Debbie Richardson Brister

Debbie Richardson Brister’s early work in educational government inspired her to become a teacher of high school students and adults. In this role, she became a certified trainer through the Dept. of Labor in job development, social skills, and employee retention. She was appointed as an Advisory Board Member by the Sacramento County Board of Supervisors to the Human Services Council, the Adult and Aging Commission, the Advisory Board on Drug and Alcohol Programs and the County Children’s Coalition — all of which have allowed her to develop a plethora of skills and opportunities to support work that has a positive impact in her community. Her earlier community involvement began as an involved parent who wanted to make an impact on her children and their community service. She has served as a Troop Leader for the Girl Scouts of America, Vice-President of the PTA, and President of the School Site Council of her children’s schools. She has also served as an ordained minister and evangelist in a leadership capacity at her local church and as a Chaplain for youth in juvenile hall and adults in county jails and state prisons. Debbie continues to remain active in her community serving as an executive board member on various organizations in her community including A Positive Force Leadership Dev. Corp. and the California School-Age Consortium. It has been incredibly rewarding for her to develop curriculums and work towards improving educational outcomes for students, to implement leadership and youth development programs and work as a consultant in business and non-profit development and management, to advocate for the civil rights of citizens of various ethnicities and to serve her community in a variety of different roles. She has earned a Bachelor’s degree in Career Technical Education and is working on her Master’s degree in Public Policy. Debbie is passionate about developing effectual leadership programs, building a stronger community by staying active in a variety of civic, advocacy and community organizations, and she will continue to be a strong advocate of educational and community programs that enhance the achievement and lifestyles of all students.