In his role at LBCC, Taylor is responsible for all governmental relations including advocacy efforts, legislative affairs, media relations and community outreach. His key accomplishments include leading efforts to enact three pieces of legislation, developing an award-winning public relations campaign, implementing new student emergency communication systems at the college and advancing key education initiatives including the Long Beach College Promise, according to Garcia.
“I’ve known Mark for 10 years and have had the opportunity to work with him on numerous projects at Long Beach City College and in the community,” Garcia said. “He’s smart, understands the legislative process, and is committed to making our city an even better place to live. He will do a great job of moving my initiatives forward on economic development, education, open government and creating a safer and more livable city.”
Taylor has been working at Long Beach City College for seven years and has advised the superintendent-president and Board of Trustees on key initiatives and been a primary liaison to the City of Long Beach, according to the press release. Taylor served in a number of staff and campaign roles in local and state politics before working for LBCC.
“Mark has served Long Beach City College with distinction and accomplished a great deal during his seven years, including leading our efforts to pass key legislation and helping to develop and nurture the Long Beach College Promise,” said LBCC President Eloy Oakley. “In addition, he has developed and grown the President’s Ambassadors program, which has produced some of LBCC’s finest scholars. He will be missed at the college, but I am excited to work with him and Mayor-elect Garcia to enhance our close relationship with the City of Long Beach to serve our diverse community even better moving forward.”
Taylor, who lives in the 5th District with his wife and sons, serves on several boards, including Long Beach BLAST and the Long Beach City College Foundation. He has a master’s degree in history from Brandeis University and a bachelor’s degree in history and economics from Whittier College.
“I’m honored to have been asked to serve our city by Mayor-elect Garcia,” Taylor said. “I look forward to working with the talented men and women who work for the city, the leaders of our education institutions and business community, and with our community partners to help Mayor-elect Garcia improve our city and to implement his agenda.”
Sharon Weissman, Garcia’s current chief of staff, has been selected to serve as his senior advisor. Weissman will work on special projects and lead policy initiatives. Weissman has served as chief of staff to three elected officials, including Garcia, former Assemblymember Tony Mendoza, and former State Senator Jenny Oropeza.
Weissman has a bachelor of arts degree in radio & television from Cal State Long Beach and lives in the 5th District. She is the president of the Democratic Women’s Study Club and has been active in local democratic politics for 20 years.
“Sharon has been a great chief of staff and is an important member of my team,” Garcia said. “I’m thankful for her leadership, advice, and love for Long Beach.”
Source: Robert Garcia
