For over two decades, Trustee Juliana Feriani has stood as a pillar of dedication and advocacy on the Tuolumne County Board of Education (TCBOE). Representing Area Three since 1999—encompassing the Summerville Union High School District, the Summerville Elementary School District, and a portion of the Soulsbyville School District south of Highway 108—Ms. Feriani’s service has left an indelible mark on local education.
Throughout her tenure, Ms. Feriani consistently embodied the TCBOE mission: to provide a leadership role in education; to support the County Office of Education in its governance; and to advocate, celebrate, and champion for the education of all students. Her legacy includes meaningful policy development, dedicated involvement in district committees, and tireless community engagement.
Local and Statewide Involvement
Within Tuolumne County, Ms. Feriani took on a wide range of responsibilities—serving on budget, oversight, and search committees; participating in the TWIST women’s service organization; and contributing to the Awareness of Human Trafficking in Tuolumne County Committee. She also held key leadership positions with the TCBOE, including President and Board Clerk. Ms. Feriani lent her expertise to Bylaws/Policy, Superintendent’s Salary, Scholarship, Health Care and Education, IMMUNIZE Tuolumne County, and countywide boardmanship committees, as well as the BOB van Board of Directors.
In addition, she devoted countless volunteer hours at the grassroots level—serving as an officer (treasurer) for the local PTA, founding the SCRIPT program at a local elementary school, and assuming both president and treasurer roles for a local preschool.
On the broader stage, Ms. Feriani represented Tuolumne County’s interests through active participation in the California School Boards Association (CSBA) and the now-disbanded California County Boards of Education (CCBE). From 2004 to 2023, she served continuously on the CCBE Board of Directors, including a term as CCBE President in 2015. Her involvement in conferences, trainings, policy development, and legislative advocacy helped ensure that Tuolumne County’s perspectives shaped educational discussions statewide.
Rose R. Morgan Women in Leadership Award
Ms. Feriani’s final board meeting was marked by a special honor: the presentation of the Rose R. Morgan Women in Leadership Award. Named after Rose R. Morgan—Tuolumne County’s first woman Superintendent of Schools (1876–1877)—this award celebrates women who lead with courage, vision, and an unwavering commitment to student success.
Rose R. Morgan’s pioneering service, along with that of her brother George P. Morgan (who served as County Superintendent of Schools from 1887 to 1942), established a proud tradition of steadfast educational leadership in Tuolumne County. The Rose R. Morgan Award recognizes individuals who carry that legacy forward. Juliana Feriani stands firmly among them, representing the very spirit of vision, compassion, and perseverance that the award seeks to honor.
The following tribute was read during the ceremony:
“This evening, we have the honor of presenting the Rose R. Morgan Women in Leadership Award to a remarkable individual whose service exemplifies the enduring legacy of educational leadership in Tuolumne County. In honoring Rose R. Morgan—a courageous and pioneering figure who forged new paths in an era when women’s leadership in public education was far less recognized—we also honor all women who lead with vision, compassion, and determination. Tonight’s recipient, Juliana Feriani, embodies these qualities. Through her service, she has demonstrated unwavering commitment to our students, thoughtful governance, and the drive to inspire future generations. By presenting the Rose R. Morgan Women in Leadership Award to Juliana, we recognize her as part of this proud tradition, ensuring that education remains a cornerstone of opportunity, growth, and civic responsibility in Tuolumne County.”
Surrounded by her family, Ms. Feriani received warm appreciation from colleagues, educators, and community members.
“Juliana Feriani’s legacy is one of compassion, integrity, and tireless service,” said Zack Abernathy, Tuolumne County Superintendent of Schools. “She has been an unwavering advocate for our students and educators, truly embodying our mission to advocate, celebrate, and champion for the education of all. Her leadership stands as a testament to the vital role that women play in guiding and shaping the future of education.”
Continuing the Legacy
As we look to the future, Ms. Feriani’s influence remains a guiding light. Her example encourages all who serve to uphold the highest standards of governance, community engagement, and educational excellence, ensuring that every student in Tuolumne County continues to have access to an enriching and equitable learning environment.