In 2024, Joe Simitian wrapped up 41 years of public service as an elected official. During that time, he served as a member of the California State Senate, the California State Assembly, the Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors, Mayor of Palo Alto, and President of the Palo Alto School Board.
Joe received his Bachelor of Arts degree from The Colorado College. He also holds a Master of Arts degree in International Policy Studies from Stanford University, a Master of City Planning degree from the University of California at Berkeley, and a Juris Doctor law degree from the University of California at Berkeley (formerly Boalt Hall).
Joe brought to his work a wide-ranging perspective and background – service at all levels of state and local government, hands-on experience in the private sector, as well as professional education and training particularly applicable to his work in public service.
He is currently a Visiting Scholar at Stanford University.