Today, Senator Suzette Valladares (R-Santa Clarita) announced that she has named Jill Mellady of Santa Clarita as the 2026 Woman of the Year for Senate District 23.
Each year during Women's History Month, California legislators honor exceptional women from their district during the annual Woman of the Year Floor Ceremony at the California State Senate. The ceremony recognizes women whose leadership and service have made a meaningful impact in their communities.
"Jill represents the very best of community leadership,” said Sen Valladares. “Through her professional success, volunteer service, and unwavering commitment to improving the Santa Clarita Valley, Jill has made a lasting difference in the lives of residents in our community. I am proud to recognize her as the Woman of the Year for Senate District 23.”
Jill Mellady is the President and Co-Founder of Mellady Direct Marketing, a respected family-owned direct marketing agency headquartered in Santa Clarita. Alongside her husband Jim, Jill has built a successful business dedicated to helping organizations effectively communicate with their audiences and strengthen consumer engagement. The company is a family effort, as Jill and Jim work alongside their adult children, Stephanie and Brendan.
Beyond her professional achievements, Jill has demonstrated a deep commitment to community service throughout the Santa Clarita Valley. She currently serves as a board member and Marketing and Public Relations Chair for the SCV Sheriff Foundation and is a member of the board of directors for the Valley Industry Association. Jill has also played a significant role supporting local education through her leadership with the College of the Canyons Foundation, where she previously served as board chair for three terms.
A proud alumna of College of the Canyons, Jill’s dedication to her alma mater and the Santa Clarita community was recognized in 2016 when she received the institution’s prestigious Silver Spur Award.
Jill treasures her role as a grandmother to four grandchildren. Her passion for service, leadership, and community engagement continues to make a lasting impact throughout the region.
Senator Valladares honored Jill Mellady during the Woman of the Year Floor Ceremony at the State Capitol on March 16, where legislators from across California recognized distinguished women from their districts for their achievements and contributions.