Etta Waterfield, a local leader in business, government, and the nonprofit sector, was recently honored as the 33rd Assembly District’s 2009 Woman of the Year during a ceremony at the State Capitol.
Nominated Woman of the Year by Assemblyman Sam Blakeslee (R-San Luis Obispo), Waterfield has played an active role in the community ever since moving to Santa Maria with her husband Robert “Buck” Waterfield in 1985.
The Santa Marian is probably best known for her work on the city’s Planning Commission, a position she’s held since 2003. She currently works as membership manager and economic development coordinator for the Santa Maria Valley Chamber of Commerce.
Outside of her professional commitments, Waterfield is a member of the Santa Maria Police Advisory Council, through which she’s helped raise money for the Santa Maria Police Department to buy protective gear and equipment.
Waterfield’s son and son-in-law both serve in law enforcement.
“I’ve been on drive-alongs, and I’ve seen what they do, and it’s pretty doggone scary. They really are unsung heroes,” said Waterfield, who describes herself as a “worried mom who is always praying for her family.”
Waterfield said she hopes providing local police officers with protective gear helps other mothers like herself sleep better at night, knowing their sons and daughters are a little bit safer.
Along with helping local law enforcement, she serves on the board of directors for the Santa Maria Fairpark. Waterfield, who has grandchildren in 4-H, said the experience “teaches kids such great responsibility.”
In a recent interview with the Sun, Assemblyman Blakeslee said Waterfield was the perfect candidate for the 33rd District, which includes San Luis Obispo and Northern Santa Barbara counties.
“I met Etta six years ago, and I was immediately impressed by her enthusiasm and dedication,” Blakeslee said. “There’s a spark and energy to her that is unusual, and the work she does is so important to Santa Maria Valley.”
Started in 1987 to commemorate Women’s History Month, the annual Woman of the Year ceremony honors women from each State Assembly district who are dedicated to community service. Assembly members in each of the 80 districts are given the opportunity to nominate one woman.
News Briefs is compiled by Staff Writer Amy Asman from staff reporting and local and national media. Information should be sent to the Sun via fax, e-mail, or mail.
This article appears in Mar 26 – Apr 2, 2009.