Nine San Gabriel Valley leaders were honored Saturday by Rep. Judy Chu at the 2025 Congressional Leadership of the Year Awards in Pasadena, recognizing their extraordinary service in education, disaster recovery, and community advocacy across the San Gabriel Valley.
Nine outstanding individuals and organizations were recognized for their dedication to service at the 2025 Congressional Leadership of the Year Awards, hosted Saturday by Rep. Judy Chu (CA-28). The ceremony took place in Pasadena and celebrated contributions that have shaped the San Gabriel Valley, especially during the region’s recovery from the Eaton Fire.
The event was emceed by actress Tamlyn Tomita, known for her roles in aThe Karate Kid Part II and The Joy Luck Club. Tomita praised the honorees for their commitment to rebuilding and supporting diverse communities.
“After everything our communities have been through, especially in the wake of the Eaton Fire, these leaders stepped up,” Rep. Chu said. “They really do represent the very best of the San Gabriel Valley.”
Educators and Volunteers Recognized
Wendy Sinnette, Superintendent of La Cañada Unified School District, was named Educator of the Year. Sinnette was commended for guiding students and staff through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and the Eaton Fire’s aftermath.
Rev. Gene Boutilier of Claremont received Volunteer of the Year. Boutilier helped launch Larkin Place, the city’s first low-income housing project, and has advocated for social justice for decades.
Edgar McGregor, a meteorologist from Altadena and Pasadena, earned the Courageous Service of the Year award. McGregor’s early warnings before the Eaton Fire aided thousands of residents in evacuating safely.
Community Activists Inspire Change
Pastor Jonathan “Jon” DeCuir of Altadena was honored as Community Activist of the Year. After the fire, DeCuir transformed Victory Bible Church into a relief hub and began the Legacy Land Project to help families recover and rebuild housing.
Pasadena activist and actor Tzi Ma was also named Community Activist of the Year. Ma’s advocacy for AAPI representation and his leadership in the #WashTheHate campaign addressed the surge of anti-Asian hate during the pandemic.
Nic Arnzen, Vice Chair of the Altadena Town Council, received the Building Bridges Award. Arnzen helped lead fire response efforts and founded Altadena Pride to strengthen inclusivity and visibility.
Businesses and Nonprofits Uplift Communities
Jason Kim and Johanna Quach, co-owners of Paris Baguette in San Gabriel, were named Businesspeople of the Year. The pair were celebrated for philanthropic efforts supporting local schools, emergency services, and inclusive employment.
Two nonprofits were recognized for their impact. The San Gabriel Valley Habitat for Humanity received Nonprofit of the Year for its commitment to affordable housing and innovative rebuilding after the Eaton Fire. The National Day Laborer Organizing Network, based in Pasadena, was also named Nonprofit of the Year. NDLON supported immigrant workers, defended day laborers during ICE enforcement, and led recovery job efforts.
Community Spirit Highlighted
The ceremony showcased how San Gabriel Valley leaders united to support neighbors in crisis. From education to affordable housing and disaster relief, the honorees’ efforts have left a lasting impact on local communities.
“These leaders showed what is possible when people come together,” Rep. Chu said. “They have made the San Gabriel Valley stronger and more resilient.”
For more on the 2025 Congressional Leadership of the Year Awards, visit Rep. Chu’s official site at https://chu.house.gov. To learn about volunteer opportunities with San Gabriel Valley Habitat for Humanity, see https://sgvhabitat.org.
