Reedley College employee wins prestigious award
Lori Bonilla recognized as 2009 Classified Employee of the Year
Lori Bonilla (right) pictured with Reedley College co-worker, Lisa Maciel
For more than 11 years, Lori Bonilla has served Reedley College through her untiring efforts as public information officer. On May 4, the California Community College Board of Governors presented Lori—along with four others from around the state—with the Classified Employee of the Year award. Lori is the first employee from State Center Community College District to receive this prestigious recognition.
“Reedley is not a place where she goes to work. It’s an extension of her family.”
–Teresa Patterson
Whether she’s creating brochures and announcements or planning events, Lori has always been cheerful and dedicated to the students, faculty, and staff of Reedley College. SCCCD Chancellor Dr. Tom Crow, Lori’s former boss, recalls her commitment: “No matter how busy she is, working on many projects at one time, she remembers the mission of the college: student success.”
Among her duties, Lori has organized Kaleidoscope, the annual open house at Reedley College, for the past 11 years. And since 2002, she has been an integral part of the American Cancer Society’s annual Relay for Life, held at the Reedley College track. It has raised more than $150,000 for cancer research and services. It is a cause close to Lori’s heart. She served and participated in memory of her father.
Teresa Patterson (pictured third from the left in the front row) accepting the 2009 Classified Employee of the Year Award on behalf of Lori Bonilla
A year and a half ago, Lori herself was diagnosed with terminal brain cancer. Though she can no longer walk or speak, she remains optimistic and continues to encourage others. Lori now spends most of her time with her mother, Mary, and husband, Danny, as well as her beloved dog Sheba.
“Reedley is not a place where she goes to work,” says Teresa Patterson, Executive Director of Public & Legislative Relations at SCCCD. “It’s an extension of her family.” Reedley College and the SCCCD family won’t soon forget the contributions of Lori Bonilla. As Patterson says, “So much of what happens at Reedley College revolves around the work that Lori has done.”
Editor’s note: Lori Bonilla passed away on May 25, 2009. Remembrances can be made to the Lori Bonilla Scholarship Fund checks payable to the SCCC Foundation, 1525 E. Weldon Ave, Fresno CA 93704.
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I had the privilege to work with Lori from 1998-2001 in the Public Information Office. I was a lost kid taking a class here and there not knowing where I was going. Having photography experience Lori asked me to work with her, little did I know how she would have an impact not only in my life but my family as well. I was hired, learning design along with student assistant grunt work. I believe Lori knew all along she was going to get me back in school. I came to the office one day and Lori had all my paperwork set out and said you’re taking classes cause that’s the only way you can work. I learned so much and was disappointed when I had to leave when I couldn’t take any more classes. At this time my younger sister was just out of high school and only knew of my boss Lori. Walking from the cafeteria (most likely getting her large diet Pepsi with tons of ice) not knowing her Lori stopped her and asked if she was my sister. She answered yes…Lori walked a few steps turned around and offered her a job. This is where my sister excelled and now works public relations and marketing for a book publishing company, still using skills she learned from Lori. After I left the office I was jumping from job to job when I went to visit Lori and it didn’t take long before I was registered back in school and on Saturday I graduated from Fresno State with a degree is Mass Communications and Journalism. I truly believe that without Lori giving me a chance I wouldn’t be where I am now. She always drove in my head it wasn’t how long it took, just do it! When I saw the piece done by Channel 30 I couldn’t stop my eyes from watering. Though the piece spoke of her loyalty to Reedley, there was so much more that could have been said. She truly would go the extra mile for that school. I laughed when Danny mentioned the centerpieces. I sat on the office floor so many times surrounded by babies breath and flowers. I was the one who took the photograph of Lori walking with coach Tessler with the Dr. Crow mask. They say that teachers affect the lives of their students. Though Lori was not a teacher, what I learned from her will affect me more than anything any of my professors ever taught me.
Joseph,
Thank you for sharing your story about Lori. She was a remarkable woman and your experience only reinforces what we all know—she loved people. I wish you the best.
Teresa
Lori was a wonderful young lady and she was such a blessing to have around. She once told me if you ever complained about something needing to be done, that if Dr. Crow overheard, he would tell you to take care of it yourself. And, she did take care of things when she saw the need. She always had a ready smile. Lori will be greatly missed.