Darlene Trujillo Elliot, Communications Director
Darlene Trujillo-Elliot serves in Communications to Riverside County Supervisor José Medina, where she leads the strategic direction of District 1’s communications and narrative development. She shapes how local policy, community priorities, and public initiatives are communicated, ensuring Riverside’s people, history, and future remain at the center of the work.
She oversees all communications functions, including media relations, press outreach, digital platforms, newsletters, public messaging, and Board of Supervisors presentations. Working closely with the Supervisor and senior staff, Darlene translates complex policy into clear, compelling stories that build trust, understanding, and public engagement.
Beyond communications, Darlene plays a central role in local policy strategy and intergovernmental coordination. She manages key policy portfolios and serves as a primary liaison for multiple county departments and offices, including the Clerk of the Board, Emergency Management, Information Technology, RivCoTV, the Office of Service Integration, Purchasing and Fleet Services, and Waste Resources. She also represents District 1 within the City of Riverside and leads districtwide efforts on Tribal Affairs.
With more than 30 years of experience in public service, Darlene has advised and worked alongside multiple elected officials and brings deep institutional knowledge of local government. Her background includes extensive analytical and operational work within the City of Riverside, supporting policy development and community-facing initiatives.
Darlene is recognized as a trusted local strategist and storyteller, known for shaping narratives that connect policy, culture, and community voice. Her work reflects a long-standing commitment to strengthening civic identity and ensuring Riverside’s stories inform its future.