At the Los Angeles County Commission for Women Annual “Woman of the Year” luncheon, Supervisor Michael D. Antonovich honored Kathryn Barger, Dee Gadbury, Rachelle Arizmendi and Robin Goldsworthy.

Kathryn Barger began her career in public service as a summer intern in Antonovich’s office thirty years ago. She quickly rose up the ranks, excelling as the Health and Social Services Deputy. For the last 15 years, Kathryn has served as the Chief Deputy, working with the Board of Supervisors, local elected officials, departments, leading countless initiatives and efforts to enhance the quality of life for our county residents. She helped establish a vital program to support transitional aged foster youth with mental and public health services, and housing resources — allowing them to continue their education and achieve self-sufficiency and success and also lead efforts to change local, state and federal laws to address the needs of the chronically mentally ill and help support families and loved ones.

Dee Gadbury has been leading the way for women’s causes from a young age starting a female club at the age of 12. Dee began working with Optimist International at a time when it was an all-male organization, eventually helping to develop the first All-Women’s Optimist Club, paving the way for other male-oriented organizations to include women. She has been actively involved as President of the Board of Optimist Youth Home and Family Services. Under her leadership, they provide comprehensive treatment, specialized education, and support services to abused, neglected or at-risk children, and their families.

Rachelle Arizmendi is a City Council Member for the City of Sierra Madre and a dedicated leader in the 5th District. In addition to her duties as the first minority female City Council Member, Rachelle is the Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at the Pacific Asian Consortium in Employment. In that capacity, she oversees the Women’s Small Business Center, which provides vital support for women entrepreneurs. She is a strong advocate for disadvantaged women and mothers, providing mentoring and guidance to help them achieve self-sufficiency and to make smart financial decisions.

Robin Goldworthy is a longtime resident and leader in the Crescenta Valley Community. She established the Crescenta Valley Weekly newspaper, circulated throughout the foothill communities in the region to provide residents with relevant and important news. Uniting people and neighborhoods, her remarkable community service keeps others aware of news along with immediate emergencies or developments through ongoing email blasts. Robin has also been a tireless supporter of non-profit causes and an exemplary community volunteer, especially through her role as Co-Chair of the Local American Cancer Society Relay for Life and her development of the “Prom-Plus” event to keep high school students safe after prom.