Rep. Chu Honors Local Leaders at 2025 Congressional Leadership of the Year Awards Ceremony (Photo – Office of Judy Chu)
On Saturday, July 12, Congresswoman Judy Chu (CA-28) hosted her annual Congressional Leadership of the Year Awards Ceremony, honoring nine exceptional individuals and organizations from across California’s 28th Congressional District for their outstanding service and contributions to their communities.
By News Desk
The event was emceed by acclaimed actress and community advocate Tamlyn Tomita, best known for her roles in The Karate Kid Part II, The Joy Luck Club, and Star Trek: Picard.
“After everything our communities have been through, especially in the wake of the Eaton Fire, these leaders stepped up,” said Rep. Chu. “Many of our honorees have helped families rebuild, uplifted young people, supported our seniors, empowered immigrant communities, and brought hope during some of the hardest times. They’re educators, volunteers, activists, and small business owners. I’m so proud to recognize them for all they’ve done and all they continue to do. They really do represent the very best of the San Gabriel Valley.”
This year’s honorees include:
- Wendy Sinnette – Educator of the Year (La Cañada Flintridge):
Recognized for her compassionate and resilient leadership as Superintendent of the La Cañada Unified School District, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic and in the aftermath of the Eaton Fire. - San Gabriel Valley Habitat for Humanity – Nonprofit of the Year:
Celebrated for its decades-long commitment to affordable housing and its rapid response to the Eaton Fire, including innovative rebuilding efforts and community-led volunteer mobilization. - Pastor Jonathan “Jon” DeCuir – Community Activist of the Year (Altadena):
Honored for transforming Victory Bible Church into a relief hub following the Eaton Fire and for launching the Legacy Land Project to support long-term recovery and housing efforts. - Jason Kim & Johanna Quach – Businesspeople of the Year (San Gabriel):
Recognized for their philanthropic leadership at Paris Baguette San Gabriel, including support for local schools, emergency responders, and inclusive hiring practices. - Rev. Gene Boutilier – Volunteer of the Year (Claremont):
A lifelong social justice advocate, Rev. Boutilier has dedicated decades to volunteer service across Southern California and was instrumental in launching Claremont’s first low-income housing project, Larkin Place. - National Day Laborer Organizing Network (NDLON) – Nonprofit of the Year (Pasadena):
Commended for its leadership in defending day laborers and immigrant communities, including its response to ICE raids and fire recovery coordination through the Pasadena Community Job Center. - Tzi Ma – Community Activist of the Year (Pasadena):
The renowned actor and activist was honored for decades of advocacy for AAPI representation in media, civil rights activism, and leadership in the #WashTheHate campaign during the rise in anti-Asian hate amid the COVID-19 pandemic. - Nic Arnzen – Building Bridges Award (Altadena):
Vice Chair of the Altadena Town Council, Arnzen was recognized for his leadership during the Eaton Fire and for founding Altadena Pride, fostering visibility, inclusion, and community healing. - Edgar McGregor – Courageous Service of the Year (Altadena/Pasadena):
A local meteorologist honored for issuing life-saving warnings ahead of the Eaton Fire, helping thousands of residents evacuate safely and avoid disaster.
It was a lovely ceremony filled with such deserving recipients.