A Lifetime of Civic Engagement

 

Ted grew up in Clayton and quickly fell in love with the town, becoming involved in the community at an early age.  As a student at Mt. Diablo Elementary School, Ted helped run the student store and sold ice cream during lunch.  He also was a student aide to many teachers in the classroom during and after school.  When he arrived at Diablo View Middle School in sixth grade, Ted was asked to sit on the Technology Planning Committee to help allocate a $500,000 grant from the Clinton administration.  This began his involvement in school leadership and Ted continued to provide strategic direction into high school.  While at Clayton Valley High School, Ted was a leader of many student organizations and helped the school obtain its WASC accreditation.  He left Clayton Valley after being awarded the Grand Altair -- the high school's most prestigious award -- for his achievements in academics, service, and leadership.

Away from Clayton for college, Ted continued his involvement in student government, club leadership, and various planning committees at the University of Puget Sound.  He joined the Microsoft Corporation as a member the inagural Microsoft Academy of College Hires.  Ted is pleased to be employed by a company that promotes community involvement to the degree that Microsoft donates $17 per hour to organizations where Ted volunteers.  Through Microsoft, Ted has provided not only hours of his time but also much-needed financial contributions to the community.  

While away, Ted knew that the small, family-focused town he grew up in would eventually be called home once again.  After returning to town, Ted spends his time exceptionally involved in the Clayton community, working beside like-minded philanthropists.  He holds memberships and offices in the Clayton Historical Society, Clayton Business & Community Association, Clayton Valley Charter High School, Clayton Valley Garden Club, P2C Foundation, and University of Puget Sound Alumni Board. Ted believes that citizens should actively give back to the community,  especially in Clayton where civic partnership is a deep-rooted tradition.

  

Besides Clayton, Ted's Personal Interests

 

In his limited free time, Ted is an avid chef, gardener, and philanthropist.  He also likes to travel, play with leading-edge technology, and entertain friends and family at his home.  His grandfather and namesake, Ted Meriam, serves as an inspiration to Ted and for a half century personified leadership and service in the small California town of Chico.  Like Ted, he was a man in love with his city.