Mayra Vega has been on a long journey, one that has taken her from Mexico to Napa to Woodland and back again. She is now mayor of the city in Yolo County, up CA-113 from I-80.
It wasn’t until she was five years old that Vega and her family relocated from Mexico to Napa Valley, California. Mayra Vega, on the other hand, didn’t have it all her way at the beginning. After completing her studies at Napa Valley College, she pursued a Bachelor’s degree at UC Davis. As a young Latina woman juggling her studies, working in the wine industry, and taking care of her young family, she had many setbacks and challenges. She eventually dropped out but later returned to UC Davis and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in economics in December 2009 while continuing to work in the wine industry.
In 2011, she joined Adventist Health St. Helena Hospital as a Business Development Associate. She’d discovered her passion—helping others—and decided to go back to school for a master’s in business administration.
In return for the aid she received, Vega decided to give back by becoming active in Rotary and other community service endeavors. Vega was urged to run when the Woodland City Council district seat came up in 2020. She was elected mayor in December 2021 after a strong campaign.
All of Vega’s accomplishments and successes can be traced back to her dedication, selflessness, and willingness to ask for help when she needs it. Vega concludes by saying that “Napa Valley College is a place for students of all ages, from all walks of life… It’s truly a treasure for the community there.”