Yoneko has demonstrated persistence in all of the roles she has performed as a union member. These roles included building chair, building representative, election committee chair, committee for updating and revising our local’s constitution and bylaws, along with assisting with New Teacher Academy in several ways. One way was creating an easy to use reference tool for new (and veteran) teachers to find answers and resources to many commonly asked questions about our district. She served as our elections chair for several years, organizing materials, educating others on processes, flawlessly running many local elections, training and onboarding new election committee members, and with stepping in whenever there was a void. You will find her throughout the community in her off hours volunteering during Friday Night Lights events, passing out candy during holiday parades, organizing Saginaw Movies Under the Stars, and she has been a vital member of the annual Saginaw Easter Egg Hunt committee. She combines her deep knowledge, sense of humor, unshakable attitude, and her commitment to others into everything she does. She is an unwavering supporter of students, teachers, and the SEA! This nominee would make a great ambassador for the Ruth Ann Knapp award.