We’re proud to share that our Executive Director, Jennifer Kelleher Cloyd, has been appointed Vice President of the Board of Directors of the First 5 Association of California, the statewide membership and advocacy organization representing all of California’s 58 county First 5 commissions.
“I’m deeply honored to serve as Vice President of the First 5 Association of California while continuing my work at FIRST 5 Santa Clara County,” said Jennifer Kelleher Cloyd. “At a pivotal moment for early childhood policy in California, I look forward to partnering with our new Board President, Wendy Sims-Moten, and collaborating with First 5 commissions across the state to align local innovation with statewide advocacy. Together, we can elevate county expertise, advance equitable policy solutions, and strengthen the systems that ensure all young children and families, especially those facing the greatest barriers, can thrive.”
The First 5 Association of California is a separate nonprofit that represents and supports county First 5s at the state level. The Association elevates local priorities, advances shared policy goals, and facilitates collaboration across counties so effective local strategies can inform statewide decision-making. Together, the statewide First 5 Network serves more than one million children and families each year, supporting children from prenatal through age five.
Jennifer brings a powerful blend of legal expertise and equity-driven leadership to this statewide role. An attorney by training, she has dedicated her career to advancing systems-level change for children and families through community-centered advocacy, expanded legal supports for youth, and a strong commitment to equity in policy and practice.
In addition to Jennifer, the Association recently announced its new slate of Board Officers, who will guide statewide advocacy and coordination efforts during a critical time for California’s early childhood landscape.
“I am truly excited and honored by the privilege and responsibility of leading the Association of County Commissions,” said Wendy Sims-Moten, Executive Director of First 5 Santa Barbara and incoming Board President. “Together, as a strong and united network, we will align our vision, efforts, and resources to create the best possible future for California’s children.”
Avo Makdessian, Executive Director of the First 5 Association of California, emphasized the importance of strong local leadership. “Our new board officers bring deep county-level experience, a strong commitment to equity, and a clear understanding of what families need on the ground. Their leadership will help ensure that statewide advocacy is rooted in local realities and leads to meaningful outcomes for young children and families.”
The Association also expressed appreciation to its outgoing officers and committee chairs for their leadership over the past two years: Kitty Lopez (First 5 San Mateo), Karen Pautz (First 5 Siskiyou), and Alethea Arguilez (First 5 San Diego).
2026 First 5 Association of California Board Officers:
- President: Wendy Sims-Moten, First 5 Santa Barbara
- Vice President: Jennifer Kelleher Cloyd, FIRST 5 Santa Clara
- Secretary-Treasurer: David Brody, First 5 Santa Cruz
- Policy & Advocacy Committee Chair: Theresa Zighera, First 5 San Francisco
- Immediate Past President: Fabiola González, First 5 Fresno
Please join us in congratulating Jennifer and thanking her for proudly representing FIRST 5 Santa Clara County at the state level.
