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Approve the appointment of Dr. Norma Rodriguez de Lisenko, representing District 2, to the Solano First Five Children and Families Commission for a term to expire on October 28, 2029
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Published Notice Required? Yes ____ No _X _
Public Hearing Required? Yes ____ No _X _
DEPARTMENTAL RECOMMENDATION:
Supervisor Monica Brown recommends the Board approve the appointment of Dr. Norma Rodriguez de Lisenko, representing District 2, to the Solano First Five Children and Families Commission for a term to expire on October 28, 2029.
SUMMARY:
Dr. Norma Rodriguez de Lisenko is a public health leader with over three decades of experience advancing equitable policies, programs, and systems that improve the health and well-being of children, families, and communities. Since 2008, she has served as CEO and Principal Investigator of Innovative Health Solutions (IHS) - formerly known as Healthy Cooking with Kids, Inc. - a nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering cross-sector partnerships that drive collaborative policy, systems, and environmental changes to support healthier, more resilient communities.
Throughout her career, Dr. Lisenko has developed extensive expertise in funding development, organizational leadership, program design and implementation, contract and grant management, and evaluation. Her work has played a pivotal role in building strong partnerships between public agencies, private organizations, community groups, and local businesses, resulting in impactful initiatives focused on women's and children's health, nutrition, early childhood wellness, and reducing health disparities.
In addition to her leadership role at IHS, Dr. Lisenko has led and published peer-reviewed research on Trauma-Informed Nutrition Interventions for perinatal women of color and other vulnerable populations, with findings featured in leading academic journals. A trusted advisor and collaborator, Dr. Lisenko is passionate about creating sustainable systems that empower families, improve early childhood outcomes, and strengthen community infrastructure. Her strategic vision, coupled with her experience in policy development and public health innovation, positions her to make meaningful contributions to the mission and goals of the First 5 Commission.
Dr. Lisenko holds a Doctor of Public Health (DrPH) from the University of Florida, a Master of Public Health (MPH) from San Francisco State University, and a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Organizational Psychology from the University of California, Berkeley. She lives in Benicia, California, with her husband, has three adult children, two grandchildren, and enjoys reading, traveling, exercising, and spending time with her family.
The First 5 Solano Children and Families Commission was established by the Solano County Board of Supervisors on June 8, 1999. The ordinance established a commission with nine members, including two representatives of the County Health and Social Services Department (H&SS).
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
The costs associated with preparing the agenda item are nominal and absorbed by District 2’s FY2025/2026 Working Budget.
ALTERNATIVES:
The Board could choose not to approve Dr. Norma Rodriguez de Lisenko’s appointment; however, this is not recommended as she is well qualified for the position.
CAO RECOMMENDATION:
APPROVE DEPARTMENTAL RECOMMENDATION