Mara Madrigal-Weiss, the executive director of student wellness and school culture for the San Diego County Office of Education (SDCOE), has been named the chair of the Mental Health Services Oversight and Accountability Commission for the third consecutive year, starting in January 2024. This makes her the longest serving Latina chair in the commission’s 20-year history. In addition to her role as chair, Madrigal-Weiss also serves as the designee of the State Superintendent of Public Instruction on the commission since 2017.

As a dedicated advocate for student mental health, Madrigal-Weiss has received numerous accolades for her work. Earlier this fall, she was awarded the first Wellness Together Mental Health Innovator Award in recognition of her innovative approach to promoting mental wellness among students and educators. Her team at SDCOE maintains a virtual wellness center that provides resources and support for students, families, and schools.

Madrigal-Weiss is also committed to keeping health and wellness top of mind in her role at SDCOE. She regularly contributes to SDCOE’s resource guide library with guides specifically targeted towards educators, resources for holiday celebrations, and information on how to facilitate dialogue with compassion. Her contributions have helped ensure that all members of the community have access to valuable resources that promote mental health and wellbeing.