Serena was raised in East San Jose, CA. Despite difficult circumstances growing up, she was challenged by her single-mother to be strong, work hard, and more importantly, to rise above of the adults around her that were not good role models. Serena knows firsthand the effects of sexual abuse, PTSD, drug abuse and depression; it is these experiences that soften her heart towards those who are suffering.

Since she can remember, Serena has made community service and volunteer work a priority for her and her family. She has been involved in serving the poor and homeless over the last several years. Her story is common and personal. Her father was homeless for a couple of years and as a child she remembers how his PTSD caused by his combat duties during the Vietnam War affected her entire family.

Serena has a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting and a Master of Business Administration, Finance from the University of Phoenix, which she earned while working full time and raising her daughter. Her career includes a variety of civic and political positions, including various finance management positions at San Jose Evergreen Community College District and the role of Vice Chancellor of Administrative Services for the Contra Costa Community College District. Notable as well is her past involvement as trustee for the Whisman School District.