Saratoga Mayor Yan Zhao honored as Senator Cortese's ‘Woman of the Year’ for Senate District 15

San Jose —Senator Dave Cortese is delighted to announce Mayor Yan Zhao of Saratoga as the Woman of the Year for Senate District 15. This accolade recognizes Mayor Zhao's exemplary leadership, her significant contributions to the community, and her dedication to fostering inclusivity and combating hate.

“It has been my privilege to serve our community, to advocate for equity, and to strive for a world where diversity is celebrated,” said Saratoga Mayor Yan Zhao. “This award is a testament to the collective spirit of our community and the power of coming together to make a difference.”

“Mayor Yan Zhao's impact on our community exemplifies what it means to lead with integrity, compassion, and a deep commitment to justice,” said Senator Cortese (D-San Jose). “Her efforts to address critical issues such as public health and racial equity, coupled with her personal journey of resilience and service, make her a role model for Senate District 15 and beyond.”

Mayor Zhao was elected to Saratoga City Council in 2018 and served as Mayor in 2021. She was then re-elected for her second term in 2022 and is currently serving as Mayor. She has a distinguished history of public service. Her tenure includes roles on the Saratoga Madronia Cemetery District Board of Trustees, Saratoga Planning Commission, and nine years on the Commission on the Status of Women in Santa Clara County. She also serves on the Revenue and Taxation Policy Committee of the League of California Cities.

Mayor Zhao's educational background in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science from the University of California, Berkeley, and her Master's in Electrical Engineering from Santa Clara University, complement her over two decades of experience in the semiconductor industry. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Mayor Zhao is celebrated for her activism against anti-Asian hate and advocating for public health.

Senator Dave Cortese represents Senate District 15, which encompasses most of San Jose and much of Santa Clara County in the heart of Silicon Valley. Visit Senator Cortese’s website: https://sd15.senate.ca.gov

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