05/19/2025
On July 23, the Montgomery County Board of Education formally dedicated its Board room at 15 W. Gude Drive as the Patricia O’Neill Board of Education Room, honoring the late Patricia O’Neill’s exceptional contributions to Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) and her enduring impact on public education.
The event brought together Board of Education members, O’Neill’s family, friends, and former colleagues, who reflected on her more than two decades of service to the school system and community. Speakers highlighted her steadfast commitment to equity, academic excellence, and opportunity for all students.
“Tonight, we dedicate this room in her name,” said Brenda Wolff, who served alongside Ms. O’Neill, “But her real legacy lives in each of us who were lucky enough to work with her, to know her, to be guided by her. It lives in every student who was lifted by a decision she helped shape. It lives in every policy that put equity and opportunity at the forefront.
O’Neill served on the Montgomery County Board of Education for 23 years—longer than any other member in the Board’s history. She was elected Board president five times and vice president six times, guiding key policies that expanded student access to rigorous coursework and championed the needs of all learners.
Speakers noted that the newly named Patricia O’Neill Board of Education Room will serve as a lasting tribute to her legacy—a space where critical decisions will continue to shape the future of education in Montgomery County, just as O’Neill helped do throughout her distinguished career.
In addition to her Board service, O’Neill served as vice-chair of the MCPS Educational Foundation and participated in numerous state and national education initiatives. Her leadership and advocacy left an indelible mark not only on Montgomery County, but on education policy across Maryland and beyond.
Board President Julie Yang, who spoke during the event, remarked, “We honor Pat’s legacy that has touched the lives of thousands. It’s hard to think of a more fitting tribute for someone who spent so much of her life shaping the future with care, conviction, and unshakable belief in the promise of public education.”
The Board thanks all attendees who joined in celebrating a woman whose life’s work continues to shape the future for thousands of students across Montgomery County.
Watch the dedication event to hear what other community leaders had to say about Ms. O’Neill.
