Those seeking a Sonoma County leader need look no further than Healdsburg’s Mayor Lisa Wittke Schaffner (2008 marks her second term in the position; her first was in 2004), who got her first taste of politics working for then-California Governor Pete Wilson while enrolled at Sacramento State (she has degrees in government and journalism).
After graduating and working for a while in the private sector, she returned to Sonoma County in 2000 to raise her children (McKenzie, now 11, and Malloy, 8). Since 2004, the Piner High School alum has also been executive director of the Sonoma County Alliance, a coalition of business, agriculture, labor and individuals dedicated to encouraging healthy economic growth, sound environmental policy and a responsive political process. The Alliance’s monthly breakfast meeting was named Best Business Event in NorthBay biz’ 2007 Best Of readers’ poll.
Who’s the most famous person you’ve ever met?
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger. I thought he was very down-to-earth—and shorter than I’d pictured.
What was your first job?
Working at my parents’ tire shop. You should see me change a tire.
Have you kept many mementos from your childhood?
I cherish so many pictures of my family and friends, and I have my high school letterman jacket. Did you know you can letter in cheerleading?
If you could go back in time to any era, what date would you choose?
The 1940s. I love all those clothes, women were starting to find their way in the workforce and the country was united.
Do you have any pet peeves?
Men with long fingernails and talking with food in your mouth.
Ever fantasize about chucking it all and doing something else?
I’m a closet country music star.
If you had one extra hour of free time a day, how would you use it?
I should say exercising, but probably sitting and reading. I’d
really like some quiet, catch-up time.
If you were to die and come back as a person, animal or thing, what would it be?
My cat, who’s loved by all the other cats in the neighborhood, has no chores, eats well and takes long naps every day.
In what situations are you most uncomfortable? Why?
Because I’m in politics, people think I like debate and conflict. Honestly, it makes me nervous—especially if someone is personally hurt.
What do you miss most about your college days?
Constant girlfriend time. I lived in a sorority house and believe that the strength that comes from girlfriends is powerful.
What item in your office has special significance for you?
My office chair was given to me by my mom, who’s the most amazing, loving person I’ve ever known.
What person from history would you turn to for advice if you could?
Anyone who overcame hardship to make things happen when everyone else was making excuses, from Pocahontas to Gandhi.
What silly thing have you done in the name of love?
In high school, I taught myself everything about football to impress a boy. Now I’m addicted to the NFL, college games and fantasy football.
What’s needed to make the world a better place?
Listening.
