Senator Pérez honors Altadena’s Judy Matthews as Woman of the Year during Senate ceremony
Sacramento – Senator Sasha Renée Pérez (D-Pasadena) named Altadena Chamber of Commerce President Judy Matthews as her 2025 Woman of the Year for Senate District 25.
This year’s Woman of the Year ceremony took on even greater meaning as it marked the first time in state history the Senate is a majority-female governing body.
During the March 10 ceremony on the Senate Floor, Senator Pérez escorted Matthews to the front of the chamber and presented her with a framed resolution.
“Even before the Eaton Fire, Judy Matthew has been a powerful champion for Altadena and the wellbeing of our community,” said Senator Sasha Renée Pérez (D-Pasadena). “In the aftermath of the fire, Judy has been a tremendous leader in the community working to help the Altadena residents and particularly its small business community get back on their feet. I was so honored to invite Judy to Sacramento for this special recognition. We have a stronger community because of Judy’s work.”
“I am truly honored to be among the women leaders on the Senate Floor to receive this incredible honor during the California State Senate’s 2025 Woman of the Year Celebration,” said Judy Matthews, Altadena Chamber of Commerce President. “This event not only highlights the achievements of women who have paved the ways for future generations, but also serves as reminder that this recognition reflects the influence of countless women who have inspired me along my journey. Let us continue to uplift and empower one another, honoring the legacy of those who came before us while inspiring the leaders of tomorrow.”
Judy Matthews is a dedicated community leader, known for her unwavering commitment to service. She was a founding member of the National Congress of Black Women, Inc., Los Angeles Chapter, and later founded the San Gabriel Valley Chapter. As a three-term Altadena Town Councilmember, she led initiatives like the community’s first homeless count, addressed food insecurity for community college students, and contributed to placing the Buffalo Soldiers interpretative panel at Loma Alta Park. Judy has also supported her community during crises, including her tireless work during the Eaton Fire.
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Senator Sasha Renée Pérez is Chair of the Senate Education Committee and represents the 25th Senate District that includes the communities of Glendale, Pasadena, Alhambra, Altadena, Arcadia, Claremont, Glendora, La Cañada Flintridge, La Crescenta-Montrose, Monrovia, Monterey Park, Rosemead, San Gabriel, San Marino, Sierra Madre, South Pasadena, Temple City, Fontana, Rancho Cucamonga, Upland, and San Antonio Heights.