Voices in Leadership

The Chamber hosted the second edition of Voices in Leadership, our conversation series highlighting women who are shaping policy, business, and the future of California and the CaliBaja region. This edition featured former California State Senator Toni Atkins for a conversation about public service, policymaking, and her experience representing the San Diego region at the state and local levels. Atkins made history as the first woman and first openly LGBTQ person to lead the State Legislature’s upper house. Throughout her legislative career, she played a significant role in advancing state policy on housing, healthcare, and economic opportunity.

Before a packed room of Chamber members and regional leaders, she reflected on her path from local government in San Diego to leadership of both houses of the California Legislature. She discussed the importance of bipartisan relationships in moving policy forward, finding mentors throughout your career, staying grounded in your values, and surrounding yourself with people willing to offer candid advice and different perspectives.