Patricia Cortez is a San Gabriel Valley native and was raised by her parents in El Monte. Ten years ago, when purchasing her own home, Patricia chose Covina for its safety and hometown environment. In December 2018, Patricia was appointed to serve on the Covina City Council where she has actively worked with her colleagues to address the issues affecting the City such as homelessness, economic development and fiscal stability.
Patricia has focused her 20-year career in the management of public relations, public affairs and crisis communications in various industries. In her current role as the Director of Government and Community Affairs with the Upper San Gabriel Valley Municipal Water District, Patricia is managing the District’s legislative advocacy, public relations and educational outreach to the San Gabriel Valley. Patricia’s innovative outreach programs has earned the District national and statewide recognition. In 2017, she was honored with the 2017 Woman of Achievement Award in Environmental Protection for the 22nd Senate District by Senator Ed Hernandez.
Patricia’s parents instilled in her a strong sense of community and work ethic. She is active in her community, serving on the Board of Directors for the American Red Cross – San Gabriel/Pomona Chapter and is a member of the Kiwanis Club of Covina-South Hills.
Patricia earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Loyola Marymount University and a Master of Arts in Public Administration from the University of La Verne.
