Vicky Santos, COO of MAOF.
Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas has appointed Vicky Santos, COO of the Mexican American Opportunity Foundation (MAOF), to serve on the California Board of Occupational Therapy.
Her term runs through December 31, 2028.
MAOF is the largest provider of early childhood education services in Monterey County, which is part of Speaker Rivas’ district. The organization serves thousands of families across California through its child development, workforce and community programs.
“I’m incredibly honored by this appointment and grateful to Speaker Rivas for the opportunity to serve,” said Santos. “This is a new way for me to give back and help ensure that families across California are receiving the care and protections they deserve.”
As a public member of the Board, Santos will help guide licensing, consumer protection and regulatory decisions for the occupational therapy profession across the state. The Board plays a vital role in ensuring that Californians receive safe care that supports their physical, mental, and developmental health.
“Vicky leads with heart and purpose, and this appointment is a reflection of the trust she’s earned across our communities,” said Dr. Ciriaco Pinedo, MAOF President & CEO. “Her voice on the Board will be grounded in real-world experience and a deep understanding of what families truly need.”
Santos brings nearly three decades of experience in early childhood education and nonprofit leadership. She has served as MAOF’s COO since 2018 and oversees the organization’s comprehensive Programs and Services divisions, including Early Head Start, Preschool, R&R, CalWORKs, Child Care and Facilities.
She began her career at MAOF in 1995 as a Head Start teacher and now leads the agency’s Early Childhood Education Services, IT and infrastructure departments. Santos holds a B.A. in Child Development from Cal State Los Angeles and an M.S. in Leadership and Management from the University of La Verne. She lives in Chino Hills with her husband and three children.
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