Wu, who also serves as executive director of the nonprofit group Friends of Children with Special Needs and is a member of Citizens for Better Community, said she was surprised when she learned she had been selected.

"It's such an honor," Wu said. "I feel like I'm just doing what I should be doing. To be recognized, that humbles me. It makes me want to do more."

"I've always worked toward the goal of bringing our community closer together. With this recognition, I want to encourage people (that) ... just by doing a little, see how much we can accomplish."

"Ivy's a good advocate for kids," he said. "She's given her heart and soul to kids."

On March 10, 80 honorees throughout the state will receive proclamations during a reception in which first lady Maria Shriver is scheduled to make an appearance.

The Woman of the Year award began in 1987 to recognize an individual from each Senate and Assembly district. The event is sponsored by the California Legislative Women's Caucus.