Vera Schultz

1988

Public Affairs

Vera Schultz was a trailblazer for Marin County women’s involvement in politics. During her lifetime, she was a living demonstration that women can make a constructive contribution to society.

She was first elected to the Mill Valley City Council, and within a few years she became the first woman ever elected to the Marin County Board of Supervisors. She distinguished herself quickly, pushing for the professionalization of services offered by the county government. She was instrumental in the creation of the County Administrator, Public Works Commissioner and County Counsel positions, and she actively supported the establishment of a County Personnel Commission. She served on the ad hoc committee that formed the Marin Women’s Commission. She was selected as a director of the California State Supervisors Association, again one of the first women to serve in that role. Ms. Schultz was also active in the Marin leadership of the League of Women Voters and was involved with the creation of Marin General Hospital.

For all of her numerous contributions to Marin, Vera Schultz is best remembered for her leadership in obtaining the services of world-renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright to design the Marin County Civic Center. Through numerous obstacles, Ms. Schultz’ enthusiasm and drive kept the construction on track. The Civic Center is a landmark building that is now visited by lovers of architecture from around the world. It is this legacy to Marin of which Vera Schultz was most proud.