Shirley Wild is the longtime society columnist for the Long Beach Press-Telegram.  From 1999-2019 she was at the helm of everything Steel Magnolias working tirelessly on behalf of the organization’s mission.  At the end of 2019, Shirley stepped down from her day-to-day leadership role with Steel Magnolias but still guides the organization as a lifetime member.

For 20 years Anthony Gagliardi served as Chairman of the Board for Steel Magnolias hosting hundreds of meetings at his fabulous Park Estates home.  As a consummate host, Anthony would cater fabulous meals—and continues to do so—for monthly meetings and committee gatherings.  At the end of 2019 Anthony ended his tenure as Chairman of the Board to become a lifetime member and, along with Shirley, continues to offer guidance to Steel Magnolias.

When Shirley and Anthony gathered a small group of philanthropists to help raise funds to save the Stramski Center, Mari Hooper was there.  A longtime philanthropist who generously gives her time and money to an array of worthy causes, Mari was asked to serve as Steel Magnolias first president.  She did so without hesitation and helped set the tone for those who followed.