Sacramento, CA – Today, Assemblymember Cathleen Galgiani (D-Livingston) and the California Legislature honored Leslie Baranco Martin as the 17th Assembly District’s Woman of the Year.

“Leslie’s dedication to the City of Stockton has propelled her to the forefront of many important milestones for the City and it was my honor to celebrate Lesilie’s accomplishments today on the Floor as the 17th Assembly District’s Woman of the year,” stated Galgiani.

As the longest tenured member of the Stockton City Council, Leslie has provided leadership to the City of Stockton through significant periods of change.  These would include the revitalization of the downtown waterfront and building of the Stockton Ballpark, Stockton Arena, Downtown Stockton Marina, and restoration of the historical Bob Hope Theatre (formerly, Fox California) and historical Hotel Stockton.   In her last term as a city councilmember, Leslie’s main focus is reshaping local government during these challenging economic times.

“I am honored to be selected for this award by a woman that I greatly respect” expressed Martin, “To be in the company with so many accomplished and successful women, including the Treasurer of the United States, was truly inspirational.”

Leslie served as Vice Mayor in 2007 and 2008, and she currently serves on numerous Council Committees: chair of the Legislative and Environmental Committee, member of the Community Improvement and Crime Prevention Committee, leads the Kentfield/Bianchi Neighborhood Action Team, member of the Community Planning/Development Committee, member of the Lincoln Unified School District’s 2x2 Committee, and member of the Audit Committee.

Among her many achievements, Leslie has received awards for her community involvement, including the Susan B. Anthony Award and the African American Chamber’s Women of Color Award.  Leslie is also a member of The Links, Inc, an alumni member of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. and Black Women Organized for Political Action (BWOPA).  She previously served as a Legislative Liaison of the League of California Cities, on the Board of Directors of the Mary Graham Shelter Foundation and as an Advisor for Habitat for Humanity of San Joaquin County.

Leslie’s greatest honor and pleasure in life is to be the mother of two children, Matthew and Gabrielle, who are both university students.

Contact: Reichel Everhart @ (916) 319-2017