Meri Maben graduated from UC Davis and completed an Masters in Counseling Psychology from Santa Clara University. She then earned a Secondary Teaching Credential and a Pupil Personnel Services Credential from San Jose State University.
Meri’s passion for education led to a career working with at-risk youth at the East Side Union High School District (ESUHSD) and later for the Silicon Valley Education Foundation. For her work in creating the “Animation Studio” at ESUHSD she received the Smithsonian Laureate “Technology Award for Art and Technology.” She was also recognized by the city of San Jose for the “Woman of Achievement Award” for her work in East San Jose.
After a career in education, Meri served as District Director for Congressman Mike Honda during his 14 years in Congress. She was recognized as the “Woman of the Year” for Assembly District 26 and “Woman of the Year” for the city of Campbell for her extensive public service.
For her work with a nationally ranked speech and debate team, Meri received the “Outstanding Coach” award from the National Forensics League.
Meri identifies herself as a “community contributor,” participating on several boards and foundations in Silicon Valley.
Meri is the mother of 4 grown sons and has 6 grandchildren living in the city of San Jose.