Supervisor Baca proudly hosted his 5th annual Sheroes Recognition in honor of Women’s History Month. This event celebrates the remarkable contributions of women throughout the Fifth District, recognizing their dedication and impact on the community. This year, five amazing community members were recognized.
Toni Callicott, President of San Bernardino Municipal Water District Board
Cecilia “Toni” Callicott has been a dedicated leader in San Bernardino for over 50 years, tirelessly serving the community. She has held key roles at California State University, San Bernardino (CSUSB) and St. Bernardine’s Medical Center, focusing on expanding community services for underserved populations.
Her extensive service includes leadership positions with the Arrowhead United Way, American Cancer Society, American Red Cross, American Heart Association, and Totally Kids Rehabilitation Hospital. She has also chaired the San Bernardino Civil Service Commission, Juvenile Justice Commission, and California Housing Foundation. A devoted advocate for water resource preservation, she has served over two decades on the San Bernardino Water Board, holding the role of President since 2007.
Toni holds degrees in Biology and Sociology from UC Riverside and California Baptist College, an MS in Healthcare Administration from CSUSB, and an MS in Education from Pepperdine University.
A lifelong champion for equality and access to essential services, Toni’s unwavering commitment has improved the quality of life for many. Her dedication makes her a true Shero.
Sergeant Patty Ruiz, San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department
Sergeant Patty Ruiz is a true homegrown hero, dedicated to serving the San Bernardino community where she was born and raised. Growing up in Muscoy, she attended St. Anthony’s Catholic School and later graduated from Cajon High School in 1990. From an early age, she embraced leadership and service, staying active in her church choir and volunteering as a youth coach.
Her law enforcement career began in 1996 as a Sheriff’s Custody Assistant, and by 1999, she became a Deputy Sheriff. Throughout her career, she has excelled in various roles, including Corrections, Patrol, and Homicide investigations. Now serving as a Sergeant at the Central Station, she oversees the unincorporated areas of San Bernardino, Loma Linda, Grand Terrace, and San Manuel Casino.
Balancing work, motherhood, and education, Sergeant Ruiz earned her Bachelor’s Degree from Cal State Long Beach, setting an inspiring example for her two daughters. She remains deeply involved in her community, continuing a legacy of service through church, youth sports, and local engagement.
More than a law enforcement officer, Sergeant Patty Ruiz is a role model—a symbol of dedication, resilience, and community spirit.
Stephanie Vargas, Colton City Clerk and Empower Rosena Ranch Founder
Stephanie M. Vargas has dedicated her life to public service and community engagement, beginning at age 12 as a Student Ambassador representing the U.S. abroad. Inspired by this experience, she pursued service roles, becoming a Police Explorer and later a Police Cadet for the San Bernardino Police Department.
After earning her Associate’s Degree in Business Administration, Stephanie managed a Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt for three years before returning to public service. She worked for the City of Fontana and later joined the City of Colton, where she advanced to Chief Deputy City Clerk. In this role, she upholds government transparency, ethical standards, and public trust.
Beyond her professional duties, Stephanie chairs the Board of Directors for Empire Springs and Inland Empire Springs Charter Schools, advocating for personalized education and parent involvement. She is also a passionate advocate for Rosena Ranch, founding “Empower Rosena Ranch” to address community challenges like Public Safety Power Shutoffs.
Guided by her faith and supported by her husband, Jorge, and their three children, Stephanie remains committed to service. She volunteers at career days, provides balloon entertainment for children, leads a women’s Bible study, and performs at community events, sharing her love for music and ministry.
Nuria Valencia, Bloomington Super Mom
Nuria Valencia has been a member of the Bloomington community since 2014. She spends most of her time being a hands on mom with her 4 children. She is one of the founders of Girl Scout Troop 448 of Bloomington CA, the first in the community. With the help of her co-leader she brings a wide range of skills to multiple young girls in the city including leadership, community service, outdoor skills, personal development, decision-making, communication, and critical thinking. Mrs. Valencia also spends time volunteering her time with the kids at Bloomington Little Leage, weather it’s managing a team, coaching in the field, cheering in the stands or serving some delicious cheese fries in the snack bar. If there is an event going on in the Bloomington community you will find Mrs. Valencia, her family and her troop there serving and helping the community of Bloomington.
Danielle Townshend, Founder and Executive Director of Curls, Coils, and Crowns
Danielle Townshend, Founder and Executive Director of Curls, Coils & Crowns (CCC), is dedicated to empowering Black girls by fostering self-love, confidence, and cultural pride. Through CCC, she dismantles barriers that suppress Black girls, equipping them with resilience, leadership, and self-worth. Her asset-based, culturally relevant programs emphasize self-care, self-image, and confidence in natural beauty.
With a background in organizational leadership and cosmetology, Danielle blends beauty and education to inspire young Black girls to embrace their identity and potential. Over the past five years, she has worked with 26 schools in the Rialto Unified School District, creating spaces where Black girls feel seen, heard, and valued.
From Tennessee to California, Danielle’s unwavering commitment to uplifting Black girls continues to leave a lasting legacy, ensuring they have the resources and support to lead with confidence and strength.
These remarkable women exemplify the power of leadership, resilience, and service within the Fifth District. Through their unwavering dedication, they have uplifted countless individuals, broken barriers, and fostered positive change. Whether advocating for essential resources, ensuring government transparency, protecting public safety, or empowering future generations, each of these Sheroes has left a mark on their communities. As they continue to inspire, their legacies will shape the future for generations to come.