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Meet The 2017 Santa Clarita Valley Man, Woman Of The Year Nominees

The nominees for the titles of 2017 Santa Clarita Valley Man and Woman of the Year were announced last week, with a Paparazzi Party planned to celebrate those up for the prestigious awards Wednesday evening. Residents can get to know more about each nominee and their involvement in the Santa Clarita community by reading their bios below.


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2017 SCV Man of the Year Nominees:

Alan Ferdman

Alan Ferdman

Alan Ferdman

Retired, Aerospace Engineer

Nominated by Samuel Dixon Family Health Centers, Inc.

Samuel Dixon Family Health Centers (3 years)

  • Chair, Rubber Ducky Festival

Canyon Country Advisory Committee (17 years)

  • Chair, 15 years

Santa Clarita Community Council (5 years)

  • Board member • CEO

Santa Clarita Senior Center Advisory Council (2 years)

  • Vice chair

City of Santa Clarita Adult Sports (13 years)

  • Committee chair

Single Purpose Ad Hoc Committees:

  • Bridge to Home Shelter Task Force
  • LACO Emergency Winter Shelter Site Selection
  • Santa Clarita Valley Open Space Committee
  • College of the Canyons Canyon Country Site Selection Committee
  • City of Santa Clarita Material Recycling Facility Site Selection

Others: Sunrise Rotary, Old Town Newhall Association, Whittaker-Bermite Citizens Advisory Group, North Oaks Park, Santa Clarita Elks, Mint Canyon Moose Lodge, E Clampus Vitus, Old West Masonic Lodge, Al Malaikah Shrine, American Motorcycle Association

Organization Impact: For the past two years, Alan has been chair of the planning committee for the Rubber Ducky Festival which raises fund to respond to the rising cost of healthcare and the Center’s commitment to make accessible healthcare services available to the most vulnerable in our community. Under his leadership, this event has raised over $160,000, the most successful two years in the event’s 14-year history. Alan’s efforts allow us to offer affordable services regardless of an individual’s ability to pay.

Bio: Alan Ferdman has been a resident of Canyon Country since 1965 and has been a committed and active member of the community. His volunteerism and memberships with many non-profits, service organizations, and committees has had a significant influence on the development of the SCV. Alan has been recognized as one Santa Clarita’s 2014-15 Twenty-Two Who Do, 2012 and 2013 Top 51 Most Influential People, and was nominated for the 2008 SCV Press Club Newsmaker of the Year. He was also a nominee for the 2013 SCV Man of the Year. Alan and his wife Pamela have 2 grown children and 5 grandchildren. He holds a Master of Science degree in Software Engineering and a Bachelor of Science in computer science. During his aerospace career he held senior positions at Litton Guidance in Woodland Hills, the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, and an adjunct faculty member at National University. Alan volunteered for LACO Parks and Recreation, served on numerous City of Santa Clarita panels and committees, and is well known as CEO of the Santa Clarita Community Council and chair of the Canyon Country Advisory Committee. In that role, Alan has devoted hours to providing speakers and information on issues that impact the SCV.

Tom Hough

Tom Hough

Tom Hough

CPA

Nominated by Boy Scouts of America

Boys Scouts of America (31 years collectively, 16 years in SCV)

  • Eagle Scout
  • Scout Leader
  • Leaders of Character committee
  • District Committee
  • Troop Committee

SCV Youth Project (16 years)

  • Past co-president
  • Treasurer
  • Executive Board

Others: SCV Chamber of Commerce, Friends of SCV Libraries, 1in6, Inc., Zonta

Organization Impact: Tom Hough is a stalwart and dedicated Scout and Scouter. He has been instrumental in bringing financial oversight and viability to the Bill Hart District’s most important fund-raiser, the annual Leaders of Character dinner. This event has not only provided major funding to our local scouts but has served as an example on a Scout Council level of fundraising and community awareness opportunity for other regional scout districts. Tom’s kind and careful approach to community leadership serves as a prime role model for young people rising in our community and in their careers.

Bio: Tom Hough is a Certified Public Accountant, specializing in providing tax and accounting services for nonprofits, and small businesses and their owners in the Santa Clarita Valley and all across Southern California. He is an active member of the local community, helping with the Boy Scouts of America, the Santa Clarita Valley Chamber of Commerce, the Friends of the Libraries of the Santa Clarita Valley, 1in6, Inc.; and for the last ten years, has served on the SCV Youth Project board of directors as co-president and treasurer. Tom and his wife Kris have lived in the SCV for over 32 years and have two daughters, Amy and Lindsay.

Taylor Kellstrom

Taylor Kellstrom

Taylor Kellstrom

Owner, SCV Book Exchange, HomeSmart Realtor

Nominated by Children’s Hospital Los Angeles and Circle of Hope

Children’s Hospital Los Angeles (4 years)

  • Chair, Bowling for Kids
  • Dancing with our Stars participant

Circle of Hope (3.5 years)

  • Vice-president
  • President-elect
  • Event chair
  • Public relations ambassador

Santa Clarita Junior Chamber of Commerce (3 years)

  • 40 Under 40 Award winner

Organization Impact: Taylor Kellstrom he has been a committed and active supporter of the young patients and families at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles since 2012. Every December, he has organized an annual fund-raiser called “Bowling for Kids.” Each successive year, Bowling for Kids has raised more and more money, of which, 100 percent is donated to Children’s Hospital Los Angeles. Over the last four years, Taylor’s efforts have raised over ten thousand dollars. Additionally, Taylor has been a participant in “Dancing with our Stars” dedicating his charity of choice as Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, raising more additional and vital funds for the patients served at the special hospital. Taylor has visited the hospital in person, visiting with patients, and bringing with him special guests who delighted many of young children served at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles. Taylor has brought enthusiasm and insight to the Circle of Hope board. Ambitious and passionate, he is generous with his time and sets a positive example for his peers. Taylor provides support and directives on how Circle of Hope can better serve its clients. He has been deeply affected by cancer and is committed to helping those now fighting the disease.

Bio: Taylor Kellstrom is a 26-year-old entrepreneur, philanthropist, real estate agent, and motivational speaker. He and his father started The SCV Book Exchange, an off-campus college textbook store that sells college textbooks to students at College of the Canyons at a much lower prices, saving students hundreds of dollars. He has also been vice president for the Circle of Hope the past two years. He holds an annual charity event, with all proceeds benefiting the Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, and he is a motivational speaker at high schools and colleges. In 2013, Taylor hosted an event called “Bands for Boston,” an event set up to help the victims of the Boston bombings at the Boston Marathon. Taylor was nominated each year 2013-2016 for Santa Clarita Valley Man of the Year for his business and philanthropy work, the youngest man ever nominated for the award. He has also won Young Business Person of the Year 2014 at the SCV Leadership Awards hosted by the SCV Chamber of Commerce. In 2016, Taylor received The Signal’s “51” award in the Emerging Leader category. Taylor has hosted several events for CHLA including participating in the Magazine of Santa Clarita’s “ Dancing with our Stars” in 2015. Taylor was born and raised in Santa Clarita and is a West Ranch High School and College of the Canyons graduate. He became a professional motor-cross racer at the age of 14, but was forced into an early retirement by injuries. Taylor is currently the chair for Circle of Hope’s “Vine 2 Wine” and “Bowling for Hope” fund-raisers. He will become president of Circle of Hope in June 2017.

Jonathan Kraut

Jonathan Kraut

Jonathan Kraut

President, Net Check Investigations and CFO, Secure Net Protection

Nominated by Domestic Violence Center of Santa Clarita Valley

Domestic Violence Center (4 years)

  • State-trained advocate
  • Board member

SCV Interfaith Council (10 years)

  • Past president

SCV Human Relations Forum (11 years)

California Advocacy Project (2 years)

Organization Impact: Jonathan is the first male to graduate from our 40-hour Domestic Violence Advocate Training. He volunteers to work on family law and domestic cases for selected clients for free, including taking clients to court for support at their hearings, serving subpoenas, and coaching clients regarding how to address the court. Jonathan volunteers weekly to teach meditation to DV clients, helping our clients reduce post traumatic stress and anxiety. He also trains additional volunteers to facilitate meditation in his absence. Jonathan attends all DVC fund-raisers and educational forums and he is a wealth of information regarding legal issues and issues related to stalking and abusive personalities. At the local level, Jonathan has written articles in The Signal newspaper about standing up to domestic violence and advocates for the DVC at numerous events in our valley.  Statewide, he holds lectures and seminars on domestic violence detection and prevention, and is invited as guest speaker for both county agencies and socially active organizations. A published author, his book’s website offers free and anonymous domestic violence surveys entitled “Signs of an Abuser” and “Signs of a Victim” that have been accessed by thousands nationwide. He has also worked with law enforcement regarding options that help detect and adapt to various forms of abuse by recognizing abusive traits, helping making law enforcement interactions safer.

Bio: Born and raised in Hollywood, Jonathan served as a US Army Officer specializing in combat operations after earning his bachelor’s from UCLA. Returning to civilian life he earned a Pepperdine MBA, then engaged in criminal justice analysis. He eventually became a college professor and dean. He moved to Santa Clarita in 1998 and founded a private investigations firm specializing in employment screening, criminal defense, and domestic violence cases. For more than 10 years he has served on the Santa Clarita Human Relations Forum with the SCV Interfaith Council, of which he is now president, and has written political columns for The Signal newspaper. He also founded a local Latin dance chapter with over 200 participants.

Nick Lentini

Nick Lentini

Nick Lentini

Managing Partner, Lentini Financial Advisory

Nominated by Rotary Club of Santa Clarita Valley and SCV Child & Family Center

Rotary Club of SCV (18 years)

  • Past president
  • Active board member
  • Chair, Community Service
  • Chair, Fundraising Committee
  • 2012 Santa Clarita Valley Rotarian of the Year
  • Chair, International Drinking Water Project

College of the Canyons Foundation (7 years)

  • Board member
  • Chair, Measures M and E Oversight Committees
  • Co-chair, Silver Spur
  • 2016 COC Alumnus of the Year Award

Child and Family Center (8 years)

  • Chair, Foundation board
  • Chair, Guardians of Hope
  • Secretary
  • Vice chair
  • Fund Development Committee

Others: Cub Scouts of America Pack 608, SCV Sheriff’s Advisory Committee, SCV Chamber of Commerce, American Cancer Society, Domestic Violence Center

Organization Impact: Nick’s long history with our Rotary Club includes both volunteer activities and financial contributions. He has served in leadership positions as well as serving with hands-on projects. His financial contributions have contributed to local Rotary service projects and to projects serving the global community through Rotary International. His contributions were essential to the club receiving recognition from our Rotary District as a 100% Paul Harris Club, and recognition for the Every Rotarian Every Year program. In addition to Rotary, Nick is a leader in many other areas of our community.  He genuinely demonstrates his concern for the people in our community through his actions, and encourages others to get involved as well.  Nick’s long-time commitment to service and positive energy are assets not only to our club, but also to our community. Nick has been a supporter of Child & Family Center for over two decades.  Besides serving in various board positions, his leadership as chair of the Guardians of Hope Campaign in 2014 resulted in raising $117,000, which helps those children in need of mental health services continue their care when government funding has been exhausted.  He and his firm have been longtime sponsors of the Center’s Taste of the Town. Nick also negotiated the City’s sponsorship in the Santa Clarita Century Ride.  This past year, Nick has been invaluable serving on the board merger committee, resulting in the Center and Foundation Boards merging into one entity. He extended his term as chair of the Foundation Board to ensure the smooth merge transition. Currently, Nick is serving on the Child & Family Center Board’s Fund Development Committee, and is chairing an inaugural event – Child & Family Center’s Trike Derby.

Bio: As managing partner at Lentini Financial Advisory, and a financial advisor with Signator Financial Advisors, Inc., Nick Lentini specializes in financial plans that are specifically tailored to his clients’ individual retirement needs. Nick earned his LUTCF designation in 1995 from The American College. In addition to life insurance Nick pursued an education in securities. He currently holds series 6, 7, 63 & 66 licenses and is an Investment Advisor Representative with Signator Financial Advisors. Nick is very personally involved in the Santa Clarita area, holding board-of-director positions for the following; The Chamber of Commerce, Santa Clarita Rotary, Past President of the Santa Clarita Rotary Club, American Cancer Society, Child and Family Center, Association for Victims of Domestic Violence, Santa Clarita Sheriff’s Advisory Committee and Cub Scouts Pack 608. He currently holds board positions for the Santa Clarita Valley Rotary Club, COC Foundation, COC Board Governance Committee, Chairman of Citizens Oversight Committee for Bond Measure M, and Child and Family Center Foundation Board Secretary. Nick and wife Elise are parents to two boys, Dominic and Marco.

Randy Moberg

Randy Moberg

Randy Moberg

Chief Operating Officer, LBW Insurance

Nominated by College of the Canyon Foundation

COC Foundation (10 years)

  • Chair
  • Vice chair
  • Chair, Planned Giving
  •  Foundation Board Vice Chair
  • Co-Chair of the Scholarship Committee
  • Co-Chair of the Silver Spur Committee
  • Member of the Chancellor’s Circle
  • Member of the Finance Committee
  • Member of the Foundation Executive Committee
  • Member of the Performing Arts Center K-12 Advisory Committee

VIA Education Foundation

  • Chairman of the Board
  • Vice Chair, Education
  • Chair, Connecting to Success Committee
  • Representative at the City’s Small Business Seminar • Recipient, VIA Volunteer of the Month
  • Recipient, VIA Volunteer of the Year

Organization Impact: As co-chair of the Scholarship Committee, Randy led the Foundation to reach an amazing milestone by capping off a $1 million Osher Scholarship Endowment Campaign. Donors participated in a special grant opportunity that offered a 50-percent matching grant for every endowed scholarship contribution. This matching grant program was made possible by a generous grant from the Bernard Osher Foundation. The COC Foundation actually exceeded the goal by 52 percent, placing them among the top five of all the other 112 community colleges in California. Thanks to Randy’s leadership, that effort brought an additional half million dollars in matching funds, which will enable the college to award an additional 95 student scholarship each year in perpetuity. In addition, Randy co-chaired the Foundation Silver Spur Committee for four years, generating significant resources for the Foundation and spearheaded the development of the Foundation’s new 3-year Strategic Plan.

Bio: Randy and his family have lived in Santa Clarita for more than 20 years. He was recognized by The Signal as one of the Top 51 Most Influential Persons in Santa Clarita in 2009 and 2010. Additionally, Randy has been in leadership positions and an integral part of several important projects for the Congregation Beth Shalom for several years. Most notably, he has been in charge of getting their new building constructed. Ground-breaking took place in 2013. Randy is past chairman of the Board for the VIA Education Foundation, and the past chairman of the Valley Industry Association. He has also previously served as vice chair of Education, and as chair of the Connecting to Success Committee. Randy has also acted as VIA’s representative at the Small Business Seminar sponsored by the City of Santa Clarita. Randy is a past recipient of the VIA Volunteer of the Month award and the VIA Volunteer of the Year award.

Bruce Munster

Bruce Munster

Bruce Munster

Principal, Munster Freeman Group

Nominated by SRD Straightening Reins Foundation

SRD Straightening Reins (5 years)

  • Board member
  • President

Organization Impact: Bruce’s contribution to SRD’s mission comes in the form of fundraising and business management. Being new to the nonprofit world, Bruce’s business knowledge and financial assistance has been instrumental in assuring the foundation grows responsibly while also solidifying the financial base necessary to provide daily services. Serving as both the board president for two years and currently as a board member, he continues to share our mission of mental well-being with members of the community and his business world. Bruce was instrumental in guiding the development of our incorporating documents, completion of our nonprofit status and established the annual giving fund which he has personally matched annually.

Bio: Bruce is active with the Association for Corporate Growth (ACG) and Provisors Beverly Hills-1 Chapter. He and his family support several charitable organizations, including Cedars Sinai Hospital, Boys and Girls Club, and Cornell University Wrestling. He is a principal of the Munster Freeman Group, a M&A-focused advisory practice within the Private Banking and Investment Group at Merrill Lynch. Bruce has garnered a number of national honors as a financial advisor.  Forbes named Bruce as one of “America’s Top Wealth Advisors 2016” and On Wall Street named him to its 2014 list of the “Top 40 Advisors Under 40” (#7 nationally). Barron’s recognized Bruce as one of the Top 1200 Financial Advisors, State-by-State in 2014. The Financial Times distinguished Bruce as one of the Top 400 Financial Advisors in 2014. And REP Magazine honored Bruce as one of the Top 40 Wirehouse Advisors Under 40 in 2014 (#11 nationally). Bruce earned his B.S. in Business Management and Marketing from Cornell University, while he participated on the varsity wrestling team, worked part-time, and raised a young family. He lives in Valencia with his high school sweetheart, Therese, and their three children: Samuel, Bruce Jr., and Haifa.

Kirk Nelson

Kirk Nelson

Kirk Nelson

Captain, L.A. County Fire Department

Nominated by American Red Cross

American Red Cross (22 years collectively, 16 years SCV)

  • Chair, Disaster
  • Chairman of the Board
  • Santa Clarita Valley Disaster Chair
  • Volunteer Partner to Disaster
  • Director and Regional Disaster Officer
  • Operations Management Chair
  • Disaster Instructor,
  • Shelter Supervisor
  • CPR/First Aid Instructor

Fair Oaks Elementary

  • PTA Vice President
  • Site School Council Vice President

Muscular Dystrophy Association- Fill the Boot (15 years)

Organization Impact: Kirk managed the entire disaster program for the first 12 years of its implementation. In working with the city, he developed a comprehensive disaster plan to better meet the needs of the Santa Clarita citizens. He developed a fund-raising effort to raise $125,000 for the purchase of eight disaster relief containers stationed throughout the community with valuable sheltering supplies. He gave Red Cross a community presence by starting the Memorial Day wreath presentation, recruiting Red Cross volunteers/equipment to march in the 4th of July parade, participating in the Emergency Expo, and working alongside all the local community partners. Kirk’s continued dedication to the mission of the Red Cross and his outstanding leadership have made Santa Clarita a much more resilient community.

Bio: Kirk’s ambition led him to be the youngest chairman of the board in Red Cross History at the age of 30. He has coordinated numerous disaster responses locally but also has deployed to national disasters such as Hurricane Katrina, the Cincinnati Floods, and Hurricane George in Puerto Rico. Through his extensive response experience, Kirk was able to work with Governor Pete Wilson to adopt a state law requiring that care providers not abandon their patients during a disaster. Additionally, he has trained hundreds of Santa Clarita volunteers and CERT members. On top of all his volunteer work, Kirk remains vital player in public safety as a Captain with the Los Angeles County Fire Department.

Todd Stevens

Todd Stevens

Todd Stevens

President/CEO, California Resources Corporation

Nominated by SCV Senior Center

SCV Senior Center (2 years)

  • Co-chair, Capital Campaign

Boys and Girls Club of Santa Clarita Valley (11 years)

  • Director, Festival of Lights Committee

Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital (1.5 years)

  • Director

Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation (6.5 years)

  • Director

Los Angeles Sports and Entertainment Commission Advisory Board (7 years)

  • Director

Santa Clarita Valley Economic Development Corporation (2 years)

  • Director

Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff’s Foundation (3 years)

  • Director

Southern California Leadership Council (3 years)

  • Director

Organization Impact: When Todd agreed to co-chair SCV Senior Center’s Capital Campaign to raise funds for the new Senior Center building, he was already a notable figure in the SCV community. Not only has Todd led by example in his fundraising efforts, he has also helped join hands with many other corporations, donors, and individuals to increase community awareness of SCV Senior Center’s mission to promote quality of life for seniors. He is continually enthusiastic about new and different ways the Senior Center can raise funds for this exciting building project.

Bio: Todd graduated from the United States Military Academy (USMA) at West Point — an honor reserved for our nation’s most promising students. He has used this skill, training, and knowledge not only in his professional work at California Resources Corporation (CRC) where he drives the company’s commitment to the communities where employees live and CRC operates; but also in his personal volunteer efforts in his own communities. As CEO, Stevens focuses on strengthening the balance sheet, enhancing margins, and operating CRC’s resilient asset base. CRC’s entire workforce is Californian, and he drives the company’s commitment to the communities where employees live and CRC operates. Prior to CRC, Stevens worked for 20 years in various management positions at Occidental Petroleum Corporation and most recently served as vice president, Corporate Development.  During his career with Occidental, he led most of Occidental’s growth initiatives and his responsibilities included mergers and acquisitions, evaluating and developing finance-related strategic and business opportunities, restructuring alternatives and asset dispositions, land management activities and worldwide exploration activities. He earned a Masters of Business Administration degree from the University of Southern California after graduating from the United States Military Academy, West Point, with a Bachelor of Science degree. Todd, his wife, Karen, and children reside in the Santa Clarita Valley.

Eric Stroh

Eric Stroh

Eric Stroh

Vice President, Santa Clarita Concrete

Nominated by Carousel Ranch

Carousel Ranch (11.5 years)

  • President
  • Vice President
  • Chair and Creator, “How the West Was Won” Trap Shoot

Organization Impact: From the time Eric joined the Carousel Ranch board, he has been an integral part of the organization.  Shortly after joining, Eric stepped up and filled the role of interim president. He took his position very seriously, working hard to take the organization to a new level. None of us, Eric included, could have had any idea of the incredible challenges and changes we would face in the years to follow – yet with Eric as our leader, the ranch not only survived the toughest of financial times, but thrived.  Eric was with us, buying property to complete renovations of our new home, obtaining our conditional use permit, attending countless County meetings, to the completion of our biggest project ever — the building of our long-awaited covered arena. One of Eric’s greatest achievements and contributions has been his work as co-creator and chair of our Trap Shoot.  From concept to completion, this has really been Eric’s event.  For many months each year (this being the 9th annual), Eric has been the one that has literally “made” this event, raising over $250,000 over the years.  From soliciting teams to creating the day’s events, entertainment, and literally every element of how it all works. He is always involved in every event and undertaking that we have. He personally dedicates countless hours to the success of Carousel Ranch’s annual Heart of the West event, which his personal efforts directly result in raising tens of thousands of dollars each year.  Eric is always ready, willing and able to make calls, obtain donations, and simply get any job done. Eric is exceptionally proud that his daughter, Jolie, has become one of the ranch’s staff.

Bio: Eric Stroh has been calling the Santa Clarita Valley home since 1988 when his future wife praised it as the perfect place to raise a family. After he earned his Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, Eric bought his first home, got hired as a sales engineer for Honeywell, and asked his college sweetheart to marry him. By 1996, the couple had two daughters. In 2003, Eric left corporate America and began working alongside his father-in-law at Santa Clarita Concrete. Being able to help grow the family business while having the freedom to be present and involved in all aspects of his daughters’ lives has been Eric’s greatest joy. He has never missed a school production, an award ceremony, or sporting event. Eric is always front and center with his camera as his girls’ biggest fan. It was his daughter Jolie’s obsession with horses that first brought Eric to Carousel Ranch. Together, they have given hours of love and support to the Ranch. When Eric isn’t working, he can be found on the water ,either wakeboarding or paddle boarding, with his family.

Chuck Strong

Chuck Strong

Chuck Strong

Senior Inspector, City of Santa Clarita

Nominated by American Legion Post 507

American Legion (2.5 years)

  • Music Coordinator

Santa Clarita Valley Blues Society (10 years)

  • President Orange County Roosters Volunteer (4 years)

Organization Impact: Chuck Strong came to the American Legion with his band to play for our annual car show as a volunteer three years ago. He immediately joined the American Legion as a Son, and has given us at least 100 hours every month. He, along with some recruits, changed our big hall into a performing arts center. This is not easy to do with a building that is over 80 years old. He has added lighting and sound, and has fixed the walls and ceilings. Now we have a music venue where we hold performances two times a week. Chuck has brought us new members and many more volunteers to support our local veterans in getting the word out to the many veterans in our community that need our support.

Bio: In 1968, Chuck Strong moved to Santa Clarita Valley with his family. The area was known as Saugus, but soon became Canyon Country. He was in the first graduating class of Rio Vista Elementary and then three years at Sierra Vista, a graduate of the “Class of 74” at Canyon High School, and some time at COC in the temporary classrooms. During his younger years, his family would gather canned goods, old coats, and blankets and give them to the less fortunate. Free drum lessons, car repairs, or handyman work for those that can’t afford the services, are a weekly occurrence for Chuck, as well as performing at many celebrity events. He has played on Thanksgiving Day in Newhall at the Downtown Library. Chuck holds an “Honorary Membership” to the Orange County “Roosters”, where he gave many free concerts to help feed thousands more during the holidays. Chuck lives in Newhall with his wife of 31 years, Cheryl. He has two successful adult children and a dog named “Lady.” As senior building inspector for SCV Building and Safety, he strives to make his hometown safer. He is currently the president of the nonprofit “Santa Clarita Valley Blues Society” as well as “Sergeant at Arms” and “Music Director” with the “Sons” of the American Legion Post 507.  

Jim Ventress

Jim Ventress

Jim Ventress

Retired, CEO Boys & Girls Club of Santa Clarita

Nominated by Boys & Girls Club of Santa Clarita

Boys & Girls Club (31.5 years)

  • Chief Executive Officer (29 years)
  • Club Ambassador (2.5 years)

Big Brothers of Greater Los Angeles (17 years)

  • Screening Committee Member

United Way (18 years)

  • Core of Executives
  • Speaking Engagements

Anti-Gang Task Force (9 years)

  • Founding Committee Member

City of Santa Clarita

  • Planning, Hiring, and Teen Panel Volunteer

SCV Domestic Violence Center (3 years)

  • Board Member

L.A. Alliance for Boys & Girls Club (6 years)

  • Board Member

Organization Impact: Since 1985 Jim Ventress has been an influential leader and volunteer in Santa Clarita. While most know him as head of the Boys & Girls Club, where he worked for 29 years building two full-service facilities and serving tens of thousands of youth, many do not realize the layers of volunteer service he has accomplished on top of that responsibility.  Jim has been a speaker at numerous events on leadership, responsibility, and education.  He has been a mentor to Boy Scouts. Since his retirement in 2014 Jim has continued to be involved in the Boys & Girls Club as a volunteer and ambassador.  Whether it is setting up the stage at Festival of Trees, sanding wood blocks with children for Pinewood Derby, or soliciting auction items Jim is staying busy in his retirement. His charismatic leadership style has made a positive impact on this community by inspiring youth and peers alike. Every conversation with Jim motivates others to make the world a better place for children and teens.  He is Santa Clarita youth’s biggest advocate.  He can inspire wayward teens to stay on a positive path and inspire business leaders to make a contribution and get involved alike.

Bio: By his retirement, Jim Ventress completed 34 years of service with the Boys & Girls Club movement.  He is a graduate of Salesian High School of East Los Angeles. He began his higher education at Los Angeles City College where he completed an Associate in Arts Degree in data processing. He then graduated from California State University, Los Angeles in 1978 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in recreational administration. Jim is a native of Los Angeles and a veteran of the United States Army. Prior to his commitment to the Boys & Girls Club, Jim spent five and a half years working for the United Parcel Service as a loader, driver, computer operator, and industrial engineer. In 1977, Jim became the art director of the Salesian Boys Club of Los Angeles, as a way of giving back something to an organization that had been significant in his youth. He later became the athletic director, then program director. In May of 1980, Jim was appointed executive director of the Salesian Boys Club. Under his direction, in 1984 the Salesian Boys & Girls Club won the “Flour Award” presented at the United Way annual meeting, along with a gift of $5,000 in recognition of outstanding delivery of youth services. In March of 1985, Jim was appointed executive director of the Boys & Girls Club of Santa Clarita. He spearheaded a feasibility study and development of a five-year plan in 1987. His biggest joys to date have included the construction and opening of the club’s 20,000- square-foot central facility at Newhall Park in 1992, and a $6 million, 27,000 square-foot-shared, facility on the campus of Sierra Vista Middle School in 2003.  He was an active screening committee member of the Big Brothers of Greater Los Angeles for 17 years, a member of the United Way Core of Executives for 18 years and has been a member of the Santa Clarita Valley Anti-Gang Task Force since its 1991 inception. Jim received the 1999 Boys & Girls Clubs of America Regional Prescott Award for Diversity, the 2000 Boys & Girls Clubs of America “National Keystone Teen Advisor of the Year Award,” and the 2001 Boys & Girls Clubs of America “Regional Contribution to the Profession Award.”  In 2007, Jim was the recipient of the Boy Scouts “Leaders of Character” award, and in 2008 he was one of Bank of America’s “Local Hero’s” award winners. Jim’s favorite motto is “give kids attention, recognition, and affection and they will contribute to society, not take away from it.”

2017 SCV Woman of the Year Nominees:

Mary Ann Bennett

Mary Ann Bennett

Mary Ann Bennett

Nurse, Prime Healthcare Glendora Community Hospital

Nominated by SRD-Straightening Reins Foundation

SRD-Straightening Reins

  • Weekly volunteer at the equine-enriched therapy ranch

Los Angeles Kings Santa Clarita Hockey Team

  • Volunteer

Glendora Food Pantry for the Elderly

  • Annual volunteer

Senior Flu Clinics

  • Annual flu immunizations at retirement communities located in the San Gabriel Valley

Women’s Health Volunteer

  • Monthly lectures to various women’s groups in the East Los Angeles

Dialysis at Sea

  • Volunteer on annual cruises around the world for dialysis dependent adults

Organization Impact: Mary Ann’s commitment to be at the ranch weekly has allowed for an increase in the number of both special needs and typical youth. She brings the knowledge of a trained medical expert to the ranch while also serving as a parent mentor. Mary Ann has a few young ladies that assist as she pulls wheelbarrows and shovels or rakes muck, while sharing words of encouragement. When Mary Ann is running the stall maintenance, she teaches the kids science and communications skills.

Bio: Mary Ann and her husband have three young adults at home and can often be found either at the SRD Ranch or the ice rink where both sons play hockey for the LA Kings Santa Clarita Team. Currently employed in Glendora, CA, Mary Ann is the chief nursing officer for Prime Healthcare Glendora Community Hospital. Her career in the healthcare field has been extensive from serving as the director of operations/director of Nursing Services with Acute Dialysis Services, Inc., to being responsible for nursing services and operations: Intensive Care, Medical-Surgical/Telemetry Unit, Emergency Services, Senior Mental Health, and Surgery for the 128-bed facility. In addition, Mary Ann has provided oversight to Social Services, Utilization Review, Cardiopulmonary Services, Dietary, Performance Improvement/Risk Management, Dialysis, Speech Therapy, Clinical Education, Infection Control, Physical Therapy, and Employee Health. She is often accompanied at SRD-Straightening Reins by her teenage daughter and her son Dan who is a high school senior.

Jane Bettencourt-Soto, CC,CL

Jane Bettencourt-Soto

Jane Bettencourt-Soto

Retired Logistics Planner

Nominated by Forged by Fire Foundation

Forged by Fire Foundation (3 years)

  • Chief non-profit advisor

Betty Ferguson Foundation (4 years)

  • Executive director

Toastmasters International Valencia (1 year)

  • Competent communicator
  • Competent leader

Other: Leadership Santa Clarita Valley, Community Emergency Response Training, Mental Health First Aid, Nonprofit Management, Monrovia

Organization Impact: Jane has served as primary consultant on nonprofit activities since the foundation’s founding in 2014. She has been instrumental in setting realistic financial and operational goals and has consistently provided direction on grants, volunteer opportunities, and potential clientele for the foundation.

Bio: Jane is a third-generation volunteer, inspired by her grandmother who was a volunteer for the Red Cross. As a senior in high school, she became the first girl president of the Key Club (Kiwanis). She was recognized in 2016 as an Emerging Leader in The Signal newspaper’s Top 51 Next Level. She describes the common threads in her life as passion, faith, family, and community. Jane and her family moved to the SCV in 1993.

Ann-Marie Bjorkman

Ann-Marie Bjorkman

Ann-Marie Bjorkman

Co-Owner, Homesmart Real Estate

Nominated by The Boys and Girls Club of Santa Clarita Valley

Boys & Girls Club of Santa Clarita Valley (3 years)

  • Chairman of the annual auction
  • Executive committee for Festival of Trees

Legacy Christian Academy

  • Organizer of Auction Gala

Henry Mayo Golf Tournament

  • Organizer of Gala dinner and auction

Senior Center (10 years)

  • Volunteer

Other: Ambassador of the Year at SCV Chamber of Commerce, Single Mothers Outreach, 2020 MOM

Organization Impact: Ann-Marie is a volunteer who immerses herself into any event she is working on, willing to do whatever it takes to get the job done and jumping into the trenches with the staff.  She puts her whole heart into giving back to this organization because she believes in its mission. Ann-Marie has been the standing chairman for the annual Boys & Girls Club Auction. Her efforts not only benefit the club, but the community as a whole, because she helps to provide a safe environment for all children in the valley.

Bio: Ann-Marie Bjorkman was born in Pomona, California to Gary and Linda Masterman and was 1 of 4 children.  At the age of two, her family moved to Valencia.  She is married to Realtor Mike Bjorkman, and has two sons, Andy, 20, and Maximus, 15. A resident of Placerita Canyon for over 15 years, she worked for Waste Management for almost a decade, which eventually led to community involvement and becoming an Ambassador of the Year at the Santa Clarita Valley Chamber of Commerce. Ann-Marie’s sons are the reason behind everything she does and her husband is her guiding light. When the boys started to attend Legacy Christian Academy, Ann-Marie stepped up and helped put on the Auction and Gala at the school.  She soon moved on to volunteering with the Single Mothers Outreach, was a member of the Jaycees, and was on the board of 2020 Mom. Ann-Marie has said that “being able to give back to this amazing community that we all live in is a blessing, and the more we are able to contribute, the better our home will be.”

Marianne Cederlind

Marianne Cederlind

Marianne Cederlind

Senior Vice President/Chief Business Banking Officer, Mission Valley Bank

Nominated by Carousel Ranch

Carousel Ranch (6 years)

  • Board President – serving third two-year term

Los Angeles Police Department’s Foothill Advisory Booster Association

  • Past president

Mission Community Police Council

  • Founder and past director

Zonta Jane Klausman Women in Business Scholarship Committee (2 years)

  • Chair

Other: Canyon Country Little League, Warrior Football, MEND, San Fernando Valley Boys & Girls Club

Organization Impact: Marianne had been on the board of Carousel Ranch for a year and a half when elections came up, and she was asked to become our president. She is currently serving her second term as leader. Marianne has been instrumental in working with the board to increase participation and rally together as a team to accomplish the major tasks at hand. Right before she became president, Carousel Ranch was charged with the task of re-opening its capital campaign when given a lead gift of $75,000 on the condition that needed to be matched. Marianne led the organization through the campaign resulting in the opening of covered arena. With the completion of this phase, Marianne began focusing on the program’s future, leading the board through two Strategic Planning Processes, the results of which have caused a huge increase in the number of children served as well as the revenue to support the growth.  Marianne is determined to bring Carousel Ranch to the next level, creating longterm sustainability and continued growth in the years to come.

Bio: Marianne Cederlind began her career in banking in 1979 at Manufacturer’s Bank, serving in operational and lending functions. In 1981, she joined American Pacific State Bank through its acquisition of one of the banking branches of Manufacturer’s Bank. Marianne served as a commercial lender prior to her promotion to branch manager of the Sun Valley office. In 1988, she was promoted to senior vice president and branch administrator, overseeing the eight branches of a $450-million bank. She continued serving as senior vice president when City National Bank acquired American Pacific State Bank in 1999. An opportunity arose to open an independently owned community bank in Sun Valley, and Marianne became one of the founders and executive officers of Mission Valley Bank.  During the early years, in addition to serving as a full-time commercial lender and business development officer, she oversaw the branch operations and marketing, as well as assisting in finance and credit administration responsibilities. Marianne currently serves as executive vice president/ chief business banking officer. She has a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from the University of Phoenix, and is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin’s Graduate School of Banking.

Tami Edwards

Tami Edwards

Tami Edwards

Realtor, Homesmart Real Estate

Nominated by Rotary Club of Santa Clarita Valley

Rotary Club of Santa Clarita Valley (1 year)

  • Cashier, Peach Cobbler booth at Hart Park Pow Wow
  • Community Service Committee
  • Club Service Committee

Circle of Hope (4 Years)

  • Executive Board

SCV 4th of July Parade Committee (5 years)

Others: Dancing with Our Stars, Hart District Advisory Committee, “Harts of Gold” Special Achievement Award Recipient, 38th Assembly District Woman of the Year, 2016

Organization Impact: Although Tami has been a member of our Rotary Club less than one year, she began volunteering for service projects and committees as soon as she was inducted. She acted as cashier for two days at our Peach Cobbler Event at the Pow Wow at Hart Park, has helped with meeting set up and presentations, and has already committed to being our Community Service chairman for the coming year.  In addition to her volunteer service, Tami has contributed financially to local Rotary service projects and to projects serving the global community through Rotary International. Her contributions were essential to our club receiving recognition from our Rotary District as a 100 percent “Paul Harris Club” and recognition for the “Every Rotarian Every Year” program.  Tami’s lifetime of experience and knowledge of our community is an asset to our club serving others and exemplifying the Rotary Motto, Service Above Self.

Bio: Tami was born and raised in the Santa Clarita Valley and devotes much of her time and energy to our community. A mother of four and a Realtor with Homesmart, Tami is a leader in the Santa Clarita Valley community. She has offered her time over the years to numerous organizations such as the Circle of Hope, the Hart District Advisory Committee, the 4th of July Parade Committee, and SCVTV, a local nonprofit community television station through which she has created and produced a local talk show to promote all Santa Clarita nonprofits. Tami has taken an active role in promoting Rotary to the community. In 2016, Assemblyman Scott Wilk named Tami the 38th District Woman of the Year for her work with the SCV nonprofits through her television show, SCV Today.

Diane Green

Diane Green

Diane Green

Homemaker

Nominated by SCV Disaster Coalition

Santa Clarita Valley Disaster Coalition (13 years)

  • Co-Founder
  • Financial and medical advisor to affected families
  • Agency liaison

Michael Hoefflin Foundation

  • Volunteer
  • Evening Under the Stars fundraising

Grace Resources

  • Dental work

Others: Homeless Veterans, Ventura Sand Down, Beit ‘T Shiva Drug Rehab, Culver City

Organization Impact: Diane was one of the original creators of the coalition, when she and Jeri Seratti-Goldman came up with the idea 13 years ago during severe flooding in the Santa Clarita Valley. Diane was instrumental in the formation of the organization. She has been a steady volunteer through numerous disasters and projects. Over the years, Diane has been the organization’s lead to work with local families who are victims of disasters, particularly regional floods and fires. In many cases, this is working with families for many years as they try to rebuild their lives. Her work encompasses not just the emotional, medical and financial, she also assists with their navigation between agencies and the thousands of challenges that pop up. Diane has been a critical component to the Santa Clarita Disaster Coalition, devoting thousands of her personal hours to working directly with local victims. In addition to her efforts with the Santa Clarita Coalition, Diane has also volunteered for the Michael Hoefflin Foundation. She and her husband Neal also lead a program that provides free dental care to low-income families in Santa Clarita, and in the Antelope Valley. They also are part of an annual trip to Central America providing free dental care.

Sandra Ann Hardy

Sandra Ann Hardy

Sandra Ann Hardy

EMT, Universal Studios

Nominated by Girl Scouts of Greater Los Angeles, Santa Clarita

Girl Scouts of Greater Los Angeles (16 years)

  • Troop leader
  • Service Unit training coordinator
  • Outdoor Program Go Team leader
  • Certified Red Cross trainer
  • Gold Award Mentor
  • Curriculum Go Team member
  • Health & Safety Go Team member

Organization Impact: Sandra’s passion to provide outdoor education for volunteers and girls motivates her work in consolidating a wide variety of perspectives while also developing the indoor Overnight and Camping Skills programs, manuals, and training power points. Additionally, Sandra spearheaded efforts to coordinate and ensure all sites used for camping skill training have the same and complete sets of training materials. She is an engaging instructor who keeps volunteers enthused and appreciative of their training experience..

Bio: Sandra is a married mother of two adult children and currently lives in Valencia with her husband Yves. She was born in Canada and grew up in and out of the foster care system. In early 2000, Sandra and her family immigrated to the United States, settling in the SCV. Sandra has volunteered in her children’s school on a regular basis. She has been an executive board member of PTA and a Girl Scout troop leader from 2001 to 2014. She has remained highly involved and active volunteering at the service unit level assisting in a variety of tasks to provide support for other leaders in the area. Her passion for the outdoors provided her with the desire and drive to encourage other volunteers. When her children left for college, Sandra trained as an EMT so she could become a member of the Red Cross Disaster Response team.

Tracy Hauser

Tracy Hauser

Tracy Hauser

Broker Associate, Cobalt Realty

Nominated by SCV Senior Center

SCV Senior Center (15 years)

  • Celebrity Waiter Committee and Co-Chair
  • Touch-A-Truck Event Committee
  • Canyon High School & SCV Senior Center Recycling Program

Single Mothers Outreach (20 years)

  • Fund-raising volunteer

Zonta Club of Santa Clarita Valley (15 years)

  • Fund-raising: sponsorships

Bark for Life (3 years)

  • Fund-raising

Sulphur Springs Elementary School (6 years)  

  • Mommy and Me preschool volunteer

Pinetree Elementary School (7 years)

  • Volunteer

SCV Education Foundation (2 years)

  • Fundraising Habitat for Humanity (5 years)
  • Fundraising
  • House building

Organization Impact: Tracy has significantly contributed to the success of the SCV Senior Center’s mission of promoting quality of life for seniors. She is always eager to volunteer whenever needed at any event, fund-raiser, brainstorming session, or any additional need. She has been an active supporter of Celebrity Waiter, which raises operational funds to support programs and services for seniors; Touch-A-Truck which raises awareness about the SCV Senior Center and gives back to the community that support our organization annually; and Dancing with Our Stars, which allows for financial support and recognition within the Santa Clarita Valley. She was a supporter of Hurricane Katrina victims, feeding homeless, assisting those that lost their homes.

Bio: Tracy was born in Germany in 1958 where her dad was serving in the U.S. Army. Both parents are American citizens. She grew up in the west end of the San Fernando Valley in Woodlands Hills; graduated from El Camino High School in 1976; and attended Pierce College. She was 5 months pregnant with her son Kenny when she moved to SCV in 1982 with her first husband and daughter Ashley. Tracy started her real estate career in 1986 and had her third child, Bailey, in 1988.  In 1990, she was a single mom of three young children and working in a 7-days-a-week business. In 1993, she married Lloyd Hauser. Their daughter Angela was born in 1994. Tracy will soon be the proud grandmother of six grandkids. In April of 2013, she started a new real estate company, Cobalt Realty Group, with a couple of partners.

Pam Ingram

Pam Ingram

Pam Ingram

Realtor, RE/MAX of Santa Clarita

Nominated by Soroptimist International of Greater Santa Clarita Valley

Soroptimist International GSV (17 years)

  • President
  • Chair, the Wine Affair
  • Parliamentarian
  • Vice president of programs
  • Auction chair
  • Co-chair fashion show and silent auction

Soroptimist International of Santa Clarita Valley

  • President
  • Chair, the Wine Affair
  • Parliamentarian

Child and Family Center (2 years)

  • Co Chair of Harvest Ride
  • Advisory Board

Betty Ferguson Foundation

  • President
  • Co-Chair, Woman of the Year

Winter Task Force Shelter Committee

  • Committee member

Santa Clarita Valley Chamber of Commerce (7 years)

  • Board of Directors
  • Chairman of the Board
  • Vice Chair of Events
  • Co-Chair of Membership

Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital

  • Cultivation Committee

Organization Impact: Pam’s passion and commitment to the vision of the organization was the catalyst for one of the best presidential years with SIGSCV, having been awarded top honors at the yearly convention including the Prestigious Governor’s Award. Following that, Pam chaired The Wine Affair which was the largest fund-raiser to date, netting over $52,000.  She continues to support all committees with her volunteerism.  Her enthusiasm has helped to bring our membership to over 75 members.  Pam contributed monthly towards the Laurel Society program which gives back monetarily to its annual program awardees.

Bio: Pam and her husband Steve were married in 1972 and first moved to Santa Clarita Valley in 1974. They have one son, Christopher, born in 1976, married to wife Elise. They have 4 grandkids. Pam started volunteering back in the early ‘80s when Chris attended Chaminade College Preparatory where she was on the fund-raising committee and served as PTA president. She is one of the top Realtors working at RE/MAX of Santa Clarita and is a member of the RE/MAX Hall of Fame and the Lifetime Achievement Award.  Pam embarked on a career in real estate in 1994. Pam is a member of Soroptimist International of Greater Santa Clarita Valley and a previous member of Soroptimist International of Santa Clarita Valley and has held many offices including president, 2014-2015. Pam attends most charitable events in the community and tries to participate whenever possible. She participates in local charities and civic associations and organizations such as Walk to End Alzheimer’s, Light the Night, Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, American Cancer Society Relay for Life, Boys & Girls Club of Santa Clarita Valley, Carousel Ranch, Helmer’s Elementary School Parents Association, Old Orchard PTSA, the Special Olympics, and the Senior Center. She was awarded the Carmen Sarro Award by Zonta International of Santa Clarita Valley in 2015. For many years, Pam owned a moving van that was used by her clients and was also used by nonprofits in Santa Clarita Valley such as American Cancer Society, Relay for Life, Betty Ferguson Foundation, Boys & Girls Club of SCV, Carousel Ranch, Helmer’s Elementary School Parents Association, Old Orchard PTSA, the Special Olympics, and the Senior Center.

Janine Jones

Janine Jones

Janine Jones

Licensed Cosmetologist

Nominated by American Cancer Society, Inc.

American Cancer Society (9 years)

  • Leadership Council Volunteer Co-lead – 3 years
  • Health Fair Facilitator
  • Open House Committee
  • Bark For Life Committee – 2 years
  • Chair, Imagine More Birthday’s Gala 2011
  • Relay Committee – 9 years
  • Relay Recruitment Chair
  • Luminaria Chair Relay – 4 years
  • Creator of new Luminaria fund-raiser entitled Luminaria Art Contest – 2 years
  • ACS CAN Activist – 8 years
  • Bras for a Cause: Created 2016 entry
  • ACS Representative Soroptimist International Bras For A Cause – featured speaker
  • Host, 2015 Volunteer Recognition Awards Reception
  • Cancer Prevention Study-3 (CPS-3) Facilitator and Committee Chair
  • Look Good Feel Better (LGFB) Facilitator – 4 years
  • Cancer Awareness & Resource Expo (C.A.R.E.) Committee (ACS booth)
  • Caring/Sharing Christmas Festival/Donation Booth
  • Represents ACS at community events, boutiques, fund-raisers, and health fairs
  • Supports ACS wig program with cutting/styling wigs for patients
  • Relay For Life Committee Volunteer Chair – 2 years
  • Recipient Heather Warrick Legacy Award 2016
  • Recipient Special Recognition Award 2011
  • Recipient Rookie of the Year Award 2009

American Diabetes Association (5 years)

  • 2015 Dancing With Our Stars American Diabetes Association (ADA) representative dancer.
  • Fund-raising host  
  • Sixteen years as ADA advocate, team participant, and event volunteer for “Diabetes Walk.”

Soroptimist International of Greater SCV (13 years)

  • 2017 Assistant, Fashion Show hair, make-up, costumes, and decorations
  • 2016 Chair of the Hair and Make-Up committee for the Fashion Show fundraiser
  • Committee member, GO GIRLS
  • Designer of a bra to be auctioned each year at “Bras for a Cause”

College of the Canyon Foundation (11 years)

  • 2017 CARE committee member (Cancer Awareness Recourse Expo)
  • 2006-2017 scholarship donor

Betty Ferguson Foundation (2 years)  

  • Board of Directors, two years.
  • Fundraising committee member
  • Facilitator, Vine 2 Wine fundraising event.
  • Facilitator, Women of Honor dinner.
  • Dancing with our Stars dancer
  • Class instructor for teenage girls

L.A.R.C. Ranch (2 years)

  • Volunteer Fund-raiser for the Annual L.A.R.C. Ranch’s Christmas show
  •  Teacher, tap and ballet.

St. Clare Catholic Church (5 years)

  • Fifth- and sixth-grade teacher for CCD for two years.
  • Founder, Mothers’ Play Group at Saint Kateri Catholic Church.
  • Formed a weekly Prayer Group

Santa Clarita Ballet Academy (11 years)

  • Parent Advisory Committee member
  • Fund-raising •

Coordinator, silent auctions and associated responsibilities

Santa Clarita Elementary School PTC (5 years)

  •  Board  member
  •  Co-assistant chair for the year-end carnival and auction.
  • Teacher, The Great Works of Art

Other: HMNMH’s Women’s Philanthropy Advisory Council, Painted Turtle Camp, Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital Foundation, SCV Boys and Girls Club, SCV Senior Center, SCV Homeless Shelter, Saugus High Booster Club

Organization Impact: Janine Jones has made it a mission in her life to help educate individuals, businesses, schools, churches and other organizations. She strives to make a positive impact on the people and organizations in the Santa Clarita Valley using her knowledge and passion to promote cancer awareness regarding health, wellness, and the free services that American Cancer Society provides in our community to cancer patients, survivors and their families. Janine is a veteran volunteer fighting for a cure on behalf of our organization. Janine instills a sense of community to all volunteers and leverages resources to benefit the mission of our organization.

Laina McFerren

Laina McFerren

Laina McFerren

Founder and Co-Owner, Wolf Creek Brewing Company

Nominated by Child & Family Center

Child & Family Center Foundation (12 years)

  • Board of Directors; member (12 years)
  • Board of Directors, Chair: 2012-2013
  • Executive Committee (10 years)
  • Taste of the Town Co-Chair (3 years)
  • Taste of the Town Committee (12 years)
  • Taste of the Town Exhibitor (19 years)
  • Guardians of Hope Committee (1 year)
  • Kid Expo Committee (9 years)
  • Santa Clarita Jazz Festival Committee (3 years)
  • Installation Committee (10 years)
  • Golf Committee (5 years)
  • Adopt-A-Family Project (3 years)
  • Dancing with Our Stars Committee (2 years)
  • Attendee, Annenberg Foundation Alchemy leadership workshops

Child & Family Center

  • Board of Directors (1 year)
  • 35th Anniversary Committee

SCV American Red Cross Foundation (3 years)

  • Board member
  • Volunteer of the Year, 2002

College of the Canyons Foundation (3 years)

  • Board of Directors
  • Culinary Advisory Board, 2005-present
  • Patrons of the Performing Arts Committee – 2015 to present
  • Social Committee for Outreach

United States Figure Skating Association – SCV Chapter (11 years)

Mountainview School Career Day (11 Years)

  • Committee member

Los Angeles Brewers Guild 501(c)(3) (2 years)

  • Member
  • Board secretary

Others: Carousel Ranch, SRD-Straightening Reins, Circle of Hope, Betty Ferguson Foundation,Vine 2 Wine, Soroptimist International, SOAR  Mardi Gras Madness race, Wine in the Pines, VIA – Connecting to Success Committee

Organization Impact: Laina McFerren has worked countless hours volunteering in a variety of different projects for Child & Family Center.  In addition, she has donated products from her business to ensure success for other nonprofit organizations. In 2016, she created “Community Pints” at her Brewery, donating a portion of the proceeds from four nights each month to a different charity each month. Taste of the Town would not be the successful and popular event without the wisdom and guidance Laina brings to the effort on an annual basis.

Bio: Laina McFerren has a degree in communications from UCLA. She met her husband, Rob, while working at the Cheesecake Factory in Marina Del Rey. The couple married and moved to the SCV in 1992, where they live with their two daughters, Mandee, now 22 and a senior at UCSB, and Gillian, 17, a junior at Valencia High School. What began as a Christmas gift to her husband, a home brew beer-making machine, led to an incredible local business, Wolf Creek Brewing Company, opened in 1997. The couple recently added a brewery to create their popular beer.  Laina has combined her entrepreneurial spirit for business and her belief and efforts in volunteerism to make Santa Clarita a better place to live and work.

Gloria Mercado-Fortine

Gloria Mercado-Fortine

Gloria Mercado-Fortine

Chief Executive Officer, Global Education Solutions

Nominated by Samuel Dixon Family Health Centers, Inc.

Samuel Dixon Family Health Centers (10 years)

  • Chair of Board of Directors
  • Rubber Ducky Festival committee

SCV Boys & Girls Club (23 years)

  • Board of directors
  • Vice president, Programs
  • Youth Scholarship committee
  • Creating Great Futures Program volunteer

Child & Family Center (12 years)

  • Chair, Client Services
  • Board of Directors secretary

Valley Industry Association (3 years)

  • Executive committee
  • Board of Directors
  • Co-chair VIA Bash
  • Connecting to Success and Leadership Series volunteer

City of Santa Clarita Anti-Gang Task Force (19 years)

  • Hero of Week volunteer
  • Teens on Target
  • Graffiti Removal

SCV Fourth of July Parade (19 years)

  • Committee member
  • Announcer

YMCA of Santa Clarita Valley (8 years)

  • Board member
  • Advisory Board

College of the Canyons (18 years)

  • Friends of the College donor
  • Culinary Arts Campaign
  • Student Scholarships
  • Library Associates
  • Silver Spur committee

Providence Health System (12 years)

  • Board member
  • Medical Board member

Zonta Club of SCV (35 years)

  • Past president
  • Chair, Young Women in Public Affairs
  • Chair, Healthy Kids Club of Val Verde
  • Rent-a-Santa

SCV Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (5 years)

  • Chair, Light the Night

SCV Latino Chamber of Commerce (4 years)

  • Board of directors
  • Co-Chair, Gala
  • Student Scholarship

SCV American Cancer Society (12 years)

  • Founding president
  • Co-founder of SCV Unit
  • Founder, Relay for Life Luminaria Ceremony

Aid to Victims of Domestic Violence (8 years)

  • Board member
  • New Year’s Gala committee
  • Programs

Hart High School District (16 years)

  • Governing Board

Castaic Union School District (10 years)

  • Governing Board

Castaic Town Council Founding Member (4 years)

Others: L.A. County Probation Dept. Volunteers, Flying Samaritans, SCV Youth Project, SCV Theatre Guild, SCV Chamber of Commerce, Measures M, V, and SA Bond committees, Girl Scouts, Veterans Advocacy Network, Michael Hoefflin Foundation, SCV Senior Center

Organization Impact: Gloria’s passion and leadership at Samuel Dixon Family Health Centers have helped guide the organization in obtaining the designation of a Federally Qualified Health Center, securing both federal and local grants, and establishing collaborative relationships with other local nonprofits serving the disadvantaged community. She has also helped to expand accessibility and services at the Newhall and Canyon Country locations. With Gloria’s leadership, SDFHC continues to provide quality comprehensive healthcare, dental, and mental health services to the uninsured and under-insured population of the Santa Clarita Valley serving over 4,000 patients and providing over 11,000 appointments annually.

Bio: As a life-long resident, Gloria’s roots run deep in the SCV. She has been an active member of the community and has demonstrated a life-time commitment to public service and volunteerism. She has been a powerful advocate for education and a role model for young people in both her professional and personal life. Gloria is a graduate of the William S. Hart School District and holds a unique place in the district’s history as the only alumna to have taught for the Hart district and been elected to the school board. Gloria served four terms as a publicly elected official of the district’s governing board. Prior to serving there, she served on the Castaic Union School District board and was a founding member of the Castaic Town Council. Her 30-year career in education included positions as teacher, counselor, principal, and assistant superintendent including working in the second largest school district in the county, the LAUSD, where she supervised 125 schools and a budget of over $200 million. Currently she is the chief executive of Global Education Solutions, Inc,. working statewide to train future leaders, transform education, and improve school environments. Gloria holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Cal State Northridge, a Masters of Science Degree, School Administration and Management from Pepperdine University, and a Masters of Science from LaVerne University in educational psychology. She also holds a Masters in Governance from the California School Boards Association. Gloria has taught as an adjunct professor at Cal State Los Angeles, Mission College, and College of the Canyons. She enjoys spending her leisure time with her family, friends, her husband Bruce, and their border collie, Lexi.

Janice Murray

Janice Murray

Janice Murray

Retired

Nominated by Circle of Hope, Inc.

Circle of Hope (6.5 years)

  • Vice president
  • Secretary
  • Event chair
  • Public Relations ambassador
  • Vine2Wine auction fundraising
  • Afternoon Tea volunteer for silent auction and raffle

Pinecrest School

  • Field trip chaperone
  • Fall Festival auction chair
  • Jump for Heart and Hoops (American Heart Association)

Providence Holy Cross (5 years)

  • Executive Board
  • South Tower Expansion fund-raiser

SCV Disaster Preparedness Coalition

  • Founding member

SCV Boys & Girls Club

  • Board member
  • Co-chair, Festival of Trees

Organization Impact: Janice adds ethics, loyalty, and compassion to her participation in Circle of Hope activities. She sits on every committee and is always the first to say, “Yes.” She contributes hours of organization to the fund-raising involved in Vine2Wine and the Afternoon Tea. Janice also provides insight and common sense to strategic planning. She has been deeply affected by cancer and is committed to helping those in the community who need assistance while fighting the disease.

Bio: Janice left the corporate life in 1993 and moved to the Sand Canyon area to raise a family. By 1998, she was volunteering and chaperoning field trips at Pinecrest School Canyon Country campus where her daughters attended. In 2006, she was asked to chair the auction for the school’s annual Fall Festive and managed the event until 2008, then volunteered to take over the administration of the finances of Jump for Heart and Hoops for the American Heart Association at that campus. In 2003, Janice began hosting a live radio show on KHTS to highlight local nonprofits. During and after her mother’s and older sister’s success in overcoming breast cancer, Janice became passionate about finding ways to give back and to help others battling the disease. Since joining the board of Circle of Hope, she has been dedicated to “making a difference today, for a brighter future tomorrow.”

Susan Reynolds

Susan Reynolds

Susan Reynolds

Career Development, Hart High School District

Nominated by Boy Scouts of America and Domestic Violence Center of the Santa Clarita Valley

Boy Scouts of America (30 years collectively, 7 years SCV)

  • Den Founder
  • Den Mother
  • Cub master
  • Merit Badge Coach
  • Troop and District Committees
  • Emcee
  • Leaders of Character Committee

SCV Domestic Violence Center (5 years)

  • Acting President
  • Executive Board
  • Events Committees
  • Mentor
  • Organizer, Dream It, Be It Conference for girls

State of California Office of Emergency Services (5 years)

  • Civilian Search
  • Dog Handler
  • Demonstrator
  • Exhibition Speaker

Valley Industry Association (11 years)

  • Leadership Program Chair
  • Chair, Students Teaming to Achieve
  • Education Committee
  • Leadership Speaker and Recruiter

Soroptimist Int’l. of the Americas (12 years)

  • President
  • Publicity Chair
  • SIGSCV Club President
  • Secretary
  • Director
  • Laurel Society member

SCV Chamber (10 years)

  • Board member
  • Ambassador
  • Membership/Recruitment/Retention
  • Leadership Program
  • Special Recognition Award

Circle of Hope (2 years)

  • Advisory Board
  • Dancing with OurStars Fund-Raising Contestant

Zonta (6 years)

  • Coach, hope and career skills for disadvantaged women
  • Life Forward speaker
  • Carmen Sarro Women in Service Award

Others: 4H, Habitat for Humanity, Newhall Trail Riders, SCV Senior Center, Wiley Canyon Adult Day Care, SCV Education Foundation, College of the Canyons, Association of Women Entrepreneurs, Castaic Lake Water Agency, HMNH, SCV Jaycees, First Lego League Robotics, City of Santa Clarita

Organization Impact: When she was Soroptimist president, Sue strongly advocated for the support of the Domestic Violence Center of Santa Clarita. She not only engages in awareness programs that enlighten and teach empowering strategies to vulnerable teen girls, but is one of the planners and speakers at the Dream It, Be It Conference for girls. As president she also has concern for prevention of violence through education and empowerment of women and men, girls and boys. Sue shares her connections to help Scouts to raise funds and serve kids. She is a passionate “cheerleader” who believes that Scouts can save lives, help single-moms to find leadership for their sons, and keep aimless kids off the streets steering them to outdoor fun, adventure, learning and companionship. She teaches the kids about Search & Rescue, and hounds her community contacts for attendance at, and donations to, Scout events.

Bio: Soon after high school graduation, Susan’s work for large and small companies began with the Illinois Department of Corrections doing illustrations for prisoner-teaching materials. After studying communications and graphics at Indiana University, she moved into corporate marketing communications. She has been an executive speech writer, corporate trainer, executive image coach, and communications consultant. She has now managed the messages of executives as they’ve grown companies, closed plants, broken ground, and rallied the troops, while becoming a highly developed corporate trainer herself. She writes on the subjects of organizational and career development as well as corporate politics.  Sue has been a part of the Santa Clarita Valley business and non-profit communities for over a decade with NewMarket Careers, and currently brings her career development skills to the Hart School District to assist SCV youth in productively enter the workforce. She has mentored and conducted presentations for area high school students, having participated in developing career curriculum for VIA Connect 2 Success that began with the SCV School & Business Alliance and Junior Achievement, as well as COC/Workforce. As a mother of an Eagle Scout, Sue is invested in the concept and values of Scouting — for boys and girls. Graduating from den mother and cub master to champion of fund-raising, Sue also participates in social media efforts for the Scout District. In her spare time, Sue rides her palomino mare. Now a widow, her family includes son, Ransom, and grandson, Alexander, as well as a number of dogs and cats, including doberman Nüdel who is certified as a therapy dog and as a Cal-EMA Search and Rescue dog. Susan is a certified first-responder Wilderness First Aid / American Red Cross Emergency Medical Responder.

Christine Sarro Sexton

Christine Sarro Sexton

Christine Sarro Sexton

Realtor, Realty Executives of Valencia

Nominated by Zonta Club of Santa Clarita Valley

Zonta Club (25 years)

  • Assisted in the development of LifeForward and served on committee for 10 years
  • Served on every committee over the past 25 years
  • Women in Service
  • Nominating committee
  • Community Grants
  • Chair, Healthy Women’s Day
  • Chair, Sunshine
  • Chair, Communications

Boys and Girls Club (41 years)

  • Auction Volunteer

Henry Mayo Home Tour (25 years)

  • Volunteer
  • Helped staff homes

Senior Center (9 years)

  • Golf Tournament
  • Wine events
  • Celebrity Waiter

City of Santa Clarita (17 years)

  • River Rally
  • Make a Difference Day
  • Cowboy Festival

Child & Family Center (7 years)

  • Taste of the Town, check in
  • Child Expo

Grace Baptist Church (5 years)

  • Bi-Monthly volunteer in food pantry
  • Program/event planner, Hathaway Children Home

SCV Pregnancy Center – Walk for Life (16 years)

  • Team Walker
  • Fund-raiser

Others: Realtor sponsored Child Spree School Clothes Give Away, Realtor sponsored Burrito Bowl, DCFS Foster Care children clothing giveaway

Organization Impact: Christine is a member who gets things done, quickly and effectively. She always has a positive can-do attitude and is the ultimate team player.  She truly loves this community and is always looking for ways to help, maintain and enhance the quality of life that we have in the Santa Clarita Valley. Christine is a dedicated volunteer to many diverse organizations over numerous years. She is dedicated, steadfast and consistent. Christine has led weekly women’s group at her church for over 10 years. She teaches life skills, “How to overcome Depression,” at the “Dave Ramsey Financial Peace University.” Christine is a huge supporter of the Canyon Theatre Guild and the Arts District where she has been volunteering and fundraising for since 1985.

Bio: Christine Sarro Sexton was born in New York City.  When she was 10 years old, Christine moved to Valencia with her parents and three brothers. During the next 10 years she graduated from Hart High school, studied psychology at College of the Canyons, and got married.  Starting in her early teen years Christine shadowed her mother Carmen in her efforts to make the Santa Clarita Valley a great place to live. She volunteered at her first Boys and Girls Club Auction when she was 16 years old. She helped fund-raise for the newly formed Canyon Theatre Guild, and continues to be involved today. Christine waitressed at “Build a New Hospital” events. Her daughter Katrina is a nurse at the very hospital where she was born and where her grandma volunteered for over 30 years. In 1988, Christine got her Real Estate license and has worked full time since then, continuing to serve both homeowners and non-profits. In 1992, Christine joined Zonta Club of Santa Clarita Valley – led by her mother’s example. In addition to being a long-time church member, Christine is involved with the Cancer Society Relay for Life, Bridge to Home and the SCV Pregnancy Center. While her partner, Ray has been home disabled for many years, he is a great supporter of her volunteer work. Christine says that she is blessed to live  work, and play in the Santa Clarita Valley for 47 years, and that she will continue to serve as long as she is needed.

Doris Marie Zimmer

Doris Marie Zimmer

Doris Marie Zimmer

Retired

Nominated by College of the Canyons Foundation

College of the Canyons Foundation (12 years)

  • Foundation Board Chair
  • Co-chair of the Board Development Committee
  • Chair of the Strategic Planning Committee
  • Member of the Planned Giving Committee
  • Member of the Executive Committee
  • Member of Finance Committee
  • Member of the Culinary Arts Campaign Committee
  • Member of the Patrons of the Performing Arts Committee
  • Member of the Early Childhood Circle of Friends
  • Participant in the Dancing with Our Stars competition

Others: Betty Ferguson Foundation, Child & Family Center, National Charity League, Ventura Art Assn, PTA, Rural Health Assn, California-Mexico Border Health Assn, Clinicas de Salud de los Campesinos Unidos

Organization Impact: Doris Marie exemplifies what College of the Canyons is all about. She went back to school later in life, juggling the responsibilities of work and family to complete her Master’s Degree through the University Center. She is an example of perseverance for students who find themselves in similar situations. Her willingness to help is evident in all that she does for College of the Canyons. She has provided leadership for the Foundation Board retreats, providing board members with the necessary training and skills they need to become effective volunteers. Her efforts have resulted in a more engaged, energized, and motivated group of volunteers reflecting the success the Foundation has experienced during her tenure as board chair. Under her leadership, the Foundation has generated substantial resources to support the campaign for the college’s new Culinary Arts building as well as student scholarships. Her strategic thinking and vision has provided the leadership in the development of a new strategic plan allowing the Foundation to become more focused on fund-raising priorities. In addition, she raised over $10,000 in the “Dancing with Our Stars” event in support of the college’s K-12 Arts Education initiative.

Do you have a news tip? Call us at (661) 298-1220, or drop us a line at community@hometownstation.com.

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Meet The 2017 Santa Clarita Valley Man, Woman Of The Year Nominees

One comment

  1. Congratulations to all the nominees!

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