January 8, 2024
Dear SRJC Community, 

It is with a heavy heart I share that on December 21st, retired teacher, administrator, principal, and former SRJC Board of Trustee member, Carole Ellis passed away. 

Carole was a lifelong educator. After teaching in Germany, Hawaii, and San Rafael, Carole moved to Santa Rosa and began working as a teacher at Rincon Valley Middle School, and later an administrator at Lawrence Cook Middle School and Hilliard Comstock Middle School, as well as principal of Ursuline High School.  

After retirement, Carole served as an SRJC Board of Trustee member from 1992-2004. In honor of her service to SRJC, the auditorium at the Petaluma Campus was named the Carole L. Ellis Auditorium. 

Carole was known for her community leadership, passion for service, and deep commitment to education. A civil rights champion, she was one of the founders of the Sonoma County celebration for Martin Luther King Jr. Day before it was recognized as a federal holiday. You can read more about Carole’s life and contributions to our community. 

While I had not met Carole before her passing, I reflect on the lessons she imparted through her life—a life dedicated to breaking down barriers, fostering kindness, and leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of those she touched. Carole's journey is not only a source of inspiration but also a reminder of the resilience and persistence required to overcome systemic obstacles. Her legacy serves as a guiding light for women of color in leadership, a reminder of the impact we can have when we lead with compassion, integrity, and a commitment to justice.  

The Ellis family will be holding a memorial service on Saturday, January 13th at 4 pm in the Bertolini Student Center on the Santa Rosa campus. Please join us to celebrate Carole’s life and legacy.  

In community, 

Dr. Angélica Garcia, Ed.D.
Superintendent/President
707-527-4431, angelicagarcia@santarosa.edu