“Patricia's strong network of connections and her ability to bring diverse groups together to build collaboration has enabled our Universal Access Pilot to become stronger, more focused and create impact in our community. I am thankful for her work in helping our UAP partner network build a sustainable system of support and ‘No Wrong Door’ practices that better serve families and their young learners.”

- Arcel Blume, Director, Santa Clara County Office of Cultural Competency

“Patricia’s experience, guidance and energy is exactly what the LLA Board of Directors, alumni and stakeholders needed as we created our strategic plan. We are an all-volunteer board and her wisdom, knowledge and listening skills helped us set short and long term goals. We now have a clear vision, mission and strategy to help implement a clear direction towards our goals of leadership, partnerships and advocacy for the future.”

- Lennies M. Gutierrez, Chair, Latino Leadership Alliance

“Patricia is masterful - the best in the business - when it comes to navigating complex public policy solutions through government departments.  She is astute about elected officials and government leaders, and she develops strategies that benefit all involved.”

- Michele Lew, CEO, The Health Trust

“I count myself among the lucky to have been mentored by Patricia Gardner. She has a special gift of really getting to the why of things that provides clarity in decision making. Her no nonsense style is so refreshing and ensures you know what lies ahead. I am grateful for her guidance and support and I count on her good council when I need a solid sounding board. She has not only championed my work but I have watched her take many others under her wings while guiding them towards reaching all of their potential in achieving their dreams. Santa Clara County is very lucky to have Patricia Gardner supporting its future and current leaders.”

- Wendi Mahaney-Gurahoo, Trustee Area 5, San Jose Unified Board of Education

Committee, Taskforce, & Volunteer Experience

• 2023 Appointed, City of San Jose Library and Education Committee (D6)

• 2021 | Appointed San José Spotlight Community Advisory Board

• 2020 - 2021 | Health and Racial Equity Taskforce

• 2014 - 2018 | FIRST 5 Quality Matters Steering Committee

• 2012 - 2018 | School Linked Services-Santa Clara County

• 2014 - 2018 | Santa Clara County Children’s Health Assessment Advisory Council

• 2010 - 2018 | Juvenile Justice Systems Collaborative and Dually Involved Youth

• Various Governmental Commissions and Committees at both the City of San Jose and Santa Clara County

Awards & Commendations

• 2019 John Gardner Exemplary Leader Award from The American Leadership Forum

• 2018 The Siempre Award from Grail Family Services

• 2018 Alumni of the Year from San Jose State University’s College of Social Sciences - Political Science

• 2018 Legal Advocates for Youth Award from The Law Foundation of Silicon Valley

• 2016​ Community Merit Award from The National Association of Mentally Ill - Silicon Valley Chapter

• 2012 Community Builder Award from Community Solutions

• 2011 Community Builder of the Year named by United Way Silicon Valley

• 2009 Woman of the Year selected by Assemblyman Jim Beall

• 2006 Woman of Achievement named by The Silicon Valley Business Journal