Rep. Chu Honors Local Leaders at 2025 Congressional Leadership of the Year Awards Ceremony
PASADENA, CALIFORNIA – On Saturday, Congresswoman Judy Chu (CA-28) hosted her annual Congressional Leadership of the Year Awards Ceremony, honoring nine remarkable individuals and organizations from across California’s 28th Congressional District for their outstanding service and contributions to their communities. 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): Wendy Sinnette was recognized for her compassionate and resilient leadership as Superintendent of the La Cañada Unified School District, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic and the aftermath of the Eaton Fire.
- San Gabriel Valley Habitat for Humanity – Nonprofit of the Year: SGV Habitat for Humanity was celebrated for its decades-long commitment to affordable housing and rapid response to the Eaton Fire, including innovative rebuilding efforts and community-driven volunteer mobilization.
- Pastor Jonathan “Jon” DeCuir – Community Activist of the Year (Altadena): Pastor DeCuir was honored for transforming Victory Bible Church into a relief hub after the Eaton Fire and launching the Legacy Land Project to support long-term recovery and housing.
- Jason Kim & Johanna Quach – Businesspeople of the Year (San Gabriel): The leadership of Paris Baguette San Gabriel, Jason Kim & Johanna Quach, were recognized for their philanthropic support of local schools, emergency responders, and inclusive hiring practices.
- Rev. Gene Boutilier – Volunteer of the Year (Claremont): A lifelong advocate for social justice, Rev. Gene 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): NDLON was commended for their leadership in defending day laborers and immigrants, including its response to ICE raids and coordination of fire recovery work through the Pasadena Community Job Center.
- Tzi Ma – Community Activist of the Year (Pasadena): Tzi Ma is a renowned actor and activist, honored for decades of advocacy for AAPI representation in entertainment and media, civil rights activism, and his leadership in #WashTheHate social media campaign during the rise in anti-Asian hate amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Nic Arnzen – Building Bridges Award (Altadena): Nic Arnzen is the Vice Chair of the Altadena Town Council, recognized for his leadership during the Eaton Fire and for founding Altadena Pride, fostering visibility, inclusivity, and healing.
- Edgar McGregor – Courageous Service of the Year (Altadena/Pasadena): Edgar McGregor is a local meteorologist awarded for issuing life-saving warnings ahead of the Eaton Fire, helping thousands of residents evacuate safely and avoid disaster.
