Interviewed by Roxana Lucero, Land Stewardship Manager
About Margaret
How long have you lived in the Bay Area?
I was born and raised in east Contra Costa County. In 1979, I graduated from Sacramento State, moved to Brentwood, and began my career in public education. I’ve lived in Brentwood ever since—so over 40 years!
How did you learn about Save Mount Diablo?
My husband, who passed away several years ago, comes from a pioneering family in the Brentwood area. He had been actively involved in land use issues in the Marsh Creek corridor area, as had his grandfather before him. Those activities got him involved in Save Mount Diablo. His passion for this land and his involvement in Save Mount Diablo were things we shared together.
What did you do before you started volunteering for us?
First, I worked as an elementary classroom teacher, then as a school principal. For the last 25 years before my retirement in 2016, I worked as Assistant Superintendent for Educational Services in the Brentwood Union School District. My primary focus was human resources.
How long have you been volunteering with us?
I’ve been volunteering for about 15 years, but retirement has allowed me to become more involved, and I am so happy about that.
What were your reasons for getting involved with Save Mount Diablo?
I think Save Mount Diablo is a remarkable organization. I deeply believe in the land conservation work this organization does. I want to be a part of that work to protect and preserve the lands of Mount Diablo, to feel like I am contributing to the effort in some small way.
About Margaret’s Work
Which Save Mount Diablo programs are you involved in?
I am a member of the Save Mount Diablo Board, and I also serve on the Land Committee. I’m also just beginning new roles on the Executive Committee and the Audit Committee.
What does your volunteer work consist of and what do you like about it?
Besides the roles on the Board and committees, I’ve dabbled in variety of volunteer work—I’ve done all sorts of tasks related to Moonlight on the Mountain—from data entry to event setup to serving as a greeter. I’ve volunteered at the BioBlitz event. I’m involved in the Save Sand Creek campaign work in Antioch, serving on the local committee, doing database work, and walking the pavement. I’ve loved everything! It is so rewarding to be around such a top-notch group of people—employees and fellow volunteers—all sharing in the same efforts.
What is the most challenging project you’ve worked on while volunteering?
Hmmm . . . the most tiring project was the year I volunteered for Moonlight on the Mountain and started work at 7 a.m. and didn’t end until 10:30 p.m. I had to drive down to a public restroom to clean up and change my clothes for the event! I was sure tired that day, but there were so many others who worked as hard or harder than I did that day! The political campaigns have been challenging but in different way—more mental, more strategy—but so fascinating!
What is an especially memorable experience you’ve had as a Save Mount Diablo volunteer?
I’ve enjoyed everything I have been involved with and all the people I have encountered. I think that is my most memorable experience: the smart, dedicated, and hardworking fellow volunteers inspire me so very much! And there are so many more ways to be involved! I’m looking forward to that.
Join Our Volunteer Crew! We Depend on You
Given limited staff, resources, and time, Save Mount Diablo depends on volunteers to take organizational effectiveness from excellent to exceptional. Save Mount Diablo seeks to connect a passionate community to our mission, cultivating a sense of ownership and proficiency in every volunteer position offered.
Whether you want to help with restoration and stewardship, build and maintain trails, help with events, assist in the office, lead hikes, or advocate for us, there’s a place for you. For more information, check out Save Mount Diablo’s volunteer opportunities.
