FIRST LADIES OF CALIFORNIA

 

California's First Ladies 

Although the role of First Lady has changed and become increasingly more active, a glance back into history proves that First Ladies have always played an important role in the service of California citizens. From the beginning of California’s statehood to present day, they have balanced the demanding responsibilities of their prestigious position while enduring hardships, tragedies, and the daily difficulties of life and a family.

This section contains pictures of the First Ladies along with passages excerpted from “The First Ladies of California” which provide a nominal glimpse into the lives of these courageous women. Women, who not only played an important role in the history and success of the California, but made history of their own.
 
1967 - Present 
 

Anne Gust Brown 

 

 

Anne Gust Brown 2011-Present
Anne Gust grew up in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan. She was an outstanding student and graduated at the top of her high school class. Anne attended Stanford University where she graduated with a degree in political science. After graduation, she returned to Michigan to attend the University of Michigan Law School. Anne returned to California to begin her career as a litigator at a few large law firms in San Francisco.
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Maria Shriver 


Maria Shriver2003-2011
As the only girl in a family of four brothers, Maria grew up in a prominent political family in Chicago. Graduating from Georgetown University with a degree in American Studies, she became an award winning journalist. First Lady Maria has many roles to fill.  She was instrumental in creating the California Museum for History, Women and the Arts.
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Sharon Davis 
Sharon Davis1999-2003
Sharon, one of seven children, was raised in Santee, California. As a flight attendant, she met Gray Davis when he arrived late for a flight to Los Angeles. As first lady, Sharon focused on children’s health and safety issues as well as writing a children’s book called The Capitol Kitty.
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Gayle Wilson 
Gayle Wilson1991-1999
Gayle is another Stanford University graduate who earned  her Phi Beta Kappa key and a degree in biology. Gayle was the first First Lady to establish an office in the State Capitol, where she worked on early health and math education issues.
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Gloria Deukmejian 
Gloria Deukmejian1983-1991
Gloria, was born and raised in Long Beach, California. After a six month courtship, she married George Deukmejian. As first lady, Gloria, being an outstanding volunteer herself, organized a statewide awards program to recognize outstanding volunteer achievement.
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Nancy Reagan 
Nancy Reagan1967-1975
Nancy graduated from Smith College with a major in theater. She met Ronald Reagan when he was president of the Screen Actors Guild. The press was again delighted to have a romantic and loving couple to photograph. 
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