A long-time resident of Palm Desert and the Coachella Valley, Anyse Smith brings a wealth of experience and a story that resonates deeply with the vibrant spirit of our community to her current run for Palm Desert City Council.
Anyse was born in San Francisco where her father practiced medicine and her mother worked as a nurse. Anyse's journey took an unexpected turn when she faced the heartbreaking loss of her mother to cancer at the tender age of sixteen.
When she was 17 years old, Anyse embarked on her academic career at the prestigious George Washington University in Washington D.C. Here, Anyse completed her Bachelor’s Degree in International Affairs. Next, Anyse’s pursuit of knowledge led her to the Paris Sorbonne University in Abu Dhabi in 2010, where she earned a Master’s Degree in International Law and Diplomacy.
Returning to her roots in California, Anyse faced personal challenges, grappling with issues of drug and alcohol dependence that led to a period of incarceration, homelessness, and numerous hardships. However, her story is one of triumph over adversity. Anyse sought help and emerged victorious, graduating from the Gateway Program at the Coachella Valley Rescue Mission in Spring 2014. Her remarkable journey was chronicled in the CVRM Summer 2016 Newsletter, aptly titled “A life full of miracles.”
Drawing inspiration from her own transformative experiences, Anyse found her calling in community service. At CVRM, she served as the Housing Manager leaving an indelible mark on housing initiatives and managing transitional living homes. Her commitment to community development led her to manage the Housing First program at the Coachella Valley Association of Governments providing vital support to the chronically homeless across the region. Passionate about justice and advocacy, Anyse pursued a law degree at California Desert Trial Academy in Indio, CA earning her Juris Doctor (JD) and becoming a licensed attorney. Today, she imparts her wisdom as a professor at the same school teaching Legal Writing.
Beyond her professional achievements, Anyse remains deeply rooted in her community. Serving on the Board of Governance of the Riverside County Continuum of Care, contributing to "We are One United," and being a part of CF (Category Five), she actively supports at-risk youth. Most importantly, she's actively involved in the New Life Program at the Coachella Valley Rescue Mission, mentoring women in recovery and collaborating with the Girlfriend Factor, an organization that supported her through law school. An active member of her church, Anyse sits on the Board of Directors and is part of the administration department embodying her commitment to both faith and community.
Of all her accomplishments, Anyse holds her recovery close to her heart. Using her background of triumph over adversity, she now mentors women in recovery, highlighting the importance of giving back and the transformative power of mentorship.
Anyse's dedication to her community is a beacon of positivity. Her multifaceted background, genuine commitment to positive change, and unwavering dedication make her a driving force for shaping a promising future for Palm Desert. By electing Anyse Smith, you're not just choosing a representative, you're choosing a compassionate advocate who understands the challenges faced by the community and actively works towards a brighter, more inclusive future.
