Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Salud Carbajal (CA-24)
Today, Congressman Salud Carbajal (D-CA-24) announced the six recipients of the 2026 Central Coast Women of the Year Award, recognizing extraordinary women whose leadership, compassion, and service have made a lasting impact across California’s Central Coast.
The six winners of this year’s award are: Hortensia “Tensie” Hernandez from Santa Maria, Dr. Mary Parker from San Luis Obispo, Sarah Aguilar from Oak View, Myra Paige from Santa Barbara, Sonia Behrman from Santa Barbara, and Linda Krop from Santa Barbara.
“Each year, I am inspired by the extraordinary women who dedicate their time and talents to strengthening our communities across the Central Coast,” said Rep. Carbajal. “The 2026 Women of the Year honorees represent the very best of our region — leaders, caregivers, advocates, and changemakers whose work touches countless lives. Their commitment to serving others reminds us that real change happens when people step up to support their neighbors and build a more compassionate community.”
The Central Coast Women of the Year Award honors exceptional women across California’s 24th Congressional District who have made a meaningful impact on their communities. The award recognizes women from diverse backgrounds and professions who are working every day to improve the quality of life throughout the Central Coast.
Congressman Carbajal will recognize the winners by permanently entering the accomplishments of each honoree into the official Congressional Record, preserving their stories and contributions for generations to come. An award ceremony will be held at a later date, where each honoree will also receive a special congressional pin.
Below are the biographies for this year’s honorees:
Hortensia “Tensie” Hernandez, Santa Maria
Hortensia “Tensie” Hernandez has dedicated her life to serving the poor and marginalized across the Central Coast. Growing up as the youngest daughter of an immigrant single mother of five, she developed a deep commitment to helping others at an early age. Through her leadership at Beatitude House and her decades of community service, Tensie has helped provide food, care, and dignity to thousands of families in need. Her lifelong mission to uplift the most vulnerable members of the community has made a lasting difference in Santa Maria and beyond.
Dr. Mary Parker, San Luis Obispo
Dr. Mary Parker is a beloved educator and community leader whose decades of service have helped shape the future of health care on the Central Coast. During her career at Cuesta College, she trained generations of nurses who went on to serve communities across California. Even in retirement, Dr. Parker continues her work to support those in need as President of People’s Kitchen, where she has helped provide tens of thousands of meals to individuals and families experiencing food insecurity. Her dedication to both education and service has left an enduring legacy in San Luis Obispo County.
Sarah Aguilar, Oak View
Sarah Aguilar serves as Director of Santa Barbara County Animal Services, where her innovative leadership has transformed animal welfare across the region. Under her direction, the department has strengthened partnerships with shelters, volunteers, and community organizations to improve outcomes for animals in need. Through collaboration, compassion, and forward-thinking policies, Sarah has helped build a more humane and responsive animal services system that benefits both animals and the communities that care for them.
Myra Paige, Santa Barbara
Myra Paige is a tireless civic leader who has mobilized hundreds of volunteers to strengthen democracy and expand civic engagement across the Central Coast. Through her organizing and advocacy, she has helped protect immigrant communities, encourage voter participation, and empower residents to become active participants in shaping their communities. Myra’s work has inspired countless individuals to raise their voices and contribute to a more inclusive and engaged civic life.
Sonia Behrman, Santa Barbara
Sonia Behrman’s life is a powerful story of resilience, compassion, and service. As a nurse and foster parent, she has devoted herself to caring for others and supporting vulnerable children and families. By opening her home and heart to those in need, Sonia has provided stability, love, and opportunity to young people during some of the most challenging moments in their lives. Her selfless dedication continues to strengthen families and communities throughout Santa Barbara.
Linda Krop, Santa Barbara
Linda Krop is a longtime environmental champion whose decades of legal advocacy have helped protect the Central Coast’s treasured coastline and natural resources. Through her work as an environmental attorney, she has played a critical role in preserving open space, safeguarding wildlife habitats, and defending the region’s coastal landscapes for future generations. Linda’s tireless commitment to environmental stewardship has made her one of the Central Coast’s most respected voices for conservation.