October 2016 Spotlight Member of the Month
Diane Henderson is a land use planning consultant based in San Rafael. She helps cities, developers and individuals get their projects entitled.
Besides being a Chamber board member, which committee are you on?
I really like being on the Government Affairs Committee because it has its finger on the pulse of local government activity, particularly how it affects businesses in San Rafael. And I really enjoy the candidate interviews to see who the Chamber will endorse for local offices.
What would constitute a perfect day for you?
Hiking the hills of Marin, which I do quite a bit. We have such amazing outdoor spaces in our backyard. I also love good food and wine so I’d find a great place for dinner after the hike.
What do you feel most grateful for?
My family. I grew up here and have a large, close family. I honestly don’t know what I’d do without them. I have three brothers and a sister, and one brother who passed away. My father is 93 and still living in the house we grew up in. He’s a former mayor of Novato and my parents raised all of us with a sense of community service and helping others.
How would you describe your sense of humor?
I love to laugh and people tend to call me sarcastic. I think life’s pretty intense and we have to find humor in every situation. I try to bring humor out in others and help them relax.
What was your favorite band when you were in high school?
The Eagles, which I’ve seen live and enjoyed it very much. My first concert as a freshman in high school was Joan Baez at the Greek Theater in Berkeley. That was a classic.
Would you rather see a dramatic or comedic movie?
I like comedies but good ones are hard to find. Dumb and Dumber is not my style. Gene Wilder’s movies were great. And I loved The Devil Wears Prada.
What is your earliest memory?
I can remember my brother was born when I was 3 ½. I was actually happy about it because my sister and I got moved into a new bedroom. I also remember finding all the gifts in the living room after my mother’s friends gave her a baby shower. When I saw the packages, I ran and told my sister it was Christmas.
If you could wake up with one new quality or ability, what would it be?
To put a roof over everyone’s head and a meal on their table.
What would people be surprised to learn about you?
That I’m shy. I’ve worked to overcome it. I can go to someone else’s party and dance on the table, but if I knew I had to be the center of attention I’d be very nervous.
Is there a cause you’re involved with?
I love being part of the Rotary Club of San Rafael, an international organization that emphasizes service above self. I got to go to Africa and vaccinate babies against polio. I’ve been to India to assist doctors with cleft palate surgeries and to the Philippines for kidney transplants. I normally pass out from a blood test, but when I’m with these volunteer doctors I know I’m witnessing a life being saved and I hold it together.
I also serve on several boards: Rotary Manor, a senior housing development in San Rafael, the Marin Builders Association and the Chamber. All fun stuff. I’m also on the advisory council of the Conservation Corps North Bay – they’re a great organization.
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