Merridee LaMantia
Democratic Women's Caucus Director of Programs
As a visual artist, Merridee LaMantia has lived in Bloomington for over 22 years and works as a graphic designer for an international educational association. As someone who values the richness and complexity of community, she is committed to actively participating in the process to keep it vibrant. While her three daughters were young, she served for 13 years on Fairview Elementary’s PTO, 7 years as its president. In 2005, she served on Prospect Hill’s Steering Committee to help develop the core neighborhood’s future goals in relation to the city’s. Later that year she completed 7-years as a volunteer serving on the Visual Arts Committee for the Lotus World Music & Art Festival. During the summer of 2006, a month-long installation of her artwork entitled “Illuminating Peace” was exhibited in City Hall’s Atrium space. In January 2007, she accepted a two-year mayoral appointment to serve on the city’s Commission for the Status of Women. Through the years she has donated her time, via her artwork, to support the fundraising efforts of Edible Lotus, Middleway House, Amethyst House as well as Options for Better Living. She believes in people, neighborhoods, living together in community and the power of women's voices in helping create balance in our world.