John Harabedian and Sheri Bonner (Photo – Office of John Harabedian)
Assemblymember John Harabedian (D-Pasadena) has named Sheri Bonner, CEO of Planned Parenthood Pasadena & San Gabriel Valley (PPPSGV), as Assembly District 41’s Woman of the Year. Bonner was honored Monday afternoon on the Assembly Floor in Sacramento in recognition of her decades-long commitment to healthcare access and advocacy.
By News Desk
Bonner has dedicated 32 years to PPPSGV, serving in a variety of roles before becoming CEO in 2004. In addition to leading the local affiliate, she has played a significant role in Planned Parenthood’s broader network, including serving as Chair of the Affiliate Chief Executives Council and contributing to the California Planned Parenthood Affiliates Education Foundation.
Her work has earned statewide and national recognition. In 2015, Bonner received the Ruth Green Award, the organization’s highest honor, presented annually to a CEO for outstanding contributions to Planned Parenthood’s mission.
Bonner is set to retire later this month, concluding a career marked by sustained advocacy and leadership in reproductive healthcare.
“Sheri has been a champion for healthcare access and reproductive rights across the San Gabriel Valley and beyond for decades,” Harabedian said. “Her devotion to the patients of Planned Parenthood knows no bounds, and she is truly deserving of this special recognition in honor of her lifetime of service to our community.”
Bonner expressed gratitude for the recognition and reflected on her career as she prepares to step down.
“I am honored that Assemblymember Harabedian has chosen me as Woman of the Year,” she said. “As my time with PPPSGV comes to a close, I am thankful for the many community members and leaders who have supported me in this critical work to provide each patient who walks through our doors with the best possible care.”
She added that she plans to continue her advocacy efforts in partnership with community leaders to expand access to reproductive healthcare services in California.
The recognition comes as part of the California State Legislature’s annual Women’s History Month observance. Since first recognizing March as Women’s History Month in 1987, lawmakers have continued the tradition of honoring exceptional women in their districts for their contributions to their communities.
That’s an ironic choice.