Diane Papan was born in Millbrae, California. Papan graduated from Capuchino High School in San Bruno. She earned a B.A. in political science from the University of California, Los Angeles, in 1985 and a J.D. from the University of California, Hastings College of Law in 1988. Her career experience includes working as an attorney in several different firms, including her own private practice. She also worked as an executive director of the nonprofit, John's Closet, in Daly City, California. Papan served on the City of San Mateo City Council from 2015 to 2022. Previously, Papan served on the City/County Association of Governments of San Mateo County, the San Mateo County Council of Cities, the San Mateo County Express Lanes Joint Powers Authority and the Flood and Sea Level Rise Resiliency board.
