Bev Bellina was presented with the Nine Year Service Recognition Award by School District 5 (SD5) Board chair, Frank Lento, at Tuesday's Board meeting on June 11th.
"Bev's a team player," says Lento. "She's established great working relationships with her fellow Board members, staff and administration, with Parent Advisory Councils (PACs) and students. She's a real asset to the Board and to her community".
Bellina is also involved in the larger BC Trustee community, both as SD5 Board representative for the BC School Trustee's Association (BCSTA) and BC Public School Employer's Association (BCPSEA) and as president of the local Kootenay Boundary Branch (KBB) of Trustees.
Bellina grew up in Toronto but has been a resident of Sparwood for over forty years. During this time Bellina was actively involved with a number of organizations including the Hospital Auxiliary and Board, Elk Valley South Country (EVSC) Health Council and the Chamber of Commerce.
"I've been volunteering in my community since I first arrived in 1972, beginning with the Ways and Means Committee at the Rec Centre," says Bellina, who was also a District of Sparwood Councillor for nine years prior to running for Trustee in 2004.
"I enjoy great personal satisfaction doing the best job I can on whatever I'm tasked with," says Bellina, adding that one of her favourite "tasks" is attending the graduation ceremonies each year.
"Attending the graduation festivities and being able to address the students; speaking to students personally and honouring their achievements is a real highlight for me."
Despite her nine year long service award Bellina has no intention of stepping down anytime soon. "I'll continue to run for school trustee as it's the most rewarding work I've ever been involved in. I like staying current with public education and being part of the process."