About DWK
In 1995, several women friends fell into deep conversation about what was happening, and not happening, in politics…
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…and it was their perception that they did not see an effective presence of the Democratic Party in Kern County. They decided that this was a situation that needed changing and they would work to change it! This was the beginning of the organization originally named the Democratic Women of South San Joaquin Valley, now officially called the Democratic Women of Kern.
Since that time, this organization has developed a core group of committed women, (and men) who participate in activities that support the local Democratic Party and its principles. DWK works in cooperation with the Kern County Democratic Central Committee, sponsors events to highlight local Democratic candidates and assists wherever they can by working to register voters, provide phone banking, walking and working for positive change in our community. We continue to provide a platform where guest speakers address relevant issues of the current political climate and where we can come together as Democrats and as women to educate and support each other. We celebrate over 20 years of political activism and we are still fighting the good fight.
We invite you to join us.
The founders of Democratic Women of Kern
Katy Lingo, Marie Vasili & Renee Westa-Lusk
Meet Our Board
Kellie Pollack
President
I am a data analyst specializing in public health, women’s rights, and gun safety. I am also a proud mother of two college daughters, and an active Air Force son. I am dedicated to fighting climate change, women’s rights, activating voters, and preserving the components that make our pluralist democracy great.
A Note From the President
Democratic Women of Kern is an organization founded over 35 years ago and dedicated to pursuing Democratic values, and human issues, with an emphasis on women’s issues. The organization is devoted to educating women and men on ways they can make their voices heard, both politically and through public service.
Human trafficking, health care, education, homelessness and senior Issues are only some of the areas we address as we serve the community. Solutions require that government and citizens work together for the common good. As Democrats, we support our Democratic candidates and representatives who work to address these issues through action and legislation.
DWK welcomes all genders. Together, we advocate for the voiceless, the marginalized and all the hardworking people striving for the American dream. We want to assure that every voice is heard, from the ballot box to the halls of government. Our members support and register voters, contribute to foster youth served by the Dream Center and women reconstructing their lives at Casa Esparanza, engage in voter outreach, and seek to serve our community in many different ways. During the early days of Covid-19, our organization sewed and distributed over 1,000 masks. The needs of our community are varied. Democratic Women of Kern is committed to making a difference and making our community better. There is a place for you here.
Come join us!
Emma De La Rosa
Vice President
Emma De La Rosa is a community leader and advocate working to improve our communities. Emma is a UCM and Cal Poly SLO alumna. She loves spending time with her family, and enjoys volunteering and working alongside other fearless community advocates. Emma is passionate about justice and ensuring everyone has equitable opportunities, regardless of their zip code.
Joni Gregg
Treasurer
I have a 30-year accounting background and a lifelong commitment to fiscal responsibility. As a grandmother, I understand the importance of building a stable future and working to ensure freedoms for all and preserving rights for the next generation that I’ve enjoyed. I love the beach, reading and traveling!
Valari
Corresponding Secretary
Caitlin Davidson
Recording Secretary
Caitlin was born and raised in Bakersfield where family values, integrity, and hard work shaped their early years. After moving away to pursue education and build a career, Caitlin returned home in 2022 with a passion for making a difference in the community that raised them. Deeply committed to investing in the local community, Caitlin joined the Democratic Women of Kern inspired by the belief that strong communities thrive on collective activism, diverse perspectives, care, and connection. Today, Caitlin is dedicated to making a meaningful impact in the place they’re proud to call home.
Rosann Wattonville
Membership Chair
Rosann Wattonville taught middle school for 39 years and retired in 2019. Rosann has served the two past years as Member at Large and is looking forward to serving as Membership Chair.
Some of the activities she has enjoyed participating in are the many Protests such as Saving Social Security, No King’s Protests, and Save Medicaid the & Hospital’s Protests. She has also been involved with Post Card Writing to support local candidates, Round Table Discussions with Betty Yee, and Jimmy Gomez, Canvassing by Phone and Walking Neighborhoods for local candidates and Prop. 50, writing Letters to the Bakersfield Californian, Making Blankets and putting together Kits for Newborn kits for New Moms at Kern Medical, and serving on the Endorsement Committee to name a few. Highlights of her time as a DWK Member was attending the Bernie & AOC talk at the Dignity Healthy Convention Center last April 15th, and interviewing Adam Schiff who was running for U.S. Senator.
Robert Hooks
Member at Large
Robert is a retired technology person with experience in engineering, entertainment and gaming. Born and raised in California, he’s a father and grandfather and a lifelong Dem who had an early passion for the cause. In his spare time Robert likes to fight the good fights, coach and mentor people starting their careers, advocate for D.E.I., cook, dine, cycle, garden, DIY, discover great music and great wine.
Georgina Lorenzi
Member at Large
After 32 years of service with the City of Bakersfield in various financial and budgetary positions, Georgina Lorenzi joined DWK after retirement. Although she is new to DWK, she hopes to make a difference in our community by working with members of DWK. She enjoys playing duplicate bridge at the local bridge club and teaches beginning bridge classes.