Pioneer class (1941-1945) members can be proud of one of their own. Patricia (Mountanos) Kourafas S44 who was chosen Mother Of The Year 2002 by the Fresno County Women In Chambers of Commerce. When you consider that only one woman each year is selected for this very distinguished award, the significance is multiplied.

            Nominated by her four chidren and a close freiend, Patricia was chosen for her contributions to her church, the community, and for her acceptance of the responsibility of leadership.

            The awards Program states: "Patricia is a founder and charter member of Ladies Aid for Retarded Children (LARC), a long time member of the La Comida Guild of Valley Children's Hospital and the Women's Symphony League. Pat has volunteered at hospitals, served food to the needy, organized countless charitable events and worked in every public service capacity imaginable".

            "During WWII, due to shortage of teachers, Patricia obtained temporary teaching credentials and was later offered a long term position. Following the war she met and married her husband of 50 years, a pilot and decorated hero, James Kourafas."

            Patricia and her husband moved to Fresno in 1949 to raise their family.

            The members of the Alumni Association Executive Board and I'm shure, all Lincoln alumni, congratulate Patricia on this recognition of her generosity with time and talent that has been devoted to her community.