Assemblymember Gregg Hart recognized Terri Maus-Nisic, Santa Barbara County’s assistant executive officer, with the 2023 California Woman Making Herstory award, presented Monday as part of the Legislature’s celebration of Women’s History Month.

Each March, the Legislature recognizes the achievements and contributions of women leaders statewide.

Maus-Nisich, who is retiring in March, has served as the county’s assistant executive officer since 2006. In the role, she has led the county through difficult times and touched countless lives, Hart said.

Most recently, Maus-Nisich helped oversee the county’s COVID-19 response and recovery efforts, in addition to spearheading its work to end homelessness.

Maus-Nisich also supervised the Emergency Operations Center during numerous local emergencies; coordinated the county’s health and human services agencies; and developed partnerships with organizations throughout the region.

“As county supervisor, I worked closely with Terri Maus-Nisich to respond to the needs of our community,” said Hart. “Time and time again, Terri has gone above and beyond to advance innovative solutions to our most vexing challenges.

“An inspiration to us all, Terri has made ‘herstory.’ ”

“It is an honor to receive this recognition from Assemblymember Gregg Hart, as he played an incredible leadership role in the county during our response to COVID-19, and consistently supported the needs of the most vulnerable in our communities,” Maus-Nisich said.

“His unique and in-depth understanding of the work occurring locally makes this recognition truly special,” she said.

Maus-Nisich was joined at the Capitol by her husband Tony Nisich and her son Erick Nisich.