UKIAH, Calif. – During its regularly scheduled board meeting on Wednesday, Oct. 8, the Mendocino College Foundation Board of Directors appointed two new members to the board.

Chris Taliaferro of Lakeport and Mark DeMeuleneare of Ukiah were both unanimously approved by the Foundation Board.

Taliaferro is employed by Employment Development Department in Lakeport as a veteran’s employment specialist and proudly served 12 years in the United States Navy.

“Chris will be an advocate for our veteran student population at Mendocino College and brings expertise in the myriad of issues affecting veterans. In addition, he and wife Jessica, a teacher, have two children attending Lake County Schools which gives him a great perspective to promote student success at Mendocino College,” said Foundation Director Peggy Campbell.

DeMeulenaere is no stranger to the Mendocino College Foundation having served as both past board president and development director.

DeMeulenaere was instrumental in establishing the Foundation Offices’ infrastructure including operating policies and bylaws.

According to Foundation Director Tom Herman, “Mark brings expertise in finance, agriculture, business management, and community networking. All of which are vital skills to have on the board of directors.”

DeMeulenaere is a partner in Truett Hurst Winery and when not busy promoting Truett Hurst wine, he and his wife Wendy can be found cuddling their new granddaughter Penny.

The Mendocino College Foundation Board is a 501 (c)(3) auxiliary organization of Mendocino College with a purpose of raising funds to ensure student success.

The foundation’s mission is to support Mendocino College in educating leaders, fostering intellectual growth and enriching lives by creating opportunities to invest in a better future for our students and communities.

For more information about the Mendocino College Foundation, contact Katie Fairbairn at 707-468-3162.