April 24, 2018 - I am writing as a former colleague who worked with Heather Bernikoff, Candidate for County Supervisor, to convey the quality and purposefulness of her work. We were colleagues at the Department of Health Services in Contra Costa County in the Health Plan division. Heather distinguished herself in the first few months by becoming one of the youngest senior managers. She helped guide decisions on providing broader benefits for the people in our care.

She ran two important departments – Health Promotion and Cultural & Linguistic Services, both of which received top compliance scores from State regulators due to her careful oversight. In addition to this, she carried a direct service patient education load, conducted county-wide health events, performed division-wide training and was even asked to organize the company picnic because of her super positive attitude and work ethic.

I recall all the “Thank You” cards posted on her inspiration board in her office from people whose lives she touched – thanking her for convincing them to get the mammogram that found the lump in time, helping them lose weight or making sure there were diabetes screening resources at a pow wow.

I have remained friends with her since 1996 and admire her compassion and sense of justice. In hiring Heather, the people of Mariposa will gain a strong advocate who will work tirelessly for them.

Sincerely,
Kathleen Petricca, RN (Ret.)
Martinez, CA.