Passantino Andersen Communications

VP, Director of Grants

Sonia's family. 

As Vice President, Director of Grants, Sonia Hall comes to Passantino Andersen with more than eight years experience as a state legislative advisor, public affairs consultant, lobbyist and grant writer.

Since 2004, Sonia has directed grant research, writing and lobbying services for numerous public agencies, including counties, cities, school districts, water districts and park districts. She also secured grants for non-profits and renewable energy providers. With a passionate commitment to excellence, a strong work ethic and creative thinking, Sonia’s reputation as an exceptional grant strategist is matched by her results. She has secured more than $74 million and her success rate is 85 percent.

Prior to grant writing, Sonia served as a senior advisor in the California Legislature, helping many local agencies interface with state agencies and lawmakers to secure funding. One of her proudest achievements in this role was helping the Fresno Police Department and Mothers Against Drunk Driving obtain funding for their promotional trailer, which is used throughout the entire Central Valley. The Fresno Police Department presented Ms. Hall with an award for her efforts.

In addition to grant writing, Sonia’s background includes land use public affairs. She has helped secure entitlements on many residential and commercial real estate projects. Her experience includes application processing, lobbying and grassroots engagement to mobilize community support for her clients’ projects.

Raised in the Central Valley, Sonia clearly understands the challenges that public agencies and non-profits from this region face, which makes her a very effective advocate for their funding and economic development needs.

In addition to her professional credentials, Sonia is a respected community leader. She has served on the Board of Directors for March of Dimes (Central Division) and the YMCA of Fresno, Downtown Board. She currently serves on the Board of Lao Family Community of Fresno.

Sonia is also active in her church as a teacher and spiritual leader.

She has received the following awards and certificates: California Republican Assembly Ronald Reagan Award; Lao Family Community Service Award, Certificate of Recognition from Fresno City Council President, Henry T. Perea, for the service to Lao Family Community of Fresno; Certificate from Fresno City Councilmember Cynthia Sterling for the dedicated service to the community; Certificate from Fresno City Councilmember Tom Boyajian for the outstanding service on the Board of Directors of Lao Family; Certificate from Fresno City Councilman Mike Dages for her civic involvement, commitment of service to the Southeast Asian community, and leadership role to the Lao Family community; Certificate of Achievement from Fresno County Supervisor Henry Perea for the outstanding service to the Lao Community; Certificate of Recognition from Assemblyman Juan Arambula for the service dedicated to the Lao Family Board; Certificate of Recognition from Assemblyman Mike Briggs for the outstanding service and dedication to the California Republican Assembly; and Certificate of Recognition from the Parlier City Council, Mayor Armando Lopez, for outstanding service and going above and beyond in achieving funding for their city.