Val Lujan

Valerie “Val” Lujan was born and raised in El Monte, California, and is a first-generation college graduate. She holds a Bachelor’s in Human Services and a Master’s in Urban and Regional Planning. Her educational background, combined with prior professional experience, marked the beginning of her career in local government with Pinal County, where she started as a Planning Technician. Val currently serves as a Development Services Manager; a role that functions as an ombuds. In this capacity, she mediates public concerns, evaluates departmental processes and policies, and oversees special projects. What she finds most rewarding in her role is being an approachable and supportive resource for staff—helping to build their capacity so that, together, the department can better serve community members. Val is honored to be part of the inaugural Rural Communities Fellowship and looks forward to expanding her scholarship by working towards an MPA, and participating in the leadership development opportunities the fellowship offers. She sees the fellowship as a catalyst for becoming a more well-rounded public servant which will enhance her contributions to Pinal County, along with advancing her as government leader in the community she is committed to continue serving.