PRESS RELEASE

 

For Immediate Release                                                                                  

Monday, August 24, 2026

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Watsonville, CA – Pajaro Valley Prevention and Student Assistance (PVPSA) has announced the departure of CEO Jasmine Nájera, who will be stepping into a new leadership opportunity as Chief of Staff for Santa Cruz County Supervisor-Elect Tony Núñez. While PVPSA is saddened to see Nájera leave, they are grateful for her leadership and service, and look forward to her continued celebrating her continued contributions to the greater Pajaro Valley in this new role.

 

“Jasmine has been an incredible leader for PVPSA, bringing compassion, dedication, and a deep commitment to our youth, families, and community. I am excited to see her leadership and expertise in this new role,” said Michael Paynter, PVPSA Board Vice President and long-standing Board Member, “I know Jasmine will continue to make a meaningful impact in this next chapter, and we are grateful for all she has accomplished at PVPSA.”

 

Since 1991 PVPSA has been providing comprehensive health education, mental health services, substance abuse and intervention and prevention services, and direct counseling to the students and families of the Pajaro Valley.  From its inception, PVPSA has maintained a leadership role in prevention and intervention. With a deep commitment to addressing the social determinants of health, the agency utilizes an upstream public health approach to achieving community health and wellness. This includes health related public policy advocacy efforts.

 

“The opportunity ahead will allow me to continue serving the Pajaro Valley in a different and broader capacity. While I am leaving my position at PVPSA, I am not leaving this community or the work of advocating for the people who call it home. I see this next chapter as a continuation of the values, relationships, and commitment that have guided my career,” said Nájera. “It has been an incredible privilege to lead an organization that has served the Pajaro Valley for so long.”

 

Nájera’s retirement takes effect October 15, 2026. An interim CEO will be appointed by the Board of Directors.

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