About Emily Ortiz Wichmann

Emily Ortiz Wichmann is a dedicated advocate for education and the community. A third-generation Oceanside resident, she has deep roots in the area with five generations of her family having lived in Oceanside.

Married to her husband John, a retired veterinarian, for 56 years, Emily is a proud first-generation American with two daughters, Chris and Rachel, and two “adopted” Samoa sons, Rudy and Arona. Her family includes 11 grandchildren.

Emily has a background in accounting and is active participant in her local church.

Experience and Achievements

Emily brings a wealth of experience to her role as a school board trustee, having served for 24 years. During her tenure, she was elected president of the board five times and was known for her student and parent advocacy. She ran for election six times and was consistently the top vote-getter, demonstrating the trust the community places in her leadership and vision.

Her platform emphasized the importance of experienced leadership, accomplishments, and understanding critical issues in education. Emily has seen firsthand the impact of educational programs and decisions on student achievement, and she strives to balance federal and state mandates with the educational and financial needs of Oceanside students.

Community Involvement

Emily's passion for service extends beyond the school board. She is active in several local organizations and initiatives, such as the Oceanside Unified School District, Ethnic Studies Community Advisory Committee, KOCT Board of Directors, Oceanside Boys & Girls Club, and Partners for Healthy Neighborhoods. She also serves on the boards of the Oceanside Library and Library Foundation.

Her commitment to supporting the next generation is evident in her involvement with the Adelante Mujer Conference, a program for Latina high school students, and the Girl Tech STEAM conference at Mira Costa College.

Recognitions and Interests

Emily has been recognized for her impactful work, receiving the North County African-American Women's Association Living Legacy Award and the North County Latinas' Latina of the Year Leadership Award. Her enthusiasm for local sports is well-known, and she has been awarded a Lifetime Pass from the California Interscholastic Federation.

In her free time, Emily enjoys attending local car shows and participating in community events such as Dia de los Muertos and activities at local schools.

A Clear Choice

With a track record of dedication, leadership, and commitment to improving education and the community, Emily Ortiz Wichmann is a trusted voice and advocate for Oceanside.

More Community Involvement:

• Oceanside Unified School District Ethnic Studies Community Advisory Committee.

• Board of Directors of KOCT

• Board of Directors and President of the Oceanside Boys & Girls Club

• Board of Directors and Chair of Partner for Healthy Neighborhoods- Collaborative involving residents, city staff, OPD & area nonprofits health, social service & educational organizations.

• Established Chavez Community Resource Center, Libby Lake Community Resource Center and Crown Heights Community Resource Center.

• Title V Juvenile Justice Grant committee for Oceanside

• Board of Directors Oceanside Library

• Board of Directors Oceanside Library Foundation

• Cal State University San Marcos University Council

• 2+2 School and City Council

• Save Our Streets

• Founding member of the Adelante Mujer Conference - Latina high school students and Careers. Started in Oceanside. First conference held at King Middle School. Last 5 years held at CSU San Marcos.

• Co-founder and co-chair of Girl Tech STEAM conference at Mira Costa Partnership with Mira Costa and OUSD

• 5-8 grade girls experience a full day of hands-on STEAM workshops. Breakfast, Lunch and STEAM Fair.

Below is a map of Emily’s district, OUSD - Area 2, shaded green.