Juris Doctorate – Western State University College of Law (1999); Master’s degree in public administration – California State University at Long Beach (1994); Bachelor of Art’s degree in business administration – California State University at Fullerton (1989)
Andrea has over 25 years of management experience in local government. She served in several California jurisdictions, including as City Manager in La Mirada, Covina, and San Bernardino. She also served the City of La Mirada as Assistant to the City Manager, City Manager Designate, and various analyst roles.
Some of Andrea’s greatest accomplishments have come from the most challenging environments faced by cities. Andrea oversaw implementation of the court-ordered Chapter 9 Plan of Adjustment for the third-largest municipal bankruptcy in California history, facilitated organizational change including the transition to a council-manager form of government from a strong mayor hybrid following voter approval of a revised charter, and transitioned the city from active bankruptcy proceedings and austerity spending to “normalized” practices. Her non-traditional approach to the provision of public services and ability to establish and lead high performing teams resulted in more effective outcomes, reduced costs, and improved service.
Andrea is an engaging facilitator and organization development consultant. She provides consulting assistance to government leaders in organizational analysis, leadership development, facilitation, strategic planning, teambuilding, executive performance evaluation, and policy board/staff effectiveness.
Andrea’s professional experience is built on a foundation that includes a Master’s degree in Public Administration and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration complemented by a Juris Doctorate and experience as a licensed attorney representing public agency clients. Her personal objective is to help local government leaders serve their communities well by fostering good governance, upholding the public’s trust, and putting the collective good above individual needs.