**From left: Diane Martinez, Melissa Clemann, Blanca Pacheco, Mariana Pacheco and Dr. Rebekah Ruswick.** (Photos by Eric Pierce)

DOWNEY — Soroptimist International of Downey recognized five local leaders Thursday night during its annual Women of Distinction Awards Dinner, celebrating women whose professional achievements and community service have made a lasting impact.

The event, held at the Arc’s Reagan Event Center, honored Captain Melissa Clemann, Diane Martinez, Assemblymember Blanca Pacheco, Mariana Pacheco and Dr. Rebekah Ruswick.

The annual program highlights women who exemplify leadership, service and a commitment to improving the lives of others, values that align with Soroptimist’s mission of providing women and girls with access to education and training.

Captain Melissa Clemann was recognized for her career in law enforcement with the Downey Police Department, where she has served in a variety of roles since joining the department in 2006. Promoted to captain in 2025, Clemann oversees the Field Operations Division and has led initiatives including the Homeless Outreach Program, Special Response Team and Crime Impact Team.

Diane Martinez, a longtime educator and civic leader, was honored for her decades of service in education and public office. A resident of Paramount, Martinez has spent more than 30 years in education and previously served as mayor of Paramount. She continues to serve on the Paramount Unified School District Board of Education and is active in regional organizations. She is also a substitute teacher with Downey Unified School District.

Assemblymember Blanca Pacheco was recognized for her leadership at the state and local levels. Elected to the State Assembly in 2022, she represents communities across southeast Los Angeles County and northern Orange County. Prior to her election, Pacheco served on the Downey City Council, where she became the city’s first Latina mayor.

Mariana Pacheco, a registered nurse and director of nursing at Downey Adult School, was honored for her work in healthcare and education. With more than three decades of experience, she has focused on expanding access to career training programs and serves on the Cerritos College Board of Trustees. She is also active in local service organizations.

Dr. Rebekah Ruswick, director of special education for Downey Unified School District, was recognized for her work supporting students with disabilities. Ruswick has led efforts to expand inclusive practices and mental health support services across the district, serving more than 3,600 students in special education programs.

The evening program included opening remarks by President Rebecca Reyes, an invocation by Jan Minnig, the Pledge of Allegiance led by Alejandra Gamez, followed by dinner and the presentation of awards.

Soroptimist International of Downey is part of a global volunteer organization focused on improving the lives of women and girls through education, empowerment and community-based programs. Locally, the organization supports scholarships, youth programs and community initiatives throughout Downey.

The Women of Distinction Awards serve as one of the group’s signature events, recognizing individuals whose work reflects the organization’s mission of empowering women and strengthening communities.

Soroptimist also honored three longtime members at the dinner, including Arlene Lopez (35 years), Giggy Perez-Saab (15 years) and Diane Martinez (10 years).

Dignitaries in attendance included Mayor Claudia M. Frometa, Councilmembers Dorothy Pemberton and Hector Sosa, Downey school board members Nancy Swenson and Jose Rodriguez, and Ivan Sulic, representing Supervisor Janice Hahn, along with several other elected officials from neighboring cities and schools.

Soroptimist of Downey honors five local leaders as Women of Distinction