School Board Incumbent Jennifer Hall Lee Announces Endorsement from Congresswoman Chu – Pasadena Now

Pasadena Board of Education District 2 incumbent Jennifer Hall Lee announced Thursday that Congresswoman Judy Chu has endorsed her reelection to the Board.

Hall Lee's campaign posted a statement from the Congresswoman in which she praised Hall Lee's advocacy for equity and opportunity in schools.

"Jennifer has been a tireless advocate for equity and opportunity in our schools, and her commitment to advancing educational success for all students is truly inspiring," Chu said.

Hall Lee, currently serving as vice president of the Pasadena Unified School District Board of Education, expressed gratitude for Chu's endorsement.

"I am beyond thankful for Congressmember Chu's trust and support, and am committed to work tirelessly on behalf of our students, teachers, faculty, and staff to make sure our PUSD schools thrive for generations to come," Lee said. "Congressmember Chu has been a dedicated advocate for education — working hand-in-hand with PUSD to enhance our public schools for all of our students."

On her campaign website, Hall Lee highlights her union background, mentioning memberships in the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees and the film editor's union, Local 700. Hall Lee also noted her family's union ties, including her grandfather's oil workers union membership, her mother's involvement in New York civil employees unions, and her husband Jim's International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees membership.

Hall Lee's interest in Pasadena Unified School District began with Eliot Arts Magnet, leading to her involvement in the Altadena Town Council Education Committee. This experience, she said, inspired her run for School Board trustee.

"The school board trustee is the only elected position in the United States that represents children," she writes.

Hall Lee referred to the non-partisan nature of the role, saying trustees must rise above politics and "keep student academic achievement as our focus."

Hall Lee's community involvement includes memberships in various organizations such as the Rotary Club of Altadena, Altadena Heritage, Altadena Chamber of Commerce, National Women's Political Caucus, Human Rights Coalition, and Stonewall Democrats. She also serves on the Board of the United Nations Association, Pasadena Chapter, and is a lifetime member of the Girls Scouts of America.