No. 1Augustine Gallego

As a young firefighter in Tucson, Arizona, Augustine Gallego valued the opportunities that education could create and changed careers to dedicate himself to sharing those opportunities with young people. He held a number of administrative posts at San Diego City College since 1976, making it one of the most respected, unique and diverse institutions of its kind. Since 1990, Augie has been Chancellor of the San Diego Community College District and is nationally recognized for advancing educational diversity and leadership in creating multicultural curricula at the community colleges, including cooperative educational ties with Mexico’s technical colleges. In addition to numerous other honors, Augie has also been recognized by the State of California with an Excellence in Equity award. In 2001 he was named the Chairman of the San Diego Dialogue, a University of California, San Diego program focused on understanding and improving border relations.

Photo by Victor Avila, Jr.

No. 2Ernie Garcia, Maria Medina, David Smith

These San Diego firefighters worked hard to unroll hoses and extinguish flames, but they had a common dream as well. Ernie Garcia, David Smith, Maria Medina and Jerry Valladolid (not pictured) believed that they could do more for their community. Together they formed Los Bomberos de San Diego, a group of Mexican-American firefighters dedicated to volunteer service. Today Los Bomberos continue to assist at the Logan Heights Family Health Clinic and serve as role models and tutors to elementary school children. Los Bomberos also operate a scholarship foundation to assist the San Diego Fire and Life Services Department and recruit Latinos.

Photo by Victor Sotelo

No. 3Angel Lopez

As a barrio kid at Montgomery High School in South San Diego, Angel Lopez didn’t know he would one day be a star tennis coach to players competing in all of the “Grand Slam” events: Wimbledon, U.S., French and the Australian Open. Angel did not pick up a tennis racquet until he was 17 years old. La Raza Tennis Association paid for his lessons with legendary coach and player Pancho Segura. As a student at SD Community College, Angel was one of the top junior college tennis players in the State and that earned him a full scholarship to the University of Arizona. There he joined the top team in the U.S. In 1995, he was voted National Professional of the Year by the U.S. Professional Tennis Association (USPTA) and in 1999 he was awarded the U.S. Olympic Committee’s Tennis Developmental Coach of the Year. The Angel Lopez Tennis Academy is at the San Diego Tennis & Racquet Club where he has been the Director of Tennis since 1980.

Photo by Victor Molina

No. 4Laura Rodriguez

(1909–1994)

Doña Laura Rodriguez saw a simple need: Barrio Logan needed a medical clinic. It was the 1950s and the community was beginning to feel the effects of lack of doctors and health services in close proximity. Doña Laura and other neighborhood women staged a peaceful and powerful sit-in to draw attention to the fact that Barrio Logan’s health needs should not be ignored. The Logan Heights Family Health Clinic was created and has since become a major provider of health services. Doña Laura volunteered where needed and helped raise money for the clinic by cooking tamales for the Spirit of the Barrio luncheons. Her headscarf became her signature community trademark. Doña Laura died in 1994, having demonstrated to others how to meet an important community need through persistence and support. The Laura Rodriguez Pediatric Wing was built and named in her honor.

Photo by Victor Avila, Jr.

No. 5Jessica Esquivel

The personal bravery of Jessica Esquivel represents a rare and inspiring inner strength, forged with her family’s support. In 1990, when she was 6 years old, Jessica contracted a bacterial infection that sent a toxic poison through her body. She was saved only when doctors at Children’s Hospital amputated both her forearms and lower legs. Jessica’s undefeatable spirit has prevailed and she can be found playing drums or volunteering for Children’s Hospital as an Ambassador. Every year she helps raise money for the Hospital by designing Christmas cards and selling newspapers on Kids News Day. Jessica has become an outstanding student and is now a 17-year-old Senior at Bonita High School with hopes of becoming a child psychologist after college.

Photo by Alma Villanueva

No. 6Ramon “Chunky” Sanchez

(1951–2016)

Ramon “Chunky” Sanchez has used music to inspire and instruct since the music group Los Alacranes marched with the late civil rights leader Cesar Chavez. Chunky has been a visible leader in the music community and in the community life of Barrio Logan. In April of 1970, Chunky joined hundreds of local residents who demonstrated against a California Highway Patrol Substation in their neighborhood and successfully fought for a community park beneath the Coronado Bridge—Chicano Park. He is a founding member of the Chicano Park Steering Committee. A graduate of San Diego State University, Chunky worked for the Chicano Federation as a youth director. In 1976, he founded Los Alacranes, and today the recording musical group has its own website.

Photo by Alma Villanueva

No. 7Victor Avila, Sr.

(1938–2012)

From Scandinavia to Puerto Rico and Canada to Mexico, the work of master photographer Victor Avila, Sr., is appreciated by all cultures. Victor first showed an interest in photography at the age of 13 while growing up in San Antonio, Texas. He received formal training in Houston. In 1969 Victor opened his own studio in San Diego, “Victor Avila Master Studio” where he has been recognized as a highly skilled artist with a camera. Victor holds both the Master of Photography and Photographic Craftsman degrees and the Fellowship of the British Institute of Professional Photographers. In 2000 Victor received another prestigious international honor. He was inducted into the “Kodak Hall of Fame.”

Photo by Victor Avila, Jr.

No. 8Judge Irma Gonzalez

The road from Tucson, Arizona to the federal bench in San Diego was a lonely one for Latina Judge Irma Gonzalez. Born to immigrant parents, she studied law at the University of Arizona and became an ethnic pioneer in the legal arena. She served as a San Diego Superior Court Judge and in 1992 was appointed to the U. S. District Court for Southern California, as one of three Latina federal judges in the country. Irma is on the boards of the San Diego Museum of Man, the San Diego Association of Business Trial Lawyers and the Girl Scout Advisory Cabinet. She has made every effort to see that the lonely path she traveled will be more accessible to Latina women.

Photo by Alma Villanueva

No. 9David Solano

David Solano was one of the silent population of San Diegans who rarely picked up a newspaper, magazine or book. David couldn’t read beyond the 4th grade level. He struggled through high school and dropped out in the 11th grade. For more than two decades, he learned how to hide his illiteracy. Then in 1992, through a Chula Vista program sponsored by the San Diego Council on Literacy, the 38-year-old father of five had his life change forever. Now he can read books with his children. He plans to earn his high school equivalency diploma. Today the auto body maintenance specialist is a wonderful role model who can inspire Latinos to reach their dreams. David actively raises money for the Literacy program and runs in the annual “5K READ San Diego.”

Photo by Patricia Ruelas

No. 10Father Henry Rodriguez

(1955–2016)

When Father Henry Rodriguez returned after many years to his hometown neighborhood of Shelltown, it was not too different from before. Junkies and gang members had taken control of the streets and liquor stores were more prevalent than youth centers. Father Henry had grown up the second of six children and dropped out of school in the 9th grade. But he was able to turn his life around and was determined to turn Shelltown around as well. After becoming an ordained Roman Catholic priest in 1986, Father Henry worked with neighborhood residents who wanted change through St. Jude’s Shrine of the West church and school. Today he continues to work in the revitalization efforts of Shelltown and proudly leads efforts to change the lives of youths who are headed in the wrong direction. He is also the chaplain to the San Diego Police Department.

Photo by Victor Sotelo

No. 11Victor Villaseñor

Inspired by family stories his abuelita and tias told him as a child, Victor Villaseñor of Oceanside was determined to write his family’s history. In 1976, he began researching and writing in Southern California and Mexico. Twelve years later his family’s saga was being readied for publication when the publisher suggested he change the title, make it shorter and call it fiction. A stunned Victor refused and bought his novel’s rights from the publisher. In 1991, Rain of Gold was published the way it was written and received national and international acclaim as the best novel of the Mexican-American immigrant experience. Victor is married and has two sons and continues to write and serve as a role model for aspiring Latino writers.

Photo by Victor Molina

No. 12Henry Tenorio

(1937–2001)

After Henry Tenorio joined the Federal Bureau of Investigation in 1973, he proved to be an exemplary agent, serving in several cities in a number of positions. In spite of his outstanding work and a master’s degree from the University of Texas, the bilingual agent was passed over several times for a promotion. By 1983, Henry took a major step with other Latino FBI agents and sued the Bureau for its alleged discriminatory promotion policy. Despite harassment from other agents, Henry stood firm. Six years later, a judge ruled that the FBI did discriminate against Latinos. Henry retired from the FBI in 1994. He is now enjoying the accomplishments of his wife, Judy who is an educator, and his four children, college-educated Stefanie, Chris, Javier and Lisa.

Photo by Victor Sotelo

No. 13Martha Rañon

Martha Rañon is a young woman dedicated to her community of San Ysidro and its people – young and old, Mexican and Black – who are proud to be a part of this border neighborhood. In 1993 Martha graduated from Chula Vista High School. At the San Ysidro YWCA, Martha taught dance and tutored young students. She was one of six young women elected to serve for three years on the YWCA National Teen Council. Today she is on Board of Directors of the YWCA. The eldest of five children, Martha graduated in 1997 from the University of San Diego, majoring in international relations – a fitting pursuit for someone who takes pride in her San Ysidro roots. She is now working for California Senator Steve Peace as a district representative, working in the South Bay communities of San Ysidro, Otay Mesa, National City and Chula Vista.

Photo by Manuel Cavada

No. 14Paul Espinoza, Ph.D.

The Mexican-American community has a widespread concern that the media portray its ethnic experience accurately and without stereotypes. Paul Espinoza has admirably fulfilled this goal through his 10 award-winning documentaries and films. His well-known work includes the portrayal of the first successful legal challenge to desegregation in the United States (The Lemon Grove Incident). In addition, Paul has brought to the screen the feature drama of a migrant worker boy and his family based on the seminal Chicano novel by Tomas Rivera (…and the earth did not swallow him). He first made a name for himself while at KPBS as the Director of Mexican-American Programming. Then, in 1997, he founded Espinosa Productions, which specializes in documentary and dramatic films focused on the U.S.-Mexico border region. Paul, who was born in New Mexico and has degrees from Brown and Stanford Universities, has placed his indelible mark on contemporary documentary filmmaking.

Photo by Victor Avila, Jr.

No. 15Ernie Sandoval

Getting his start as the owner of a McDonald’s restaurant near Los Angeles, Ernie Sandoval now owns several of the franchises in San Diego County. He is considered to be among the top 100 Latino business operators in the country. In 1990, Ernie brought the HACER Scholarship Program to San Diego. These scholarships are awarded to Latino students as $1,000 grants. Ernie is a positive role model through his involvement in the community and as an employer for young people.

Photo by Olga Gunn

No. 16Amalia Meza

Amalia Meza was born and raised in East Los Angeles, where she graduated from Garfield High School in 1971. She graduated cum laude from Yale in 1975 and received a law degree from Stanford Law School in 1979. She was a poverty law attorney at the Legal Aid Society, a civil attorney with private law firms, and a federal prosecutor. While a federal prosecutor with the United States Attorney’s Office, she held the positions of Deputy to the U.S. Attorney in charge of Special Projects and Prosecutions and Civil Rights Coordinator, during which time she prosecuted high profile hate crime, civil rights and corruption cases. She has been a member of the board of directors of the County Bar Association, Lawyers’ Club, La Raza Lawyers and the San Diego Foundation.

Photo by Victor Sotelo

No. 17George Saldamando

In 1992, George Saldamando became the highest-ranking Hispanic officer in the San Diego Police Department and remained so for several years. Born in San Diego, George rose from the ranks of beat officer to assistant chief of police. While he was climbing the ladder of success, he was also mentoring young police officers to become tomorrow’s law enforcement leaders. George has demonstrated an array of key skills that have contributed to every major division of the department. He has proven to be a leader, a manager, a quick thinker, and an effective communicator. George has been a strong proponent of community policing, which brings together neighborhood residents and officers. He is involved with several organizations such as the Chicano Federation, Logan Heights Family Health Clinic and Donovan State Prison Community Board.

Photo by Victor Sotelo

No. 18Sara Ramirez

When Sara Ramirez was a young girl, she would sit at her grandfather’s knee while he softly strummed his guitar and sang the familiar corridos y canciones de Mexico. Inspired by the voices she heard while growing up in Mazatlan, Sara graduated in 1993 from the San Diego School of Creative and Performing Arts. After appearing in several musical productions at Balboa Park’s Starlight Bowl, Sara graduated from the prestigious Juilliard School of Drama in New York City, training for a career that she hopes will lead to Broadway. Since that time she has ventured out into Hollywood where she had a film role in “You’ve Got Mail,” and has made guest appearances in “Spin City,” “Talk to Me,” and “As the World Turns.” Sara has been honored with the Outer Critics Circle Nomination for Best Actress and the Casey Biggs Award.

Photo courtesy of Agency for the Performing Arts

No. 19Osvaldo “Ozzie” Venzor

(1930–2013)

When Ozzie Venzor and his wife, BJ, moved to North County San Diego from Los Angeles in 1980, they found a pleasant lifestyle and playful beaches. But they also discovered scores of migrant workers living in unimaginable poverty. They lived in holes in the ground, beneath bushes, under cardboard and in shacks. These immigrants lived without the basic necessities, in spite of contributing as agricultural workers and maids to North County’s economic well-being. Ozzie sought to change the situation first by providing food and clothing, then by gathering others for support. From 1994-1997 he was the director of the North County Chaplaincy, an organization which provided medical, financial and educational assistance to these migrant workers. Although, the organization is no longer in existence, Ozzie continues to work with migrant families, helping them to improve their lives.

Photo by Victor Sotelo

No. 20Damian Zamudio

Damian Zamudio and his sister, Paula, were raised by their mother, Sarita, to excel and to improve their community. Their mother was a high school drop-out who turned her life around and now teaches at Sweetwater High School. The family lives in Chula Vista, where Damian applied his energy and enthusiasm at Eastlake High School. Damian was a student member of the Rotary Club and was student body president for three consecutive years. As a 17-year-old Senior, Damian participated in the National Conference of Christians and Jews Youth Leadership and campaigned for South Bay Latino candidates. Damian received two ASB leadership awards from Pepsi Cola during his high school tenure. The Latino community should be seeing some wonderful leadership from Damian, whose role model is still his mother.

Photo by Manuel Cavada

No. 21Gregory Talavera, M.D.

When Dr. Gregory Talavera was a kid, his role model was his oldest brother, Elias, who gave up his high paying job to improve the lives of migrants by becoming a union organizer for the United Farm Workers of America. Dr. Talavera could have found financial success in private practice, but followed his brother’s community service path. He is a medical leader involved in numerous national research projects about Latino health issues, aimed at saving lives. Dr. Talavera is a research investigator for San Diego State University’s Center for Behavioral and Community Health Studies. He is working on “En Accion” which is the first Latino comprehensive cancer study. Dr. Talavera has been the chairman of the National Cancer Institute’s Hispanic Cancer Control Research Network. He is also involved with the Women’s Health Initiative, one of the largest research projects on women with San Diego being one of the four sites nationwide that will track the health of Latinas.

Photo by Victor Molina

No. 22Myrna Zambrano

Myrna Zambrano has been one of the highest-ranking Latinas in city government. A graduate of Sweetwater High school and Yale University, Myrna served on the staffs of former San Diego Mayor Susan Golding when Golding was a county supervisor, and California Senator Steve Peace when he was an assemblymember. She became Chief of Staff for Councilmember Christine Kehoe, and then followed her to Sacramento when Kehoe won a state assembly seat in November 2000. Myrna is on the board of directors of the Chicano Federation and is a member of the board of Women Care Health Clinic. She has authored two bilingual books on spousal abuse for Latinas. Myrna is married to author Charles Harrington.

Photo by Victor Sotelo

No. 23Ralph Inzunza, Sr.

In the early 1970s, Ralph Inzunza registered Chicano voters and soon turned to activism for political change. As a government and history teacher in National City’s Sweetwater High School, Ralph won a seat on the San Ysidro School Board. This led to his election in 1988 to a seat on the City Council of National City, which he retained until 2000. Retired from teaching after 30 years, Ralph’s other major achievement was raising three sons as a single parent. He passed his passion for political involvement to his sons, Michael, Nick, and Ralph. Nick has followed him as a member of the National City Council. Ralph, Jr., is currently a San Diego City Councilmember and Michael has been working, until recently, as a special assistant to San Diego Board of Supervisor, Greg Cox.

Photo by Manuel Cavada

No. 24Ignacia Fernandez

Ignacia Fernandez had a vision of finishing elementary school, like thousands of other children in Mexico. But poverty and family obligations kept her from reaching that dream. Later, living in Barrio Logan and cleaning homes in La Jolla, Ignacia was raising her own children and still craving her own education. So, in 1994, more than 40 years after dropping out of school, Ignacia returned to night school. At the age of 52, Ignacia earned her elementary education diploma from the Mexican Cultural Institute in downtown San Diego. Ignacia is a wonderful role model who, despite the social and economic obstacles she faced, exemplifies the Mexican-American values of perseverance and education.

Photo by Angelica Zambade

No. 25Julian Galvan

Julian Galvan was born near San Francisco and spent two years in the Army after earning his high school diploma. He worked as a carpenter, but lost his dignity and self-esteem by being overcome by drug addiction. He became homeless and helpless when in 1992 he checked into Nosotros, a recovery home for men operated by the MAAC Project. Julian was the first graduate of this program, which completely turned his life around. Now a commercial truck driver, married to Natalie and a father, Julian shares his story of drug addiction and recovery and volunteers to help other Nosotros addicts become clean and sober.

Photo by Victor Molina

No. 26La Familia Cazares

(Carlos 1929–2002 · Allen 1926–2017 · Roy 1942–2024)

Photo by Victor Molina

No. 27Armando Rodriguez

(1921–2019)

Armando Rodriguez has been unafraid to wrestle anyone and any issue. He was first a champion wrestler in high school and then at San Diego State University, where he competed and coached men’s wrestling. Armando also earned his teaching degree at the University. In 1949 Armando began working for San Diego City Schools, where he wrestled against prejudice as one of the first Mexican-American administrators. During that time, he formed the San Diego Unity League and, later, a chapter of the American GI Forum. Armando continued his leadership role working with the U.S. Department of Education. He served as the first Mexican-American president of East Los Angeles College in 1973; then from 1978 until 1983 was a commissioner for the U.S. Equal Employment Commission. Armando is a member of the SDSU Alumni Foundation and is on the board of directors for the Senior Olympics.

Photo by Angelica Zambade

No. 28David J. Valladolid and Teresa Pascual-Valladolid

Making a difference in the Latino community is a family affair for David and Teresa Valladolid. Teresa was born in El Centro to a Mexican mother and Filipino father. She graduated from San Diego State University, where she began her activism with MechA. Teresa has worked with youth and for several years has been the business representative for the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees Union. David was born in Oxnard and came to San Diego in 1959. David fought and was twice wounded in the Vietnam War. He is a graduate of San Diego State and works as president and CEO of the Parent Institute for Quality Education. David is currently co-chair of the Chicano Federation Board of Directors. He sits on the National Executive Board of the United Domestic Workers of America and was recently appointed by Governor Davis to the Advisory Board for the California Reading and Literature Project.

Photo by Manuel Cavada

No. 29Connie Puente Miller

(1926–2020)

Connie Puente’s success started with a churro shop. The hard-working entrepeneur was born in Los Angeles and raised in Mexico City. Connie returned to California, became a medical technician and raised four children on her own. She thought of opening a clothing store in Old Town, in 1970, when it was suggested that she open a churro shop. She did and it was a sweet success. In 1983, Connie used that success to open El Fandango Restaurant in Old Town, where Latino community groups gather for fund-raisers, where Hispanic candidates stage strategy sessions and where families of all types go to enjoy a fiesta. Connie has supported the El Centro Cultural de la Raza in Balboa Park.

Photo by Olga Gunn

No. 30Juan Vargas

California Assemblymember Juan Vargas came to politics by a circuitous route, but leadership came naturally. One of ten children born to immigrant parents on a National City chicken ranch, Juan graduated from the University of San Diego. First pursuing a spiritual calling, Juan spent four years with the order of the Jesuits, but later left to complete a degree at Harvard Law School. In 1993, Juan was the first Latino elected to the San Diego City Council, without first having been appointed, to serve the 8th District. He successfully won his seat on the California State Assembly in November 2000. Juan is married to Adrienne Vargas, who is the director of philanthropy at the San Diego Foundation.

Photo by Manny Cavada

No. 31Bill Virchis

Born in Mexico City and raised in San Diego, Bill Virchis was an enthusiastic student and is now a dynamic teacher and director. He graduated from Southwestern College and later earned a M.A. from San Diego State University. From 1972 until 2001 he was professor and artistic director of Southwestern College’s Drama Department. In 1981 Bill co-founded Teatro Meta which resides at the Old Globe Theatre. In 1987 he also co-founded Teatro Mascara Majica which is a multi-cultural theatre ensemble which is in residency at the San Diego Repertory Theatre. He is president and CEO of Virco Enterprises, and has produced the local Mariachi Festival for more than 15 years. In January 2001, Bill was honored with the Shiley Award for Lifetime Achievement in Theatre at the 4th Annual KPBS Patté Awards for Theatre Excellence. In the fall of 2001 he will expand his influence as director of Visual and Performing Arts for the Sweetwater Union High School District.

Photo by Alma Villanueva

No. 32Irma Covarrubias, M.D.

Dr. Irma Covarrubias was in the 9th grade, working as a medical clinic clerk, when she realized that doctors and clinic staff without bicultural skills, often treated Latino patients, who spoke little English, with less respect than other patients. Irma was born in Tijuana and was dreaming of becoming a nurse when she began attending University of California, San Diego. By the time she graduated in 1981, she realized that she could make more of a difference by becoming a bilingual, bicultural doctor. Today Dr. Covarrubias is a Kaiser family physician who encourages Latinas to reach for their dreams. She has four daughters, is a Puente Program mentor and is active in her church, St. Jude’s Shrine of the West.

Photo by Manuel Cavada

No. 33Gilbert A. Partida

Born in Nogales to immigrant parents, Gil Partida was an attorney at one of San Diego’s largest law firms, Gray, Cary, Ames & Frye, specializing in international trade. He founded and chaired the Mexican practice group for the firm. He was also a founding member of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and vice president of Partida Brokerage, a U.S. Customs brokerage. In 1993 Gil was recruited to be CEO of the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce; the youngest and first Latino to head the organization in its 122-year history. Partida is a recognized expert on international trade matters, a speaker and author. Since 1998, Gil has been president and CEO of PriceSmart. Serving the executive committee of the San Diego Convention and Visitor’s Bureau, Gil works hard to bring international perspective to San Diego’s business community.

Photo courtesy of PriceSmart

No. 34Juan Hernandez

Working as a chef at Le Meridien Hotel in Coronado and at a restaurant he co-owned, Ye Olde Taco Shoppe, Juan Hernandez was known to be friendly and determined to succeed. Then, in 1974, a robber’s bullet ripped through his lungs and struck his spine, leaving the 43-year-old Juan paralyzed from the waist down. Undergoing physical therapy, the Normal Heights resident is still hard working as he fights to regain his physical abilities. Juan has been supported in spirit by others in the Mexican-American community and the Latino Builders Association. His story is an example of Juan’s strength of character and how a community comes together to respond to a crisis.

Photo by Victor Sotelo

No. 35Bernardo “Benny” Hollman

(1940–2015)

For more than 40 years, San Diegans have been dancing and listening to the big band sounds of Bernardo “Benny” Hollman of Barrio Logan. From his early days with the “Velvatones,” Benny has used his music for the benefit of the Latino community, organizing and participating in events for numerous organizations. He is now in his 20th year as the leader of the San Diego Charger Band. In 1992 he became the first teacher at the Community Music Center, which is now located at the Cesar Chavez Elementary School. Benny has also been vice president of the Musicians Union in San Diego. The Benny Hollman Orchestra has played during some of San Diego’s major events – the Super Bowl, the America’s Cup, etc. Benny is also the arranger-conductor for legendary singer Frankie Laine and, on June 5, 1999, Benny was best man at Frankie’s wedding.

Photo by Victor Molina

No. 36Maria Nieto Senour, Ph.D.

Dr. Maria Nieto Senour was the first Latina elected to the board of trustees of the San Diego Community College District in 1990 and has twice been president of that board. She is currently on her third term and there are no plans to quit. In that pioneering role, Maria has been a strong voice for promoting diversity among the faculty, administrators and students. Although her father had only a 3rd grade education, and her mother an 8th grade education, her parents encouraged her to reach her goals. Today, Maria is a professor in the Department of Counseling and School Psychology and is director of the community-based Block Program at SDSU, where she encourages students of color to reach their highest goals. In 1996 she was appointed to the San Diego Convention Center board of directors and currently serves as vice president.

Photo by Alma Villanueva

No. 37Ofelia Escobedo

(1928–2022)

In the heart of Carlsbad is historic Barrio Carlsbad. And in the heart of the barrio is Ofelia Escobedo, president of the Carlsbad Barrio Association. Ofelia has led the fight to elevate the barrio’s interests before the Carlsbad City Council and the school district. She has successfully fought for cleaner streets, a branch library, and park benches. She and her sister, Connie Trejo, own Lola’s Market, a center of information and assistance for the barrio where she was raised. Ofelia was honored by MiraCosta College as a distinguished alumnus in 1994 and as one of North County’s outstanding Latina leaders by the Adelante Mujer Hispana Conference in 1992. MAAC Project honored her in 2000 for helping complete Laurel Tree Apartments, an affordable housing project. She was one of North County Times’ Ten Women of Merit in 2000. Ofelia co-founded the Fiesta del Barrio Carlsbad.

Photo by Victor Sotelo

No. 38Daniel Guevara

(1947–2025)

Dan Guevara moved with his family to Barrio Logan from Mexico City. He graduated from the University of California, Los Angeles School of Law in 1975. His first job was in the San Diego city attorney’s office. He later founded Castillo and Guevara, one of California largest Latino-owned law firms and is now a principal with Guevara, Phippard & James. In his work and throughout the community, Daniel has exhibited leadership, expertise and guidance for other Latinos. He is a charter member of the San Diego Chapter of La Raza Lawyers Association. He has been involved with the boards of the County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, the Chicano Federation and the City of San Diego Planning Commission. Dan also serves as legal counsel for the National Association of Hispanic Bankers and is on the Centre City Development Corporation board of directors.

Photo by Victor Avila

No. 39Ralph Perez

From pachuco to parent, from technician to teacher, Ralph Perez is busy with his wife, Lydia, transforming lives. After working for 30 years as a Pacific Bell technician and computer instructor, Ralph earned a bachelor’s and master’s degree and is now at work on his doctorate degree in education at the University of San Diego, as he continues to tutor young Latinos in math. The one-time pachuco kid who grew up in Otay Mesa, is involved with a number of community programs as well as the League of United Latin American Citizens collecting scholarship money for students. Ralph and Lydia started a Little League program in their home community of Jamul.

Photo by Victor Sotelo

No. 40Carlos LeGerrette

Carlos LeGerrette’s convictions were forged while he and his wife, Linda, worked alongside Cesar Chavez at United Farm Workers. Carlos then became special assistant to former California Governor Jerry Brown. Born in the housing projects of South San Diego, Carlos has continued to keep a commitment to his community. He has worked with the Urban Corps of San Diego, which offers job training and placement for young men and women, and has served on the San Diego Convention Center board of directors. Carlos’ unfailing dedication and devotion have made him a friend and advocate of the Latino community.

Photo by Victor Sotelo

No. 41Julie Rocha

Julie Rocha was motivated by yet another newspaper story about Latinos which she believed were negative and one-sided. So she started El Sol de San Diego, one of the largest Latino newspapers in the county. Julie is a native of Colorado. She spent eight years in the U.S. Navy and Naval Reserve and worked in public relations before letting El Sol shine. Since its inception in 1987, El Sol has provided a steady voice for the Latino community and a classroom for young journalists. The National Association of Hispanic Publishers, the National Conference of Christians and Jews, the San Diego Press Club and Sigma Delta Chi have honored the newspaper with awards.

Photo by Victor Sotelo

No. 42Jess Haro

Businessman, community leader, and U.S. Marine veteran, Jess Haro was appointed to the San Diego City Council District 8 in 1975. A year later, he was the first Latino to win a citywide election to the Council, with 70 percent of the voters supporting him. As a Councilmember, Jess aggressively supported downtown redevelopment, the San Diego Trolley and was instrumental in the City’s participation in the first Holiday Bowl. Jess impacted the Council even more as chairman of the Chicano Federation board of directors. Under his leadership (1981-1991) the Federation successfully filed a federal redistricting lawsuit. As a result, a plan was approved and a majority Latino District 8 was created, resulting in a succession of Hispanics being elected to the San Diego City Council. Jess is chairman of the California Hispanic Association on Corporate Responsibility. By his side has been his wife Jane Haro, an award-winning Mission Hills real estate broker.

Photo by Alma Villanueva

No. 43Robert Alvarez, Sr.

(1919–2003)

On January 5, 1931, the principal of Lemon Grove Grammar School told 75 Mexican-American students that they could not enter the school. They were told to attend another school. It was a clear case of racial discrimination. Robert Alvarez was one of these students and among those in whose name the Mexican-American community in the region filed an historic lawsuit. In a time when Mexican-Americans were not expected to speak up, the Lemon Grove desegregation lawsuit made a powerful statement that Mexican-Americans would not be denied their rights. Robert was only 10 years old when he testified in court. The story of the nation’s first successful legal challenge to school segregation “The Lemon Grove Incident,” was produced by KPBS at the suggestion of Alvarez’ grown son, Dr. Alvarez, Jr. This landmark decision continues to inspire those who would fight for civil rights when necessary.

Photo by Victor Avila, Sr.

No. 44Maritza Rodriguez

Being a teenage single mother on welfare did not stop Maritza Rodriguez from being determined to provide a positive future for herself and her son, Andrew. The Shelltown resident graduated from high school with the assistance of the county program, GAIN (Greater Avenues for Independence) and enrolled in San Diego City College, dispelling the stereotypes that often accompany unwed teen mothers. She is a role model for those who are determined to overcome the odds.

Photo by Alma Villanueva

No. 45Judge Federico Castro and Ramon Castro

(Judge Federico Castro 1929–2018 · Ramon Castro 1926–2017)

In the tradition of strong, supportive Mexican-American families are Superior Court Judge Federico Castro and attorney Ramon Castro, sons of immigrants. Ramon graduated from the University of San Francisco Law School in 1959 and came to San Diego in 1961. He was one of the first Mexican-American attorneys to join the city attorney’s office. He later joined a private law firm, and retired in 1998. He continues to be active in the legal community and civic organizations. Judge Federico Castro graduated from University of California, Berkeley in 1954. He worked for an Oakland company for 14 years before attending the University of San Diego’s Law School, graduating in 1971. He was appointed Superior Court Judge in 1987 and is now retired, but still sits on the Superior Court. Judge Castro is a member of the Hispanic National Bar Association and board of governors for the San Diego Community Foundation.

Photo by Olga Gunn

No. 46César Gonzalez

(1931–2019)

Born in 1931 and raised in South Central Los Angeles, César Gonzalez learned to speak English at age four, in the first grade. He was blessed by the fact that his monolingual immigrant parents from Colima, Mexico saved their hard-earned money to send their children to Catholic School, providing Cesar with a wonderful educational opportunity. César studied philosophy and the humanities, earning a degree in Spanish literature and philosophy from Gonzaga University. From 1970-1999, he taught Chicano Studies at San Diego Mesa College. He was the Founding Chair of Chicano Studies and is now Professor Emeritus. César imbued his students with an understanding and appreciation for time-honored Chicano and Latino literary works. He is a poet, author and critic. He has written two historic firsts on Chicano writer Rudolfo A. Anaya—criticism and bio-bibliography. He continues to document powerful Latino writings with the University of California Press. In 2000, he was awarded the Premio Aztlan. Cesar has lived in San Diego since 1969 with his wife Bette.

Photo by Victor Avila, Jr.

No. 47Mary Alice Acevedo

Mary Alice Acevedo has a well-deserved reputation of influence and involvement in California’s business community. With her ex-husband, Benjamin, Mary Alice created the largest Latino-owned company in California, Cal-State Lumber Company Inc. She was appointed by then Governor Pete Wilson to serve two terms on the California Trade Commission. Mary Alice has been active in a number of business and community organizations: Border Trade Alliance, Western Maquiladora Association and the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce. Building a stronger economy reinforced with the strength of the Latino community is her goal.

Photo by Victor Avila, Jr.

No. 48Luis Natividad

When San Diegans view local television news programs and see more diversity among reporters and anchors, they should thank Luis Natividad. As director of the Chicano Federation of San Diego County, in the early 1970s, Luis spearheaded the creation of the Ethnic Community Coalition, which successfully challenged a license renewal effort by San Diego’s KNSD/TV, over lack of women and minority reporters and staff. The station improved its hiring practices and other local stations followed suit. Born in Texas and raised in Tijuana, Luis moved to San Diego in 1957, where he still lives with his wife, Pat, and where he raised three daughters. He is a legislative representative for San Diego City Councilmember George Stevens. In 1992, he founded the Latina/o Unity Coalition, a network of individuals, programs and agencies with the common goal of benefiting the entire community.

Photo by Manuel Cavada

No. 49Art Madrid

(1934–2025)

Elected Latino officials in San Diego County are rare, but one stands out, La Mesa Mayor Art Madrid. One of the 1969 founding members of the Chicano Federation, Mayor Madrid has served the public in many civic and cultural pursuits during the 35 years that he worked at Pacific Bell. For 17 years he served as the utility’s director of Governmental Relations. The 43-year resident of La Mesa is a native of New Mexico and has served on various boards and commissions leading up to his appointment to the La Mesa City Council in 1981. The ultra marathon runner served two terms on the City Council and then was elected mayor in 1990, serving three terms. As mayor, he serves on the San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG) and is the immediate past chairman. Mayor Madrid is the current president of the California Council of Governments.

Photo by Alma Villanueva

No. 50Mary Salas

After raising two daughters, Mary Salas took steps to empower her own life. At the age of 37, the Chula Vista native enrolled in San Diego State University. From there she graduated with honors in 1989 in social work and has been a leader and role model in her community. Mary has served on the Chula Vista Planning Commission and was chair of the Chula Vista Civil Service Commission. She has been president of the local chapter of the Mexican-American National Women’s Association (MANA). In 1996, Mary was the first Latina elected to the Chula Vista City Council and has aspirations to become the Mayor. In June 2001, Mary joined the Community Health Group as the corporate communications coordinator and she will promote its mission to provide affordable healthcare to working families.

Photo by Olga Gunn

No. 51Richard Ybarra

A native San Diegan, Richard Ybarra was inspired to work hard and serve the Latino community by his family. From 1972 until 1975, he was special assistant to César Chavez, traveling with the civil rights leader nationwide and throughout the world. Then, from 1976-1980, he was a special assistant to then-California Governor Jerry Brown. In 1980, Richard attended Harvard University on a fellowship, where he earned a master’s degree in public administration from the John F. Kennedy School of Government. Today Richard is a senior partner at Ycom, a public affairs and creative strategies firm. Along with his wife, Anna, daughter of César Chavez, and their four children, they continue to better the lives of Latinos. Richard is a dynamic national speaker, keeping César’s living lessons alive—peaceful community activism and economic betterment. In 1990, Richard founded the César Chavez Commemorative Breakfast in San Diego which honors the legacy of César.

Photo by Manuel Cavada

No. 52George C. Aguilar

George C. Aguilar believes that the law must be applied fairly and justly to all, not just a special few. Born in Los Angeles and raised in San Diego, George joined the United States Attorney’s Office in San Diego in 1990. He is now the chief of the General Crimes Section of the United States Attorney’s office. A graduate of the University of Southern California, where he was recognized as the most outstanding Mexican-American student, the former newspaper journalist headed to law school at the University of California, Berkeley. He is a former president of La Raza Lawyers Association, San Diego Chapter and continues to use his education, training and expertise in the courts to advance civil rights for Latino immigrants, students and residents. In 1999, George was named chair of the City of San Diego’s Citizens Equal Opportunity Commission.

Photo by Victor Sotelo

No. 53Carlos Barragan, Sr. and Carlos Barragan, Jr.

The sport of boxing instills the values of discipline, hard work and responsibility and Carlos Barragan, Sr. and his namesake son have been leaders in the sport in San Diego. The duo have worked with neighborhood boys from their National City home-based Barragan Boxing Club, providing a positive alternative from other harmful distractions. A full-size boxing rings sits outside their front yard. They have been role models for hundreds of youths teaching them more than jabs and punches. Each member of the boxing club must sign a pledge to obey their parents and do their homework. In 2001, the father and son fulfilled their dreams by opening the Community Youth Athletic Center in National City, a 4,000 sq. ft. facility which includes a gym as well as computer and mentoring rooms. They will be producing more champions in and out of the ring.

Photo by Victor Molina

No. 54Luis Aragon

Several Mexican migrant workers were beaten because they stood on a street corner looking for a job. They were victims of hate. Since his days at Calexico High School, Luis has fought against injustices such as these. He is a graduate of Yale University, attended Georgetown Law School and in 1982 graduated from Western State College of Law. In 1983, Luis joined the San Diego County District Attorney’s Office where he was in charge of hate crime prosecutions and helped author hate crime legislation. In 1995 Luis was appointed Chief of the Child Abuse and Domestic Violence Division. He was named 1993 Public Lawyer of the Year by the San Diego County Bar Association and has served as the Association’s vice president. Luis is a trustee of the Centro Cultural de la Raza and has authored a musical.

Photo by Alma Villanueva

No. 55Ralph O’Campo, M.D.

Dr. Ralph O’Campo has been healing and helping San Diego’s Latinos for nearly 30 years. Dr. O’Campo was born in San Diego in 1931 and attended medical school in Monterrey, Mexico. He served in the U.S. Air Force in reserve and active duty from 1959 to 1974. Dr. O’Campo returned to his hometown in 1966 and became assistant clinical professor of surgery at the UCSD School of Medicine. He currently practices general and vascular surgery at the Mercy Medical Center. Serving his community, he was president of the San Diego Society of General Surgeons in 1976, and has been involved with the U.S.-Mexico Bi-national Border Health Association, the California Hispanic American Medical Association and the San Diego Medical Society. Dr. O’Campo also helped found the Mexican-American Business and Professional Association in San Diego.

Photo by Victor Sotelo

No. 56Linda Bejarano Stepp

Linda Bejarano Stepp is a leading spokeswoman for Latino-owned small businesses. She is CFO and co-owner of Televideo, one of the county’s leading companies and one of the top 200 Latino-owned businesses in the United States. Televideo, which she established with her husband, David Stepp, in 1976, designs video communication systems. The native San Diegan has been president of the San Diego County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and was honored in 1994 as Women in Business Advocate of the Year by the Small Business Administration. She is on the boards of the Ronald McDonald Children’s Charities and of the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce.

Photo by Angelica Zambade

No. 57Vahac and Eunice Mardirosian

(Vahac 1924–2018 · Eunice 1924–2019)

Recognizing that teachers have often been unable to effectively reach monolingual Latino children, Vahac and Eunice Mardirosian believed there was another way. This would include parents becoming more involved and the community playing a larger role in the schools. In 1987, the Baptist minister and his wife founded the Parent Institute, which is aimed at teaching immigrant parents how to aid their children in education. The parents attend classes which are taught in Spanish and receive diplomas. Vahac and Eunice’s program has now become a national model and the classes are held in several languages. In 2001, the Mardirosians founded the Association of Parents of University Students. Their unflinching service to students and parents have won them recognition and appreciation from students, parents, teachers and administrators.

Photo by Victor Sotelo

No. 58Petra Glenn

(1924–2001)

She was the daughter of a coal miner who struggled for justice. Petra Glenn was one of nine children inspired by her father who organized a coal miner’s union in New Mexico. In 1958, Petra graduated from San Diego State University and earned a master’s degree from Pepperdine University. She first taught in San Ysidro and later joined San Diego City Schools in 1966. Her students say she was always there for them offering advice, providing transportation to events, or giving them money for student conferences. Until her retirement in 1986, after 30 years of teaching, Petra inspired both students and parents to empower themselves in the educational system. In April 2001, Petra Glenn peacefully passed away after having served her community as a strong role model throughout her lifetime.

Photo by Patricia Ruelas

No. 59Judge Rafael Arreola

When Judge Rafael Arreola was 13 years old, his family moved from Jalisco, Mexico to Riverside. School authorities placed him in the second grade because he couldn’t speak English. He graduated from high school six years later, in spite of many teachers who did not believe in him. In 1969, he graduated from U.C. Berkeley as a civil engineer, earned his Master’s degree and three years later graduated from Stanford Law School. As a student he helped organize Hispanic students and demanded that the university accept more Latino students and faculty. Judge Arreola worked for the Legal Aid Society as an attorney, then was named a San Diego Municipal Court Judge in 1981 and, in 1999, was elevated to the Superior Court.

Photo by Manuel Cavada

No. 60Josephina Avila Foulks

Josefina Avila Foulks was born in Mexico and has dedicated herself to serving children her entire lifetime — raising four children herself as a single parent. She was a founder and volunteer for SOFA, Strongly Oriented For Action, a service organization for low-income families in La Jolla. Josefina was director of Child Development at the University of California, San Diego, where she developed model programs calling for the inclusion of cultural values in child development and childcare. She has also served as coordinator for childcare services for the Latino Family Conference for more than a decade.

Photo by Victor Sotelo

No. 61Manny Del Toro

Raised by a single mom with four brothers and sisters, Manny excelled at Sweetwater High School, was student body president and graduated in 1985. He went on to San Diego State University because he believed in education as a guard against poverty. Now a San Diego police officer living in Chula Vista, Manny Del Toro patrols the streets of San Diego, not far from where he grew up in National City. He inspires success in the young people of the neighborhood as he shares a soft drink, plays basketball or just lends an ear to them.

Photo by Olga Gunn

No. 62La Familia Enrique

(Herminia Enrique 1919–2009)

Preserving San Diego’s Latino history and culture has been the contribution of la familia Enrique. Herminia Enrique with her 8 daughters – Carla, Claudia, Esmeralda, Isabel, Sylvia, Teresa, Veronica and Viviana – have been active in promoting their Latino culture through dance, art and music. The family was an early supporter of El Centro Cultural de la Raza, where they performed and presented their talents – from Herminia as a storyteller to Veronica as a past executive director. The family has contributed to the unity and integrity of the Mexican-American cultural legacy in San Diego and has been greatly appreciated and recognized.

Photo by Angelica Zambade

No. 63Richard Castillo

(1941–2024)

Photo by Victor Avila, Jr.

No. 64Rachael Ortiz

For more than 30 years Rachael Ortiz has dedicated herself to the young Chicanos and Chicanas who have suffered drug addiction, prison and other roadblocks. Rachel has helped them realize productive lives, having overcome those obstacles herself. Since 1970, Rachael has been executive director of Barrio Station, managing a million-dollar-plus budget. She helps kids get off the streets, off drugs, out of jail and into school, hooked on learning and contributing positively to their neighborhoods. Born and raised in Logan Heights, Rachael, through the Barrio Station, has brought sports, swimming activities and music as well as social services to her neighborhood. Every year, over 10,000 youngsters use the youth center’s programs. Inspired by Cesar Chavez and in his memory, Rachel has been an inspiration to many Barrio youngsters who lack role models and support that others take for granted.

Photo by Manuel Cavada

No. 65Edward Sanchez, M.D.

As a surgeon in the South Bay, Dr. Edward Sanchez knew the medical needs of its Latino residents and knew that one of the most vital needs was a blood bank. As a board member of the San Diego Blood Bank, Dr. Sanchez walked door to door and, in May 1992, coordinated the San Diego Blood Bank’s first Hispanic Community Blood Drive in Chula Vista. The result was the largest turnout of Latinos in a single blood drive ever for the Blood Bank. Dr. Sanchez’ efforts convinced corporate contributors to give and, in 1994, the South Bay Blood Donor Center opened its doors. In 1998, Dr. Sanchez’ daughter, Anna Sanchez Seydel, M.D. joined her father as a partner in his medical practice.

Photo courtesy of San Diego County Medical Society

No. 66Estela Salazar

(1957–2025)

From 1983-1994, Estela Salazar was a teacher at Sherman Elementary, where she helped develop the Micro Society program, which teaches students, real-life professional activities. A graduate of San Diego State University and University of California, San Diego, the bilingual educator has participated in many educational and civic programs aimed at boosting the Latino community. She now teaches at Bayview Terrace School. The San Diego Unified School District, Junior Achievement of San Diego and the Logan Heights Family Health Center have honored her efforts. Estela was co-chairwoman of the first annual Adelante, Mujer Latina Conference and is a member of the Association of Mexican-American Educators. She also is a member of MANA, a national Latina organization. Estela passed her passion for education to her sons, who attended Harvard Law School and UCSD.

Photo by Patricia Ruelas

No. 67Victor Calderon

(1930–2019)

Victor Calderon has experienced many “firsts” in his life, notably being the first Mexican-American trustee elected to the Grossmont-Cuyamaca Community College District board, the Imperial Valley College board and the Brawley Union high School District board. Victor is president and founder of Calderon, Jaham & Osborn, a CPA and business consulting firm with offices in Imperial and San Diego counties. Victor was one of the founders of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of San Diego County. He serves on the California Community College Board of Governors and the San Diego Foundation Board of Governors.

Photo by Manuel Cavada

No. 68Irma Castro

(1943–2025)

Irma Castro has been a tireless leader and fighter, dedicated to the eradication of discrimination against Latinos. Irma fought for equality and recognition on picket lines, in political forums and through public testimony before government bodies. For 12 years she served as the executive director of the Chicano Federation of San Diego County and helped redefine the status of all Latinos through numerous civil rights actions. In 1992 she made a career move to the San Diego Unified School District and is director of the Student Advocacy Program. In 1994, she founded Ninas de Aztlan, an annual self-esteem conference for more than 500 girls. For many activists and future leaders, the Barrio Logan resident continues to be their primary role model and mentor. For many, she is the voice of Chicano activism in San Diego.

Photo by Manuel Cavada

No. 69Marco Lopez

Marco Lopez, who once stood in the agricultural fields with Cesar Chavez as general counsel for the United Farm Workers, has dedicated himself to righting wrongs. For years, undocumented immigrants, looking for jobs, have risked their lives to cross the U.S.-Mexico border only to be victimized. As an attorney and adjunct professor at Western State College of Law, Marco sought justice against alleged illegal acts committed by some Border Patrol agents. Marco successfully won lawsuits regarding human rights violations committed against vulnerable immigrants. He has since retired, but was a pioneer in the courts of justice.

Photo by Victor Sotelo

No. 70Gloria Serrano Medina

Gloria Serrano Medina has been active in Chicano issues for nearly 30 years, fighting for equal opportunities on behalf of the Latino community. She served 16 years on the board of the Chicano Federation and as President from 1991-1998. Gloria steered the Federation through a tangle of political issues such as immigrant “scapegoating,” workplace discrimination, lack of affordable housing and political representation for Latinos. Gloria is a former health administrator with the County of San Diego, and in 1998, she left the County to begin working for the U.S. Census Bureau. She now works for the Chicano Federation as the Administrative Analyst of the Policy Analysis for California Education program (PACE) which trains people to become licensed childcare providers; thus, increasing the quantity and quality of childcare providers for San Diego families.

Photo by Victor Sotelo

No. 71Tomas Martinez

Looking back at his role in improving the welfare of Mexican-American workers and students, Tomas Martinez knows that there is still much to be done. Tomas is a member and past vice president of the League of United Latin American Citizens, San Diego Chapter. He is the former secretary-treasurer for the National Maritime Union of America, AFL-CIO, a position he held for 11 years. During that time, he was instrumental in providing national labor support for the struggle of the United Farm Workers. Now retired, living in Jamul, Tomas and his wife, Pearl, are doing their part to ensure that Latino students can continue their educations. The couple have created a foundation, under their name, which provides cash awards to sixth grade students in several San Diego barrio schools.

Photo by Angelica Zambade

No. 72Dora Ortega

Dora Ortega used to carefully listen to her grandmother, Feliciana, talk about the value of service to family, friends and community. Feliciana lived to be 105 years old, and Dora learned the lessons well. She is a teacher, a supporter of civil rights and a friend to many. In recent years, Dora was a counselor at Palomar High School in Chula Vista, where she worked with at-risk students. In the 1980s, Dora was coordinator for migrant education for the Bonsall Union School District in North County, and then she worked with the County Office of Education to create educational opportunities for the children of farm workers. Today she is a counselor at the Sweetwater Academy for Individual Learning Styles. Dora serves as the affirmative action officer and board member of the San Diego chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union, which champions freedom of speech.

Photo by Manuel Cavada

No. 73Ricardo Sistos, M.D.

Dr. Ricardo Sistos was born in Leon, Mexico and grew up in California’s San Fernando Valley. He was one of 12 children and his father was a shoe repairman who inspired his children to be successful with their lives. Dr. Sistos attended Loyola University and then graduated from Stanford University School of Medicine. As a physician with Kaiser Permanente and as a clinical instructor at the University of San Diego and University of California, San Diego, Dr. Sistos has also volunteered with the Logan Heights Family Health and Escondido community clinics. He can often be found speaking to children at various school career development workshops. In 2000, he founded the Hippocrat’s Circle to encourage teenagers to seek medicine as a career field. Dr. Sistos is married to Attorney Roberta Sistos.

Photo by Olga Gunn

No. 74Daniel Morales

Daniel Morales was born in San Bernardino and graduated from the University of California, Santa Barbara. In 1978, he moved to San Diego, where he has always been a supporter of Latino and community issues, whether coaching soccer and Little League or coordinating and marching with neighbors in the North Park Toyland Parade. He served as a San Diego City Council aide and was a regional organizer and field office director for the United Farm Workers for five years. Currently, Daniel is a top administrator for the San Diego Housing Commission and serves as a board member of the Urban Corps of San Diego and the St. Patrick’s School.

Photo by Angelica Zambade

No. 75Enriqueta and Gus Chavez

(Gus Chavez 1931–2019)

For more than 20 years, Enriqueta and Gus Chavez have dedicated themselves to the education of Latino students. Since 1991, Enriqueta has been a counselor at Eastlake High School. She is a graduate of Calexico High School and San Diego State University and has taught at SDSU, San Diego City College and the Sweetwater Union High School District. Since 1974, Gus has been the director of the Office of Educational Opportunity and Ethnic Affairs at SDSU. He is one of the highest-ranking Latinos at the University. Gus and Enriqueta have been involved in numerous community organizations and have been honored by many of them. Gus was a founding member of the Chicano Federation and a member of the GI Forum.

Photo by Manuel Cavada

No. 76Cecilia Estrada

While some educators may shun away from inner-city schools, Tucson-born Cecilia Estrada embraces her students and their families, knowing that there is great human wealth in urban schools. As principal for 12 years of Sherman Elementary School in the heart of San Diego, Cecilia has provided leadership and inspiration to many. She helped create the Micro Society, where students engage in real-life professional activities that lay down a positive foundation for future careers. In 1997, Cecilia was appointed to open Cesar Chavez Elementary School, where she continues as principal. Cecilia serves on the boards of the Sherman Heights Community Center, the Parent Institute for Quality Education as well as other civic organizations. Her two daughters are in college at Brown University and Cal State University, Northridge.

Photo by Victor Molina

No. 77Faustina Solis

(1923–2013)

As a young Latina in the 1950s, Faustina Solis graduated from the University of Southern California at a time when there were few Latinos in her professional field of psychiatric social work. Faustina focused on migrant workers in the Imperial Valley which sparked a passion that led her to develop rural health services for Latinos. In 1971 she joined the faculty at the University of California San Diego to help develop the San Ysidro Community Health Center. Since then, she has taught at the UCSD School of Medicine and in 1982 became the provost of Third College. Two years later she stepped up to become UCSD assistant chancellor. Retired in 1989, Faustina remains a professor emeritus and continues to foster the promotion and recruitment of Latino faculty and students at UCSD.

Photo by Patricia Ruelas

No. 78Jorge Huerta

Chicano-Mexicano theatre has a rich, golden legacy—from the early days of the carpas, Mexican traveling theatre groups, to the teatro performances by striking United Farm Workers. Jorge Huerta, Ph.D., has been a part of it since founding Teatro de la Esperanza at the University of California, Santa Barbara. He later became the director of the nation’s first Hispanic-American Masters of Fine Arts Program at UC, San Diego from 1989-1991. Dr. Huerta was also the first recipient of the UCSD Chancellor’s Associates Endowed Chair III. Today, the UCSD professor is one of the nation’s leading authorities on contemporary Chicano and Latino theatre and a professional director. In 1981 Dr. Huerta also co-founded Teatro Meta which resides at the Old Globe Theatre. In 1987 he also co-founded Teatro Mascara Majica which is a multi-cultural theatre ensemble which is in residency at the San Diego Repertory Theatre.

Photo by Olga Gunn

No. 79Roberto and Yolanda Martinez

(Roberto Martinez 1937–2009)

Roberto Martinez has been a lone but a loud voice in documenting human rights abuses of undocumented immigrants, when others have remained silent. After 18 years, as the director of the Border Project of the American Friends Service Committee (AFCS), Roberto will retire in December 2001. However, he promises to continue to defend the civil and human rights of documented and undocumented immigrants—much like he did working for the internationally recognized AFCS organization, which was founded in 1917. With his wife, Yolanda, the couple has also impacted the health and welfare needs of Latinos who have been unable to help themselves. From 1981-1999 Yolanda worked tirelessly as a pediatric case manager at the Logan Heights Family Health Clinic, assisting children of poor Latino families receive critical surgeries and Specialized medicine. The Martinez’ are also the parents of nine grown children, 16 grandchildren and five great grandchildren.

Photo by Alma Villanueva

No. 80Eliseo Medina

One of the greatest contributions made by the late Cesar Chavez, president of the United Farm Workers, was to nurture other leaders. One of the most effective to come from the front line classroom is Eliseo Medina, former president of the Service Employees International Union Local 102. Under Eliseo’s leadership, the SEIU steadily ensured better wages and working conditions for its employees – the vast majority of whom are recent Latino immigrants who make up the foundation of San Diego’s important tourism industry. The union has become more politically active, organizing voter registration drives and speaking out on labor issues. True to the spirit of his late teacher, Eliseo has become a leading spokesman for human rights issues as well. Today he is the vice president of the national SEIU board, located in Los Angeles.

Photo by Manuel Cavada

No. 81Jaime Castaneda

Jaime Castaneda saw a lack of media coverage by the traditional print and electronic media in San Diego’s fast-growing North County. He also saw a lack of media outlets for and by Latinos. So, in 1987, Jaime established a voice for North County’s Latinos through Hispanos Unidos. The weekly newspaper now serves San Diego and Riverside counties with a circulation of 115,000. Jaime is editor and, since 1994, his wife, Ana, has been the publisher of the Spanish-language paper. Jaime reached his goal and established Hispanos Unidos to give a stronger voice for Latinos.

Photo by Alma Villanueva

No. 82Maria Neves-Perman

Maria Neves-Perman has been helping Latino immigrants get a foothold in the United States for over 20 years. Born in Guadalajara, Maria has five children and 11 grandchildren and has been teaching adults in San Ysidro. She was the first Latina elected to the Southwestern College board of trustees and has served two terms as board president. Maria supports the Association of Mexican-American Educators, the National Women’s Political Caucus, the Mexican-American National Women’s Association and the California Council of Adult Educators. Maria has been honored by several organizations for her work in inspiring immigrants to be educated and empowered.

Photo by Manuel Cavada

No. 83Carlos Hanessian

A native of Mexico City, where in 1975 he was the chief of Public Relations for the Mexican House of Representatives, San Diego is fortunate to now be the home of Carlos Hanessian. Carlos is dedicated to addressing the medical needs of Latino children and combats tobacco addiction in the community at La Maestra Center Inc. Carlos coordinates the Center’s programs in tobacco education and control and provides health services for rural residents and migrant farm workers. Carlos serves on the Latino Health Council of San Diego and the Immigration Coalition of San Diego. Studying for a law degree, Carlos plans to continue to be involved with Latino health care issues.

Photo by Patricia Ruelas

No. 84Bea Estrada

(1934–2010)

When it comes to students, Bea Estrada can usually be heard asking, “How can I help?” She and her husband, Horace, have created the Estrada Scholarship Foundation to assist Mexican-American students. In 1980, Bea helped organize the local League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) which at the time was one of the largest and oldest Hispanic organizations in the United States. The Navy wife and mother of two was elected LULAC president nine times. The LULAC awards scholarships to deserving and promising Latino students and supports students who have faced obstacles imposed by school bureaucracies. Bea was born in Texas and, since 1974, has made San Diego her home with her husband.

Photo by Patricia Ruelas

No. 85Sam Duran

After more than 20 years in the military, many retirees would be satisfied to sit back and relax – not Sam Duran. With 24 years in the U.S. Air Force behind him, having earned a Bronze Star and two U.S.A.F. Commendations, Sam began to teach young people to soar above their circumstances. First with the California Conservation Corps, and now as CEO of San Diego’s Urban Corps Sam has created a model organization for others to emulate in the state and across the country. In addition to serving youth, Sam is involved with helping senior citizens and civic groups.

Photo by Patricia Ruelas

No. 86Helen Diaz

(1925–2007)

Born and raised in San Diego, educational pioneer Helen Diaz paved the way for hundreds of other Mexican-American teachers who have followed her into the classroom. She began her teaching career in 1957 after graduating from San Diego State University. She was selected as the first San Diego Citizen of the Year in Education and was the recipient of the Freedom Foundation’s Teacher’s Medal. Helen is past state president of the Association of Mexican-American Educators, of which she is a charter member, and has a variety of awards from the San Diego Teachers Association and California Teachers Association. Although she retired from the public schools after 34 years, Helen continues to lead and teach at San Diego State University.

Photo by Angelica Zambade

No. 87Augie Bareno

Where most people see a border dividing two societies, Augie Bareno sees one. Where most people see separation, he sees confluence. Where most people see disparity, he sees equality. For more than 20 years, Augie, a third-generation San Diegan, has combined his care for the community with a public service career. He attended the St. Jude’s Shrine of the West school in National City, which was built by neighborhood residents, including Augie’s family. As president of ABCO Consulting & Management, A Land Use Company, Augie is a leading expert on U.S.-Mexico border issues and has taken a leadership role in confronting anti-immigrant sentiment. He is a trustee for Southwestern Community College in Chula Vista; the academic starting point for thousands of Latinos. He recently authored a book on the history of Mexican Families in Logan Heights from the 1900s to the 1960s.

Photo by Manuel Cavada

No. 88Guadalupe Corona

Guadalupe Corona is a first generation Chicana of Mexican descent. She was the first of her siblings to go to college and the second in her generation to receive a B.A. Out of 52 cousins, she was the first to earn a master’s degree, which is in Leadership Studies. Currently, Guadalupe is pursuing her doctorate at the University of San Diego. She is the assistant director of Student Activities and staff member to the United Front Multicultural Center. As a single parent with one child, Guadalupe has a history of activism in the Latino community by organizing, volunteering and developing programs to empower others. She is a former president of the board of the Centro Cultural de la Raza, and vice chair of the Latina/o Unity Coalition. She serves as the chair of the National Latino Caucus for the Annual national Conference on Race and Ethnicity.

Photo by Victor Sotelo

No. 89Al Araiza

Al Araiza started at San Diego Gas & Electric as a messenger and before he retired after 36 years, negotiated million-dollar contracts for the utility as manager of Mexico Relations. One of eight children raised in Calexico, Al represents the Mexican-American community in a number of endeavors, including the Border Trade Alliance, United Way-CHAD and the World Affairs Council of San Diego. He is also active in raising scholarships for athletes at the Aztec Athletic Foundation at his alma mater, San Diego State University. Al continues to represent the goals of Latinos from Calexico to San Diego as the first president of the new SDSU Latino Alumni Association, “Los Aztecas.”

Photo by Manuel Cavada

No. 90Elida Chavez

For more than 20 years, Elida Chavez has specialized in the area of multi-ethnic marketing for clients such as Coca-Cola USA, McDonald’s, the San Diego County Water Authority and Ralph’s. She was one of the first Latinas in the field, founding her former company, Chavez & Associates in 1984, and partnering in a San Diego radio station. Elida was also one of the first public relations specialists to develop outreach programs to the Latino community promoting safety, water and energy conservation, and disposal of hazardous waste materials. Her work and support of Latino-owned businesses has earned Elida recognition throughout the community.

Photo courtesy Elida Chavez

No. 91Joseph Martinez

Joseph Martinez is an excellent architect, who not only builds strong structures, but also a strong community. As a student at the University of California, San Diego, Joseph helped organize the Mexican-American Youth Association, which later became the Movimiento Estudiantil Chicano de Aztlan (MechA). Joseph was also involved in the founding of Lumumba-Zapata College, now called Thurgood Marshall College at UCSD. Joseph has served on the boards of Bahia Del Sur, a Latino political action committee, Project One Vote, the Border Region Action Group, La Jolla Playhouse and Qualcomm Stadium. He has laid a strong community foundation that will endure in tandem with his acclaimed buildings.

Photo by Olga Gunn

No. 92Gracia Molina de Pick

(1928–2019)

Gracia Molina de Pick was born in Mexico and was active in establishing the first bilingual childcare center in Los Angeles. In the mid-1960s, Gracia helped create grassroots groups in San Diego to support the United Farm Workers’ early struggles. One of the student groups she helped form was MechA. Her participation in feminist causes led also to the creation of the Comision Feminil Mexicana Nacional, a Latina rights group that has been ongoing for 25 years. Gracia has taught humanities and Chicano studies at Mesa College and at the University of California, San Diego. Since her retirement from teaching, Gracia has volunteered with the elderly, ill and homeless, including San Diegans For La Huelga.

Photo by Angelica Zambade

No. 93Leonard Fierro

(1918–1995)

When San Diego’s Chicano community began to raise its voice and demand equality in the late 1960s, there were few Mexican-Americans in positions of influence and authority. And not all of them embraced activism. Leonard Fierro, a one-time juvenile offender, was one of the first Chicano school administrators in San Diego. He was an early proponent of bilingual education and promoter of parental involvement in child education. As one of the founders of the Association of Mexican American Educators, Leonard directed one of the first efforts to collect and develop bilingual educational materials for Cuban, Puerto Rican and Chicano students – a testament to Leonard’s embrace of all Latinos. He spent his retirement years collecting a history of San Diego’s Mexican-American community until he passed away.

Photo by Angelica Zambade

No. 94Estela Klink

Estela Klink has dedicated her life to teaching and organizing the Latino community. Born in Stockton, California, Estela lived in Mexico until her family moved to San Diego. Estela attended the former Rosary High School and after graduation entered a novitiate in St. Louis Missouri in 1965. She served as a Catholic nun and ten years later returned to San Diego. She became involved in empowering the community through the San Diego Organizing Project. In 1981 she left the religious order and since 1984 has worked with the Sherman Heights Community Center. Estela teaches at St. Rita’s, St. Jude’s Academy and Montgomery High School.

Photo by Angelica Zambade

No. 95Sue Talamantez

(1914–2003)

Sue Talamantez was born in Barrio Logan in 1914 and has lived there her whole life. When she was 16 years old and still in high school, Sue worked in the local canneries, cleaning and packing fish in the 1930s. It was a dirty job that paid little for long hours. In those days there was no minimum wage or retirement. Workers feared to speak up. But Sue joined a protest through the Fishermen’s Union, demanding equality. Later, with her husband, Joe, Sue participated in numerous neighborhood rallies focusing on social justice and political concerns. At age 61, Sue graduated from San Diego City College with an associate of arts degree. She emphasized the value of education and family to her four children; Ronald a design engineer, Roger a corporate executive, Roy a longshoreman and Josephine an arts administrator.

Photo by Patricia Ruelas

No. 96Salvador Barajas

Salvador Barajas was born in Sinaloa, Mexico. He spent his youth in Tijuana and, at the age of 18, he and his family moved to San Diego. Subsequently, he joined the U.S. Air Force and refined his skill as an illustrator, then graduated from art school in Los Angeles. For the following 25 years, Sal shared his skill with the community working as a senior art director for the Hahn Corporation, contributing artwork for El Centro Cultural de la Raza and other community institutions. Today, Sal owns Motivational Design, a company that produces illustrated messages that assist teachers and give students an appreciation of their heritage and the motivation to stay in school. As a parent of four GATE children, three of whom are attending college, Sal and his wife, Leticia, champion parental involvement in the schools.

Photo by Michael Cavada

No. 97Estelle Murrietta Chacon

(1921–1994)

Estelle Murrieta Chacon was a homemaker without money, political connections or government savvy. Yet she had a vision of forming an organization to work on behalf of the Mexican-American community. Employed by the U.S. Marshal’s office from 1954-1957, Estelle acted as interpreter and prisoner-escort. She discovered that immigrant women were simply dumped across the border without resources, so she began to gather clothing and money for them. In 1969, Estelle became one of the founding members of the Chicano Federation, now one of San Diego’s largest Latino advocacy organizations. In 1972, Estelle became president of the San Diego chapter of the National Organization for Women. In 1978 she lobbied successfully to create the national Displaced Homemaker’s Program, which provided benefits and job training for divorced women. She was also a wife, mother and active in politics. Estelle passed away in 1994.

Photo courtesy of the Chacon family

No. 98Y.R. “Junior” Robles

(1967–1980)

His hands were lightning sharp. His feet and body moved effortlessly. But most of all, Y.R. Junior Robles had a big and welcoming heart. Born in Barrio Logan, Junior excelled in boxing and eventually became a Golden Gloves champion. Following his boxing career, Junior founded several boxing clubs; the most notable being the Chicano Athletic Association. His efforts produced national boxing champions from former street fighters. Junior coached both youth and adults and in 1980 was selected as a coach for the U.S. Amateur Boxing Team. Traveling with the U.S. team to Poland later that year for an international match, Junior’s plane crashed. He and the entire team was lost. Many in San Diego, however, are still inspired by Junior and his legendary leadership.

Photo courtesy of the Robles family

No. 99Mike Negrete

Before there was the Chicano Movement in the 1960s, before there was the Civil Rights Movement in the 1950s and before there was the creation of the national GI Forum, a group of Mexican-American World War II veterans who sought equality in America, there was Mike Negrete. Now deceased, Mike’s legacy will be remembered for his role in founding Los Toltecas, one of the earliest civil rights groups for San Diego’s Mexican-American community. Mike was one of the first Mexicanos to join the plumbers union, breaking down ethnic barriers in many civic organizations through his involvement and recruitment. Mike also organized and coached baseball teams in Ocean Beach and Pt. Loma, which introduced many Mexican-American youths to the sport. San Diego is a more equitable and economically fair place to be because of the life-long efforts of Mike Negrete.

Photo courtesy of the Negrete family

No. 100R. Futuro

R. futuro is our 100th portrait and it is a blank canvas—to leave room for you. There is still much that needs to be done in our community; more dreams to fulfill, more challenges to meet, and more successes to achieve. We hope that you, too, will be motivated to excellence, and will take your rightful place as an inspiration to others. All you need is ganas.