Gloria Sandoval joined the California Natural Resources Agency (CNRA) as Deputy Secretary for Access in April 2024. In partnership with a broad array of government entities, community organizations, and tribes, she helps advance California’s Outdoors for All initiative, which expands parks and outdoor spaces in communities that need them most, supports programs for people with limited access, fosters a sense of belonging for all Californians in the outdoors, and more. As Deputy Secretary for Access, Gloria represents CNRA on the Delta Protection Commission and on the boards of the San Gabriel and Lower Los Angeles Rivers and Mountains Conservancy, the Sacramento–San Joaquin Delta Conservancy, and the San Joaquin River Conservancy.
Before joining CNRA, Gloria held several key roles in state government over more than two decades of service. She served as Deputy Director of Public Affairs at the California Department of Parks and Recreation (State Parks) from 2015 to 2024, Associate Director of Communications at CNRA from 2014 to 2015, and an Information Officer at State Parks from 2013 to 2014. From 2000 to 2012, she worked at the California Department of Boating and Waterways as an Information Officer and Education Analyst. These roles deepened her commitment to expanding inclusive outdoor access and strengthening the stewardship of California’s natural and cultural resources.
With more than 25 years of state service, Gloria is honored to continue helping all Californians and nature thrive together. Her love for the outdoors began in childhood, when her family frequently visited local outdoor spaces in Los Angeles County and Stockton, California. She did not yet know that her career would focus on creating inclusive outdoor connections and protecting cultural and natural resources.
She continues to enjoy exploring the outdoors and visiting museums with family, friends, and colleagues.
