Summer Cortez joined UC SAREP in March of 2026 as the small farms communication specialist. In this role, Cortez will lead strategic communications for the Small Farms Network, working with UCCE small farms advisors and staff and UC SAREP statewide program personnel to communicate program impacts and uplift the voices of the farmers they serve.
Cortez has a background in program management specializing in strategic communications, storytelling, community-centered outreach, and accessible education across California’s food and farming systems, including cooperative extension and community-based initiatives. Prior to joining UC SAREP, she served as CalFresh Healthy Living evaluation unit manager at the UC ANR Nutrition Policy Institute.
She holds a master’s degree in community development and a bachelor’s degree in sustainable agriculture and food systems from the University of California, Davis. Cortez is based at the UCOP Building in Oakland, with regular visits to Davis.