Photographed by: Tara
Shot on Vanessa's CANON 60D
December 2021
Born in Marin County and immersed in San Francisco's vibrant culture, her journey into the arts and education began at San Francisco City College, where she studied Modern Arts, Broadcasting, Writing, and the History of Jazz. She later earned a BA in Teledramatic Arts & Technology (now Cinema Studies) from California State University Monterey Bay (CSUMB), with a minor in International Management Entrepreneurial. At CSUMB, she explored theater, filmmaking, and honed her creative voice through producing a 2-hour live radio show, as well as writing, directing, and producing two short films.
With a career spanning over 20 years in Academic Advising at the Academy of Art University, she has passionately contributed to the Dogpatch Neighborhood community. Her efforts have been recognized with two Certificates of Honor from the Board of Supervisors in 2015 and 2016, celebrating her outstanding contributions to social interaction and community service.
A talented photographer and self-taught abstract painter, she finds inspiration in the vibrant world around her. She is currently writing a short story while continuing to explore creative expression. An avid cyclist and runner, she embraces an active lifestyle. A music enthusiast, her love for all genres is reflected in her remarkable listening history: over 140,871 minutes of music on Apple Music in 2024 alone.
In public service, she served as a Human Rights Commissioner from 2020 to 2023. Just two months later, in June 2023, she was appointed as a Commissioner for the Office of Community Investment & Infrastructure (OCII) by Mayor London Breed, a position she continues to hold.
She is currently working toward establishing her own art gallery in Dogpatch, continuing to blend her passion for the arts with her dedication to community enrichment.