By Edward Henderson, California Black Media
Dr. LaShae Sharp-Collins was elected to the California State Assembly in November 2024 to represent the 79th District, which includes southeastern San Diego, El Cajon, La Mesa, Lemon Grove. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Africana Studies, a master’s in education with an emphasis in Multicultural Counseling, and an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership from San Diego State University, where she later returned as an adjunct professor.
Sharp-Collins, who is co-chair of the California State Assembly’s Select Committee on CalFresh Enrollment and Nutrition, says she is driven by a commitment to equity, community well-being, and expanding opportunity for all Californians.
Among her priorities are ensuring older adults receive the support they deserve, strengthening essential services through responsible budgeting, and advancing policies that improve access to quality healthcare.
She currently lives in San Diego with her two children.
California Black Media spoke with Dr. Sharp-Collins about her successes and disappointments this year, as well as her goals for 2026.
What stands out to you as your most important achievement this year?
I am proud of all the things we achieved this year. When I was running for office, I promised my district that I would ensure all members of our community would have a seat at the table and that I would elevate their voices in Sacramento. In just one year, we were able to get six bills signed addressing affordability, health access, and community safety. We secured over $60 million for the residents of Assembly District 79, and we led conversations on access to CalFresh, especially considering federal cuts to the program.
How did your leadership contribute to improving the lives of Black Californians this year?
As part of Assembly leadership, I serve as the Assistant Majority Leader for Policy and Research. In that role, I have had the honor of helping guide conversations within our Democratic caucus. This year, I prioritized helping my colleagues understand the impacts of federal cuts and addressing affordability in healthcare, childcare, housing, and food. In each discussion, I emphasize the need to look at issues through an equitable lens and better understand how they may affect Black Californians differently.
What frustrated you the most this year?
Any bill that does not get signed is understandably disappointing. Working with various stakeholders, I introduced legislation anticipating HR 1 and other federal cuts. Those bills were written to strengthen CalWORKs and CalFresh, putting us in a better position as we brace for the impacts of these cuts. Those bills did not make it to the Governor’s desk. They died in the legislative process. But I am committed to redoubling efforts with my colleagues to defend these critical programs. For now, I feel for my district and all Californians that we couldn’t provide support for earlier.
What inspired you the most so far this year?
I continue to be inspired by what we can achieve when Californians make their voices heard. We passed landmark regulations against predatory towing fees, strengthened oversight of law enforcement agencies, and secured a historic vote on the path to eliminating criminal strikes against juveniles — all because people showed up, raised their voices, and made themselves heard when I presented the bills. When we share our stories and educate members who may not share our worldview, we can accomplish amazing things.
What is one lesson you learned this year that will inform your decision-making next year?
This year, I learned more about decision-making in times of financial scarcity. We are trying to solve big problems with limited resources. How do you prioritize among several needs? I’ve learned the value of trusting the voices of my district and collaborating with members from districts with similar challenges. When we work together to elevate pressing needs, we can address community concerns even when budget conditions are poor.
In one word, what is the biggest challenge Black Californians are facing currently?
Visibility. It’s been said you can’t help me if you can’t even see me. I worked on a bill last year that would have enshrined DEIA programs into state law across state programs. It would have ensured Black Californians are seen, their concerns heard, and state programs are equitable. This bill was vetoed by the governor, but I look forward to working to bring it back next year.
What is the goal you want to achieve most in 2026?
I want to continue doing what I was elected to do: elevate the voices of my community. I want to make sure Black Californians are seen, represented, and receive an equitable portion of state resources. I want us to solve this affordability crisis together.