Meet IGNITE alumna Diana Lara, a community leader using her expertise and voice to advocate for environmental justice.
Diana was recently appointed by Governor Newsom (CA) to the San Diego River Conservancy. This public governing board plays a pivotal role in preserving open spaces, expanding equitable public park access, mitigating wildfire and flood risks, and protecting native wildlife along the 52-mile river corridor. In this role, Diana will work alongside state and local leaders to oversee the protection, restoration, and enhancement of the San Diego watershed’s natural, historical, and cultural resources.
To secure this gubernatorial appointment, Diana participated in a rigorous, multi-step process that required demonstrated leadership, dedicated community advocacy, and an extensive background vetting process.
In college, Diana founded and served as president of the IGNITE chapter at San Diego State University. She credits IGNITE with starting her public service career, with opportunities to attend programs like IGNITE the Capitol. Through her involvement in IGNITE, Diana met Toni Atkins, then Senate President Pro Tempore. Diana interned with Senator Toni Atkins while still in college and was later hired as a district representative after graduation. Today, Diana serves as the Associate Director of Government and Community Relations at her alma mater.
With this new appointment, Diana adds another voice for women in environmental policy and public governance, inspiring the next generation of women leaders to step into state-level board positions.
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