Rachael Worby Named 41st Assembly District Woman of the Year

Assemblymember Chris Holden has honored Rachael Worby, the creative force behind the performing arts nonprofit MUSE/IQUE, as the Woman of the Year for the 41st Assembly District.

The recognition, part of the California State Assembly’s annual celebration of Women’s History Month, highlights Worby’s remarkable contributions to the arts and her dedication to making live music accessible to all.

“Rachael is responsible for much of the artistic and theatrical preservation maintained across Southern California and has dedicated a great deal of her career to keeping young people engaged in the arts,” Assemblymember Holden said in a statement.

Under Worby’s leadership, MUSE/IQUE has flourished from a small startup to a multimillion-dollar organization that has had a profound impact on Southern California’s cultural landscape. The nonprofit partners with over 19 local organizations to create lasting relationships with often-overlooked community members.

Worby’s illustrious career includes prestigious roles such as Assistant Conductor of the Los Angeles Philharmonic, Music Director and Conductor of the Young People’s Concerts at Carnegie Hall, and Music Director of the Pasadena Pops. She was also appointed by President Bill Clinton to the National Council on the Arts.

“Rachael does not see barriers, she sees opportunity,” Assemblymember Holden said. “She holds music dear to her heart as a force that connects all of us, and it has been a privilege to witness her share her gifts and passion while opening doors for other women, marginalized people, and young Californians.”

In addition to the Woman of the Year announcement, Assemblymember Holden also recognized nine Women of Distinction from the 41st Assembly District, including Dorothy Wong of Altadena, a community organizer specializing in bicycling advocacy, recreation, and sports.

Wong has organized and supported over 200 bicycle events, bringing world-class bicycle racing to Los Angeles and Southern California. She serves as a lead instructor with local advocacy organizations and on the Executive Board of the California Bicycle Coalition.

Other Women of Distinction honorees include Dr. Patricia Jessup-Woodlin of Sierra Madre, Dr. Sylvia Jauregui of Monrovia, Dr. Laurie Leshin of La Cañada Flintridge, Dr. Julie Olesniewicz of Alta Loma/Rancho Cucamonga, Linda Logan of La Verne, Margarita “Rita” Karasik-McGee, Esq. of San Dimas, Amy Fass of Claremont, and Mary Locke of Upland.

“It is a privilege to celebrate these outstanding women leaders within our District,” Assemblymember Holden said. “Their work shapes and enriches our communities.”