Longtime Contra Costa College District Trustee Sheila Grilli Dies

Contra Costa Community College District Governing Board president Sheila A. Grilli, known for her Martinez bookstore and efforts in the revitalization of downtown Martinez, has died.

Grilli died on Saturday, Aug. 31. She represented Ward 3 which included most of Martinez, Pleasant Hill, Concord, and the community of Pacheco.

She was first elected to the Governing Board in 1998, and was serving her fourth consecutive term of office. Grilli is only the third member to represent this area since the District was created in 1948.

Former Ward 3 representatives included founding Governing Board member George R. Gordon for whom the District Office in Martinez is named, and Eugene H. Ross for whom the District Office board room is named.

“Our prayers and sympathies are with the Grilli family and friends,” said Governing Board Vice President John E. Márquez. “Sheila was a feisty advocate for the students who come to us with hopes of fulfilling their higher education goals with us. One of my fondest memories will be the joy on her face as she describes her participation at graduation ceremonies and seeing the contribution our colleges make in the lives of our students. She will be missed.”

After earning her A.A. degree at Diablo Valley College, Grilli attended U.C. Berkeley, where she graduated with a B.A. in English and Journalism. She then went on to San Francisco State University, where she earned her general secondary teaching credential and taught at Clayton Valley High School. She also studied for her M.A. in English at California State University, Hayward and taught writing there for four years.

During her 15 years as a Governing Board member, Grilli was a tireless supporter of the community college mission to provide affordable and quality higher education opportunities for our students and the community..

Grilli was a bookstore owner in Martinez and active in community work. She served as treasurer of the Muir Heritage Land Trust, secretary of Woodbridge Children's Centers, and secretary of St. Catherine's Pastoral Council. She was also active in the Cal Alumni Association and in the revitalization of downtown Martinez.

In adherence to California Education Code 5091, the Governing Board shall decide within 60 days if the District will order an election or make a provisional appointment to fill the vacancy.