Erin Gabel

First 5 California Announces New Deputy Director to Head up External and Governmental Affairs December 08, 2014 01:47 PM Eastern Standard Time SACRAMENTO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--First 5 California today announced the hiring of Erin Gabel, Deputy Director of External and Governmental Affairs. The newest key member of the Leadership team for First 5 California, Gabel will work with the First 5 California Commission, First 5 county commissions, Legislative staff, and stakeholders to recommend, develop, implement, and promote broad public policy surrounding First 5 California’s mission. Ultimately, Gabel’s legislative role will focus on expanding internal and external communication policies, strategies, and networks that improve awareness of children and family issues across California. “Her position will help secure support for children, parents, caregivers, and educators all over the state, in the areas of health, education, and early learning programs for children ages 0 to 5.” Tweet this “Erin Gabel will serve as more than a strong voice for First 5 California at the state capitol,” stated Camille Maben, Executive Director of First 5 California. “Her position will help secure support for children, parents, caregivers, and educators all over the state, in the areas of health, education, and early learning programs for children ages 0 to 5.” Possessing a strong legislative background, Gabel most recently served as Principal Consultant on childcare, preschool, K-12 public education, and higher education for the California State Senate, Office of the Pro Tem. Prior to this role, Gabel worked for the California Department of Education as Director of the Government Affairs Division, where she managed the Superintendent and agency’s government affairs portfolio, including its membership in the Education Coalition. Gabel also served as Legislative Director for the California State Assembly; her role involved consulting on specific policy areas of K-12 education, including preschool and childcare, school preparation programs, physical education, and student health. “Erin’s in-depth legislative experience and education focus make her an excellent addition to our Leadership team,” stated Diane Levin, Chief Deputy Director of First 5 California. “There’s no denying she has a large role to fill. We look forward to her contributions in the coming year.” About First 5 California First 5 California, also known as the California Children and Families Commission, was established after voters passed Proposition 10 in November 1998, adding a 50 cents-per-pack tax on cigarettes to fund education, health, child care and other programs for expectant parents and children up to age 5. For more information, please visit first5california.com/parents. Contacts First 5 California Diane Levin, (916) 263-1067