On May 7, Assemblyman Bill Emmerson, R-Redlands, honored 63 women from the 63rd District (San Bernardino and Riverside counties) to celebrate Women's History Month.  The women were nominated by their peers as "Woman of Distinction" for their dedication and service to their community.  Among the exceptional ladies honored for 2009 was FUSD's own Bernadette Gallagher. 

Superintendent Cali Olsen-Binks, who was honored as a "Woman of Distinction" in 2007, stated, "Bernie Gallagher is a perfect example of what makes Fontana a great place!"  Mrs. Gallagher has worked for the Fontana Unified School District for the past fifteen years and is a Community Liaison in our Child Welfare and Attendance department.  Her daily work takes her into the homes of elementary children who are struggling with attendance issues. 

Roni Lorneli, the Executive Director of Shoes That Fit, an organization that provides new shoes to children in need, nominated Ms. Gallagher as a "Woman of Distinction" for her work with the organization.  According to Ms. Lorneli, "Working with families in strife and distress on a daily basis is often emotionally demanding but Bernadette's passion for children keeps a smile on her face and her spirits high.  She continues to find new ways of reaching out to the community to aide in her efforts of giving the children in Fontana what they need from basic necessities like new shoes and socks, clothes, backpacks and school supplies, just to mention a few."

"It is a privilege to recognize these remarkable women who have gone above and beyond the call of duty to help others," Assemblyman Emmerson said.  "They have truly made a positive impact in their community and deserve to be recognized.  Even though these woman come from different backgrounds, the one thing they have in common is their ability to inspire others around them."  In typical Bernie fashion, Mrs. Gallagher would only say that "this honor was humbling.  Truly humbling."

In addition to Ms. Gallagher, one other Fontana resident was honored as a "Woman of Distinction."  Joan Geist, president of the Fontana Historical Society, an organization which preserves the history of our city, was recognized for her many years of volunteerism in the community.