By: Paolo Calchi Novati
On Thursday, Sep. 3, Jeanne Sakuma left Marshall after working as a senior clerk in the Activities Office for six years.
For most of her time at the school, Sakuma worked alongside former Activities and Athletics Assistant Principal Audrey Green to organize Marshall’s student ceremonies, sports teams, and Associated Student Body. She is leaving these duties to take on a job at Pasadena City College’s Office of Institutional Equity, Diversity and Justice.
“After six years, it is time for me to go someplace new, a new chapter in my life. But please know I love each and every one of you,” Sakuma said.
“Ms. Jeanne,” as she was known by many students, was not allowed to leave quietly. On Wednesday, Sep. 2, ASB held a celebration for her during fourth period, according to ASB Parliamentarian Garrett Sparks. Then, during lunch the next day, ASB members joined Marshall Principal Lori Touloumian and various other faculty and staff to send Sakuma off with a surprise party in Room A126.
On Thursday, Sakuma’s office was frequently entered by students, staff, and faculty seeking to bid her farewell.
One of these was Marshall librarian Sara Scribner, who had nothing but good remarks for Sakuma.
“She’s super supportive, even when she is incredibly busy and it’s the end of the year, and she has a million activities. She is always positive, and upbeat, and getting it done, and energetic, so I’m just going to miss her great attitude, and all her energy. She’s a super nice person and a really good friend,” Scribner said.
Marshall ASB President Madeline Garcia emphasized Sakuma’s importance as a support system for her and the rest of ASB.
“I’ll truly miss being able to see her smile and her face and just being able to ask her questions,” Garcia said.
On her part, Sakuma expressed gratitude for the relationships she has built at Marshall and the joy that she has found in interacting with its pupils.
According to her, “Working with students has reminded me that everyone has their own story and that sometimes a small act of kindness or simply taking the time to listen can make a difference.”