRST 5 Commission. We are grateful for her time, leadership, and continued advocacy for young children and families.

We look forward to the perspective, experience, and passion Alma and Melissa will bring to the Commission and to their continued work on behalf of children and families in Santa Clara County.

Learn more about Alma Burrell and Melissa Roth and their work with FIRST 5.