HONORING MARISA ALCORTA

HONORING MARISA ALCORTA

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 56 (Wednesday, March 25, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 56 (Wednesday, March 25, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E269] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING MARISA ALCORTA ______ HON. MIKE THOMPSON of california in the house of representatives Wednesday, March 25, 2026 Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Marisa Alcorta. I have named Mrs. Alcorta as the California 4th Congressional District's Woman of the Year for Yolo County. This honor recognizes women who have made important contributions to California's 4th Congressional District in Arts and Culture, Professional Achievement, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, or Community Services. Mrs. Alcorta was born and raised in Austin, Texas. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Plant Sciences, with a focus on Sustainable Agriculture and International Development from Cornell University. Mrs. Alcorta went on to receive her Master of Science in Horticulture and Agronomy. Marisa is also a Fellow of the California Agricultural Leadership Program, a highly selective statewide program that brings together agricultural leaders to deepen their understanding of public policy, leadership, and the challenges and opportunities shaping California agriculture. Marisa Alcorta has played a leading role in strengthening agricultural education and workforce development in Yolo County. At the Center for Land-Based Learning, she developed and expanded programs that prepare agricultural employees for leadership and management roles on farms and ranches. She designed the AgHiRE workforce development program, which equips experienced Spanish-speaking agricultural employees with the communication and supervisory skills needed to advance in their careers. She also founded California's first registered agricultural apprenticeship program, creating a structured pathway for aspiring farm managers to gain hands-on training and formal recognition of their skills. Through these initiatives, she has helped build stronger career pathways while supporting the long-term succession of farms and agricultural businesses in the region. Within our community, Marisa actively contributes to broader efforts that support farmers and agricultural communities throughout California. She serves on the Board of Directors of California FarmLink and has previously served as Chair of the Board, helping guide the organization's strategic direction and expansion of programs that support family farmers and improve access to land and capital. She also serves on the Farm Advisory Council for the California Climate and Agriculture Network, contributing agricultural practitioner perspectives to statewide policy conversations on climate resilience and sustainable agriculture. Today, Mrs. Alcorta and her husband, Paul Underhill, live and farm in Yolo County. They maintain a close connection to the agricultural community as co-owners of an organic farming operation in the Winters area. Mr. Speaker, Mrs. Alcorta's passion, leadership, and determination have profoundly impacted our Yolo County community. It is with great honor and deep appreciation that we recognize her invaluable contributions here today. ____________________