Her dossier reads like a “what’s what” of community volunteerism, and last Saturday afternoon, longtime San Marino resident Marilyn Peck was named “Woman of the Year” by Congresswoman Judy Chu for her many contributions to the community.
Peck has served two-year terms as president of both the San Marino Historical Society and the San Marino Garden Club, served three two-year terms as president of the board of trustees for the Crowell Public Library, and is the incoming president of the San Marino Women’s Club.
She has also served on the board of trustees for San Marino’s Old Mill, the Lacy Park Beautification Committee, and was a member of San Marino’s Bicentennial Committee.
Among her most ambitious projects, Peck originated an essay contest in all five schools in San Marino before the Crowell Public Library opened. Members of the board of trustees read 1,600 essays—three times each—before selecting grade level winners. Winning essays were on display on the walls of the new library on opening day.
She also served on the committee establishing the Crain Memorial Art Gallery at the library in memory of the former our city librarian, who lost her battle with cancer.
Peck has also been a fervent guardian of two historic murals that were created on the walls of Stoneman Elementary School by famed artist Lucille Lloyd, who also pained two murals at the state capitol building.
The ceremony was held in the San Marino Center.
“The annual Women of the Year awards ceremony is one of my favorite events of the year,” said Chu, who also noted that she received “a flood” of nominations. “Today’s winners stood out not only because of their work, but because of the admiration from their neighbors and fellow citizens. I’m so proud of these role models and am honored to be recognizing them.”
The award, now in its 10th year, is given to women nominated by members of their own communities.
