The Montgomery County Board of Education’s board room was named Thursday in memory of 23-year Board of Education member Patricia O’Neill.
O’Neill, who lived in Bethesda, died in September of 2021 at the age of 71. She was the longest-serving school board member in Montgomery County’s history.
She was first elected to the board in 1998 and before her death, she was serving her sixth four-year term. During her 20 years of service, she served as president of the board five times and vice president of the board six times.
“She was a thoughtful, dedicated individual,” said School Board President Julie Yang, who, like O’Neill, is the board’s District 3 representative.
“She worked for access for all students,” said Yang.
There will be a formal dedication of the Patricia O’Neill Board of Education Room in the Spring.
According to a Board of Education spokesperson, “Her legacy of service with grace, leadership with purpose, and unwavering commitment to the students and families of Montgomery County will continue to inspire all who enter the Patricia O’Neill Board of Education Room.”
Her husband, Rick, attended the meeting, stating, “I know that Pat would be honored.” He added, “She was the consummate public servant, as are all of you.”
According to her husband, O’Neill “just loved what she did. She never looked at it as a job, just as a great opportunity.”
Board of Education members unanimously supported the renaming of board room on West Gude Drive.
A resolution, read by Board Member Brenda Wolff, said that O’Neill “left a lasting legacy of grace, purpose and commitment.”
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