Patricia “Pat” Jollota has modeled admirable citizenship through her actions and service to the Clark County community, including effectiveness in leadership roles, raising community standards and expectations, strengthening community identity and civic pride, and exemplary giving of time, self and resources. Curator for the Clark County Historical Museum, Vancouver City council member for 20 years, Clark County’s First Citizen for 2012, Author of over 8 books, Historian and Community advocate are some of Jollota’s many contributions. Jollota also helped to establish, and regularly supports, the Children’s Justice Center and Justice for Children—organizations committed to protecting children who are victims of abuse and increasing local awareness of child abuse. She also supports the Humane Society for Southwest Washington and served as the Clark County Animal Control Board’s chair. Her personal and professional contributions to our community are labors of love that go above and beyond. Her service and volunteerism continue to inspire many. Her colorful speeches at public events also have this effect — weaving the region’s history into engaging and entertaining tales. She also passes this wealth of knowledge onto others by teaching corporate and continuing education courses at Clark College and giving guided tours of Vancouver to businesses, organizations and citizens. She is admired for her honesty, commitment, vision and humility. “She truly cares for, and believes in, our community.” Jollota says history should be fun. “People are funny and tragic and exciting, and I think if people know their community, they will preserve it and protect it.”