State Senator Scott Wilk, R-Santa Clarita, named Santa Clarita Valley resident Marlee Means Lauffer as the 21st Senate District’s Woman of the Year for 2018.

Lauffer is longtime SCV community member, active philanthropist and respected businesswoman.

Senator Wilk announced the decision to bestow Lauffer with the veneration while she was visiting the state capitol for the KHTS Sacramento Trip.

Related: 2018 KHTS Sacramento Road Trip Heads For State Capitol

“I’m honored to have (her) as my very first Woman of the Year for the 21st district,” said Wilk, “She’s a fantastic community leader, mother and successful business woman who is a model for so many women and girls in our community.”

Marlee has been a driving force in the Santa Clarita Valley over 10 years, connected with the local business, civic and nonprofit community.

In 2004, Marlee joined with several local business leaders to form the Bank of Santa Clarita and remains a director on its Board.

She supports many other area organizations in leadership positions, including the SCV Chamber of Commerce where she previously served as Chair, Zonta, WiSH Education Foundation, and SCVEDC.

She was appointed to the City of Santa Clarita’s initial Arts Commission and has served on various arts and non-profit boards, including Henry Mayo Hospital, serving on its Foundation Board and Board of Directors.   

“Marlee is one of the busiest people I know, but in all the years I have known her, she has never failed to carve out the time to make a difference in our community. Whether it is helping non-profits, local businesses, or the arts, she is there and making an impact,” said Wilk.

Lauffer received the honor on the floor of the California Senate in Sacramento Monday, March 12.

“When Senator Wilk called me to give me the news I was both surprised and honored,” said Marlee, “To be named “Woman of the Year” on the floor of the California Senate is not something that happens every day.”

Marlee said she was grateful to be recognized for contributions she has made to the community.

The “Woman Of The Year” award is sponsored by the California Legislative Women’s Caucus.

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