Gina Villeggiante

Pronouns:

she/her

Sonoma State Grad Year:

2014

What is your current position and/or the industry you work in?

I work at the Port of Oakland as a longshorewoman. I am a member of the International Longshore and Warehouse Union. I am currently a chassis mechanic at the port. I am a founding member of the young workers committee at International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) Local 10, I am currently the secretary of that committee. I served on and was the co-chair of the educational committee for many years. I was most recently elected by the union membership to serve as the Dispatcher for my local, serve on the Executive Board and serve as the Secretary of the Bay Area Longshoremen's Memorial Association for the 2026 term.

What were your campus involvements at SSU?

I was a member of the rowing club for a semester and the women's soccer club for a few years. I was also part of the Human Development club.

Why did you choose to attend SSU?

I chose SSU because of the wide range of majors it offered. I came into SSU as an undeclared major, but it did not take long for me to figure out what I wanted to pursue. I chose Human Development as my major and went on to get my teaching credential. SSU provided the space for me to grow academically and personally. The calm environment was the atmosphere I was looking for.

How has Sonoma State made an impact on your life today?

From the beginning, SSU met me where I was. I was placed in a remedial math class my first semester. I was upset about having to take this class, but it was exactly what I needed. I needed more support in that subject and that was a theme throughout my time at SSU. The professors challenged me and supported me throughout all the changes I went through personally, to make sure I was successful academically. The empathy, kindness, and patience shown during that time of my life carry with me to this day. I went on to be an elementary school teacher at a Title 1/Title 3 school for six years. I am now involved in educating union members on the history of our union and the working-class struggles we face today. I try to implement accommodations when needed for success, while at the same time challenging students/coworkers to excel.

What advice would you give to a current student or recent graduate?

Stop doubting yourself. You are qualified, and you are capable! Go be the first or few! Once you get there, pull someone else up with you!