Patrick Pelegri-O'Day grew up by San Francisquito Creek in Ohlone territory, near the salt marshes of the SF Bay and the redwoods of the Santa Cruz Mountains. He studied public policy and economics at Pomona College, and has spent the last seven years working toward sustainability and climate resilience through advocacy, policy, and land-based projects.

Patrick comes to Stepping Stones from a lifelong interest in progressive education, holistic human development, and supporting the next generation. He's been fortunate to be guided by teachers in mediation, nonviolent communication, social and racial justice, permaculture, nature connection, life coaching, the Work that Reconnects, and the Way of Council. He has taught summer school at a progressive education middle school and recently ran a youth mentorship group for high schoolers. He feels deeply honored to join the Stepping Stones community and support young people through a pivotal life transition.