State Sen. Ben Allen honored Shari Davis at the state capitol. (photo courtesy of Sen. Ben Allen’s office)

In celebration of Women’s History Month, Sen. Ben Allen (D-Santa Monica) recognized Shari Davis as Woman of the Year in the 24th Senate District.

Davis has advocated for and empowered students, children and vulnerable families in the greater Los Angeles community for years. She currently serves as co-director of the Santa Monica College Public Policy Institute. Davis recently organized donation drives in the wake of the wildfires. She also served on the board of directors of The Children’s Partnership, a nonprofit for under-resourced families and children.

“Shari has been an incredible advocate for local students at all levels for many years now,” Allen said. “She is selfless, focused on improving our educational systems through advocacy and political change, and a great educator to boot.”

Davis has also been instrumental in advancing education initiatives. She supported 14 local ballot measures that have helped provide quality public schools and early childhood education.

“I have long worked to ensure that all students in our communities have access to quality educational opportunities, by identifying ways to generate adequate financial resources for our public schools,” Davis said. “Excellence in education from early childhood through high school and beyond can help prepare current and future generations for successful lives, civic engagement and to step into important roles of leadership. I am truly grateful for Sen. Allen’s recognition of my years of work.”