Mara Madrigal-Weiss, the executive director of student wellness and school culture for the San Diego County Office of Education (SDCOE), has been named chair of the Mental Health Services Oversight and Accountability Commission for the third consecutive year, beginning 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 is also vice chair of the Workplace Mental Health Committee and previously served as commission vice chair after her election in 2019.

Madrigal-Weiss has been recognized for her innovation and commitment to student mental health. Earlier this fall, she received the first Wellness Together Mental Health Innovator Award. Her team at SDCOE maintains a virtual wellness center and compiles mental health support resources for students, families, and schools. She regularly contributes to SDCOE’s resource guide library, including guides for educators, resources for the holidays, and how to facilitate dialogue with compassion.

Madrigal-Weiss has been dedicated to keeping health and wellness top of mind in her role at SDCOE. Under her leadership, SDCOE has implemented programs that prioritize student mental health and promote a positive school culture. She is committed to ensuring that all students have access to the support they need to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.