Riverside Unified Superintendent Named 2026 Woman of Distinction for Leadership and Community Impact

Riverside Unified School District (RUSD) Superintendent Dr. Sonia Llamas has been  recognized with a 2026 “Woman of Distinction” award by Riverside County Board of Supervisor Jose Medina for her leadership, service, and impact on the Riverside community.

Dr. Llamas was one of 11 women in Riverside County’s First Supervisorial District honored during Medina’s annual Women of Distinction Award Luncheon held at Crestmore Manor in Jurupa Valley on March 20. The awards celebrate trailblazing women who have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to public service, education, equity, and community empowerment.

“It is humbling to be recognized alongside so many inspiring women in our community,” Dr. Llamas said. “Serving the Riverside Unified community is an honor I hold deeply, and this recognition reflects the dedication of our educators and staff who work every day to ensure every student feels a strong sense of belonging and is empowered to reach their full potential. I genuinely love living my dream each day in service of others. It is a privilege to serve in this role and to be part of a community that cares so deeply about our children and their future.”

A licensed clinical social worker and seasoned educational leader, Dr. Llamas is a first-generation college graduate and fluent Spanish speaker with more than 30 years of experience advancing equity, wellbeing, and excellence in public education.

In July 2025, Dr. Llamas became the 13th superintendent – as well as the third woman and first Latina – in the history of RUSD. She previously served as Chief Academic Officer and an Associate Superintendent at the Orange County Department of Education, and also held leadership roles in Santa Ana, Los Angeles, and Pasadena Unified School Districts.

Dr. Llamas was previously recognized as the 2025 Woman of the Year in Education by U.S. Congressman Lou Correa. She currently serves as California Association of Latino School Administrators (CALSA) Region 6 Director and is also a member of the Association of California School Administrators (ACSA) and the USC Dean’s Superintendent Advisory Group.