Bernadette lives in Fresno, California in the heart of the San Joaquin Valley. She was born and raised in the country with eight siblings and her two parents, who were self-educated. Her values of fairness and social justice were ingrained from a lineage of integrity, morals and love infused with a strong work ethic.

For Bernadette, family comes first; she has three sons, five grandchildren and two great grandchildren. Her siblings have given her numerous nieces and nephews whom she loves dearly. Her family, although unique in personality and perspective, is her sustenance.

Bernadette has a master’s degree in education administration and a master’s degree in spiritual psychology.  She enjoys her life volunteering with projects close to her heart, such as ReEvolution, and is active with grassroots organizations which promote coalition-building around issues, policies, and practices affecting human rights in the Valley. She lives her belief of respecting herself and respecting others through the way she shows up every day.