Janice Van Mullem, a homegrown Huntington Beach girl, joined Soroptimist International of Huntington Beach in October, 2020. Why? Because a friend of hers, a Soroptimist in northern California, told her about the organization and our mission…..Because she believes in women’s empowerment…And because she wants to improve the lives of women and girls.
Janice holds the distinction of being the first female Fire Marshal in Huntington Beach, a position well earned and well deserved which she assumed in 2014. Prior to that, Janice served as Hazardous Materials Specialist and has experience working with the Navy at Naval Weapon’s Station, Seal Beach, in the Environmental Department. Her history includes environmental engineering positions and environmental compliance in both the public and private sectors.
Did you know that Janice holds 2 Master’s degrees? Yes…she does: A Master of Science degree from Loyola Marymount University and another in Science Technology and Public Policy from The George Washington University.
Janice’s interests include Soroptimist International of the Americas’ signature programs, Live Your Dream and Dream It, Be It and our other service programs plus, she would entertain being on our Board of Directors in the future!!
Volunteerism must be part of Janice’s DNA having been a former Girl Scout leader, a current board member of CalChief’s SoCal Fire Prevention Officers and a “Get Out the Vote” letter writer (2020).
When time permits, you might find Janice hiking with her life partner, Edgar Espinoza, whom she met at the Naval Weapons Station in Seal Beach when they both worked there about 8 years ago.
Looking at her, you wouldn’t think that Janice was old enough to have adult children but, she does. Victoria (Tori), age 23 is at CalState Fullerton, majoring in Civil Engineering and graduating in 20211) while Hannah, age 21, studies microbiology at Orange Coast College and will be transferring to UC Berkeley.
I asked Janice to describe herself in one word, and her word was “Passionate”. I think we can feel that passion already! So honored to have you as a member of our SI Huntington Beach team, Janice.
“I love working in fire prevention, and believe in the role that I have with keeping our community safer. “
~Janice Van Mullem
Such an honor to read about your newest member. Congratulations both to her and to your club.
Best always,
Chari
Welcome Janice. Excited to have you as a member.