Alumni Spotlight: Dr. Ana Maria Farina, Director of Communications, Community Engagement, and College Readiness, Vacaville USD
Dr. Ana Maria Farina’s journey began right here in Vallejo and in the Vallejo City Unified School District, where she built the foundation that led her to a lifelong career in education and community advocacy. A proud Vallejo High School Class of 1999 graduate, she remembers the teachers, mentors, and experiences that shaped her into the leader she is today. From her time at Elsa Widenmann, Loma Vista, and Solano Junior High to earning her doctorate and serving in leadership roles at Vacaville Unified School District, Dr. Farina reflects on her VCUSD roots, the educators who inspired her and her passion for empowering the next generation.
- Can you share your journey as a student at VCUSD? Which schools did you attend?
I began my K-12 journey in Vallejo after moving from San Francisco with my family in the late 1980’s. I started 2nd grade at Elsa Widenmann and finished my elementary education at Loma Vista Elementary! I then traveled down the road to Solano Junior High School from 1993-1996, and I am a proud graduate of Vallejo Sr. High School, Class of 1999.
- What are some of your favorite memories from your time at VCUSD?
I feel incredibly fortunate to have grown up when I did and to have been shaped by the amazing people around me. Vallejo City Unified was a beautifully diverse district, and I’m so grateful for the education I received—one where my identity was celebrated. But what truly stands out in my heart are the teachers who poured their love and care into us.
Mrs. Norton, my 4th-grade teacher, inspired me to be extraordinary and to give my all in everything I pursued. Mr. Kesler, my algebra teacher at Solano Jr. High, patiently guided me through the ups and downs of math, ensuring I truly understood the material. I have fond memories of Hiking Club with Mr. Chapman and the camping trips we took around the Bay Area. And I’ll never forget my principal, Mr. Saroyan, who was there for me from 1993 to 1999.
At Vallejo High, we thrived under the care of incredible educators like Mrs. Delgado, Mr. Wright, Mr. Anchor, Mrs. Hutton, and so many more who took the time to ensure our success. Playing soccer, being part of VHS Leadership, and embarking on our unforgettable three-day senior trip are some of the memories I cherish most.
I could talk for days about my love for VCUSD—it was more than just a school district; it was a community that shaped who I am today.
- Was there a particular teacher or staff member who had a significant impact on you? How did they inspire you?
I often talk about Mrs. Delgado, my teacher at Vallejo High School. I had the privilege of learning from her in biology and AP biology, and by my senior year, I couldn’t get enough—I became her teaching assistant. She was everything to me. She pushed me to apply to colleges I hadn’t dared to consider, proofread my personal statements, helped me navigate financial aid, and guided us through every step of high school.
At the time, I didn’t realize it, but she—and incredible educators like Mr. Anchor and Mrs. Hutton—would later inspire me to become a teacher myself. Life came full circle when I served as principal of Willis Jepson Middle School in Vacaville and had the joy of working with her son, Tony Delgado, who we used to play with when he was little. Even then, she continued to support me, cheering me on through my principalship and beyond.
I love that woman with all my heart—her impact on my life is immeasurable.
- What inspired you to pursue a career in education and community engagement?
I am a first-generation college graduate and the proud daughter of Salvadoran immigrants. Growing up, my parents only spoke Spanish, and I often served as their bridge to my K-12 experience. I was fortunate to have an incredible support system that inspired me to pursue higher education, leading me to UC San Diego, the University of San Francisco, and Sacramento State University.
That journey instilled in me a deep sense of duty—I knew I wanted to help the next generation navigate the challenges of education, just as I had. Supporting our students and community isn’t just my work; it’s my passion and heart. Helping others rise is what drives me every day.
- Can you tell us about your Vacaville Unified School District role and how your VCUSD alum experience influences your work?
Funny enough, after earning my master’s and teaching credentials, I went straight to VHS, hoping to teach there, but there were no openings then. Life had other plans, leading me to Fairfield High and later Vacaville High. I spent 2005-2013 teaching in Fairfield-Suisun Unified School District (FSUSD) before joining Vacaville Unified School District (VUSD), where I’ve worn many hats—teacher, Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) coordinator, dean of learning, assistant principal, principal, and now director.
Being a VCUSD alum connects me to a shared experience of struggle, perseverance, and triumph. It’s not about weakness—it’s about resilience and strength. That journey shaped me, giving me the perspective and heart to serve my students and community better. I’m proud to have been a Vallejo kid, and I ALWAYS make sure people know where I’m from!
- What challenges did you face on your path to your current career, and how did you overcome them?
The biggest challenge I faced on my path to my career was navigating college—especially figuring out how to finance it. I had to learn to advocate for myself and step outside my comfort zone. UC San Diego was a predominantly white institution at the time, which was a stark contrast to the diverse community I grew up in. That transition was tough, but joining the Latina sorority Lambda Theta Nu Sorority, Inc. changed everything. Through sisterhood and support, I grew into the confident Latina leader I am today, and I continue to give back to the organization that shaped me.
My career is what I have made it—I have always loved being with my students, supporting them, and collaborating with incredible colleagues. I’ve been blessed to work alongside some of the best, and I wouldn’t change a thing about this journey.
- What advice would you give current VCUSD students who want to make a difference in their communities?
Who is stopping you? Surround yourself with like-minded people, and you can collectively impact our communities. Get educated! It has opened so many doors for me. I never would have imagined I would be called Dra. Ana Maria Farina one day.
- How do you think VCUSD helped shape who you are today? Or Vallejo in general?
It’s everything to me. Vallejo and VCUSD shaped my hustle, my grit, my perseverance—my ganas. Growing up in such a diverse community instilled a deep sense of resilience and an appreciation for different perspectives. You can’t compare the love and strength that comes from being raised in a place like Vallejo. It made me who I am, and for that, I am forever grateful.
- If you could give your younger self one piece of advice while you were a student at VCUSD, what would it be?
Dare to dream big! I once limited myself because I didn’t fully realize the power within me. Imposter syndrome is real, but don’t let it define you or hold you back. You are capable of far more than you think—never let fear or doubt stand in the way of your potential.
- What does being a VCUSD alum mean to you?
Being a VCUSD alum is like the ultimate beat that’s been with me from the start—consistent, powerful, and always vibing through me. It’s the rhythm of my hustle, the foundation of my drive. Even when life drops a new track, I still feel the echoes of those moments, those teachers, and those experiences that made me who I am today.
- What sort of hobbies do you enjoy outside of work?
Outside of work, I love reading, traveling, and meeting new people—there’s something about experiencing different cultures that really excites me. I’m all about dancing, eating good food, and soaking in a great musical whenever I can! But above all, what truly brings me the most joy is spending quality time with family and friends. That’s where I find my peace and recharge for whatever comes next.
