Maria Herrera

USDA Rural Development State Director for California

Maria Gallegos Herrera is a proud daughter of farmworkers, who grew up in the rural agricultural communities in the heart of California’s San Joaquin Valley. In May 2022, she was appointed by President Biden to serve as the USDA State Director of Rural Development for California.

Herrera previously served Governor Gavin Newsom as the Central California Regional Director of External Affairs. Prior to joining the Governor’s Office, she held positions at Self-Help Enterprises, the Community Water Center and the California Department of Food and Agriculture. Throughout her career, Herrera has tackled water contamination and shortages, improved access to government, and worked to build resilient and sustainable communities through relationship building, community organizing, advocacy, legislation, and technical assistance. Maria also served on the California Water Commission from 2015 to 2019 and was the recipient of the 2019 Rachel’s Network Inaugural Catalyst Award.