Jocelyn Yow always knew she wanted to serve her community. Growing up in Riverside County, she was keenly aware of the importance of civic engagement from a young age, thanks to her parents. As the daughter of immigrant parents, Jocelyn saw firsthand the challenges faced by families trying to build a better life in America. It was this early exposure to both the struggles and opportunities of her community that would shape her into the leader she is today.
A proud alumna of Norco College, Jocelyn’s path to politics was not a straight line, but a series of meaningful experiences that laid the foundation for her career in public service. She initially enrolled at Norco College to complete her general education requirements, not fully realizing at the time how much the college would influence her future. It was here that Jocelyn found her voice and her passion for political science. “Norco College gave me the opportunity to discover what I truly cared about,” Jocelyn recalls. “I was surrounded by professors who believed in the power of education to change lives and communities.”
Her time at Norco College wasn’t just about the classroom; it was also about engaging with the community. Jocelyn took part in student government, led campus initiatives, and participated in local activism. These experiences sparked a deeper understanding of how political systems work and how local governments can have a direct impact on people’s lives.
After transferring from Norco, Jocelyn continued her education and earned her bachelor’s degree in Political Science. Her academic pursuits didn’t stop there—she later went on to pursue a master's degree in government. Her passion for the subject led her to return to Norco College, this time as a part-time lecturer in Political Science. “Teaching political science is a way for me to give back,” Jocelyn says. “It’s incredibly fulfilling to help students understand how politics affects their daily lives and empower them to get involved.”
But Jocelyn’s contributions to the community extend far beyond the classroom. At just 25 years old, she made history as one of the youngest elected officials in the state when she won a seat on the Eastvale City Council. Becoming Mayor of Eastvale in 2020, she continued breaking barriers as the first woman of color to hold the position in the city’s history. For Jocelyn, public service is not just about titles—it's about action and accountability. “Being elected is an incredible honor, but it also comes with a great responsibility to advocate for and protect the interests of the people I serve,” she explains.
During her tenure, Jocelyn has focused on key issues that affect everyday life in Eastvale, including improving local infrastructure, expanding community resources, and ensuring that local policies reflect the diverse needs of the city’s growing population. Her focus on building partnerships with local schools and businesses has helped bring about new opportunities for residents. “Eastvale is a city full of potential,” she says, “and I’m excited to be a part of shaping its future.”
As both a lecturer and a public servant, Jocelyn bridges the worlds of education and governance. Whether she’s in a classroom discussing the intricacies of political theory or in a council meeting advocating for policy changes, Jocelyn remains dedicated to making a difference. Her students often draw inspiration from her real-world experience in government, and she encourages them to get involved, no matter their age or background. “You don’t have to be a politician to make an impact,” she tells them. “Anyone can make a difference in their community.”
Jocelyn balances her roles as a city leader and educator with being a mother, something she takes great pride in. “My son is my greatest motivation,” she says. “I want to build a world where he can grow up with the opportunities to thrive, just like I did.”
Looking ahead, Jocelyn’s vision for Eastvale remains rooted in the values of inclusion, progress, and community engagement. “There’s still so much work to be done,” she says. “But I believe in the power of people coming together to create positive change. That’s what drives me.”
For Norco College students and residents of Eastvale, Jocelyn Yow is more than just a leader—she’s a symbol of what can be achieved with passion, perseverance, and a commitment to service.