County Executive Mike Callagy has appointed Emma Gonzalez to interim San Mateo County Parks Director following the promotion of Parks Director Nicholas Calderon to Deputy County Executive.

Gonzalez will begin the interim role Jan. 5, 2026, as the County plans for future recruitment for the next Parks Director.

As Chief and Director of Community Affairs and Programming in the County Executive’s Office, Gonzalez led high-profile initiatives in collaboration with local and state officials, community leaders and philanthropic partners. Her work includes major County efforts such as the 2020 Census, COVID outreach, farmworker housing development and other cross departmental projects aligned with community needs and County priorities.

“Emma brings deep experience in public service, community engagement, and cross-departmental leadership. She has a strong track record of delivering complex initiatives and building trusted partnerships, and I’m confident she will continue advancing the Parks Department’s important work in service to our communities.”
~ County Executive Mike Callagy

“I’m excited about the opportunity,” Gonzalez said, “to work with park staff in continuing to provide the exceptional park services and programs the public relies upon as well as advancing capital projects scheduled for completion in 2026, including facility improvements at San Bruno Mountain State and County Park and the new Flood Park playground in Menlo Park.”