Tuesday, March 10, 2026

For Immediate Release

Contact: Elisa Rivera

Elisa.Rivera@sen.ca.gov (559) 264-3070

Senator Caballero Honors Trailblazing Women of Senate District 14

Merced, CA – Senator Anna M. Caballero (D-Merced) celebrates the remarkable women of Senate District 14 whose leadership, vision, and determination are transforming our communities today. From healthcare and education to public service and entrepreneurship, these women are breaking barriers, driving change, and making her-story!

This year, the spotlight shines on Linda Griffin, Founder and President/CEO of the Greater Merced Black Chamber of Commerce. Born in 1952 in Merced and raised in Atwater, Linda Griffin confronted early challenges in a school system that failed to recognize learning differences like dyslexia. Misunderstood and often mislabeled as “lazy,” she turned these obstacles into resilience and determination, ultimately becoming a member of the first graduating class of the University of California, Merced.

Through her leadership with the Greater Merced Black Chamber of Commerce, Ms. Griffin empowers local entrepreneurs, fosters economic growth, and continues to strengthen the fabric of her community.

Event Details:
Celebrate Linda Griffin and the Distinguished Women of Senate District 14:

• Date: Friday, March 13, 2026
• Time: 5:00 PM – 6:30 PM
• Location: Merced College, Russell and Susie Downey Learning Resource Center, Second Floor, 3600 M St, Merced, CA 95348
• RSVP: Mariel Garcia at mariel.garcia@sen.ca.gov or 209-726-5495

The evening will honor the 2026 Woman of the Year and other Distinguished Women, feature legislative updates for 2026, and celebrate the impact of women shaping Senate District 14. The celebration is graciously co-hosted by Merced College.

Discover the full list of honorees and learn how women in Senate District 14 are making a difference: https://sd14.senate.ca.gov/women-who-inspire

For interviews or inquiries, please contact: Elisa Rivera at (559) 264-3070

About Senator Anna M. Caballero
Senator Anna M. Caballero represents California’s 14th Senate District, which includes much of Merced, Fresno, and Madera Counties. She is Chair of the Senate Committee on Agriculture and a member of several other committees. Senator Caballero continues to work tirelessly on behalf of her district for policies that strengthen California’s agricultural industry, protects working families, supports affordable, accessible healthcare for all and fosters economic development across the state.

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