UKIAH, Calif. – The month of March is devoted to remembering the achievements of women in the past and celebrating the successes of women today.

On March 29, Mendocino College held the inaugural Women's History Month Luncheon announced Mendocino College Director of Community Relations and Communication, Janelle Bird.

College Assistance Migrant Program, or CAMP, Director Marianna Martinez and Director Janelle Bird established the Mendocino College Wonder Woman Award.

College staff and faculty nominated women in the college community to be considered for the awards.

Four deserving women who are known for always going above and beyond and exemplifying outstanding service and accomplishments were recognized.

Maricela Gallardo was awarded for her outstanding accomplishments as a student at Mendocino College.

Gallardo currently holds a cumulative GPA of 3.68, will complete her associate’s degree in business-accounting in management with the goal of transferring to a four-year university to seek a BA in Behavioral Analysis.

Gallardo is also a mother, and though faced with challenges that could compromise her academic performance and work obligations, she continues to exceed in everything she does at Mendocino College.

Faculty Wonder Woman Machiko Shimada was nominated for her work as a math instructor, math tutor, and assistant/coordinator in the MESA program, along with her behind the scenes support for other events and programs on campus. This work is a true testament to the dedication she has for the students of Mendocino College.

Shimada lost her home in the recent fire in Upper Lake, but continued to come to work to teach and help keep the MESA program running.

Minerva Flores, director of institutional effectiveness, research and grants, was recognized for her vital part in promoting equity, removing barriers for students, supporting best practices for student success, and for her student-centered professional work throughout the state.

Mendocino College has drastically enhanced its grant awards due to Minerva’s hard work and grant writing expertise. She has also played a huge role in the development of the tool the college uses for its program review process, and continues to be an essential element that keeps the college moving forward to implement many new initiatives.

Wonder Woman and custodian Maria Zuniga, who has been with the college for many years, is known for her hard work throughout the day (rain or shine) making sure the campus looks beautiful.

Her pleasant demeanor, exceptional work ethic, and pride in Mendocino College are apparent in all she does. She is a single mom who is strong and has been able to overcome difficult life challenges.

Zuniga appreciates everyone she meets, values the opportunities available at Mendocino College, and is always willing to stop what she is doing to take care of any custodial emergencies.

The award ceremony was preceded by Mendocino College history instructor Neeka Aguirre’s presentation about the extreme struggles women in history faced and the challenges they overcame to advance women’s rights.

Director Bird added, “We were so thrilled to be able to host this event to celebrate the successes of women in our college community. It’s nice to be able to take a short break from our busy schedules to pay tribute to the hard work of our great employees and students. We are looking forward to expanding this event next year!”