Alana Mathews, Deputy Secretary for Law Enforcement and General Counsel
Alana Mathews was appointed Deputy Secretary of Law Enforcement and General Counsel at the California Environmental Protection Agency to serve as the chief legal advisor to the Secretary in implementing the agency’s mission to restore, protect and enhance the environment. In this role, Mathews provides oversight and direction on all legal matters and guides enforcement efforts across all environmental programs.
Mathews previously served on the executive team for the Contra Costa District Attorney’s Office where she supervised various units and coordinated trainings and special projects. She also served as the director of policy, membership and training for the Prosecutors Alliance; chief consultant for the Climate Change Committee with the California State Assembly; and public advisor for the California Energy Commission, where she led implementation for SB 350 and developed the multi-agency Disadvantaged Advisory Group. Mathews began her legal career as a deputy district attorney with the Sacramento County District Attorney’s Office, trying more than 50 cases to verdict. She is an adjunct professor at University of Pacific, McGeorge School of Law.
Mathews earned a Juris Doctor degree and a Master of Laws in government affairs and public policy from University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law, and a Bachelor of Arts in philosophy from Spelman College.