SLO names Citizen of Year who is ‘always giving 110%.’ Here’s why she won
Longtime community leader Mary Verdin was announced as San Luis Obispo’s 2024 Citizen of the Year.
The community leader earned the title during the San Luis Obispo Chamber of Commerce‘s annual dinner Saturday night, according to a news release.
Nearly 600 were in attendance as Verdin received the Chamber’s “most prestigious” honor for those who have devoted their lives to service and the San Luis Obispo community.
“Mary has had a profoundly positive effect on our region for more than three decades,” the release said. “In every aspect of her life — professional, volunteer or caring friend — she has improved lives and made our community a better place to live, work and play.”
For over a decade, Verdin, the chief executive officer of her namesake marketing firm, Verdin Marketing, has donated the company’s time and resources to raise over $800,000 in donated services for local nonprofits, the release said.
A close friend of Verdin’s, David Junke, spoke about her leadership and generosity in giving back to the San Luis Obispo community.
“The determination and spirit through which she gives is done with genuine warmth and enthusiasm,” Junke said in the release. “Always giving 110%, the volunteerism organized by Mary never fails to bring people together toward a greater purpose.”
Why was SLO Citizen of the Year chosen?
Verdin has “the biggest heart for this community,” said Michelle Starnes, a colleague from Verdin Marketing.
Over the course of more than three decades of living in San Luis Obispo, Verdin has held various leadership and board positions, highlighting her commitment to the community.
To name a few, she has served on the Women’s Legacy Fund Advisory Committee, Assistance League Advisory Committee, Rotary Club of San Luis Obispo de Tolosa and the SLO Chamber of Commerce, according to the release.
On top of that, Verdin’s service accolades included Outstanding Dedicated Service and Support, Cuesta College Women of Distinction and the President’s Award for Philanthropic Leadership, according to the release.
“When I moved to San Luis Obispo in 1991, I was so fortunate to get involved with the community”, Verdin said when accepting her award. “I’m so honored to be a part of all the role models, mentors and friends who have won this award before me.”
