SACRAMENTO—Speaker Fabian Núñez (D-Los Angeles) today appointed Maelia Macin to the 17-member Commission on the Status of Women.

“Maelia Macin’s extensive work with low-income families has allowed her to develop a keen understanding of the diverse needs of California’s women,” Speaker Núñez said. “She will make a fine addition to the Commission on the Status of Women.”

Maelia Macin, 43, of Manhattan Beach, is a member of the Los Angeles Chamber of Commerce and sits on the board of Avance, Inc., a nonprofit organization that supports Latino families with programs that focuses on parent education, early childhood development, brain development, literacy, and school readiness. She received her bachelor’s degree from Southwest Texas State University. She is a registered decline to state voter.

The Commission on the Status of Women studies public and private employment practices as well as state laws regarding employment, civil and political rights, and educational needs of women. The Commission also encourages women’s organizations and other groups to institute self-help activities. Public members are compensated $100 per day, not to exceed 12 days per year. All members receive reimbursement for actual and necessary traveling expenses. Macin’s term began yesterday and ends July 1, 2011.