The League of Women Voters of California Welcomes New Executive Director

The League of Women Voters of California Welcomes New Executive Director

Type: 
News

September 3, 2025

 

Jenny Farrell headshot

 

SACRAMENTO, CA – The League of Women Voters of California today announced that the Board of Directors has hired Jenny Farrell, Esq. as the next Executive Director. Jenny most recently served as Executive Director of Mental Health Advocacy Services, where she led the organization through a period of transformational growth, tripling its budget and staff while deepening its impact through expanded policy advocacy, coalition-building, and community-based legal services.

“As the League continues its work to empower voters, advance equity, and defend democracy, the Board and I are confident that Jenny is the right leader for this moment,” said Gloria Chun Hoo, president of the League of Women Voters of California. “Jenny brings an exceptional record of nonprofit leadership, a deep commitment to civic engagement, and a lifelong passion for justice that will strengthen the League’s reach and impact across California.”

Jenny is a public interest lawyer, nonprofit executive, and proud feminist who has devoted her career to advancing equity and access to justice. At Mental Health Advocacy Services, she secured major philanthropic investments—including a $2 million unrestricted gift from MacKenzie Scott’s Yield Giving initiative—and launched innovative partnerships with health, housing, and community-based organizations throughout Los Angeles County. She previously served as Director of External Relations for the Survivor Justice Center, where she oversaw development, communications, and pro bono programs.

“It is an incredible honor to join the League of Women Voters of California at such a pivotal time for democracy,” said Jenny Farrell, incoming Executive Director. “The League’s legacy as a bold voice for civic engagement and equity inspires me deeply. I look forward to working alongside members, partners, and communities across the state to defend voting rights, elevate underrepresented voices, and build a more inclusive and participatory democracy.”

Jenny is a graduate of Smith College and USC Gould School of Law, where she was named Public Interest Student of the Year and awarded the Mason C. Brown Award for her commitment to justice for all. She lives in Los Angeles with her husband, John, their two young sons, Robby and Micah, and their puppy, Eleanor Rigby.

Jenny will participate in the League’s meeting at the end of September and will officially begin in the role of Executive Director on October 20, 2025.

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League to which this content belongs: 
California