House Member

Charlene earned a Bachelor's Degree in Education from Northern Arizona University. She worked for Congressman Ed Pastor for twelve years, coordinating constituent services for the western portion of then Congressional District 2. While working for Congressman Pastor, Charlene spearheaded an effort that culminated in bringing a Veteran's Administration clinic to Yuma County for the first time in history; previously the Phoenix Veterans facility was the closest place for them to receive these services. Charlene also helped numerous residents work through the red tape of the Federal Government for services ranging from Social Security to agriculture programs. She also served in a similar capacity for Congressman Raul Grijalva. Her vast experience led her to becoming a consultant for a software company that produced a Constituent Management System for the U.S. House of Representatives.

Charlene later served Governor Janet Napolitano as a liaison for the Arizona Department of Environment Quality in Yuma County. In this capacity she worked with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, as well as its counterpart in the Republic of Mexico, to ensure that the air and water in Southwestern Arizona remained safe while ensuring that businesses faced minimal impact.

As an educator Charlene decided to make an impact outside of the classroom by being elected to Yuma Union High School District Governing Board, serving as president and vice president. On the board, she became an outspoken advocate for students while working with staff to ensure fair conditions — she advocated for the cafeteria workers during a time when their concerns were not being taken under consideration. Charlene worked with budget experts to ensure that physical education teachers and registered nurses continued to provide their services, which were critically needed in their schools.

As a community-minded citizen, Charlene devotes time to local charities serving on boards and lending her experience to their challenges.

Charlene and her husband, Sergio, have three children: Brian, Carlye, and Lisa. She lives with her husband in central Yuma less than two miles from where she was raised.