Congratulations to UCCA’s president Jemma Samala who has been named by D6 Council President Pro Tem Kent Lee and Mayor Todd Gloria as the 2026 Woman of Distinction for City Council District 6.
From Inside San Diego published 3/10/2026: In celebration of Women’s History Month, Mayor Todd Gloria named Maria C. Chavez, immigration legal director at Partnership for the Advancement of New Americans (PANA), as this year’s citywide “Woman of Distinction.” Chavez and nine other women, nominated by their City Councilmembers, were honored during Tuesday’s City Council meeting for their leadership, accomplishments, and service to San Diego.
In Council District 6, Jemma Samala, is the Honoree of Council President Pro Tem Kent Lee. Jemma Samala is serving her second term as president of the University City Community Association and has been a dedicated community leader since moving to the area in 1999. She has led numerous organizations supporting local schools and youth, including the University City Little League and the UC High School Centurion Foundation. Jemma founded several community initiatives including the UC Fire Safe Council, the Holiday Adopt-A-Family program, and the revitalized UC Garden Club. Through her leadership, she continues to strengthen neighborhood connections and community engagement.
For more information, visit Inside San Diego at: https://www.insidesandiego.org/mayor-gloria-honors-immigration-attorney-maria-chavez-other-local-women-women-distinction
