Senator Portantino Set to Honor Rose Queen Louise Deser Siskel as the 25th State Senate District Women of the Year

Glendale, California – Senator Anthony J. Portantino (D–La Cañada Flintridge) has selected Rose Queen Louise Deser Siskel of San Marino as the 25th State Senate District 2019 Women of the Year. Every year during the California State Legislature honors one woman from each district and honors then in a ceremony.  This year, Senator Portantino is honored that Ms. Siskel has agreed to proudly represent the 25th Senate District.

“I am very honored and excited that Louise has agreed to come to Sacramento to represent our district.  She has distinguished herself as an amazing leader, not just displaying poise while the entire world watched her in the Rose Parade but through her trailblazing leadership.  She embraced the responsibility of being selected Rose Queen with a bold civic agenda, impressed everyone who has encountered her during this past year and exemplified intelligence, confidence and maturity,” commented Senator Portantino.

In a very heartfelt Op-ed for the Los Angeles Times, Louise introduced us to depths of the Royal Court that are often out of the pageantry, a multidimensional personal story.  Through Louise’s leadership, young women in the LGBTQ and Jewish communities have a new and dynamic role model.  In addition, something as simple and commonplace as wearing glasses took on greater cultural significance in the year 2019.

“I am grateful to Senator Anthony Portantino for nominating me for the California Legislative Women’s Caucus Woman of the Year award. I feel lucky to be honored among a group of truly dedicated women who make the world a more kind and welcoming place. This year, as the 101st Rose Queen, I had the opportunity to promote scientific thinking, education, and inclusion. This recognition encourages me, and I hope will encourage others, to advocate for these values.” commented Louise Deser Siskel

 The California State Legislature first recognized March as Women is History Month in 1987 and has continued the tradition. Each year, members of the State Legislature recognize the exceptional women in their district with a celebration commemorating their accomplishments and positive impact on our communities.   This year, Senator Portantino is recognizing Louise as his district honoree.  The ceremony is set for March 4th.  Louise and her parents will fly to Sacramento for the event.  Louise is a high school senior at Sequoia School and resides in San Marino.