Originally from Boston, Alma began her academic journey with intentions of specializing in medicine. She graduated from Northeastern University with a focus on immunology, and her passion for education led her further along an illustrious academic path, including a Master of Arts in Health Sciences Education and Administration, followed by doctoral studies in Higher Education Administration and Policy at UC Berkeley. Throughout her career, her commitment to empowering others has been unwavering.

Alma is best known for her pivotal role in advancing gender equity and combating sexual harassment during her tenure at the University of California San Francisco. By establishing crucial policies and initiatives, including the Office of Sexual Harassment Prevention and Resolution, and Mediation Center, she ensured that the voices of the underserved were heard and respected. Her dedication earned her numerous accolades, including a Presidential Fellowship and the Chancellor’s Award for the Advancement of Women.

Since relocating to Oceanside in 2009, Alma has made a profound impact in the local community. As a trustee of the Oceanside Public Library Board since 2012, she has championed programs like Literacy READS, advocating for sustained funding to ensure literacy resources are accessible to all. Her commitment to education expands further with her involvement in the North County African American Women’s Association, where she has spearheaded scholarship initiatives and a successful mentoring program for middle and high school girls.

In 2014, she co-founded the mentoring program at King Middle School, starting with just eight participants. The program blossomed to over 100 students when she moved on at the start of COVID to launch the high school cohort for 14 girls across multiple schools. All 14 participants remained after COVID restrictions were lifted and graduated, with all of them now attending college as of 2023. She also highlights the dedication of mentors who continued with the King Middle School program, where more than 300 students have since participated.

What sets Alma apart is her belief in the power of mentorship. She is dedicated to nurturing the next generation, teaching skills that foster both leadership and resilience among young girls of color. Alma recognizes the challenges they face and works tirelessly to equip them to become global citizens. “Empowerment is key,” she emphasizes. “It’s not just about providing skills but igniting a belief in oneself.”

Among her multitude of honors, Alma was awarded the 2020 City of Oceanside Martin Luther King Jr. Community Service Award, recognizing her tireless work and the solidarity in her community service. Her belief in Dr. King’s ideals resonates profoundly, “There comes a time when silence is betrayal. My goal is to ensure that voiceless youth are heard and supported, fostering an atmosphere of courage and integrity.”

As she looks to the future, Alma is passionate about expanding the North County African American Women’s Association’s Global Mentoring Program, with hopes to further empower young girls in our community. Her legacy is not merely one of accomplishments and accolades but a commitment to making a significant impact on the lives of others.

In celebrating Alma Sisco-Smith, we honor a woman whose actions reflect the values of empathy, leadership, and unwavering dedication to service. Her journey inspires all of us, particularly the youth in our community, to believe in their potential and to passionately pursue meaningful change.