Investing in a better future – Local philanthropist Julie Sturgeon sits down for an exclusive Q&A

 A longtime resident, top-notch CPA and dedicated philanthropist, Julie Sturgeon has been investing her time and energy in this community since she moved to the Santa Clarita Valley in 1980.  In the hope that she can leave a better future to her grandchildren, Julie’s legacy of community involvement is a shining example of compassion, servant leadership and years of behind-the-scenes volunteerism.
Her service started where many loving parents do – with the betterment of her childrens’ lives.  Julie coached girls youth soccer teams, moved onto five years as treasurer for AYSO and bettered local schools with her work on Sulphur Springs Elementary PTA.
As her children grew, Julie turned to some of the community’s most valued non-profits.  A founding member, she served as treasurer of the Michael Hoefflin Foundation for Children’s Cancer for 10 years, as well as chaired their signature event Evening Under the Stars.  For the Betty Ferguson Foundation, Julie also served as treasurer for five years and chaired the Woman of Honor event twice, for Dianne G. Van Hook and Jacquie Petersen.  Today, Julie supports the SCV Senior Center as the treasurer for their Executive Board.
Julie also has served on the Board of Directors for College of the Canyons Foundation, Soroptomist International of Greater Santa Clarita Valley and PTA Council.  A true testament to her value, Julie has been nominated for Santa Clarita Valley Woman of the Year on multiple occasions.
How does she do it all?  After sitting down for a Q&A, we’ve decided that she does it all from the heart.
Local volunteerism can add up in hours, dollars and energy.  What makes volunteerism so important that you’re motivated to devote years of your life to this community?
You can never add up the dollar value of your volunteerism.  All that matters is that you volunteer and help the various organizations remain vital, grow or become better than they were before you arrived.
The community matters to me because my family has lived here since 1980.  We raised our children here, and now our grandchildren are being raised here.  We want to leave them a community as fulfilling and wonderful as it has been for my husband Steven and me.
Describe some of the most impactful moments of your volunteer experience.  What stands out to you as those moments that make everything worth it?
My time with the Michael Hoefflin Foundation will always stand out in my mind.  As you watch the children share their stories at the event’s annual video presentation, you realize the effect childhood cancer has on the parents and siblings, in addition to the patient.  It is heartbreaking and heartfelt at the same time.  We still attend the events each year, and it is just as difficult now to watch the video as it was years ago.  Seeing the survivors and the smiles make it all worthwhile.
My newest project is volunteering for the SCV Senior Center.  The Board of Directors is at an amazing crossroads right now, as we enjoy the opportunity to construct a new center.  Located near Golden Valley Road, the center will provide all Santa Clarita residents equal opportunity to visit and participate in these valuable programs.  As we get ready to commence the capital campaign, the idea of providing more for our seniors makes this work extremely meaningful.
How does your experience as a CPA make you a successful chairwoman, leader and philanthropist?
My skill is number crunching, so I am typically asked to sit on audit or finance committees.  I also have served as treasurer on a regular basis.
How does being a local philanthropist make you a better businesswoman?
A local firm best serves the local community.  Volunteering allows me to stay in tune with the business community and tapped into the local economy.  I learn what’s affecting Santa Clarita individuals, families and business activities, both in and beyond our valley.
How did your battle with breast cancer deepen your understanding of yourself, your purpose and your community?  What would you impart to women facing a similar road ahead?
You ask about my “battle” with breast cancer.  I didn’t see it as a battle with cancer but a battle to feel “normal” again.  The surgery is somewhat debilitating but not as devastating as one would think.  On the other hand, the chemotherapy treatments were more difficult.  Luckily, I only had four treatments, which I understand is the fewest a patient goes through.  What I probably hated the most about chemo was losing my hair, as well as the concern it would not grow back.
But the experience taught me about vanity – that it was OK to go public with a head full of peach fuzz!  It’s been almost three years now, and I feel healthier than I did before.  I can’t stress enough the need to have regular breast exams.  Being your own health advocate is extremely important, as well. 

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