**Thank You for Making Our Planting The Seed Luncheon a Success!**

Together, we celebrated our community’s commitment to educational equity and empowered the next generation of first-generation Latinx scholars.

Grow The Impact

A Day of Inspiration, Generosity, and Community

On May 2nd, over 250 guests gathered at the Mexican Heritage Plaza for LEAF’s second annual Planting the Seed Luncheon—a powerful celebration of first-generation college students, resilient families, and the communities that make educational equity possible.

From the moment doors opened, there was an unmistakable energy in the air. Guests mingled with LEAF Scholars, enjoyed live music, and reflected on the collective impact we have built together.

Meet Our Harvest of Education Presenting Sponsor

Shared Mission: Empowering Latinx Scholars Together

"Educational equity for Latinx scholars is essential to building a more just and prosperous future. SFBU proudly aligns with LEAF’s mission to remove barriers and expand opportunities. This partnership strengthens our shared commitment to empowering Latinx students with the resources, mentorship, and access they need to thrive."

– San Francisco Bay University

Voices That Inspired Us

We were honored to welcome an incredible lineup of speakers who shared their truth with courage and clarity

2025 Jorge Escobar Achievement in Education Award Honoree

Dr. Francisco Jiménez is an award-winning author, educator, and advocate for multicultural education. Born in Tlaquepaque, Mexico, he immigrated to California as a child, where he worked in the fields alongside his family. Overcoming significant barriers, he earned a BA from Santa Clara University and an MA and Ph.D. in Latin American literature from Columbia University under a Woodrow Wilson Fellowship.

Renowned for his autobiographical works, including The Circuit, Dr. Jiménez has inspired countless students and won numerous literary awards. As a professor at Santa Clara University, he championed ethnic studies, community-based learning, and teacher development programs.

Why Dr. Francisco Jiménez Was Selected
Dr. Jiménez exemplifies the values of the Jorge Escobar Achievement in Education Award through his compassion, leadership, and lifelong dedication to empowering students. His transformative impact on education and the community reflects the legacy of excellence and benevolence celebrated by this honor.

Our LEAF Family

Mayra Suárez Castillejos, a current LEAF Scholar at Santa Clara University, reminded us that success doesn’t come from following someone else’s dream—but from owning your story. From her roots at the flea market to the halls of higher education, Mayra’s journey was a testament to perseverance, family support, and the transformative role of community.

María Castillejos, a LEAF parent and advocate, spoke from the heart about walking alongside her children through the education system and discovering her own voice through LEAF’s advocacy workshops. Her words honored every parent working behind the scenes to help their children soar.

Our Master of Ceremonies

Damian Trujillo has been a trusted NBC Bay Area News reporter since 1996 and serves as the host and producer of Comunidad Del Valle, the Bay Area's longest-running public affairs program, also airing in Spanish on Telemundo 48. He is a highly decorated journalist, earning honors from the Associated Press, the RTNDA, and the National Association of Hispanic Journalists, and was named "Reporter of the Year" in 2004.

A former farm worker from Greenfield, California, Damian’s upbringing instilled in him a deep respect for laborers. Each year, his family honors farm workers on Cesar Chavez Day by distributing lunches and awarding a college scholarship to a child of a farm worker in his hometown. His inspiring life journey was captured in the documentary From the Fields: An American Journey, screened at prestigious institutions and even on Capitol Hill.

Moments of Honor

A Tribute to Our Honoree and Community Champions

Presenting of The 2025 Jorge Escobar Achievement in Education Award

Board Chair, Ed Alvarez and Diego Escobar, son of Jorge Escobar, present Dr. Francisco Jiménez with the 2025 Jorge Escobar Achievement in Education Award—honoring a legacy of resilience, leadership, and unwavering commitment to educational equity.

History of The Jorge Escobar Achievement in Education Award

Jorge Escobar was an esteemed educational administrator renowned for his compassion, benevolence, and unwavering dedication to his students. He was skilled at bringing people together and building coalitions to enhance the quality of life in San Jose and Silicon Valley.

Escobar had an illustrious career spanning over a decade, holding key positions as the Manager of Administration at Princeton University, Chief Financial Officer at The National Hispanic University, Vice President of San Jose City College, and Acting President in 2018. He ultimately served as Vice Chancellor of the San Jose Evergreen Community College District before his untimely passing in 2023.

The Jorge Escobar Achievement in Education Award was established to honor and commemorate his significant contributions to the field of education. Jorge Escobar will always be remembered for his dedication and compassion towards his students and colleagues alike.

Congressional and Mayoral Commendations

The afternoon also included two beautiful recognition moments:

LEAF was presented with a Congressional Commendation from Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren’s Office.

Dr. Jiménez received official commendations from Congresswoman Lofgren and Mayor Matt Mahan, acknowledging his enduring contributions to educational equity.

Thank You to Our Sponsors

At LEAF, we believe that lasting change is rooted in community—and our sponsors are an essential part of that community.

Your investment in first-generation students and their families fuels opportunity, cultivates leadership, and nurtures the next generation of changemakers from East San José and beyond.

Together, we are planting the seeds of educational equity and helping dreams take root.

We are deeply grateful for your partnership.