Sandi Sigurdson, a community leader who has devoted countless hours toward our community, was named the 2023 Citizen of the Year during the San Luis Obispo Chamber of Commerce‘s Annual Dinner on Saturday, January 20, 2024, in front of nearly 600 attendees. This is the Chamber’s most prestigious honor presented at the Annual Dinner in recognition of unparalleled service to the community of San Luis Obispo.
Sandi has had a profoundly positive effect on our region for nearly four decades. In every aspect of her life – professional, volunteer, neighbor-next-door, or caring friend – she has improved lives and made our community a better place to live, work and play. From virtually her first day after moving here, Sandi has been in constant motion, always giving of her time and talent to lift the people around her and strengthen our community.
“Sandi personifies ‘we before me ’“said Chip Visci, former Tribune publisher and former Associate Vice President of Communication at Cal Poly. “She thrives on helping people and works tirelessly to enhance our community’s quality of life. As an advocate, Sandi knows how to persuade, and push us all to work for the greater good. She is a true servant leader.”
Sigurdson has vigorously championed causes including healthcare access, religious and racial tolerance, gender equality, homeless services and education. She has been a key figure in campaigns that won overwhelming voter approval for improved public-school facilities, green space preservation and improved city and county services.
“Not only is she the first person to raise her hand for tough assignments, but she also sets a path we all can follow,” said Maggie Cox, 1996 Citizen of the Year and close friend of Sigurdson. “Sandi is kind and caring, fiercely passionate and committed, and it’s all wrapped up in a wicked sense of humor. SLO is so fortunate to have her heart beating for our community.”
Her list of community involvement is long and diverse. It includes serving on the City of SLO’s Planning Commission, R.A.C.E. Matters SLO, the SLO County Arts Council, the San Luis Obispo Chamber of Commerce and The Women’s Legacy Fund, among others.
From helping hundreds of people in their recovery from substance abuse to successfully running Leadership SLO for 10 years, Sandi Sigurdson continues to push for a thriving and growing Central Coast.
“San Luis Obispo is truly a place you want to love and you want to work for and raise
kids here,” said Sandi upon receiving the award. “I’m so honored by the Chamber of
Commerce recognition.”
For more information, contact Hollie West at (760) 473-3531 or
[email protected].