Denise Carter is a dynamic and multifaceted personality from Oxnard, California. Born and raised in this vibrant coastal city, Denise has established herself as a prominent figure in both the entertainment and healthcare industries. As a comedian, Denise is known as the “Reigning queen of comedy of Oxnard, California”, Ventura Reporter consequently. Her infectious smile and gregarious personality instantly captivate audiences, making them laugh with her observational humor that draws from everyday life experiences. Denise has graced stages at renowned venues such as The D in Las Vegas, Oxnard Levity Live, Ventura Harbor Comedy Club, and the World Famous Comedy Store in Hollywood.

Expanding her creative horizons, Denise has ventured into podcasting with “Hanging Out with the Carters,” an engaging show that brings laughter and a sense of connection to listeners. As a host and content creator, she explores conversations with community leaders and family, showcasing her versatility in the entertainment industry.

In her professional life, Denise serves as the Regional Director at Mission Healthcare, a home health and hospice company, where she has been making significant contributions since June 2015. This role highlights her compassionate nature and leadership skills in the healthcare sector.

Denise’s community involvement is noteworthy, as she participates in multiple fundraisers and acts as an auctioneer for various causes. Her ability to connect people and bring communities together has earned her recognition, including a Community Service Award from the Ventura Medical Association in 2018.

As a writer, producer, and promoter, Denise continually pushes the boundaries of her creative endeavors1. Her upcoming venture, Denise Carter’s Enterprises, promises to be an exciting new chapter in her diverse career.

Denise Carter embodies the spirit of a true renaissance woman – a comedian who brings joy, a podcaster who fosters connections, a healthcare professional who cares for others, and a community leader who gives back.

Pattie Braga - Executive Director of Leadership Ventura County

Pattie Braga began her tenure at formerly named VCLA seven years ago, in August of 2019. In that time, she has increased VCLA’s brand awareness and community impact throughout the Ventura County community. Pattie has implemented three new programs under the direction of her board, including bi-monthly Leader Lunches, where alumni can connect and continue to learn about issues impacting the Ventura County community, a monthly alumni newsletter, which highlights alumni board and civic involvement, and rolled out an Alumni & Friends program, further connecting VCLA’s 745-alumni member network.

Pattie is a deeply engaged Ventura County resident. She is a connector within the community, which is perfectly suited for her role at VCLA. Pattie has served on the boards for the Ventura Family YMCA, Ventura Chamber of Commerce, the Palmer Drug Abuse Program, and Ventura County Leadership Academy. She was a “Big” with the Big Brothers Big Sisters program for many years until 2019, when her “Little” moved to attend Sacramento State University. She was named the 2019 Alumni of the Year by VCLA and received the Ventura Poinsettia Award as the Volunteer of the Year in 2012.  VCLA has now been re-branded as “Leadership Ventura County”

Susy started with CAVC in 2014 as a Cal-Fresh outreach staff member. She then became the Medi-Cal outreach team manager while completing her Master of Public Policy & Administration from California Lutheran University at the same time. She then became CAVC’s Manager of Community Services, in which she oversaw agency-wide reporting and compliance with the Community Service Block Grant. She also led Community Development workshops, marketing, and fund development efforts for CAVC.

Susy is a Ventura County native, having been born and raised in Oxnard to immigrant parents from Oaxaca, Mexico. She attended Oxnard High School and then earned a BA in Liberal Studies and Spanish from California State University, Northridge. After graduating, Susy worked for Southern California nonprofits before joining CAVC.

Susy lives in Oxnard with her husband, son, and four dogs. In her free time, she enjoys reading, attending local events, and finding new restaurants to try.

Presentation from our very own President Elect, Sam Monroe, about what makes our state an “energy island” and discussion/concerns about our state’s energy future.