Cultivating Educational Equity!
We extend our sincerest gratitude for your invaluable presence and contributions to the resounding success of our inaugural luncheon. Your unwavering support serves as the cornerstone for sowing the seeds of a promising tomorrow!
We extend our deepest appreciation to our esteemed keynote speaker, Maria Medrano, and our inaugural recipient of the Jorge Escobar Achievement in Education Award, Joe Coto, as well as our LEAF Leaders, Hector Nuñez and Maria Barajas, for their relentless commitment to the cause of education.
Didn't get a chance to donate during the luncheon? Plant the seed today!
Your donation will go directly towards our incoming cohort of Scholars and their families. Your support helps sow the seeds of hope and possibility for a brighter, more equitable future. Together, let's nurture the growth of educational excellence and opportunity for all. Thank you for being a part of our journey to educational equity! 🌟
Keynote Speaker
Envision a future where educational equity reigns supreme, guided by our esteemed keynote speaker, Maria Medrano, VP of Global Head Community, Diversity, and Belonging at Equinix, who showcases innovative strategies that are bridging gaps in access and opportunity for all learners.
Maria Medrano
VP of Global Head Community, Diversity, and Belonging at Equinix
Within Equinix, Maria Medrano is dedicated to fostering innovation for the present and future, ensuring sustainable success through aligning business goals with community needs. At Inspirame, Maria is at the forefront of utilizing technology to make higher education more accessible to all. By concentrating on supporting low-income and first-generation learners, their inventive strategies encourage individuals to complete college degrees and gain industry certifications.
Joe Coto began his career as a teacher in the Oakland Unified School District, where he first observed the impact of public policy on education. He then became the first Latino Oakland City Councilmember for the Fruitvale district, serving for four years. Returning to education, he eventually became Superintendent of Oakland schools and later the East Side Union High School District in San José for 14 years.
Coto served three terms as an Assembly Member for the 23rd District of San Jose, where he passed significant legislation and held key committee positions, including Chair of the Assembly's Insurance committee. He was the first former Superintendent of schools elected to the California State Assembly.
Throughout his career, Coto has served on numerous boards and commissions, including Chair of the Mexican Plaza Cultural Arts Center, President of the Latino Democratic Forum, and board member of Joint Venture Silicon Valley and the Lucille Packard Children’s Hospital. He is currently involved in boards advocating for civic participation and affordable housing. Coto's lifelong commitment is to empower and defend the community, focusing on jobs, quality education, and affordable housing.
Jorge Escobar Achievement in Education Awardee
Our inaugural Jorge Escobar Achievement in Education Awardee, Joe Coto, former educator and assembly member, embodies Jorge Escobar's legacy for his lifelong commitment to education and community empowerment, leaving an indelible mark on generations to come.
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.
