Brynda Stranix, left, receives a certificate of recognition from Isabella Morgan, representing Assemblyman James Gallagher’s office, during a Yuba-Sutter Economic Development Corporation board meeting April 16 in Yuba City. Stranix was recently nominated for the Local Economic Development Champion Award by the California Association for Local Economic Development (CALED). Photo by Shamaya Sutton

YUBA CITY, CA (MPG) - On a day she could have spent in Palm Springs accepting honors over lunch, Brynda Stranix was exactly where many say she is most often found, at work, focused on advancing economic growth in the Yuba-Sutter region.

For nearly 20 years, Stranix has served as president and chief operating officer of the Yuba-Sutter Economic Development Corporation (YSEDC). Earlier this month, the California Association for Local Economic Development (CALED) notified Stranix that she had been nominated to receive the organization’s Local Economic Development Champion Award, which recognizes individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary dedication and leadership in advancing economic development efforts within their communities.

“This award also recognizes outstanding achievement, dedication to the profession over a career and exemplary commitment in economic development work by a CALED member,” wrote Gurbax Sahota, president and chief executive officer, in a letter dated March 6. “I am pleased to share that I nominated you for this as I believe you have met this high standard and more.”

The official recognition was scheduled for April 16 during a luncheon in Palm Springs but Stranix declined to attend, opting instead to fulfill her responsibilities at home by attending a regularly scheduled YSEDC board meeting in Yuba City. However, fellow board member John Nicoletti, vice chair of YSEDC, ensured the moment did not go unrecognized.

During the April 16 meeting, Nicoletti coordinated a surprise presentation, inviting representatives, media and community members to celebrate Stranix locally. Among those in attendance was Isabella Morgan, representing Assemblyman James Gallagher’s office, who presented a formal recognition.

“Today is the day, right? This is the moment,” Nicoletti said. “We’re in a state with 450 cities and 58 counties … and Brynda Stranix outperformed us all, chosen by her peers. You can’t beat that. That’s the highest compliment you can get, being selected by your own group.”

Morgan echoed those sentiments, highlighting Stranix’s lasting regional impact.

“Your work has made a meaningful and lasting impact, strengthening the region’s economic vitality while supporting sustainable growth and long-term prosperity,” Morgan said. “We sincerely appreciate your enduring commitment to your profession and to the communities you serve.”

When asked why she chose not to attend the Palm Springs ceremony, Stranix held up a thick meeting agenda with a laugh.

“This is why,” she said. “There’s no way I could get away.”

Her decision, while lighthearted in delivery, underscored the same dedication that earned her statewide recognition, a commitment to staying present and engaged in the community she has helped shape for nearly two decades.