Citing family commitments and time limitations, Onita Pelligrini resigned from the Santa Rosa Junior College Board of Trustees Jan. 14.
“I’m not going away, my first granddaughter just entered the SRJC and I have six more to see graduate from this wonderful school. I still plan on being involved as much as I can, I just can’t give the board the time, dedication, love and attention it deserves right now,“ Pellegrini said in an emotional farewell speech.
Pelligrini, a longtime Petaluma resident and the only woman on the board, was appointed to SRJC’s Board of Trustees in March 2005, following Kathleen Doyle’s resignation. Pelligrini represented all of the south county communities, including Petaluma, Penngrove and also parts of Marin County. After finishing up the rest of Doyle’s term, Pelligrini ran unopposed in 2010.
“Trustee Pelligrini was always an effective advocate to ensure that the Petaluma campus’ needs were met,” said SRJC President Frank Chong. “She gave us a unique perspective of the Sonoma County business community and its workforce needs. She was a tremendous asset as a trustee.” Dr. Chong personally feels indebted to her for her help when he first became president.
Jeff Kunde, president of SRJC’s Board of Trustees, praised Pelligrini for her experience and dedication. “Onita brought to the board a unique knowledge of the local community, primarily within her Petaluma area district, as well as an insight to the Petaluma campus from a local community perspective. She was actively involved in the Scholarship Committee,” Kunde said. “I will miss the perspective she brought to the board.”
Immediately following her announcement, Dr. Chong and the remaining six board members presented her with an award recognizing her service to the college.
“I personally owe you a great debt of gratitude,” Dr. Chong said. “And don’t think you’re getting off easy: I have plans for you in Petaluma.”
Pelligrini is currently the CEO of the Petaluma Chamber of Commerce, and she plans to stay involved in some capacity with the Petaluma SRJC campus.
“I know I’m leaving things in the best of hands and I look forward to seeing things grow,” Pelligrini said.
Beginning Jan. 15, the college will proceed to fill the seat to finish Pelligrini’s term through 2014. The provisional appointment process will include accepting applications and interviews by the Board of Trustees. Interested individuals must reside in the Trustee Area known as Area 2, which includes Petaluma and the surrounding area, and the northern most portion of Marin County. The application filing deadline is Feb. 5, 2014. Inquiries may be directed to the office of the president.