Americana Awards Program 2026

Cypress College Foundation

AWARDS 51st Americana Awards Gala SATURDAY, MARCH 21, 2026 The Westin Anaheim Resort

Cypress College Foundation

AWARDS 51st Americana Awards Gala SATURDAY, MARCH 21, 2026 The Westin Anaheim Resort

Silent Auction & Reception 5:00 p.m.

Dinner & Program 7:00 p.m. presenting sponsor

floral sponsor

Cypress College Foundation

AWARDS

2026

SPONSORS

PRESENTING SPONSOR Total Environmental Management PLATINUM SPONSORS Bobbie Stovall George Orff GOLD SPONSOR Catherine Sorensen FLORAL SPONSOR Petal and Leaf

(formerly Conroy’s Flowers of Cypress)

PRESIDENT’S CIRCLE SPONSORS ENO Brands, Forest Lawn Memorial – Parks & Mortuaries PATRIOT SPONSOR EMCOR FOUNDER SPONSORS Cathay Bank, Golden State Water Company, Les Lewis BENEFACTOR SPONSORS Applied Air, ARCA-MCA, Boys & Girls Club of Stanton, City of Buena Park, City of Cypress, City of La Palma, City of Stanton, Cypress College Associated Students, Gay Hannah, Dr. Margie Lewis, Paul Lussman, North Orange County Community College District, Seal Beach Lions, SMACNA Southern California, Southern California Edison, Stanton Lions Club, Tuesday Evening Publications, The Westin Anaheim Resort OPPORTUNITY DRAWING SPONSORS REMAX Tiffany - Delight & Nicole, Happy Jewelers SPIRIT SPONSORS Cypress College Swap Meet, Joanna and Steve Schilling, Ken & Robin Vecchiarelli, MAAS, Orange County Professional Firefighters Association, Payden & Rygel, SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union, SoCalGas PATRON SPONSORS Association of Orange County Deputy Sheriffs, Dr. Barbara Dunsheath & James Finn, DMG, Kevin Jones, Paulette Chaffee, Piper Sandler & Co., Rodeo 39 Public Market STAR SPONSORS Boydstun Realty & Property Management, Inc., Bryan & Maura Ventura, Cliff Ishii, Clifford Lester, Dr. Elizabeth “Beth” Swift, Evergreen Alliance, Paul & Carol Bostwick, Phil & Barbie Wendel, Sandie & Dr. Terry McCarthy, Drs. Scott W. & Maria Thayer, Stephen and Susan Faessel, The Westin Anaheim Resort *as of 3/17/26

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Cypress College Foundation

AWARDS SATURDAY, MARCH 21, 2026

PROGRAM PRESENTATION OF COLORS...................................................... Anaheim Police Department Honor Guard NATIONAL ANTHEM........................................................................................................................... Kaleigh Longmeyer Cypress College Student INVOCATION..............................................................................................................................................Invocation Speaker AMERICANA MASTER OF CEREMONIES....................................................................................... Jim Vanderpool Retired City Manager, Buena Park and Anaheim AMERICANA CO-CHAIRS WELCOME..........................................................................Carmen Koo & Kevin Tsao Americana Committee Co-Chairs PRESENTING SPONSOR................................................................................................................................Jim Hindman CEO, Total Environmental Management AMERICANA WELCOME.............................................................................................................................. Curtis Scheetz President, Cypress College Foundation Board of Directors Howard Kummerman Executive Director, Cypress College Foundation STUDENT SPEAKER.............................................................................................................................Kaili Quynh Nguyen Cypress College Student LIVE AUCTION AND FUND-A-NEED...........................................................................................................Zack Krone Auctioneer PRESIDENT’S REMARKS................................................................................................................... Dr. Scott W. Thayer President, Cypress College OPPORTUNITY DRAWINGS............................................................................................................Kaili Quynh Nguyen Cypress College Student PERSON OF THE YEAR........................................................................................................................................George Orff PRESENTATION OF THE CITIZENS OF THE YEAR ...................................................................Jim Vanderpool GOD BLESS AMERICANA ............................................................................................................... Kaleigh Longmeyer Cypress College Student Thanks to Americana All-Stars members: Gary Gopar – Director, Yayo Morales – Drums, Will Brahm – Guitar, Dominic Almazan – Keyboard, Darian Serratos – Bass

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Foundation Establishes Legacy Society You Can Impact Students’ Lives Forever!

Leaving a lasting legacy by establishing an endowment does just that, and you can specify how you want your gift used.

You can fund the endowment now, over time, or through a bequest in your will or trust. Talk to our planned giving expert to learn about various options.

The following people have committed to creating their legacy. Can we add your name to this list?

Legacy Society Members (in order of signing) CHARTER MEMBERS Sandie & Dr. Terry McCarthy Beth Piburn Margie Lewis Gail Taylor Bill Garcia Kay and Mal Bruce David Shawver Mariellen Yarc Lussman and Paul Lussman Pat Ganer James and Cathy Phillips Cheryl Marshall Curtis and Jill Scheetz Donna Friess Diane Henry Raul Alvarez and Nan Alvarez-Gray Barbara Dunsheath and James Finn Walt and Ethel Bowman Phil Dykstra and Lisa Gaetje Pat and Marilyn O’Brien

Brent and Sherry Hunter Karen Cant Joel Gober Michael and Jana Kasler Robert and Denise Simpson Joyce Ricci and Mike Donnelly Nancy Byrnes JoAnna and Steven Schilling Lydia and Jay Sondhi Delight and Robert Sittman Lynette Young Michael Frey Rebecca Gomez Pamela Kahn Irma Ramos Cliff and Sharon Lester Kathleen Reiland Cherie Dickey MEMBERS Regina Rhymes Jack and Lacreta Scott Donald R. Brand

Ilma Cunningham Howard and Deborah Kummerman Paul de Dios Ron Armale Paulo Morales Beth Nielsen Rachel Ghatikar Bonna Campellone Deanne Bloomquist Brinda Subramaniam Richard Hock Barry Siegel Shivon Ozinga Brenda Vosbein in memory of Diana Olson Mike Sellers Kevin Tsao Eldon Young Kevin Jones Don Hudson Michael Klyde

If you have already included Cypress College in your will or trust, thank you! Please let the Foundation Of�ice know so that we can recognize you for your generosity.

To join the Legacy Society or for more information contact: Howard Kummerman, Executive Director Or Rachel Ghatikar, Director of Development Cypress College Foundation 714.484.7128

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Focusing on Student Impact Maximizing impact through a gift funding the Greatest Need Students at Cypress College experience various challenges affecting their academic success. They often suffer from food insecurity, unexpected unemployment, child care and elder care hardships, homelessness, mental health issues, and many other barriers to their success. Sometimes students simply need funds to purchase a book or even diapers.

Oftentimes our most successful students need a little help just to stay in school and remove the everyday stressors that prevent them from continuing their college journey.

A gift to the Foundation’s Greatest Need Program is the most impactful way to provide �lexibility when supporting students’ everyday necessities. Funds often offer Emergency Assistance in the form of grants or loans and �ill the gap for student scholarships helping students who might not otherwise receive an award.

Making a lifetime impact through a Cypress College Foundation Legacy Society Endowment Your gift will ensure that students will receive scholarship awards in perpetuity, recognizing your commitment to the college beyond your lifetime.

Your Legacy Society Endowment will grow through the Foundation investment portfolio with earnings used to support students through scholarships or any other pre-determined programmatic purpose. You can add to the endowment each year, further growing its impact on students. When you provide scholarships for students, they not only receive the monetary support, but also are further encouraged through the knowledge that someone believes in them and their success. Donors and scholarship recipients also bene�it from the Scholarship Awards Ceremony.

You and your student recipient will both be recognized and have the opportunity to meet and discuss the impact of the scholarship.

Learn more at www.CypressCollegeFoundation.org 5

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SINCE OPENING IN 1966 CYPRESS COLLEGE HAS BEEN

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INSPIRING STUDENTS TO ACHIEVE THEIR DREAMS

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CYPRESS COLLEGE: WHERE ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE MEETS TAILORED SUPPORT ON THIS JOURNEY TOGETHER Cypress College – the beautiful, thriving campus that you see today – has modest beginnings in 1966. On September 12, most of the initial student body of 1,200 stood around the �lagpole with a barely dry concrete footing for the �irst �lag raising, complete with a Marine color guard and several dignitaries present.

The new community college campus was dubbed the “Instant Campus” by Newsweek Magazine because of the mere 74 days that intervened between the digging of the �irst shovelful of dirt and the beginning of classes. Indeed, the main electrical transformer for the classrooms was turned on just hours before the �irst class sessions began. The buildings were all temporary modular constructions, though some of these “temporary” buildings continued in service for over 40 years!

The �irst students to apply at Cypress College were indeed an intrepid, pioneering group, for when they applied, there was no campus, only a few apartments and houses converted to administrative of�ices, and a place to register students.

But register they did, and the college’s �irst semester started on schedule with students taking classes with a bare-bones curriculum. After the �irst year, 25 transfers to the college became its �irst graduates.

Cypress College has since grown into the beautiful 112-acre campus that it is today, one of the most attractive campuses in the state and nation. It was ranked the #1 community college in California by Niche.com, a well-respected school search platform, in both 2018 and 2020. For two years in a row in 2021 and 2022, Cypress College has been named an Equity Champion of Higher Education for Latinx Students. Cypress College was also honored as a 2023 Aspen Prize Top 150 U.S. Community College. In 2025, Cypress College was recognized as a top 100 community college in the nation by the U.S. Department of Education as part of the Raise the Bar Initiative.

Today, approximately 16,000 students attend Cypress College each semester, taking courses that range from advanced calculus to business management, dental assisting and hygiene, air conditioning and refrigeration, kinesiology, and human services. The college now offers 166 career-certi�icate programs, associate degrees in 102 areas of study, and 39 transfer degrees. Since 2017, Cypress College has also offered a Bachelor of Science in Funeral Service on campus, one of the 15 founding bachelor’s degree programs in any �ield offered at a California community college. Starting fall 2026, Cypress College will also offer a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene, kicking off with an initial cohort of students who have already earned their associate degree in dental hygiene.

Cypress College students have access to wraparound academic and support services and programs, and many have gone on to succeed at four-year institutions across the nation. Cypress College transfers consistently do as well, or better, academically as their peers who began their education at the four-year school.

The college’s Career Technical Education programs are also premier, with several ranked among the best in the nation.

The preponderance of respondents to a 2020 survey of Cypress College CTE students reported improved employment success because of their education at the college. They noted a 61 percent increase in hourly wages after completing their coursework — exceeding the 56 percent average statewide increase — and 93 percent of them voiced satisfaction with their Cypress College experience.

At Cypress College we invest in the success of our students. Buen Cypress! We Take This Journey Together.

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AMERICANA AWARDS: A BRIEF HISTORY Americana’s Origin A letter sent 50 years ago to Cypress College from then-president Gerald Ford encouraging organizations to pay tribute to the upcoming 1976 Bicentennial was the impetus for what has become the college’s signature event as well as an Orange County tradition. Based on this letter, Marion “Stoney” Stoneking, then community services director, along with associates Kaleta Brown, theater instructor, and Don Cantrell, public information of�icer, conceived of a “Community and Americana Awards night,” the purpose of which would be to recognize people, “the sum and substance of America.”

Honorees Stoney met with the mayors of each of the college’s seven (now eight) service cities and asked each to identify someone who had made “contributions of service” to their city. The people the mayors selected became the Citizens of the Year. (Today, each of the eight cities has a designated committee that selects an honoree from nominations received from the entire community.)

For the �irst nine years, seven well-known people in various categories (entertainment, business, sports, the arts, the media, etc.) were given the Americana Award. One of these seven honorees also provided the evening’s entertainment. These honorees included Ray Bolger, Edgar Bergen and Ella Mae Morse. Other well-known honorees with a more local connection were: Marion Knott, Mickey Mouse, Carl Karcher, Buddy Ebsen, Dr. Sammy Lee, Cypress alumna Geri Jewell, Florence Arnold, and the Sons of the Pioneers. Since 1985 a Man and/or Woman of the Year has been chosen from numerous nominations. Among those honored have been: Tommy Lasorda, Irv Pickler, Frank Garcia, Bill Medley, Bruno Serato, and Trevor Hoffman, Baseball Hall of Fame inductee.

The Evening From 1976-1984, the event was held on campus. The �irst Americana evening started with a dinner prepared by the faculty and students in the Culinary Arts program. The dinner was held in the Band Room although in subsequent years it moved to the Culinary Arts Dining Room, which is now the Art Gallery.

Following dinner, the awards ceremony and entertainment were scheduled. Since the theater had not yet been completed, the show that �irst night, with Ray Bolger performing, was held in the Fine Arts Recital Hall. A year later, the program moved to the theater and was held there every year until it was moved off campus. The event was well received by the community, and the theater was generally full. The awards were given out by Stoney and the college president. At one point, the mayors asked if they could give out the awards, but Stoney said no because he didn’t want the event to become political.

The expenses for the program were paid by the community service tax that colleges were allowed to collect at the time.

However, when Prop. 13 was passed, that money was no longer available, which is why Jack Scott, then president, saw the opportunity to raise funds, and the current format was established. The event was moved off campus and was held at the Disneyland Resort from 1985-2023.

In 2005, as the 30th anniversary of the Americana Awards was being celebrated, an Emeritus program was implemented, as over 200 past honorees were recognized and presented with bronze medallions attached to red, white and blue ribbons. Since then, each year’s honorees receive their own medallions.

The on-campus event drew more than 600 attendees to the campus theater. The 200 who attended the dinner prior to the awards and entertainment paid $10 for a dinner of beef stroganoff served over noodles. Of course, today’s event brings 600 together for slightly more than $10 for a four-course dinner in a spectacular setting, the proceeds of which support the work of the Cypress College Foundation. Each year the Foundation provides student scholarships, student emergency assistance, student book loans, and faculty grants among other programs.

The Closing Stoney had seen a video of Frank Sinatra singing “The House I Live In (That’s America to Me),” and he thought the ideas expressed in the lyrics �it the theme of Americana perfectly, so each year he ended the program by reading the lyrics of that song.

He particularly emphasized the last two lines—“But especially the people/That’s America to me”—because in his mind, that’s what Americana was all about: the importance of people doing their best, serving their communities, and sharing their talents with others.

For 50 years, since that �irst Americana in 1976, Cypress College has continued to recognize outstanding community volunteers.

We sincerely thank you for helping us celebrate these citizens and for assisting us in raising millions of dollars in support of Cypress College students.

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In spring 2019, Cypress College selected its first cohort of Presidential Scholars of Distinction, a scholarship intended to recognize nine students — one from each college pathway — who exemplify what it means to be a Cypress College student.

We’re pleased to introduce our 2025 cohort of Presidential Scholars of Distinction!

The 2025 scholars are (L-R): Bryan Pham, Business/CIS; Esmeralda Alba, Career Technical Education; Natalia Mindru, Health Science; Benjamin Alarcon, Kinesiology; Christina Guadarrama, Language Arts; Dominique Waddell, Science, Engineering, Mathematics; Chase Curnow, Social Sciences; Fernando Lizarraga, Visual & Performing Arts; and Candyce Young, We Journey Together.

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Message from the Executive Director Welcome to the 51st Cypress College Foundation Americana Awards Gala!

Thank you for joining us as we celebrate our Citizens of the Year and Person of the Year, George Orff, whose community spirit inspires us all.

Cypress College students pursue their dreams while overcoming tremendous challenges—from food and housing insecurity to caring for their families. Yet they continue to persevere with courage, resilience, and hope.

Howard Kummerman

Your generosity makes it possible for the Cypress College Foundation to provide scholarships, critical resources, and opportunities that help our students succeed.

Tonight we celebrate remarkable honorees, inspiring students, and the power of a community to transform lives.

Thank you for joining us this evening and making a lasting difference in the lives of Cypress College students.

Enjoy the celebration!

Howard Kummerman Executive Director, Cypress College Foundation

Message From the Cypress College President Thank you for joining us for this special evening of celebration and community. Your participation supports the vital work of Cypress College and the Cypress College Foundation, helping provide scholarships, emergency assistance, and essential resources that allow our students to continue their educational journeys.

Community colleges exist to ensure that higher education remains accessible to all who seek it. Because of your generosity, our students can overcome obstacles, pursue their goals, and transform their lives through education.

Tonight we also celebrate the remarkable individuals being honored for their leadership, generosity, and commitment to strengthening our communities. Their contributions remind us of the power of service and the lasting impact of those who work to make the world better for others.

Scott W. Thayer

Thank you for being part of this meaningful evening and for supporting Cypress College students.

Scott W. Thayer, Ed.D. President, Cypress College

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PERSON OF THE YEAR

George Orff For George Orff, a lifetime of achievement can be traced back to a single, de�ining trait: he loves to build things—relationships, businesses, programs, and opportunities. Whether restoring World War II aircraft, mentoring students, launching companies, or strengthening community partnerships, George believes in working hard, staying curious, giving back, and honoring the people who shaped his life. These beliefs have guided his remarkable journey from a young boy with a toolbox to a community leader whose impact spans generations.

Born in 1944 and raised in Westbury, New York, George was curious, industrious, and happiest when working with his hands. Childhood memories include soapbox racing, �ixing things, and learning how to use tools under the guidance of a neighbor who became an early mentor. That experience taught George the importance of relationships, leading him to other mentors throughout his life and to become a mentor himself.

In high school, George attended a trade school in refrigeration and air conditioning, an experience that ignited what would become a lifelong career in the HVAC industry. Encouraged by a teacher who saw his potential, George continued his technical education at SUNY Farmingdale, earning an AAS degree in HVAC. He then headed west to the University of North Dakota, completing a bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering. Earnings as an air conditioning mechanic during summers allowed George to complete �ive years of college debt free.

His time at UND shaped both his professional and personal life. At UND he met his future wife, Sharon, the daughter of an Air Force �ighter pilot. The two married in 1967 at Grand Forks Air Force Base and moved to California, beginning a partnership of love, commitment, and shared values.

George worked summers in the HVAC �ield while still in school and accepted his �irst full-time position with Carrier Air Conditioning Company in Los Angeles immediately after graduating. His early career was busy and satisfying, with one special memory—selling refrigeration water chillers to a brand-new institution called Cypress College.

His HVAC career was going well, but, driven by curiosity, George did something few young parents and full-time professionals would attempt: he enrolled in the night program at Pepperdine University School of Law, earning his J.D. and passing the California and Arizona Bar Exams. Though he loved the intellectual rigor of law school, he disliked the “nitty gritty” of practicing law, so George returned to the HVAC �ield with a manufacturers rep. �irm (DMG).

What followed was a distinguished 30-year career in HVAC, engineering, and business innovation. George held leadership roles with various local �irms, including air conditioning equipment representative DMG Corporation, where he spent three decades as a salesman, sales manager, and eventually president. He later worked as a partner/owner with air handler manufacturer Energy Labs Tijuana operations from 1989 to 2018.

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Even after “retirement,” George is involved in multiple ventures, including Culinary Innovation, a food manufacturer, and Building Response Platform, which provides real-time commercial HVAC equipment monitoring. He also built a restaurant. In total, he has helped build or manage seven companies, his proudest accomplishment. As he says, “I learned a lot. Eventually, I only did business with my friends.”

Yet George’s professional success is only part of his story. His primary focus now is to ensure that today’s students receive the same encouragement and opportunity that propelled him forward. As a result of this commitment, he has devoted signi�icant time, money, and expertise to mentorship and other forms of student support.

For example, he has focused on students in Cypress College’s HVAC and Aviation programs, serving as a donor, advisor, and advocate, helping to strengthen faculty-student relationships, expand industry partnerships, and champion hands-on learning opportunities. He is now working with faculty, friends, and industry partners to establish a summer HVAC internship program designed to give students real-world experience and reduce attrition in the program.

In honor of the mentors who shaped him—teachers at Farmingdale, UND, and beyond—George has created scholarships in their names. He also donates regularly to educational programs at Cypress College, SUNY Farmingdale, and Cal Aerofab Flight Academy, a nonpro�it that inspires young people to pursue aviation careers as pilots and airframe and powerplant mechanics.

George’s passion for aviation runs deep.

For more than 20 years, he volunteered and contributed to the Planes of Fame Air Museum in Chino, working on historic aircraft restorations, including a World War II-era Messerschmitt 109G. Through this organization, he shares his love of engineering and hands-on work with the next generation of pilots and mechanics.

George has spent years volunteering in various ways in his communities and his profession but is not the only volunteer in the family. For 12 years Sharon volunteered and was a paid community educator with a sexual assault nonpro�it, and both of her parents were noted for their service in schools, hospitals and community groups.

George’s greatest pride comes from setting goals and then meeting them, no matter how dif�icult, such as when he mastered calculus while in engineering school. He had to learn solid geometry, trigonometry, and advanced algebra all at once as he had not taken these courses beforehand. Another example is when he completed law school while ful�illing his work responsibilities and raising a family.

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PERSON OF THE YEAR

George Orff

George can be described as intellectual, committed, curious, open-minded, someone who cares deeply, listens thoughtfully, and still enjoys building organizations and �ixing things. He is very interested in constitutional law and democracy, particularly now.

Family is very important to George. He and Sharon have two daughters—Stephanie Kirchen (married to Patrick) and Jennifer Orff—and a grandson, Kyle, who at 17 already holds a pilot’s license. George is happy that Kyle succeeded in earning a pilot’s license at such a young age, following in the footsteps of his great-grandfather.

For the future, George intends to keep doing exactly what he has always done: helping students, advising nonpro�its, supporting aviation and HVAC programs, raising money, managing companies, and nurturing relationships—“relationships, relationships, relationships,” as he likes to say. If he ever won the lottery, he insists he would give most of it away: “Life is not about money. Money buys stuff but not life experiences.”

As he is honored as Person of the Year, George Orff is the embodiment of commitment, curiosity, and generosity. His legacy is a powerful example of how important it is to never stop building—programs, partnerships, possibilities, and hope. “Besides,” George adds, “it’s fun and I love to learn new things.”

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CITY OF ANAHEIM

Alden and L inda Esping “Kids don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care”—a motto that Alden and Linda Esping have lived by for the past six decades, as together they have “cared enough” to improve Anaheim through a shared commitment to teaching, youth development, and community service. Their impact can be seen in classrooms, summer camps, community organizations, and in the lives of the many young people they have mentored and inspired.

Alden knew he wanted to teach while he was still in junior high. After earning his bachelor’s degree, he began teaching sixth grade, but in 1963 he and a fellow teacher drove a VW bus from Washington to Anaheim in search of new opportunities. He started teaching at Ball Junior High, launching a 33-year career in the Anaheim Union High School District. At Ball and later Loara High School, Alden served as activities director, special education department chair, health department chair, and advisor for speech, the school newspaper, yearbook, and student store. For generations of Anaheim students, “Mr. Esping” became synonymous with involvement, pride, and school spirit.

Linda graduated from Washington State University and then went on to a distinguished 47-year career in education.

She taught English at Loara High School, South Junior High, La Palma Junior High, and Orangeview Junior High. She chaired English departments at multiple schools and later served 13 years as a consultant for AUHSD’s Beginning Teacher Support & Assessment program. Her guidance shaped hundreds of new teachers entering the profession, enriching classrooms throughout the district.

The Esping’s partnership—both in life and in service—grew even stronger through their decades-long work with the Anaheim Family YMCA. They directed summer camps for more than 25 years, in�luencing thousands of young people through programs built on character, teamwork, and personal growth. They especially value the Y’s Raggers Program, which fosters courage, truthfulness, and service. Determined to ensure that camps would remain affordable, they established the Alden Esping Putting Classic to raise funds. Later, an endowment fund was created in their name to guarantee camperships for future generations.

Alden’s leadership extended far beyond the classroom. He chaired the AUHSD Foundation, co-chaired the District’s Centennial Celebration, and served on the Anaheim Planning Commission, Convention Center Board, and Senior Citizen Commission. As an Anaheim Chamber of Commerce Ambassador, he earned both the Spirit Award and the Ambassador of the Year Award.

Linda’s community work has been equally far-reaching. She served on the Anaheim Library Board, advised the Kiwanis Bowl, and contributed time and resources to organizations such as Cops 4 Kids, Caterina’s Club, Tiger Woods Foundation, and the Anaheim Community Foundation—programs that enrich the lives of Anaheim’s children and families.

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The Espings are also recognized for their involvement with the California Association of Directors of Activities.

Alden served as state president, expanded leadership programs statewide, developed conventions and workshops, and ultimately received the Warren Shull National Activity Director of the Year Award, honoring the top student activities director in the United States. Both Alden and Linda were inducted into the CADA Hall of Fame.

In addition, Alden was named Orange County Teacher of the Year (1980) and an AUHSD Friend of Education (2005).

Linda was honored as Kiwanis Bowl Coach of the Year (1989) and South Junior High Teacher of the Year (1982).

They both received PTSA Life and Continuing Service Awards and were recognized by U.S. Representative Lou Correa for “Seniors Making a Difference.”

Despite all their achievements, Alden and Linda remain humble. They cherish their tradition of dinners at the Anaheim White House, where they are greeted by owner Bruno Serato, Americana’s Man of the Year in 2012. They also enjoy Wine Wednesdays at Mama Cozza’s—Alden and Linda taught all the children of the restaurant’s proprietors. They remain in touch with former campers, students, and colleagues, many of whom credit the Espings with changing their lives.

Recently, Ball Junior High honored Alden by naming their Quad Amphitheater after him, a tribute that stands as a permanent reminder of his profound impact on generations of students. It is an honor that �ills the Espings with gratitude and pride.

For 63 years, Alden and Linda Esping have given Anaheim a gift that cannot be measured: a stronger, more compassionate community shaped by their leadership, their generosity, and their unwavering belief in young people. Their lives re�lect a simple truth: “Involvement together is the key to success.”

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CITY OF CYPRESS

Mariellen Yarc Elephants. Mariellen Yarc is obsessed with elephants. More than 4000 pieces of elephant art are displayed in her home, a collection that started when she was a child and continues to this day. Her love for this special animal has led Mariellen to visit Africa four times and to support the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust in Kenya, which helps to protect elephants throughout the world.

In addition to her passion for elephants, Mariellen is committed to advocating for those who don’t have a voice. Throughout her career and her civic involvement, she has demonstrated a willingness to stand up for people and groups who were not being well served by the “powers that be.”

Raised in Southern California, Mariellen grew up in a working-class household, becoming the �irst in her family to attend college. She enrolled at UCLA, where she completed her bachelor’s degree in political science while working multiple jobs and carrying a full academic load. She later earned a paralegal certi�icate and, determined to be “persuasive rather than informative” (she had once thought she would be a teacher), she decided to enroll in Southwestern School of Law at night while working full-time. She passed the California Bar on her �irst attempt and went on to become a certi�ied Family Law Specialist.

Mariellen practiced family law for more than three decades, eventually becoming a partner and later opening her own �irm. Throughout her legal career, she was especially affected by domestic violence cases and the lack of understanding surrounding them. Long before the O.J. Simpson case, which brought the issue into the national spotlight, Mariellen educated herself on the cycle of domestic abuse and became a tireless advocate within the court system. Describing herself as “a pushy broad,” she led an effort to require judicial training on domestic violence—an enduring legacy that continues to protect vulnerable families today. She also served for many years as a Judge Pro Tem in Los Angeles Superior Courts and taught law at Long Beach City College and the American College of Law in Anaheim.

In 1989, Mariellen and her husband, Paul Lussman, made Cypress their home, a city she would grow to love deeply.

What began as an interest in knowing her neighbors led to a lifetime of civic engagement. She became active in the Woman’s Club of Cypress, where she has served in numerous leadership roles, including two terms as president and her current role as co-president. Through the California Federation of Women’s Clubs, she rose to district president and was selected as California’s representative to a national leadership conference.

Mariellen’s public service includes roles on the Cypress Parks and Recreation Commission, the Cypress Senior Citizen Commission, and the board of the Cypress Chamber of Commerce. She served on the Cypress City Council from 2012 to 2020, including terms as Mayor Pro Tem and Mayor. During her time on the council, she launched the

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Cypress Women’s Conference and the City of Cypress Veterans’ Recognition Program—both initiatives that continue to thrive today and, again, provide examples of her advocacy for those whose voices may not always be heard.

Her dedication has been recognized many times, including being named Cypress Chamber of Commerce Woman of the Year and twice being selected as Woman of the Year for California’s 65th Assembly District—by representatives from two different political parties! She has also received humanitarian awards for her legal advocacy and served as a legal commentator for high-pro�ile cases.

Beyond titles and honors, Mariellen is known for her humor, adventurous spirit, and her constant search for something new to see and do. She is an avid traveler, pickleball player, and devoted animal lover. She and Paul are also known for transforming their home each holiday season into the “Cypress Santa Center,” hosting block parties and spreading the holiday spirit throughout the neighborhood.

Mariellen considers Cypress a place �illed with “real people,” and she feels profoundly grateful to call it home. Being honored in this way, she says, is deeply meaningful—an af�irmation of a life dedicated to service, connection, and standing up for what is right.

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CITY OF GARDEN GROVE

Maria Stipe Maria Stipe is deeply grateful for the recognition she is receiving, although she stresses that all the work she is recognized for is “shared work.” She sees herself as very fortunate for having been “surrounded by talented people who care deeply about [their] community.”

However, whether serving the City of Garden Grove, collaborating with fellow Rotary members, or supporting her family and community, it is Maria who has consistently brought together people, ideas, and resources to create meaningful and lasting impact.

Maria’s 26-year career with Garden Grove began when she accepted a position as an analyst in the Public Works Department. This work enabled her to participate in community programs and develop positive relationships with many community partners. She was inspired by people she saw who modeled generosity and leadership.

In 2012 she found her “special home” with the Garden Grove Rotary Club, which has allowed her to work with other Rotarians to implement many impactful projects and events, such as scholarship programs, placement of life-saving cardiac de�ibrillators in public places, and Christmas toy drives for disadvantaged children. She values Rotary for its focus on bringing people together and creating positive change that can be seen and felt.

While serving as Assistant City Manager, Maria played a key role in shaping the city’s operations and future. Her responsibilities included extensive writing, legislative advocacy, and oversight of the city budget—work that required both technical expertise and a deep understanding of how policy decisions affect people’s daily lives. In this role Maria earned a reputation as a collaborator who helped each individual contribute their unique skills and gifts toward a shared goal.

Maria is familiar with community colleges, having earned an associate of arts degree in general education from Riverside City College. She went on to CSU Fullerton, where she was awarded a bachelor of arts, with a major in psychology.

Maria began her career in the aerospace industry, the �ield her father had worked in. However, after several years, she became interested in other possible careers, returning to Cal-State Fullerton to earn a master’s degree in public administration with the idea that she could work in city government. Such a position would enable her to have a positive impact on her community while providing reliable employment that her father did not have, given that he experienced multiple layoffs.

One of those dif�icult periods left a lasting impression on Maria. During a particularly challenging layoff, her large family (she is one of seven children) struggled �inancially, and without hesitation members of their church stepped

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forward to help. That generosity profoundly in�luenced her outlook, reinforcing the importance of compassion, service, and mutual support. It was an experience that helped shape her lifelong commitment to helping others and giving back whenever possible.

Maria’s many years of service to the city have not gone unrecognized as she was named the Garden Grove Chamber of Commerce Woman of the Year in 2025.

Now retired, Maria remains as active and engaged as ever. She enjoys the freedom to stay busy on her own terms, still volunteering with Rotary while also arranging pickleball games with friends, walking her three “crazy but sweet” dogs around the park every day, and savoring time with her husband and children, who are a constant source of pride and joy. Son Cole is a software engineer, and daughter Karena is a registered nurse. Maria and her husband, Dan, recently experienced the joy of welcoming their �irst grandchild to the close-knit family.

At her core, Maria is a spiritual person with a strong sense of optimism. She believes that things tend to work out as they are meant to, and she approaches life as a “cup-half-full” person. That outlook has guided her through both challenges and successes, and it continues to shape the way she engages with the world.

Through Maria’s professional leadership, civic involvement, and personal example, she has helped strengthen the fabric of Garden Grove and inspired those around her to do the same. To her, this recognition feels like “the cherry on top” of an active and ful�illing career.

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2026

CITY OF LA PALMA

Jan Jensen “You will be awarded a great honor,” the fortune cookie revealed when Jan Jensen recently had lunch at a local Chinese restaurant. And it was true--Jan Jensen is the 2026 Americana Citizen of the Year for La Palma!

Seldom are predictions like this accurate, but, given Jan’s decades of service as an educator, mentor, volunteer, and community leader, it is not surprising that she would receive this award.

Born in Iowa City, Iowa, Jan grew up in Cedar Rapids, where athletics played an early and important role in her life. As a young teen she became an Iowa State speed-skating champion and later ranked number one in the state in girls tennis for her age group. From Iowa she moved to Boston, where she was ranked number two in 16 and under girls tennis in New England. Another move brought her to Southern California, where she continued to excel in sports, competing in tennis, �ield hockey, basketball, and skiing, and receiving tennis coaching from Billie Jean King while in high school. These experiences instilled a lifelong belief that sports are “an important part of education . . . . Sports are social and develop skills for a lifetime.”

Unsure of a career to choose, Jan enrolled in Whittier College. While there, she tutored a second-grade student who did not know the alphabet. In that moment, she knew she wanted to become a teacher serving students from disadvantaged backgrounds. She transferred to San Diego State University, graduating in three and a half years, and later completed additional teaching and administrative credentials while working full time. She actually took two tap dance classes at Cypress College as part of the coursework for her physical education teaching credential.

Jan began her career teaching elementary students in Hawaiian Gardens, where she quickly became known for innovation and commitment. She pioneered a Mentally Gifted Minor classroom, which challenged her students to work hard, and volunteered after school to teach square dancing, which gave them an opportunity to have fun.

In 1976, she joined the faculty of the newly opened Whitney Community Learning Center, later Whitney High School, where she spent more than 25 years as math department chair. Over her long career, she also served three times as athletic director, coached varsity sports, and played a key role in securing Whitney’s admission to the CIF Southern Section. She retired in 2011 but continued substituting and later worked in a program that helped students involved in �ighting or bullying to learn healthier behaviors to avoid being suspended.

Perhaps Jan’s most far-reaching impact has been her work mentoring young people, teaching them the value of helping others. For many years she served as a Key Club advisor, guiding hundreds of students in projects that bene�ited families, seniors, and vulnerable populations. Under her leadership, students organized food drives, Christmas family adoptions, backpack programs, and service projects locally and across the border in Tijuana. Her

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dedication earned her induction into the Jack Luther Advisor Hall of Fame for the California-Nevada-Hawaii District of Key Club International.

Her civic involvement includes volunteering with the Kiwanis Club for more than three decades, delivering Meals on Wheels, serving seven years as a long-term care ombudsman, and dedicating over 30 years to Neighborhood Watch—�ive of them as president and many more as district coordinator and block captain. She has also served on the City of La Palma’s Traf�ic and Safety (later Development and Circulation) Commission and participated in the city’s Sustainability and Accountability Review Committee.

In recognition of her extraordinary service, Jan was named La Palma Woman of the Year in 2017 and received the La Palma Senior of Distinction Award in 2024, personally presented by U.S. Representative Michelle Steel.

Family remains Jan’s greatest joy. She raised her two children, Nick and Brittany, in La Palma and now delights in supporting her four grandchildren. Whether cheering at games, traveling with her extended family, or giving back to the community, Jan follows this credo: “I live my life guided by faith, grounded in family, committed to philanthropy, and always making room for fun.”

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2026

CITY OF LOS ALAMITOS / ROSSMOOR

Debbie Kent Debbie Kent attended her �irst baseball game when she was one week old, not particularly surprising given that her father played baseball with the Milwaukee Braves organization and later served as a scout for the Braves and the New York Mets. “Baseball was a way of life in our family,” she says, but so was volunteering to help others.

Debbie grew up in Long Beach, but summers meant traveling to wherever her father was playing, swimming at a motel pool by day and cheering at a minor league game by night. One of her favorite sports memories is attending all seven games of the famous 1986 New York-Boston World Series. The New York Mets won.

At home, Debbie’s mother, a highly respected and active volunteer honored as both Long Beach Woman of the Year and Soroptimist Woman of the Year, instilled in Debbie the belief that serving one’s community is both a privilege and a personal responsibility. Debbie embraced that philosophy wholeheartedly and has lived it all her adult life.

Her father also worked to help others. He was a founding member of the Professional Baseball Scouts Foundation, which raises funds to help scouts who suddenly lose their jobs at the end of baseball season.

A proud alumna of Long Beach City College—where she excelled in basketball, volleyball, and softball, earning MVP honors in basketball and softball, and earned an associate of arts degree with honors—Debbie has always championed community colleges. She later attended CSU Long Beach, earning her bachelor’s degree and teaching credential, and even took a few classes at Cypress College as part of her required courses. Her own daughter, Aina Marie, would later attend Cypress as well.

Debbie’s remarkable 29-year career with the Los Alamitos Uni�ied School District made a lasting impact on countless students. At McAuliffe Middle School, she taught everything from physical education and math to ESL (English as a Second Language), science, and drama while also serving as yearbook advisor. However, her leadership extended beyond the classroom—she coached girls basketball, volleyball, and softball, encouraging young athletes to play with con�idence and to have fun. She was president of the McAuliffe Faculty Club for 20 years and continues to organize regular gatherings with her former colleagues. Teaching, she often says, was “the best job,” and her students remain one of her greatest sources of pride.

Debbie’s passion for service stretches across 45 years of volunteer work in Los Alamitos. Her hand is famously the �irst to go up when help is needed. She has served for 35 years on the Los Alamitos Youth Center Board of Directors—holding roles including president, secretary, and program chair—and has become one of the Center’s most trusted and dedicated volunteers, helping with bingo, the �ireworks stand, events, and anything else the organization needs. She was introduced to the Youth Center by longtime friend Marilynn Poe, the 2007 Los Alamitos

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Americana Citizen of the Year. Marilynn’s encouragement sparked what has become one of Debbie’s most meaningful areas of service.

At the Los Alamitos Museum, Debbie has been equally in�luential. She currently serves as president of the Board of Directors and as a docent, sharing the history of the community she loves. She also held leadership roles with the Girl Scouts and volunteered with the Los Alamitos Foundation. Her contributions to Los Alamitos have earned numerous honors, including the Seal Beach Lions Club Teacher of the Year award, the Los Alamitos Museum Honored Citizen award, and the Youth Center’s Hero of the Heart award.

Despite her many commitments, Debbie treasures simple joys: mornings with coffee and the newspaper, gardening, reading, walks with her dog, Penny, cheering on her favorite sports teams, and spending time with her 17 great-nieces and nephews.

For more than four decades, Debbie Kent has been a steadfast presence in the Los Alamitos community—an educator, volunteer, mentor, and civic leader whose life re�lects a deep commitment to service. She is proud to call Los Alamitos home, and Los Alamitos is equally proud to honor her dedication, leadership, and enduring generosity.

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2026

CITY OF SEAL BEACH

Ray Longoria More than four decades ago, Ray Longoria moved from Oxnard to Seal Beach because he loved the idea of living by the ocean—ideally, as he puts it, “right on the sand.” However, what he found was more than a beautiful place to live. He found a community where neighbors showed up for one another, and that spirit of shared responsibility has shaped his life ever since.

Ray’s �irst glimpse of Seal Beach’s civic character came during a major �lood that damaged the pier, a treasured landmark in the city.

Watching residents rally together to raise funds for pier restoration sparked what would become more than 40 years of continuous volunteer service. Today, Ray is widely known as someone who not only answers the call to help, but who also takes the lead—tenaciously, persistently, and with what he describes as a “bulldog grip” on every project he undertakes.

The centerpiece of Ray’s civic life has been his 35-year involvement with the Seal Beach Lions Club, an organization he joined at the invitation of his mentor, 2004 Seal Beach Americana Citizen of the Year, Jim Klisanin. Ray has served the Lions Club in nearly every capacity, including two terms as president, treasurer, and longtime board member. He has chaired or co-chaired most of the club’s major projects and has been largely responsible for ensuring the success of its annual opportunity drawing, which raises tens of thousands of dollars each year for charitable and community causes.

Among Ray’s most meaningful contributions is his leadership of the Lions KidsSight Program, which provides free vision screening for preschool and �irst-grade children, many of whom are enrolled in Head Start programs. Each year, the program screens thousands of children throughout local communities, identifying vision issues early and connecting families with follow-up care. Ray, along with his wife, Marilyn, takes great pride in having established this program, overseeing it for the �irst four years.

Ray is also the driving force behind the Lions’ long-running graf�iti removal program, which he co-founded more than 15 years ago and still leads today. Working alongside fellow Lions and community volunteers, Ray responds personally when graf�iti is reported in Old Town and other high-traf�ic areas. His work has removed thousands of graf�iti tags, improved public safety, and helped preserve the character of the city. The program has been recognized as a California Lions Club Project of the Year and earned Ray commendations from the Seal Beach City Council.

In addition to his Lions service, Ray has spent the past several years as a board member—and currently vice president—of Friends of the Library, which raises funds to support literacy and other library services. He has also volunteered with numerous local causes, including youth organizations in neighboring communities. In recognition of all his contributions, Ray was selected as the 2024 Seal Beach Christmas Parade Grand Marshal.

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Ray’s professional life re�lects the same work ethic and adaptability that de�ine his civic involvement. After service in the U.S. Marine Corps, Ray built a long career in the cable and communications industry, holding technical and leadership roles with several companies before serving as president of Data Link, Inc. Even in retirement, Ray remains active, working part-time as a bartender at Clancy’s, a popular local establishment, where he is known as much for conversation as for cocktails.

Ray and his wife, Marilyn, have been married for 37 years. A proud father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Ray treasures family traditions—especially the annual pre-Christmas tamale-making gatherings of his youth. An avid reader, traveler, and devoted Las Vegas Raiders fan, he also happens to be an ordained minister who has of�iciated at more than ten weddings.

Ray often says he gives back simply because he loves Seal Beach. In return, Seal Beach has been made stronger, cleaner, and more compassionate through his decades of service. His �inal comment is, “Much to my surprise, I’m older than I ever thought I would be and I am thankful for that every day. I will continue my community service for as long as I am able.”

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2026

CITY OF STANTON

L inda Gallagher A proud alumna of Cypress College, Linda Gallagher earned her associate of arts in accounting in 1984, after having spent more than 20 years in the business world. Her daughter, Melissa, was a Cypress student at the same time, and they once ended up in the same class where Linda’s enthusiastic hand-raising often led to shared laughter and perhaps slight embarrassment on Melissa’s part.

Linda’s enthusiasm is not con�ined to the classroom. It is infused in everything she does. For more than three decades, Linda has been a vibrant force for good in the Stanton community—a woman whose unwavering dedication to children, families, and service has shaped countless lives. Known for her contagious energy, Linda embodies what it means to serve with kindness and purpose.

Born and raised in Oceanside, California, Linda grew up deeply in�luenced by the compassion of her mother, whose example of service left a lifelong imprint on Linda. Her mother was always helping others, especially through the church, providing a model of generosity and community engagement that became the foundation of the values Linda carries today.

Linda’s professional path began with positions at Oots Accounting Service, Oceanside Sport�ishing, Rancho La Costa, and Sanger Arms Guest Homes. But she found her true calling at the Boys & Girls Club of Stanton, where she began as a volunteer and soon transitioned into the role she still holds today—Of�ice Manager. Since 1992, Linda has been the heart of the Club, greeting every child with warmth and supporting families with compassion. She has created a welcoming space for the Club’s 150+ youth in after-school and summer programs. She knows them personally and supports them in ways that extend far beyond her job description.

For example, Linda devoted over 30 years to assisting with the Boys & Girls Club Youth Choir, and she is also a cornerstone of the Club’s fundraising efforts, each year donating nearly 75% of the items featured in the fall silent auction. Her �inancial stewardship extended regionally through more than two decades of service as Treasurer for the Association of Boys & Girls Club Professionals in Orange County.

Linda’s civic service is equally remarkable. She has long served as the Treasury Advisor of the Stanton Lions Club and has been a dedicated member of the Stanton Chamber of Commerce Women’s Division. Her leadership, reliability, and generosity have been recognized with numerous honors, including a 2006 Orange County Bar Foundation Certi�icate of Appreciation, 2019 Women of Distinction Award from the City of Stanton, and the 2025 Stanton Lions Club Treasury Advisor of the Year. In 2017-2018 she was named the “Dos Manos Program Professional of the Year,” a prestigious award from the “Big Orange” Chapter of the Association of Boys & Girls Clubs Professionals.

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Charitable giving is another of Linda’s quiet but powerful strengths. She supports the Salvation Army, Working Wardrobes, and each year sponsors teens at Orangewood Children’s Home during the holidays. These acts re�lect her lifelong commitment to lifting others up.

At the center of Linda’s world is her family. She and her husband Jerry—her beloved “Papa”—have been married since 1988 and share a life �illed with laughter, dedication, and community. She treasures her daughter, Melissa, son-in-law Alex, grandson Anthony, and extended family, along with the memory of her parents, Al and Vy, whose love continues to guide her. Her favorite family tradition is celebrating birthdays by taking her family out to dinner with friends.

Whether chatting with strangers in the grocery store, making friends on her daily walks, or lighting up a room with her youthful spirit, Linda brings joy wherever she goes. She loves shopping and traveling, especially Disney cruises.

She also enjoys country music and good traditional Mexican food. Her perfect day would be “balancing books” in the morning (her accounting training at Cypress College has stayed with her), then spending time with family and ending the day by strolling through Disneyland with her daughter.

Linda Gallagher is truly the sunshine in her community’s day. Her legacy of compassion, generosity, and wholehearted service continues to brighten the lives of all who know her. As she says, “I LOVE making people happy!”

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HUNDREDS OF COMMUNITY “HEROES” HONORED DURING 51 YEARS OF AMERICANA AWARDS

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HUNDREDS OF COMMUNITY “HEROES” HONORED DURING 51 YEARS OF AMERICANA AWARDS

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2026

HUNDREDS OF COMMUNITY “HEROES” HONORED DURING 51 YEARS OF AMERICANA AWARDS

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HUNDREDS OF COMMUNITY “HEROES” HONORED DURING 51 YEARS OF AMERICANA AWARDS

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2026

ANAHEIM

Citizens of the Year

Sarah Fay Pearson 1976

Miriam Kaywood 1977

Martin Sklar 1978

Herbert Leo 1979

Jacqueline Terrell 1982

Paul Pink 1983

Eleanor Bay 1984

William Taormina 1985

Mel Miller 1987

Robert Kuznik 1988

Mary Bouas 1989

Arlene Taormina-Ready 1990

Arthur W. Gray, Jr. 1991

Mary Anne Mang 1992

Andrea Manes Naylor 1993

Ned Snavely 1994

Bill O’Connell 1995

Irv Pickler 1996

Elsie Reed 1997

Jeff Bowman 1998

Paul Kott 1999

Margie Field 2000

Vince Taormina 2001

Carol Latham 2002

Bruno Serato 2003

Frank & Sally Feldhaus 2004

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Allan Hughes 1980

Violet Wheeler 1981

Stan & Theresa Pawlowski 1986

Shirley McCracken 2006

Johrita & Bruce Solari 2007

Paul & Carol Bostwick 2012

Frank Garcia 2008

Becky A. Areias 2013

Marilyn McCorkle 2017

Drs. Thomas & Cynthia Coad 2018

Kay Carpenter 2023

Jody Daily & Kevin Kidney 2024

Angeline Bevins & Dorothea Stephenson Katheleen Florence 2009 2010

Dr. June Glenn 2014

James & Lori Dinwiddie 2019

Bharat Patel 2025

Pat Piña 2011

ANAHEIM

Citizens of the Year

Reon Boydstun Howard Susan & Stephen Faessel 2016 2015

Cathy Dutton 2020

Stephen Sain 2022

Alden and Linda Esping 2026

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2026

51st Annual Americana Awards

Sha

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Alden and Linda Esping Citizens of the Year

Shaping Anaheim’s youth for over

60 years

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Where Hospitality Careers are Elevated The Westin Anaheim Resort is honored to host the 51st Annual Americana Awards Gala. We extend our appreciation to the Cypress College Foundation for this recognition. It is our privilege to support an event that celebrates excellence and a community whose generosity creates a lasting impact for Cypress College students and alumni.

Learn more about The Westin Anaheim Resort at westinanaheim.com

1030 West Katella Ave. | Anaheim, CA 92802 @westinanaheim | +1 657.279.9786 ©2026 FJS, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Westin and their logos are the trademarks of Marriott International, Inc.

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2026

BUENA PARK

Citizens of the Year

Ralph Hinds 1976

R. Patrick Donnelly 1977

James Jarrell 1978

Jessie Davis 1979

Elva Liesch Hughes 1980

Patsy Marshall 1981

Jerry Matillo 1982

Gail Dixon 1983

Jon Dowell 1984

1985

Edith Rehnborg 1986

Joseph Klockgether, Jr. 1987

Benjamin Sportsman 1988

Pat Clark White 1989

Brenda Miller 1990

Kenneth Jones 1991

Donna Bagley 1992

Bob Lindsay 1993

Bea Botelho 1994

Fred 1995

Steve Knott 1996

Donna Chessen 1997

Buck & Emily Levine 1998

Richard Tefank 1999

Sharon Smith 2000

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Ruth Walp 2001

Mary Sutherland 2002

Jerry Sigler 2003

Traycee Mayer 2004

Ellyn Clark 2006

Stephen W. Smith, D.C. 2007

Dennis Salts 2008

Stan Ault 2009

Michael Davis 2010

Dr. Diane Scheerhorn 2011

Art Brown 2012

Dale Eichman 2013

Christiane Salts 2014

Joseph & Laura Rodehaver 2015

Jim Coombs 2016

Richard McAuley 2017

Sue Johnson, Ed.D. 2018

Leslee Milch 2019

Alice Burnett 2022

Carol McCann 2023

Elizabeth “Beth” Swift, Ed.D. 2024

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BUENA PARK

Citizens of the Year

Mary McCasland 2020

Linda & Mike Weinstock 2025

2026

2026

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2026

CYPRESS

Citizens of the Year

Christine Swain 1976

Gloria Livingston 1977

Harold Lindamood 1978

Alvin Weinberg 1979

Jim O’Hara 1980

John Kanel 1981

Grace Lachina 1982

Hiroko Morio 1983

Tony Nieto 1984

Bobbie Bloch 1985

Hillard Warren 1986

Jeanne Hawkins 1987

Richard Anderson 1988

Jane Guest 1989

Philip Wendel 1990

Jaunetta Strohmyer 1991

Terry Hartshorn 1992

John Lawler 1993

Andrew Lachina 1994

Marlene Pilichi 1995

Rick Gaede 1996

Darrell Essex 1997

Nick Eighmy 1998

Gay & Bill Hannah 1999

Cindy Warren 2000

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Gary Tekely 2001

Walter Bowman 2002

George Hallak 2003

Frank Sabato 2004

Tammy & Chris Sherrin 2006

Karl & Penny Dash 2007

Brian & Linda Sunley 2008

Louie Giampapa 2009

Christy Schopp 2010

Frann Shermet 2011

Jeanne St. Clair 2012

Haze Saliture 2013

Maria Sterk 2014

Theresa Sherrin 2016

Loree Erpelding 2022

Lamont Miya 2017

Sandie McCarthy 2023

Doug & Shelly Bailey 2018

Jon Peat 2024

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CYPRESS

Citizens of the Year

Pat & Roberta O’Toole 2015

Charles Williams 2019

Rob Johnson 2025

George O’Hara 2020

Mariellen Yarc 2026

2026

CYPRESS PROUDLY CELEBRATES

MARIELLEN YARC Citizen of the Year Mariellen’s legacy of service spans decades — from her leadership on the Cypress City Council to her impactful work with the Woman’s Club of Cypress.

As the founder of the Cypress Women’s Conference and a dedicated advocate for domestic violence awareness and prevention, she has consistently championed causes that uplift and empower others in Cypress.

Thank you, Mariellen, for your leadership and heart for service.

CYPRESS CITY COUNCIL

David Burke Council Member

Kyle Chang Mayor Pro Tem

2026

Leo Medrano Mayor

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Bonnie Peat Council Member

Rachel Strong Carnahan Council Member

2026 marks the 70th anniversary of the City of Cypress, celebrating seven decades of progress, partnership and public service.

Follow us on social media for events, news, programs and more. @CityofCypress

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2026

GARDEN GROVE

Citizens of the Year

James Whitesides 1976

Gwen Weisner 1977

Kathryn Barr 1978

Don Jordan 1979

Walter Donovan 1980

Stan Smolin 1981

Robert Main 1982

Frank Kellogg, Jr. 1983

Marge Swenson 1984

Barbara Burby 1985

Fran Jennings-Rafanovic 1986

Ken Slimmer 1987

Jan Dunn 1988

Jonathan Cannon 1989

Richard Hain 1990

Jerry Margolin 1991

Diane Donovan 1992

Paul Scott 1993

Barbara Sulzbach 1994

Harold Wall 1995

Wendy Yoo 1996

Harry & Erline Krebs 1997

Steven La Fond 1998

Connie Margolin 1999

Wanda Leyes 2000

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Jack Wallin 2001

Tony & Emma Lombardi 2002

Virginia & Leo Zlaket 2003

Marge & Tom England 2004

Ruth Smith 2006

Dr. Sheldon Singer 2007

Mallory Vega 2008

Jay & Eleanor Mastroianni 2009

Linda & Lon Cahill 2010

Pat Halberstadt 2011

Sandy Thomas 2012

William J. Dalton 2013

Errol Giuliano 2016

Ric Lerma 2017

Virginia Moore 2022

Janice & David Skelton 2023

Bill & Sue Catlin 2014

Debbie & Mark Mahoney 2015

A.G. & Kelly Anvari 2019

Sister Brid O’Shea 2018

Joe Hammer 2024

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GARDEN GROVE

Citizens of the Year

Dr. True McMahan 2025

Damien Lorton 2020

Maria Stipe 2026

2026

BE RECOGNIZED! GARDEN GROVE

COLLEGE GRADUATES’ RECEPTION Graduating from a college or university this year?

Celebrate your achievement in higher education, with a chance to win cash and prizes!

REGISTER BEFORE MONDAY, MAY 18, AT GGCITY.ORG/GRADS

GGCITY.ORG/CONNECT

2026

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THE CITY OF GARDEN GROVE

CONGRATULATES

MARIA STIPE 2026

GARDEN GROVE

Citizen Year OF THE

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2026

LA PALMA

Citizens of the Year

Tom Wright 1976

Ronald Dallas 1977

Eugene Mascoli 1978

Norman Hansen 1979

Burton Wesenberg 1980

John Burns 1981

Gloria Scanlon 1982

Frank Foster 1983

Edna Ethington 1984

William Holman 1985

Sharon Gutjahr 1986

Dale Hedtke 1987

Dan Collins 1988

Don Fosnight 1989

Carl Eriksen 1990

Duane Schuster 1991

Alta Duke 1992

Chris O’Neal 1993

Tino Romero 1994

Keith & Chris Nelson 1995

Larry Herman 1996

David Barr 1997

Frances Klepl 1998

Louie & Irene Yamanishi 1999

Ron Burford 2000

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Brian O’Neal 2001

Richard & Joan Lutz 2002

Lauree Aragona 2003

Herb Carson 2004

Ulla Herman 2006

Becky & Cliff Ishii 2007

Jay & Sherrie Goldberg 2008

Kitty Mallet & Rosemary Scichilone 2009

Kenneth Blake 2010

Ron & Elfriede Maciver 2011

George & Barbara Mast 2012

Bert & Gail Poan 2017

Mike Belknap 2023

John M. Alvis 2013

Ron Hoshi 2018

Michele Steggell 2024

Dianna & Ralph Rodriquez 2014

Greg Goodyear 2019

Jean & Rick Daum 2025

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Willliam “Bill” Meil 2015

Christine Barnes 2016

Noella Lew 2020

Mick & Dee Vincenti 2022

LA PALMA

Citizens of the Year

Jan Jensen 2026

2026

2026

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2026

LOS ALAMITOS / ROOSMOOR

Citizens of the Year

Dorothy Lane 1976

Stella Castillo 1977

Shelley Gabler 1978

Ray Sutton 1979

Charles Sylvia 1980

Leo Greene 1981

Charles Allen 1982

Mickie Foster 1983

Myldred Jones 1984

Kenneth Zommick 1985

Margrit Kendrick 1986

Lew Webb 1987

Johanna Zinter 1988

Ron Castillo 1989

Wendi Rothman 1990

John & Anita Spinell 1991

Judy Klabouch 1992

Jim Guess 1993

Murl Fast 1994

Richard Kichline 1995

Germaine Erskine 1996

Anthony Selvaggi 1997

Kay Koford 1998

David Appling 1999

Don Bedard 2000

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Dixie Fried 2001

Thomas Stretz 2002

Dave Dugan 2003

Margaret Reep 2004

Michael McCrary 2006

Marilynn Poe 2007

Allen and Lauri McLean 2008

Luciann Maulhardt 2009

Dr. Nancy Kimber 2010

Alice B. Jempsa 2011

Shirley & James Bailey 2012

Theresa E. Murphy 2013

Larry and Chrysteen Braun 2014

Tom Barclay 2015

Lt. Col Thomas Edward Lasser, U.S. Army, Retired 2016

Kenny Brandyberry 2017

Blair Pietrini 2018

Emil Jorge 2019

Dr. William Poe 2020

Troy Edgar 2022

Nesi Stewart 2023

Shelli Appling 2024

Randy Hill 2025

Debbie Kent 2026

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LOS ALAMITOS / ROOSMOOR

Citizens of the Year

2026

Mayor Tanya Doby

Mayor Pro Tem Jordan Nefulda

Council Member Shelley Hasselbrink

Council Member Emily Hibard

www.cityoflosalamitos.org 2026

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Council Member Gary Loe

Debbie Kent

For nearly five decades, Debbie Kent has been a cornerstone of the Los Alamitos community, dedicating her life to education, volunteerism, and civic engagement.

A retired teacher in the Los Alamitos School District, Kent has lived in the City for 47 years and spent 45 of those years volunteering for various local non-profit organizations. Kent’s impact on the community reaches far beyond the classroom. Her leadership and dedication have shaped countless programs and organizations over the years. As president of the Los Alamitos Museum Board of Directors, she played a pivotal role in preserving the City’s rich history, ensuring that future generations can appreciate its cultural heritage. For 35 years, Kent served as Program Chairman for the Youth Center Board of Directors, where she also held positions as President and Secretary.

Her influence extended into education as well. Beyond her professional commitments, Kent devoted time to youth development as a Girl Scout assistant leader and through active involvement with the Los Alamitos Community Foundation. These efforts reflect her unwavering passion for empowering children and strengthening families within the community. Kent’s lifelong commitment to service is a testament to her belief in the power of education, leadership, and community engagement.

Kent’s remarkable achievements have earned her widespread recognition and numerous honors throughout her life. She received the McAuliffe Honorary Service Award for her outstanding contributions to education and was named Teacher of the Year by the Seal Beach Lions Club in 2017. That same year, the Los Alamitos Museum recognized her as an Honored Citizen, celebrating decades of volunteer service that enriched the local community.

Most recently, in 2024, Kent was celebrated as the Youth Center’s “Hero of the Heart,” a distinction that underscores her unwavering dedication to youth programs and her profound impact on generations of young people.

Kent’s story is one of perseverance and passion. Whether organizing programs for the Youth Center, leading faculty initiatives, or preserving local history, she has consistently demonstrated a commitment to making Los Alamitos a better place for future generations.

Dedicated to Providing Service to the Community

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2026

SEAL BEACH

Citizens of the Year

From the first Americana Awards in 1976, Seal Beach was included with the neighboring areas of Los Alamitos and Rossmoor. In 2004, it was determined that residents of Seal Beach should be recognized separately. Since that time, there have been 25 Citizens of the Year from Seal Beach who were chosen by a committee of that city’s residents and honored at the Americana Awards

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Jim Klisanin 2004

Chuck Feenstra 2006

Tom Blackman 2007

Bob Eagle 2008

Scott Newton 2009

Bill Ayres 2010

James C. Caviola, Jr. 2011

Donald Shoemaker 2012

Esther S. Cummings 2013

Seth Eaker 2014

Dee Carey 2015

Barbara Blackman 2016

Harlene Goodrich 2016

Laura Ellsworth 2017

Steve Masoner 2018

Greg & Gina Phillips 2019

Esther Kenyon 2020

Deb Machen 2022

Greg & Kathy Fellers 2024

Scott Weir 2025

Ray Longoria 2026

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SEAL BEACH

Citizens of the Year

Kori & Daren DeLeon 2023

2026

Lisa Landau Mayor

Patty Senecal Council Member

Joe Kalmick Council Member

Ben Wong Mayor Pro Tem

Nathan Steele Council Member

City of Seal Beach CONGRATULATES

Ray Longoria SEAL BEACH CITIZEN OF THE YEAR 2026

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Ray Longoria Ray has lived in Seal Beach for 44 years, starting his involvement after the 1983 storm and flooding. He supported Pier restoration efforts, joined the Seal Beach Lions Club in 1989, and volunteered at McGaugh Elementary, wiring their first computer lab and tutoring students. Named Volunteer of the Year by the PTA, Ray started and led graffiti removal initiatives for 16 years in Seal Beach. In 2021, Ray received the prestigious US President’s Lifetime Achievement Award for his unwavering commitment to volunteer service.

Ray served as president and treasurer of the Lions Club twice, has been on multiple boards including Mary Wilson Friends of the Library for 12 years, and, with his wife Marilyn, started the Lions Kidsight program in the area, screening 6,000–7,000 preschool and headstart children annually for eye health. Ray has been in charge of the Lions car drawing for the past 6 years. This project raises nearly $50,000 yearly, which goes back into the community as well as vision and disaster relief worldwide. Ray has cooked pancakes, hot dogs and burgers for various events around town - kids baseball opening/closing, lifeguard fundraisers, community picnics, etc.

Thank you!

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2026

STANTON

Citizens of the Year

Sharon Borden 1976

Robert Brown 1977

Paul Harrison 1978

Martha Weishaupt 1979

Charles Rell 1980

Norman Ross 1981

Harry Dotson 1982

Frank Marshott 1983

Alan Perry 1984

Manuel Marquez 1985

Cliff Ronnenberg 1986

Peter Muth 1987

Robert Pralle 1988

Vance Durnil 1989

Edward Allen 1990

David Shawver 1991

Lahoma Snyder 1992

Joan Thomas 1993

Mary Navarrette 1994

Richard Juline 1995

Irene Shone 1996

Neal Hopkins 1997

Boyd & Diane Coddington 1998

Sandy Hemphill 1999

Rick Muth 2000

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Bea DeArmond 2001

Alicita Lewis-Yonker 2002

Mary Lara 2003

George & Judy Fenton 2004

Dave & Debbie Morse 2006

Jim Nelson 2007

Ann Nguyen 2008

Pam Schoonover 2009

Nancy Heitman 2010

Sandra Stubban 2011

Andreas Psaras 2012

David M. Ronnenberg 2013

Elizabeth Ash 2016

Mavis Ethans 2017

Frances Daigle 2018

Glenn McElroy 2019

Alexander (Al) Ethans 2020

Tom Carpenter 2022

Brian Donahue 2023

Rigoberto Ramirez 2024

Sanjuana De La Torre 2025

Linda Gallagher 2026

Yvonne and Allen Ansdell 2014

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STANTON

Citizens of the Year

Debbie & Joel Greer 2015

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AMERICANA

Men & Women of the Year

Roger Armstrong, RayRay Bolger, Howard “Hap” Graham, Roger Armstrong, Bolger, Howard “Hap” Graham, Herbert Stanley Dunn, EllaElla MaeMae Morse, Eugene Eagles Herbert Stanley Dunn, Morse, Eugene Eagles 1976 1976

Louis NyeNye Louis 1977 1977

Tom Tom Tully Tully 1977 1977

GeneAutry Autry Gene 1977 1977

Henny Youngman Henny Youngman 1977 1977

Joyce McKenzie Joyce McKenzie Hassing Hassing 1977 1977

John McGreevey John McGreevey 1978 1978

Ferd Johnson Johnson Ferd 1978 1978

Leland Cooley Leland Cooley 1978 1978

Will Geer Will Geer 1978 1978

Sterling Holloway Sterling Holloway 1978 1978

Edgar Edgar Bergen Bergen 1978 1978

Marion Knott Marion Knott 1979 1979

George Gobel George Gobel 1979 1979

Mickey Mouse Mickey Mouse 1979 1979

Milburn Stone Milburn Stone 1979 1979

Al Lohman Al Lohman & &Roger RogerBarkley Barkley 1979 1979

Julie Adams Julie Adams 1980 1980

Peter Marshall Marshall Peter 1980 1980

Stubby Kaye Stubby Kaye 1980 1980

J.D. Morgan J.D. Morgan 1980 1980

Mr. Mr. Blackwell Blackwell 1980 1980

Roy Campanella Campanella Roy 1981 1981

Billy Daniels Billy Daniels 1981 1981

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TomSullivan Sullivan Tom 1981 1981

Rudy Vallee Rudy Vallee 1981 1981

Gloria Gloria DeHaven DeHaven 1981 1981

Gary Owens Owens Gary 1981 1981

Paula Kelly Kelly Paula 1982 1982

Carl Karcher Karcher Carl 1982 1982

Buddy Buddy Ebsen Ebsen 1982 1982

Dr. Dr. Sammy SammyLee Lee 1982 1982

Lola Montes Montes Lola 1982 1982

Jack Smith Smith Jack 1982 1982

Tony Romano Romano Tony 1983 1983

William Shallert William Shallert 1983 1983

Mildred MildredVessels Vessels 1983 1983

Geri Jewell Jewell Geri 1983 1983

John Raitt John Raitt 1983 1983

Don Newcombe Newcombe Don 1983 1983

Florence Arnold Florence Arnold 1984 1984

Mel Mel Blanc Blanc 1984 1984

Ken Carpenter Carpenter Ken 1984 1984

AMERICANA

Men & Women of the Year

JohnHaretakis Haretakis John DonMeadows Meadows Don 1984 1984

Sonsof of the the Pioneers Pioneers Sons 1984 1984

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AMERICANA

Men & Women of the Year

Don Don Karcher Karcher 1985 1985

Mary B. B. Jones Jones Mary 1986 1986

Ralph Clark Clark Ralph 1987 1987

Louise Louise Pomeroy Pomeroy 1988 1988

Peter Ochs Ochs Peter 1989 1989

Ron Dominguez Ron Dominguez 1990 1990

Tom Nielsen Nielsen Tom 1991 1991

Marion Knott Marion Knott 1992 1992

Carl Carl Karcher Karcher 1992 1992

John & & Donna Donna Crean John Crean 1993 1993

Peter & & Mary Peter Mary Muth Muth 1994 1994

Stan Pawlowski Stan Pawlowski 1995 1995

Betty Belden-Palmer Belden-Palmer Betty 1995 1995

Margaret & Margaret & Lew Lew Webb Webb 1996 1996

Mark Chapin Chapin Johnson Johnson Mark 1997 1997

Myldred Jones Myldred Jones 1998 1998

Judith Swayne Swayne Judith 1999 1999

Stan Oftelie Oftelie Stan 2000 2000

Bishop Jaime Jaime Soto Bishop Soto 2001 2001

Isabelle Villaseñor Villaseñor Isabelle 2002 2002

Ed Dixie Arnold Arnold Ed & & Dixie 2003 2003

Vince Vince Ferragamo Ferragamo 2004 2004

Bill Bill Wood Wood 2005 2005

Irv Pickler Pickler Irv 2006 2006

Bill Bill Medley Medley 2007 2007

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Margie MargieLewis Lewis 2008 2008

Jan Harp Jan Harp Domene Domene 2009 2009

Jack Scott Scott Jack 2009 2009

Tommy Lasorda Lasorda Tommy 2010 2010

Frank Garcia Frank Garcia 2011 2011

Bruno BrunoSerato Serato 2012 2012

Trevor Hoffman Hoffman Trevor 2013 2013

Mark Eaton Eaton Mark 2014 2014

Swen Nater Nater Swen 2014 2014

Sandra Hutchens Sandra Hutchens 2015 2015

Lisa Lisa Fujimoto Fujimoto 2016 2016

CatherineSorensen Sorensen Catherine 2017 2017

CliffordRonnenberg Ronnenberg Clifford 2018 2018

JillBolton Bolton Jill 2019 2019

WilliamC.C.“Bill” “Bill” Taormina Taormina William 2020 2020

Chief Brian Chief Brian Fennessy Fennessy 2022 2022

Liz Dunster Dunster Liz 2023 2023

BobbieStovall Stovall Bobbie 2024 2024

A.C.Green Green A.C. 2025 2025

George Orff George Orff 2026 2026

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Men & Women of the Year

2026

Americana Committee

Rick Darnell, CC `72 Retired Professional Basketball Player

Barbara Dunsheath, Ed.D NOCCCD Board of Trustees

Aaron France, CC ‘94 City Manager City of Buena Park

Dr. Margie Lewis President Emeritus Cypress College 2020 Americana Chair

Carmen Koo, CC ‘02 Owner/Partner Applied Air Conditioning 2026 Americana Co-Chair

Howard Kummerman Executive Director Cypress College Foundation

Debbie Juliani General Manager Aramark

Sarah Meinert Founder + Owner Ozean Pilates + Wellness

City Committees Anaheim

Lori Dinwiddie, Chair Carol Bostwick, Reon Boydstun-Howard, Stephen Faessel, Susan Faessel, Sally Feldhaus, Cathy Dutton-Meyers, Stephen Sain

Buena Park

Art Brown, Chair Alice Burnett, Sue Johnson, Mary McCasland, Fred Smith

Cypress

Phil Wendel, Chair Sandra McCarthy, Paulo Morales, George O’Hara, Rob Johnson, Delight Sittman

Garden Grove

Damien Lorton, Chair Dr. Paul de Dios, Sue Catlin, Mayor Stephanie Klopfenstein, Stephanie Yu

La Palma

Noella Lew, Chair Chris Barnes, Alta Duke, Marshall Goodman, Cliff Ishii, Steve Shanahan, Council Member Mark I. Waldman, Mayor Nitesh Patel

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Americana Committee

Sandra K. McCarthy Community Volunteer 2004, 2006 Past Americana Chair

Rachel Ghatikar, CC `92 Director of Development Cypress College Foundation

Kevin Tsao CEO ENO Brands, Inc.

Beth Piburn, CC `76 Los Alamitos Kickoff Chair

Jim Vanderpool Retired City Manager City of Anaheim and Buena Park

David Shawver City of Stanton 2017, 2022-2025 Americana Chair

Phil Wendel Yamaha Motor Corp., U.S.A., ret.

1995, 1996 Americana Chair

Delight Sittman RE/MAX Tiffany Real Estate

Lynette Young, CC ‘98 Cypress College

City Committees Los Alamitos

Marilynn Poe, Co-Chair Johnnie Strohmyer, Co-Chair Dave Boyer, Mark A. Chirco, Council Member Shelley Hasselbrink, Emil Jorge

Seal Beach

Scott Newton, Chair Kori DeLeon, Vice-Chair Barbara Barton, Council Member Lisa Landau, Deb Machen, Steve Masoner

Stanton

Joanna Succar, Chair Mavis Ethans, Co-Chair Jhovana Ramirez, David Ronnenberg, Mayor Dave Shawver, Carol Warren, John Warren

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Cypress College Foundation

Board of Directors President Curtis Scheetz, CC `76 Total Environment Management, Retired

Shawna de la Cruz Forest Lawn Memorial-Parks & Mortuaries Pamela Kahn Orange County Department of Education, Retired

President-Elect Dr. Barbara Dunsheath NOCCCD Board of Trustees

John Kelly TNT Fireworks

Vice President Dr. Damon de la Cruz Cypress College, Mortuary Science

Chief Mark Lauderback City of Cypress Police Department

Treasurer Bryan A. Bentson Bentson, Vuona & Westersten, LLP

Les Lewis ACCO Engineered Systems, Retired

Secretary Carmen Koo, CC ‘02 Applied Air Conditioning Past President Ken Vecchiarelli Golden State Water Company Cypress College President Dr. Scott W. Thayer Stephen T. Blount NOCCCD Board of Trustees Tony Cardenas Southern California Edison Rick Darnell, CC ‘72 Retired Professional Basketball Player

David Shawver City of Stanton Delight Sittman RE/MAX Tiffany Real Estate Kevin Tsao ENO Brands, Inc. Phil Wendel Yamaha Motors, Retired Lynette Young, CC ‘98 Cypress College, Fine Arts

Dr. Margie Lewis Cypress College President Emeritus

Howard Kummerman Executive Director

Sandra K. McCarthy Community Volunteer

Rachel Ghatikar Director of Development

Shivon Ozinga, CC ‘11 Cypress College Mortuary Science

Elizabeth Lavezzari Development Associate

Nitesh Patel Mayor, City of La Palma

Lesley-Anne Loon Administrative Assistant III

Blake Perez SoCalGas

Victor Jimenez Advancement Services Manager

Beth Piburn, CC ‘76 Los Alamitos Medical Center Cypress College, Retired

North Orange County Community College District Board of Trustees Barbara Dunsheath, Ed.D., President Ed Lopez, J.D., Vice President Mark Lopez, Secretary Ryan Bent, Ed.D. Stephen T. Blount Jeffrey P. Brown Evangelina Rosales Zachary Colinco, Student Trustee, Cypress College Samiy Castillo Bolivar, Student Trustee, Fullerton College Kristine Nacu, Student Trustee Byron D. Clift Breland, Ph.D., Chancellor Scott W. Thayer, Ed.D., President, Cypress College

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Cypress College Foundation The Cypress College Foundation recognizes more than 300 exceptional students each year with scholarships totaling more than $500,000.

The Cypress College Foundation advances student success by cultivating donor relationships, developing community partnerships, and securing resources for scholarships, emergency assistance, and college programs.

The 2026 Scholarship Awards Ceremony will be held in person at Cypress College on Friday, May 22, 2026 at 3:00 PM.

2025 SCHOLARSHIP AWARDEES

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CYPRESS + STENOGRAPHY Valerie Lobato Court Reporting, 2023

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Cypress + You BUSINESS/CIS

Valerie Lobato Court Reporting, 2023 Looking for flexibility in her professional life to allow ample time for family life, Valerie Lobato decided to pursue stenography in Cypress College’s Court Reporting program. A difficult skill to learn to meet various speed requirements, Valerie at one point considered quitting, but persevered with the support of her family and her own determination to push herself to reach her highest potential.

Valerie will graduate from Cypress College in spring 2023 with a certificate in court reporting. Now a CART captioner, Valerie strives to pass state exams so she can become an official court reporter.

Read the full story:

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AMERICANA

Alumnus of the Year In 1996, the Cypress College Foundation initiated the “Alumnus of the Year” Award in celebration of the college’s 30th anniversary. Every year since, the Alumnus of the Year has been honored at graduation.

The award serves as recognition for the personal/professional achievements of our alumni and their contributions to the community and to society. Past recipients, with their position at the time, include: 1996 -

Stan Oftelie, CEO, Orange County Business Council

1997 -

Dwayne Washington, M.D., Emergency Care Physician

1998 -

David Holmquist, Athletic Director, Biola University

1999 -

Robin Yaffe Tschumper, Executive Director, LaCrescent-Hokah School District 300 Foundation

2000 -

Tom Stretz, Executive Director, Los Alamitos Youth Center

2001 -

Nancy K. Smith, Registered Nurse, Los Alamitos Medical Center

2002 -

Mike Sellers, Chief of Police, City of Fullerton

2003 -

Andy Fu, Service Manager, Irvine Toyota

2004 -

Mark Eaton, Retired NBA Basketball Player

2005 -

Geri Jewell, Actress, Comedienne, and Advocate for the Disabled

2006 -

Walter K. Bowman, Owner, Bowman Real Estate

2007 -

Mark Feitelson, Ph.D., Professor and Director, Biotechnology Center, Temple University

2008 -

Sheila Carlon, Ph.D., Program Director & Associate Professor, Regis College Health Services Administration and Management

2009 -

Danielle Nava, Director, Public Affairs, Planned Parenthood Orange and San Bernardino Counties

2010 -

James Savage, Ph.D., Professor of Politics, University of Virginia

2011 -

John Moore, Head Men’s Basketball Coach, Westmont College

2012 -

Pierre Habis, Senior Executive Vice President, Union Bank

2013 -

Pamela Kahn, Coordinator, Health and Wellness, Orange County Department of Education

2014 -

Reyna G. Rosas, Teacher, Long Beach Uni�ied School District

2015 -

Captain Russ Bird, U.S. Navy, Retired

2016 -

Wayne T. Kistner, Attorney at Law

2017 -

Swen Nater, Retired ABA and NBA Basketball Player

2018 -

Curtis Scheetz, Owner, Total Environmental Management, Inc.

2019 -

Catherine Sorensen, Philanthropist

2021 -

Nancy Matsui, Retired, American Airlines

2022 -

Bonnie Peat, Council Member, City of Cypress; Women’s Club of Cypress

2023 -

Betty Sarkis, Educator Garden Grove Uni�ied School District

2024 -

Rick Darnell, Retired Professional Basketball Player

2025 -

Aaron France, Buena Park City Manager

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Aaron France, City Manager of Buena Park and

1994 Cypress College graduate, is the 2025 Cypress College Alumnus of the Year. Aaron’s journey from standout student-athlete to public servant exempli�ies the values of leadership, service, and resilience fostered at Cypress College.

A star pitcher for the Cypress Chargers, Aaron was drafted three times by Major League Baseball and played professionally until 2001. After his athletic career, he returned to complete his education, earning a bachelor’s degree in Communications and a master’s degree in Public Administration with a focus on Organizational Leadership.

AMERICANA

2025 Alumnus of the Year

Since joining the City of Buena Park in 2003, Aaron has served in various leadership roles before being appointed City Manager in 2021. He has guided the city through major challenges, including pandemic recovery, regional homelessness initiatives, and vital infrastructure development. His work has strengthened community partnerships across education, nonpro�it, and civic sectors. Aaron is a staunch supporter of the Cypress College Foundation, giving back to bene�it students through the Americana Awards Gala and other events.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Aaron is a dedicated advocate for youth, education, and inclusive programs. As the father of a child with special needs, he actively coaches youth with disabilities and supports efforts to expand access for all families.

Aaron France’s distinguished public service and community impact re�lect the spirit and excellence of Cypress College alumni.

Nominate someone for the 2026 Cypress College Alumnus of the Year

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FORMER CYPRESS COLLEGE

I

n an important step to establish a lasting legacy for Cypress College students, the Foundation established the Legacy Society. Donors who commit to an endowment of $10,000 or more through a will, trust, annuity, insurance policy or outright cash, are inducted into the Legacy Society. The Foundation inducted 36 Charter Member families into the Legacy Society in 2017. Legacy Society donors include members of the community, Cypress College faculty, managers, staff, and retirees as well as Foundation Board members. Of particular interest is that five former college presidents have all committed their support to Cypress College through the Legacy Society.

I am participating in the Cypress Legacy Society because of the transforming impact that it will have on students. Particularly important is the education this will provide for first-generation students, students from low-income families, and students deserving a second chance. My contribution and the contributions from others to the Cypress Legacy Society will provide scholarships to deserving students for many years to come.

Jack Scott

To join the Legacy Society or for more information contact: Howard Kummerman, Executive Director or Rachel Ghatikar, Director of Development Cypress College Foundation 714.484.7126

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PRESIDENTS SUPPORT LEGACY SOCIETY

Bob Simpson, JoAnna Schilling, Margie Lewis, Mike Kasler

Bob Simpson Cypress College is a special place doing amazing things for students. Having been a member of the Charger family, I know the value of our mission in transforming the lives of our students. Being a Legacy donor provides the opportunity to support that mission now and into the future.

JoAnna Schilling As President of Cypress College, it was my honor to contribute to, and support, the Legacy Society at Cypress College. When a donor gives to the Legacy Society they are making a life-changing difference in the lives of students who are beating the odds of economic, racial, and cultural barriers. While our students possess a resilience born of courage, grit, and enormous potential, the Legacy Society ensures they also have the financial support to achieve their dreams. I am proud to commit to an endowment that ensures the economic future of these amazing students, and the communities in which they live.

Margie Lewis I’m a member of the Cypress College Legacy Society because I want to do all I can to ensure that future students will have the financial support they need to complete their degrees and certificates. By setting up an endowment through the Foundation, I know my gift will be used effectively to help students for many years to come. It’s my way of following Nelson Henderson’s quotation: “The true meaning of life is to plant trees, under whose shade you do not expect to sit.”

Mike Kasler Having immigrated to the United States with my family, my parents ingrained in me the importance of education.

They believed education was the “equalizer” in terms of achieving one’s goals. As a youngster I didn’t always understand that, but as I grew older I did and instilled the same in my children. There is no better return on investment for our country than investing in a student’s education---the Legacy Society does that! You can become part of that investment.

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In Memoriam Through the years we have seen the passing of these friends, former “Men and Women of the Year” and “Citizens of the Year,” who devoted much of their lives to helping others.

Citizens of the Year Anaheim Eleanor Bay Angeline Bevins Mary Bouas Dr. Cynthia Coad Dr. Thomas Coad Arthur Gray Jr. Frank Feldhaus Margie Field Katheleen Florence Allan Hughes Miriam Kaywood Herb Leo Bill O’Connell Stan Pawlowski Theresa Pawlowski Sarah Fay Pearson Irv Pickler Patricia “Pat” Piña Elsie Reed Martin Sklar Dorothea Stephenson Jacqueline Terrell Violet Wheeler Buena Park Stan Ault Donna Bagley Jesse Davis Michael Davis James Jarrell Kenneth Jones Elva Liesch Hughes Buck Levine Bob Lindsay Mel Miller Edith Rehnborg Dennis Salts Jerry Sigler Sharon Smith Ben Sportsman Ruth Walp

Cypress Richard Anderson Walt Bowman Nick Eighmy Bill Hannah Jeanne Hawkins Darrell Essex John Kanel George Hallak Andrew Lachina Grace Lachina John Lawler Gloria Livingston Tony Nieto Jim O’Hara Roberta O’Toole Chris Sherrin Frann Shermet Brian Sunley Christine Swain Hillard Warren Alvin Weinberg

Harold Wall Gwen Weisner Jack Wallin James Whiteside Leo Zlaket La Palma John Alvis Ron Burford John Burns Dan Collins Ron Dallas Larry Herman Dale Hedtke Bill Holman Becky Ishii Frances Klepl Elfriede Maciver Ron Maciver Kitty Mallet Barbara Mast William “Bill” Meil Chris O’Neal Bert Poan Gloria Scanlon Rosemary Scichilone Duane Schuster Burton Wesenberg Tom Wright

Garden Grove Barbara Burby Bill Catlin William Dalton Walter Donovan Jan Dunn Richard Hain Don Jordan Frank Kellogg Harry Krebs Steve LaFond Ric Lerma Bob Main Connie Margolin Jerry Margolin Jay Mastroianni Sheldon Singer, M.D. Ken Slimmer Barbara Sulzbach Marge Swenson

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Los Alamitos/Rossmoor Charles Allen David Appling James Bailey Shirley Bailey Don Bedard Stella Castillo Germaine Erskine Mickie Foster Leo Greene Alice Jempsa Myldred Jones Margaret “Peggy” Reep

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Anthony Selvaggi John Spinell Ray Sutton Charles Sylvia Lew Webb Johanna Zinter Kenneth Zommick Seal Beach William “Bill” Ayres Barbara Blackman Bob Eagle Seth Eaker Jim Klisanin Stanton Edward Allen Sharon Borden Robert Brown Boyd Coddington Frances Daigle Bea De Armond Harry Dotson Vance Durnil Paul Harrison Neal Hopkins Richard Juline Mary Lara Alicita Lewis-Yonker Manuel Marquez Frank Marshott Peter Muth Mary Navarette Jim Nelson Alan Perry Robert Pralle Charles Rell Norman Ross Irene Shone Joan Thomas Martha Weishaupt Joan Thomas Martha Weishaupt

In Memoriam Men and Women of the Year Ralph Clark Donna Crean John Crean Jan Harp Domene Ron Dominguez Mark Eaton Sandra Hutchens

Mary B. Jones Myldred Jones Carl Karcher Don Karcher Marion Knott Tommy Lasorda Mary Muth

Peter Muth Betty Belden Palmer Stan Pawlowski Irv Pickler Louise Pomeroy Judith Swayne Lew Webb

In Memoriam 2025-2026

David Appling 1999 Citizen of the Year Los Alamitos

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ESL

CYPRESS + UCI

Vy Vu Vietnam

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Cypress + You BUSINESS/CIS

Vy Vu

Business Administration, 2019 Vy Vu grew up and worked as a travel agent in Vietnam before coming to the United States. Intent on finding success in the U.S., she chose to pursue an education at Cypress College, not imagining that she would be in a position to transfer to a four-year university after just two years. Having started at Cypress College in ESL classes, Vy now aspires to open her own travel agency to promote cultural tourism between Vietnam and the United States.

She transferred to University of California, Irvine in 2019 to earn her bachelor’s degree in business administration with a combined master’s degree in finance.

Read the full story:

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Cypress College Foundation thanks Total Environmental Management for their tireless support to ensure our students reach their full potential!

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CYPRESS COLLEGE CELEBRATES ITS 60TH ANNIVERSARY THIS FALL!

Are you interested in joining the festivities?

Do you have memorabilia, photos, or memories to share?

Scan this QR Code to get involved!

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I am deeply honored that the Cypress College Foundation has chosen me as the Person of the Year for this year’s Americana Awards Gala.

Throughout my life, I have been very fortunate. The opportunities I have had, and the people who supported me along the way, made a lasting difference. Because of that, I strongly believe in giving back and helping create those same opportunities for others.

Today, many students face significant challenges while pursuing their education such as rising housing costs, poverty, reductions in financial aid, and the many pressures that students and their families experience. Despite these obstacles, the students at Cypress College continue to show determination, resilience, and hope for a better future.

Any additional support you can provide to our students through the Foundation will make a meaningful difference.

George Orff 2026 Person of the Year

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Congratulations on a well deserved recognition to each of the honorees!

Your Friend, Catherine Sorensen Cypress College Alumnus of the Year 2019

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Golden State Water Company is a proud supporter of the Cypress College community Congratulations to the 2026 Americana honorees Since 1929, Golden State Water Company provides reliable, quality water service to more than one million customers in 80 California communities. gswater.com

2026

@GoldenStateH2O

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ORANGE COUNTY PROFESSIONAL FIREFIGHTERS ASSOCIATION

Congratulate

George Orff Americana Person of the Year 2026 & All Americana Citizens of the Year

OCFA Firefighters Proudly Serving: Buena Park Cypress Garden Grove La Palma Los Alamitos Seal Beach Stanton 2026

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Payden & Rygel Supports the Cypress College Foundation

Americana Awards With more than $167 billion in assets under management, Payden & Rygel is one of the largest privately owned investment managers in the United States. Founded in 1983, the firm is a leader in the active management of fixed-income and equity portfolios for a diversified client base. The firm advises foundations and endowments, pension plans, corporate operating funds and individuals on their overall investment strategies. Payden & Rygel is committed to cultivating a partnership where the client’s needs are the bottom line.

PAYDEN.COM

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SoCalGas congratulates the Americana 2026 honorees for their commitment and hard work in helping make Southern California a better place. We’re inspired to serve and support our communities so that everyone has the power to contribute, connect, and thrive.

Together, let’s celebrate! socalgas.com/Community

Shareholder-funded ©2026 Southern California Gas Company.

All copyright and trademark rights reserved.

J030-26

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CypressCollegeFoundation.org

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THE Cypress College Foundation

Thanks

Ken & Robin Vecchiarelli for their sponsorship to Americana and support of Cypress College students

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CYPRESS + CSUF

John Tran Accounting, 2018

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Cypress + You BUSINESS/CIS

John Tran

Accounting, 2018 John Tran emigrated from Vietnam with his parents when he was 21. He decided to pursue a career in public accounting and found great guidance from faculty and staff in the Cypress College Accounting program, as well as many professional networking opportunities.

In 2018, John graduated from Cypress College with an associate degree in accounting and transferred to Cal State Fullerton, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in business administration with an emphasis on accounting.

While at CSUF, he started an internship with BDO and was recently promoted to senior auditor in 2022.

Read the full story:

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LES LEWIS TRUST Congratulations to this year’s Americana Honorees

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Cathay Bank joins the Americana Awards 51th Anniversary Gala in furthering the Cypress College Foundation’s mission to transform lives through lifelong learning and expand academic and career pathways.

Visit cathaybank.com or scan the QR code to learn more

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Congratulations to the 2026 Americana Awards Honorees Re/Max Tiffany, Marquis Escrow & PMI Patron Property Management

BUY • SELL • INVEST Delight Sittman Broker-Associate DRE#00991161

Cell: 714-335-4950 & Ralph Lopez Broker-Associate DRE#02044158

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LOS A

LA

M IT

OS

Congratulations

to each of the honorees!

Nesi Stewart

2023 Citizen of the Year Honoree

562.493.4547

www.printmasterlosal.com 10666 Los Alamitos Blvd | Los Alamitos, CA 90720 providing print and design services since 2007

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Investing in a Brighter Future Together

EMCOR Services Mesa Energy is proud to support the Americana Awards Gala and the incredible work of the Cypress College Foundation.

We believe that by investing in our community today, we build a stronger foundation for everyone tomorrow.

Congratulations to the 2026 honorees for their exceptional dedication and leadership www.mesaenergy.com

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Congratulations

MARIELLEN YARC Cypress Citizen of the Year For your decades of service and contributions to the City and our wider community

A special congratulations to all honorees!

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Chino Airport, 7000 Merrill Ave. #52, Chino, CA 91710

https://calaeroac ademy.org/

CAL-AEROFAB FLIGHT ACADEMY INC. A 501(c)3 public, nonprofit organization based out of Chino Airport developed for dedicated individuals with the desire to learn how to restore, fly, and

EST. 2021

maintain airplanes.

CREATED BY

DATE ISSUED

Cal-Aerofab Flight Academy Members

September 2023

George and Sharon Orff in partnership with Matt and Tanya Nightingale of Cal-Aerofab Flight Academy, congratulate the 2026 Cypress College Foundation Americana Honorees 2026

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The Cypress College Foundation thanks the friends and family of George Orff for their support in honor of his lifetime of extraordinary service to others.

Ward and Cindy Hotze Elizabeth Demeo Ron and Leslie Sweet Bob Lake Richard Sanders Susan and Gary Chan Bill Cullinane James Orff Stephanie and Patrick Kirchen

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CYPRESS + DENTAL ESL HYGIENE

Jennifer Palacios Ecuador

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Cypress + You HEALTH SCIENCE

Jennifer Palacios Dental Hygiene, 2020 A native Spanish speaker from Ecuador, Jennifer Palacios worked hard to incorporate English into her life in the U.S. Her pathway to the Cypress College Dental Hygiene Program started with advanced ESL classes.

In 2019, the college’s ESL Program was the first in California to create and be approved to award Guided Pathways ESL Milestone Certificates. One of the first students to receive such a certificate, Jennifer reflected, “Today, many of these students receive their awards as a symbol of great respect for their multicultural backgrounds and their intercultural communication. I feel grateful for the acceptance and kindness provided by Cypress College professors toward their foreign students.”

Read the full story:

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PLANNED GIVING BRIEF

CREATE YOUR

LEGACY Howard Kummerman, Executive Director 9200 Valley View Street Cypress, CA 90630 714-484-7126 hkummerman@cypresscollege.edu cypresscollegelegacy.org

ENDOWMENT GIFT OPTIONS An endowment gift may be designated for a specific purpose. Please let us know if you wish to restrict the use of income from your gift for a specific program or purpose. You may wish to make the endowment gift in your honor, or in memory of another person. We can help you make a gift that creates a legacy of remembrance for you and your loved ones.

For additional information on endowment giving or to review information about our endowment plan, please contact us. We look forward to helping you create your legacy!

WITH AN

ENDOWMENT GIFT YOUR LEGACY SOCIETY ENDOWMENT GIFT WILL GROW TO BECOME A PERMANENT LEGACY OF SUPPORT FOR OUR GOOD WORK!

WHY MAKE A LEGACY SOCIETY ENDOWMENT GIFT? An endowment gift is a gift to an established fund that is permanently invested.

When you make an endowment gift, you create a steady stream of annual income to support our good work.

Your gift will be maintained in perpetuity and make a lasting, meaningful difference.

There are several ways in which you can make an endowment gift either today or as part of your estate plan.

WAYS TO MAKE AN ENDOWMENT GIFT CHARITABLE GIFT ANNUITY

YOUR SUPPORT MAKES OUR WORK POSSIBLE Did you know that by making a gift to our endowment, you can create a permanent source of income that will ensure the continuation of our programs far into the future? This type of meaningful gift can create a legacy for you while providing lasting support for our mission.

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When you transfer your cash or appreciated property (stock, CDs or real estate) to our endowment, we will agree to pay you fixed-income for life at a rate based on your age. You may benefit from a charitable deduction and a portion of your income may even be tax free.

GIFT OF CASH

You can start an endowment with a single gift of cash paid today or over time. Your Legacy Society gift will grow over time, ensuring future success for Cypress College students.

Copyright © 2020 Crescendo Interactive, Inc. Used by permission.

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BEQUEST

A gift to our endowment made through your will or trust, may provide your estate with valuable tax savings. Your endowment bequest can be a gift of a specific asset, percentage of your estate or the residue (what's left after specific bequests are made to your family). Your endowment gift will create a permanent legacy of lasting support for our work!

This information is not intended as tax, legal or financial advice. Gift results may vary. Consult your personal financial advisor for information specific to your situation.

Congratulations to Mariellen Yarc!

Congratulations to Mariellen Yarc!

Your herd is very proud of you!

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THANK YOU

FOR YOUR SUPPORT OF CYPRESS COLLEGE STUDENTS AND THIS IMPORTANT EVENT.

Paulette Chaffee 2/16/26 9:45 AM

PC26_ThankYouAd_7x4.5_r2.indd 1

Piper Sandler is proud to sponsor the Cypress College Foundation 51st Americana Awards CALIFORNIA COMMUNITY COLLEGE PUBLIC FINANCE INVESTMENT BANKING Piper Sandler is a leading California underwriting firm serving the needs of educational agencies throughout California. We are focused on providing comprehensive financing solutions.

Ivory Li Managing Director +1 415 616-1614 ivory.li@psc.com

50 California Street Suite 3100 San Francisco, CA 94111

Scan here to learn about our services and meet our California education team.

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pipersandler.com/CAeducationfinance Since 1895. Member SIPC and NYSE. © 2026 Piper Sandler & Co. 2/26 CM-26-0188

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BUILD YOUR LEGACY WITH MANY

HAPPY RETURNS

Cypress College Foundation 9200 Valley View Street Cypress, CA 90630 714-484-7126 foundation@cypresscollege.edu cypresscollegelegacy.org

When you know the secret of throwing one, a boomerang always comes back to you. In the same way, our organization has a secret you may not know.

It's a charitable gift annuity.

When you fund a charitable gift annuity with us, you get cash back at high, fixed annual rates that never change.

OUR CHARITABLE GIFT ANNUITY GIVES YOU PAYMENTS EVERY YEAR FOR AS LONG AS YOU LIVE When you fund a charitable gift annuity, we agree to send you a check each year for as long as you live, based on your funding amount and your age at the time of funding. The payment amount never changes. In addition, you may also receive: ● An income tax deduction this year for part of the funding amount.

● If you fund it by transferring stock, some of your capital gains are eliminated, some spread over a number of years.

● After a lifetime of payments to you, any remaining funds automatically support our mission in your name.

Call or email us to learn what your payment rate and tax benefits will be. When you do, ask about deferred charitable gift annuities and other options that may give you greater payments and tax benefits.

This information is not intended as tax, legal or financial advice. Gift results may vary. Consult your personal financial advisor for information specific to your situation.

The names and images shown here are representative of typical donors and may or may not be actual donors to the organization. Under federal rules your benefits may be different from this example. Please contact us for your specific benefits.

20AB84

Copyright © 2023 Crescendo Interactive, Inc. Used by permission.

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NEXT TO THE DISNEYLAND®RESORT

Congratulations and continued success with “Congratulations this Awards Gala. with51st this year 51st of yeartheofAmericana the American Awards Gala.”

- Bobbie Stovall (Co-Owner) and Family.

Recipient of the 2024 Americana Awards Gala “Person of the Year”

STOVALLSINN.COM (800) 854-8175

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Congratulations Linda C. Gallagher!

We are so proud of you.

Thank you for your 30+ years of service to our Club kids.

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Congratulations to the 51st Americana Awards Gala Honorees

Congratulations to the 2026 Americana Honorees Barbara Dunsheath Board President Cypress Foundation President, Board of Trustees North Orange County Community College District

P: (714) 808-4797 E: bdunsheath@nocccd.edu

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CYPRESS + UCI

Lia Thompson Biology & Chemistry, 2021

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Cypress + You

SCIENCE, ENGINEERING, MATH Lia Thompson

Biology & Chemistry, 2021 Knowing she'd need to support herself to afford college, Lia took a semester off and went to work directly out of high school, then transitioned to taking classes while working part-time. After being promoted to a full-time position, Lia found she had much less time for classes and decided something had to give. She quit that job to prioritize her education and became a part-time tutor instead, eventually working in the college's L/LRC as a tutor and Supplemental Instruction leader.

Lia's scholarly passion is genetics. She transferred to UCI in fall 2021 to study biochemistry and one day hopes to earn a doctorate and work in genetics research to help prevent the suffering caused by genetic diseases.

Read the full story:

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Abel Education Fund

Hot Springs Arkansas

Kevin M. Jones

Congratulations to all the 2026 Citizens of the Year and to George Orff, Person of the Year!

Margie Lewis and the Lewis Family

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The Seal Beach Lions Club Congratulates Seal Beach’s

CITIZEN OF THE YEAR

Ray Longoria

for his amazing contributions to the community

SealBeachLions.org

NEXT TO THE DISNEYLAND®RESORT STOVALLSHOTELS.COM (800) 854-8175

My best wishes to our friends Alden and Linda Esping, chosen as “Citizens of the Year,” representing the City of Anaheim.

- Bobbie Stovall (Co-Owner) and Family.

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In Loving Memory of Bill Hannah Americana Cypress Citizen of the Year 1999 Cypress College Foundation Board Member

The Hannah Family and the Woman’s Club of Cypress Congratulates all the Americana Honorees

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Congratulations to this year’s In Loving Memory of Bill Hannah

Americana Honorees

Americana Cypress Citizen of the Year 1999 Cypress College Foundation Board Member

The Hannah Family and the Woman’s Club of Cypress Congratulates all the Americana Honorees

In Loving Memory of Bill Hannah Americana 2025 133

Americana Cypress Citizen of the Year 1999 Cypress College Foundation Board Member

The Hannah Family and the Woman’s Club of Cypress Congratulates all the Americana Honorees

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CONGRATULATIONS

LINDA GALLAGHER “STANTON CITIZEN OF THE YEAR”

WE THANK YOU FOR YOUR YEARS OF DEDICATION AND SERVICES TO THE STANTON LIONS CLUB AND OUR COMMUNITY.

Together We Have the Power to Build a Clean Energy Future We are proud to sponsor Cypress College Foundation's 51st Americana Awards Gala Congratulations to tonight's honorees.

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THANK YOU to Happy Jewelers for supporting Cypress College Students

Cypress College Associated Students

Associated Students (A.S.), the student government of Cypress College, provides learning, leadership, and service opportunities outside the classroom. A.S. is responsible for organizing many events and activities on campus throughout the academic year, pushing forward student-oriented initiatives, and representing all Cypress students in the shared governance process on campus by their service on campus committees.

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Our Donors Platinum Gifts of $100,000+ Anonymous Aviation Donor Catherine A. Sorensen Edison International Foundation Forest Lawn Memorial-Parks & Mortuaries Foundation for California Community Colleges George & Sharon Orff Golden State Water Company Kaiser Permanente Mal & Kay Bruce Robert Friedman Total Environmental Management Inc. Union Bank Gold Gifts of $25,000+ Air Treatment Corporation Anonymous Gifts Barbara Dunsheath Bill & Gay Hannah Bonna Campellone City of Buena Park City of Stanton Curtis and Jill Scheetz Damon N. de la Cruz Diane Henry Disney Worldwide Services, Inc Donald A Hudson ENO Brands James P. Brugger & Margaret Bell JH Real Estate Operating Partners, LLC JoAnna & Steven Schilling Kenneth & Robin Vecchiarelli La Habra Community Support Landmark Certified Development Corp.

MAAS Companies Inc. Marjorie Lewis Mark Chatinsky Newport Diversified NOCCCD NOCCCD Foundation Regina Rhymes Ron Godshalk Sandie & Terry McCarthy School’s First Credit Union Shivon V. Ozinga So Cal Gas State of California Sundt Construction Inc. The Boeing Company The Hilgenfeld Foundation for Mortuary Education TMS Toyota Motor Sales, USA

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Troy & Betty Edgar U.S. Bank U.S. Department Of Treasury Waltmar Foundation Woman’s Club of Cypress Silver Gifts of $10,000+ ACCO Engineered Systems ALMQUIST Anaheim/Orange County Hotel & Lodging Association Atkinson, Andelson, Loya, Ruud & Romo Beth Piburn Bharat Patel Bobbie N. Stovall Brenda Vosbein Brinda Subramaniam Bryan Ventura Care Ambulance Service Carol Harvey Carolyn Croom CDA Slammers FC Cheryl A Marshall Chuck & Erzsebet Dunster City of Anaheim City of Cypress City of La Palma City of Los Alamitos Clean City, Inc., Bill Taormina Cliff Ishii Clifford E Lester Colin P. Preston Dan Almquist David & Lou Wassenaar David and Diane Toole Foundation David W. Wilson Delight Sittman Elizabeth Nielsen Elizabeth Swift EMCOR Services / Mesa Energy Systems Inc. German Auto Body Golden Touch Auto Harry’s Heroes Hazelrigg Claims Management Services Helaine Wesley Hillside Memorial Park & Mortuary Irma Ramos James & Catherine Phillips Jefferson Leeper Jesse Wobrock Jewish Long Beach Joel R. Gober Jolena M. Grande Jon & Bonnie Peat 132

Josh Newman KNN Public Finance Knott’s Berry Farm Lamont Miya Les Fujimoto Les H. Lewis Liana B Koeppel McAuley LCX Corporation Morgan Stanley O’Conner / McMullan Family Fund Orange County Professional Firefighters Association P2S Engineering, Inc Paul R. De Dios Paulo Morales Payden & Rygel Petersen Automotive Museum Philip A. Dykstra Richard A. Hock Richard S. Fee Robert & Denise Simpson Ron Armale Sanjuana De La Torre Scott Thayer Seal Beach Lions Club Sheron R. Huston SMACNA SoCal Stephen & Susan Faessel The Grateful Foundation, Inc. Vertical Systems Wesley J. McCurtis Westberg White Educational Foundation, Inc. William O’Connell Bronze Gifts of $2,000+ A. O. Reed & Co. Aaron France Abel Vicuna Adria Jimenez-Vicuna Adriana Mariah Duran Adventure City Inc. Air Handlers Supply Inc. Alan & Anne Drobka Alba C. Recinos Alice Burnett Alicia Flores Alison Hicks Alta Duke American Legion Auxiliary - Unit 327 America’s Warrior Partnership Anaheim Community Foundation Anaheim Family YMCA Andrea Hannon Angi Enriquez

Our Donors Applied Air Conditioning ARCA/MCA Arctic Cooling Systems Arlene D. Parker Arthur & Chris Brown Assistance League of Garden Grove Associated Students Cypress College Association of Business Trial Lawyers - LA Association of Orange County Deputy Sheriffs AssuredPartners AT&T Bank of America Barry Siegel Belinda E. Allan Bentson, Vuona & Westersten, LLP Bernard and Nina DeMarkey Bill O’Connell Bill Taormina Bob Babajian Brenda K Wilson-Codispoti Brent & Laurie Little Brian & Hedy Donahue Brian Fennessy Brittany M. Hamer Bryan Seiling Buena Park Noon Lions Club Buena Park Police Association, Inc. Byron Breland Cambridge West Partnership, LLC Card Integrators Carmen Koo Carol Williams Casa Youth Center Cathay Bank Catherine Youngerman Cathy Dutton Chris Barnes Chris Stehman Christane Salts Chuck Feenstra City of Seal Beach Control Air Enterprises LLC Corporate Business Interiors (CBI) Couts Heating and Cooling, Inc. CR&R Incorporated Craig Tomooka Creative Air Mechanical Services, LLC Crystal Cook Crystal Neer Cypress Chamber of Commerce Cypress Funeral Services Inc. Cypress Police Department Dan Davitt Dantonio Alvarez

Darin Drabing Darrell Essex Dave & Janice Skelton David & Jennifer J. Shawver David & Michele Zenk David Barnes David M. Booze Dawn Griffin Day Construction Inspections Dean & Wendy Grose Debra & Richard Rodriguez Diane Stovall Dirk O’Dette DLR Group Don & Shelli Appling Don Nielsen Donna Friess Doug & Shelly Bailey Dylan McDanniel ECOS Ed Bonanni Eldon A. Young Emil Jorge Emily France Eric Lester Erin Lacorte Ethel Bowman Evangelina Rosales Everett Dorey, LLP Evie Palicz Fast 5 Xpress Holding IV, LLC FJS, Inc. Foundation Pile Inc. Frances Krum Frank & Ruth Bila Frank Villarruel Fredrick G. Williams Fullerton College Gabrielle Shaw Garden Grove B.P.O.E. 1952 Garden Grove Hospital Medical Center Gary Gopar Geoffrey & Tina Luis Geoffrey Fearns George & Maria Lazaruk George and Karen Mast George Mulcaire George O’Hara Gerda Vandergrift Giovanni & Jaclyn Magginetti Giuliano Family Trust GLC Cypress Global Conductor Gloria C. Badal Good Hope International Inc DBA Anaheim Plaza Hotel 133

Grace Nakayama Greg & Kathy Fellers Greg & Stephanie Rosati Greg Goodyear Hank Wesseln Harlene Goodrich Irvin Howard Enterprises for Reon Howard Ivory Li J&N Machining Jacqueline Rodarte James & Lori Dinwiddie James Kelly James R. Watson Jaunetta Strohmyer JCI Johnson Controls Fire Protection LP Jean & Richard Daum Jeanette James Jerice Walker Jersey Mike’s Subs Jill R. Ingram Jim Hindman Joanne Wilkerson John & Diane Kelly John Jaeger Johnson Consulting Group Josiah & Tanya Doby Juan Garcia Juan Gonzalez Judith Klabouch Karen Cant Kathleen E. Reiland Kathryn L. Sonne Katie Michele Glaue Kaveh Motadi Kay L. Barr Kenneth Siegel Kenny Brandyberry Kevin Jones Kevin Smith Kimberley Pawlik Kinetic Mortgage Kiwanis Club of Cypress Kristen Oliver La Casa Garcia Larry Verne Laurie Murray Leonard & Janet Lahtinen Lisa Brandon Los Alamitos Medical Center LPA Architecture, Inc. Maha Afra Manhattan Beach Toyota Marah Fineberg-Kuck Margaret M. Mohr Marianna Mcclanahan

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Our Donors Maribel Denner Marie J. Hammer Marilyn McCorkle Mario Villafan Mark Bradley Mark Lauderback Marla H. McBride Mary “Fola” F. Odebunmi Mary McCasland Matt Jagerman Matthew Bullock Matthew Davies McCarthy Builders Megan Martinez-King Mic & Dee Vincenti Michael Dix Michael L. Klyde Michael McClean Mick and Terry Woodbury Mike & Joyce Tsao Mike Haley Nancy Byrnes Ned Snyder Nesi Stewart Newport Lexus Next Level Energy Management & Automation Nicole Cassesso Noella & Dickson Lew NSWC O.C. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Education Foundation O’Conner Laguna Hills Mortuary Operation Helping Hands Oscar A Delcid P2S Engineering Pacific Western Bank Pat Ganer Pat Kent Patrick Gibbs Patrick O’Brien Paul & Carol Bostwick Paul & Mariellen Yarc Lussman Paul Sanford Pearson Education Peggy & Eric Wilson Peter Grant Phil & Barbie Wendel Pick Your Part Auto Wrecking Piper Jaffray Piping Industry Progress and Education Labor P.I.P.E. Pradip Brahmbhatt Precoa Rachel A Ghatikar Ramona Vosburg

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Rancho Mission Viejo Rancho Santiago Community College District RBC Capital Markets Reon Boydstun-Howard Ric Lerma Richard & Crystal Lufkin Richard & Pat McAuley Richard Cooper & Mike Belknap Richard Hannon Rick Alonzo Rick Darnell Rick McAuley Rigoberto & Jhovana Ramirez Robert & Nancy Johnson Robert Laurens Robert W. Hernandez Robert W. Sittman Roger & Holly Iris Ronnie Collins Ross Smith Rotary Club of Anaheim Rotary Club of Cypress RunSignup Ryan Heflin Ryan Vecchiarelli Sandra & Anthony Ceron Sandy McElroy Sarah A. Jones Savannah School District Scott & Cathy Newton Scott Minikus Seal Beach Chamber of Commerce Shailesh & Jayshree Bhakta Shannon De La Rosa Soroptimist International of Garden Grove South Coast Controls Southern California Edison Southland Industries Stanton Lions Club Stephen H. Sain Stephen Schoonmaker Steve Masoner Superior Foods Sales Sylvano Ibay Teri “Lynn” L. Mitts Theresa Harvey Therese Mosqueda-Ponce Thrivent Charitable Impact & Investing Tiffanie Ward Timothy “Tim” Verne TNT Fireworks American Promotional Events, Inc. - West Tom & Crystal Cook Toyota Place 134

Treisa S. Cassens Troy Wilson UA Journeymen & Apprentices Local #250 Victor & Erlinda Villegas Victor Hernandez Vince Taormina Virgil Adams Visiting Angels Warland Investments Company William & Gunilla Svendsen William C. & Marilynn M. Poe William Poe V William Taormina Wincome Management & Development Inc World Trade Printing Yamaha Motor Corp, USA Yong M Han Charger Gifts of $1,000+ A.G. and Kelly Anvari ACCO Adel Rajab Akiko “Allison” Gotoh Albert Miranda Alchymia Alison M. Robertson Allan Ansdell Allen & Carola Bundy Amber & Bobby Enriquez American Federation of Teachers (ADFAC) Anaheim Ducks Andrew C. Lachina Andrew Yu Angie & Erik Ray Ann Marie Ruelas Anna for Steven Poynter Poynter Anna Herzog Anna M. Spencer-Lonetti Ann-Marie Beck Anthony Taormina Anthony Taylor Ashleigh Aitken Barbara A. Woolner Batesville Casket Becky Areias Bijan Motadi Bill & Debra Frederickson Bill and Martha Garcia BJ Delzer Blake Boehm Bonanni Development Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater

Our Donors Anaheim-Cypress Bradley Horner Brian Bentson Brian Gray Brian O’Neal Brookfield Los Angeles Builders Inc Bruce Hinkle C33, LLC Candace Dewitt & Marc Drucker Carmen Davis Celeste M. Phelps Charles N. Allen Charmain Ronnenberg Chet Simmons Christie Digital Systems Christina Dawson Corey Sianez Craig Lee Cynthia Coad Cypress Gardens Cypress Land Company Cypress Lawn Cemetary Association Dan Fukushima Daniel Fierro Danielle Guthrie Danielle Nelson Dasha Smith David & Charmaine Ronnenberg David Godoy David S. Okawa Dawn Decker Deann Burch Deborah Michelle Dennis & Cristina Canning Devlon Hoff Diana Kotler Diane Appling Donald R Brand Donna for Ford John Opkins Doug Pak DWWTL INC. DBA NEWPORT LEXUS Elaine M. Lipiz Gonzalez Elmer Bugg & Cherry Li-Bugg Emma Anton Emmanuel Torres Eric Lester and Rebecca Hart Eric Nunez Erik Rios Ernest & Thelma Machado Ernie & Vivian Villarreal Evangelina Estrada First Class Vending, Inc. Fullerton Elks Lodge 1993 Gabriel Enriquez Gail A Taylor Gary & Jessica Holder

Gary & Sharon Gutjahr George Callison Geotechnical Solutions Ginger Osman Glenn McElroy Golden Star Technology, Inc. Graham Siderius Green Hills Memorial Park Greg & Gina Phillips Guaranty Chevrolet Guillermo & Mary-Anne Ortega Harry’s Cafe Helix Electric Henry Veirregger Inner Circle For Tom Carpenter Insight Investments Interval House James Davis Jane A. Walker Jane C. Jepson Jay Di Silvestri Jeff & Allison Coburn Jeffrey Diehl Jeffrey P. Brown Jenna De Long Jerry & Janice Roodzant Jesse Urquidi Jesus Silva & Sharon Quirk-Silva Jill E. Bauer Jim & Dawn Carter Jim & Karen Sullivan Jim DeMaio Jim Klisanin Jim Murphy Joe & Valentina Purtell Joel Greer John D. Payne Jr. John Dupuy John for Mary Bouas Bouas John Sciacca John Wagner Jon Miller Jose E Rubalcava Joshua L. House Joyce Carrigan Joyce Ricci JP Wang Julie Jevremov Karl & Penny Dash Karma Pemba Karol Hatch Kathleen Llanos Katie Wong Katrin Hanley Kay Carpenter Keith & Sue Johnson 135

Keith Vescial Ken Babb Ken Zapanta Kennedy Court Reporters Inc. Kevin Peterson Kevin Tsao Key Air Conditioning Kim Megyesi La Palma Intercommunity Hospital Larry Herman Lenore A. Landis Leroy Mills Lesley Loon Lilia Xu Lillian “Penny” H. Gabourie Linda McCoy Lionel & Fay Ng Lisa Fujimoto Lisa Landau LKQ Corporation Lori Lynn Los Alamitos Race Course Louise Bierei Lyn Vernazza Lynette S. Young Lynn Groff Majeda Geramy Marc C Posner Maria Rowena Lazo Mariellen Yarc Mark Burnside Mark Pickering Mary Bouas Mary Lambert Mason West, Inc Michael Bedard Michael Cooper Michael Frey Michael Gilmore Michele Steggell Mike & Lisa Lee Miller Toyota & Miller Honda Mirvette Judeh Mitch & Julia Felde Mitchell Caldwell Monica M. Doman Moore Ruble Yudell Murray Company Nancy A Deutsch Nicholas Hamer Norm Lussier Norma E. Martinez Northern Trust Orange County Automobile Dealers Association (OCADA) Orange County’s United Way for ATT

2026

Our Donors Pam Schoonover Pat O’Toole Patrick Rochon Patron Property Management, Inc. Paul Andresen Paul Kott Realtors, Inc. Paul T. Paiement PayPal Giving Fund Penn Air Group Phillip Pope Piper Jaffrey Piper Sandler & Co. PPC Plumbing Piping & Construction, Inc. Prime Healthcare for La Palma Hospital Ralph Webb Randal S. Bessolo Randy & Diana Hill Rangers FC Raul Alvarez Ray Fuentes RETA CA Richard F. Rams Rick & Dana Martens Rick Hodge Rigo Carrillo Robbin Narike Preciado Robert & Rachel Alanis Robert Jahncke Roberta G. Lawrence Robyn Alhadeff Rod Garcia Ron & Judy Carter-Johnson Ron Beeler Ron Hoshi Ronald Dominguez Ronnie Cheung Rosanna Inc DBA Avenue of the Arts Hotel Rose Hills Mortuary Russell A. Bacarella S Planner USA, Inc. Sally Feldhaus Samantha M. Simmons Santanu Bandyopadhyay Scot Payne Scott & Sharon Pickler Scott Drolet Scott Weir Service Corporation International (SCI) Sharon Moore Shawna De la Cruz Shelley Hasselbrink Stacey Bergman Stanley Beamish Stanley Tutton

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Steinberg Architects Steve Arnold Steve Blount Steve Donley Steve Villanueva Steven Hollins Steven R Banneck Sue Fardette Susan Lerma Tara Hubsch Temperence L Dowdle Teresa Santana Terry and Barbara Barton Thank a Vet Thomas & Sharon Moore Thomas E. Blackman Tia Wildermuth Tiffany Hamp Tina Stovall Luis Toyota of Huntington Beach Tustin Toyota Tuyen Pham Vince Marchetti Virginia “Ginny” P. Moore Warren Berzack West Anaheim Medical Center West Anaheim Medical for Fishman, D Westmont of Cypress William Ayres Xerox College Gifts of $500+ Aaron Steger Adam T. Eckenrode Adrienne Poan Al Ethans Alan George Alan M. Reza Alejandra Ramirez Alex & Le Ng Alex Camargo Alex Keller Alexander Porter Alexander Yang Alice M Palicz Alma Castro Alyce Van Amber Craig Fdn for Craig Annette Amelia Marques Amie Poole Amy Alikhani Amylou & Anthony Law Andreas Pasaras Andreas Psaras Andrew Heckel 136

Andrew Hermann Andrew Jewell Angela D. Ellison Angela deDios Angella Kissoon Angels Baseball Ann Marie Jennison Anna F Lagrimas Anne Mallari Anne Nieto Annie Wang Anthony Damato Anthony D’amato Anthony J. Maher Anthony Law Apple Photography Inc. Athena Ledbetter Austin Hill Avelino Valencia Aydinaneth Ortiz Barbara Thompson Becky D. Floyd Behzad “Ben” Izadi Bo Ralston Bob Salcedo Brendan McCarthy Brian Faul Brian Pickler Brian Travis C33 for Barton Place Canyon Composites Carl David Carlos Miguel III Martinez Carlos Sandoval Carol Holmes Carole Stone Carole Tucker Carolyn Carpenter Carrie Imoto Catherine Davis Catherine San Roman Cecilia Aguayo Charitable Adult Rides & services, Inc. Charles & Joann Mizutani Charles Griffith Chelsi Wilson Cherry & Elmer Li-Bugg Christiana Finn Christina Pluhar Christopher Fore Christopher West Christy Montenegro Christy Schopp Christy Wylde Claudia Mitchell Cornelius & Cynthia Van Loon

Our Donors Cottons Point Design Inc. Craig Goralski Crean Foundation Cristian Delgado Cristina Sims Crystal Miles Cypress College_ Dan & Anita Pittman Daniel Frank Daniel J. Snook Daniel Sherrin Daniel Villa Dao T. Do Daren & Kori DeLeon Darian Royse Dave Grace Dave McCament David Kangad David Moeser David S. Nusbaum David Shutts David Skorupinski David Toigo Deborah & Greg Magnuson Deidre M Porter Diane L Schmitz District Managers Association (NOCCCD) Don Ward Donald A. Pickler Donation Donna Miller Donna Purzycki Eduardo Escobedo Edward & Dawndra Ahart Edward S. Fenton Efrain Ramirez Eileen Soskin El Monte Rebekah Lodge #338 El Zarape Elena Helme Elizabeth A. Pacheco Elizabeth Preger Elizabeth Tenorio Elyse Gomez Eric Choi Erica Sturges Ernesto Martinez Falck Mobile Health Corp. (dba Care Ambulance) Fawn Imboden Field Time Target and Training, LLC (FT3) Franck Khalifa Frida Cadena Fullerton College Foundation, inc.

G&M Maintenance and Management Gabriel & Gloria Chua & Su Gabriel Pallares Garden Grove Chamber of Commerce Garden Grove Community Foundation Garet R. Hill Gary & Arlene Kimata Gary Shin German Guevara Gilbert Youdeem Gina Elefante Glenda Harris Gordon Hatcher Gordon Preston Greg Perez Ha & Seon Lee Hector Romero Hector Uriarte Heulises Ramirez Hoa T. Tran Howard Harris International Cargo Equipment Jaime M. Ramos James & Carol Fenlon James Stovall Jamie Leigh LaPera Jane E. Troop Jane Tucker Janet Vera Jason Lawson Jason Merchey Jason Oja Javier Peralta Jean Kim Jeannie Mitsch Jeff Burnett Jeff Chang Jeffrey & Patricia Weaver Jenae Sexton Jennifer Frew Jennifer Page Jennifer Sasai Jerry Ristrom Jhovana & Rigo Ramirez Jill & Mark Bolton Jill Salber Jim Coombs Jim Householder Jim Lowman Joanna Lin Joanne Flory Joe Carter Joe Hammer Joel Prado John and Helen Finneran John Guastaferro 137

John H. Grace Foundation John O`Neill John Raggett John Tran Johnnie Strohmyer Johrita Solari Jonathan Lin Jorge Cisneros Joseph G. Cvetas Judy Lee Julie & Max Vorathavorn June Glenn Karne Somers Katherine Jacullo Kathryn Wada Kathy Bell Katy Realista Ken Mitchell Kenneth Blake Kenny Liu Kevin Bundy Kevin Nowak Kevin Young Kiwanis of Greater Stanton Kuniyuki Fushimi Kyung & Grace Suh Larry Boberg Larry Zucker Laurel Best-Linton League of Women Voters of North Orange County Lee Bucsko Leonard & Carol Lavache Les Malo Lina Lumme Ling Ling Chang Lisa Gaetje Loree Erpelding Los Angeles Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, Inc. Louis C. Krebs Lupe Fonseca Lynn Willis Mac Nguyen Mandy Rockwell Marbelly & Arvish Jairam Marcia Jeffredo Maria Sterk Maria Tarango Marilyn Chad Maritza Rudisill Mark and Linda I. Waldman Mark Marth Mark Rodden Marquis Escrow Martha Rosmus

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Our Donors Mathison Moreto Matthew & Megan Ceppi Matthew Randolph Medina La Rosa Jorge Megan Coats Michael Gould Michael Henderson Michael Kasler Michael Prencavage Michele Stewart Michelle & Eric Ito Michelle Ankele-Yamashita Miguel & Selina Toloza Mijeong Kim Mike & Christine Lee Mike Ambrosi Mike Jacobs Milan & Linda Cornett Monica A Farias Monica Velarde Murray Palitz Myles Bailey Nam Bartash Nancy Miller Nat & Renee Ferguson Natan Bershtel National Automobile Dealers Association NADA Foundation Nerissa Fleming Nicole A. Ledesma Nicole Mirante-Matthews Nikki Muller Nina Lao Nitroactive.net Licata Nolan Scheetz Norma Campos-Kurtz Pam (Heartland) Haddad Pamela Ball Parwinder K. Sidhu Patricia Bohe Patricia Smith Patrick Scanlon Paul Rowley Paul Schubert Paul Sherrin Penny Dash Philip Fleming PMI Patron Precious Life Shelter, Inc. Printmasters, Inc. R2A Architecture Rachel George Rachel Hrncir Rachel Strong Raed Dakaak Raymond & Elizabeth Ward

2026

RE/MAX Tiffany Real Estate Regina Russell Richard & Nicole Parmenter Richard Bernstein Richard Darnell Richard E Charbeneau Richard Hodge Richard Lighstone Richard Rodriguez Rick Beall Rick Purvis Ricky Fobear Robert Collacott Robert J Peterson Robert Palumbo Robert Robinson Rod Cox Rose Ablao Rotary Club of Los Alamitos/Cypress/ Seal Beach Ruth A. Gutierrez Ryan Bent Ryan Ziegenbusch Sal Martin Sandra Blumenthal Sandra Dilores Sandy & Phil McElroy Sandy Thomas Sara Cole Sarbelia D. Wynia Sarkis Tatarian Schenelle Villacorta Scott C. Stiles Sebastian Reed Segerstrom Center for the Arts Sergio Pina Shari Cipolla Sharon Cacayan Shawn Ellis Sheri Radaszewski Sheryl Casas Shiela Dudley Shirley Dinwiddie Shirley Mccracken Soroptimist International Cypress Sothara So Sridhar Sundaram St. Irenaeus Stephanie Klopfenstein Stephanie Nguyen-Yu Stephen & Stephanie Yu Steven Fish Steven Flanagan Student Insurance Sue Shimrock Susan Clark 138

Swen Nater Sydney McCollum Sylvia Bunette Sylvia S. Paek Takashi Yamauchi Tao Rossini APC Thomas & Annie Dohner Thomas Ross Thomas Yolas Tim Karp Tim Rasmussen Tina Duarte Todd Fitschen Todd Priest Tom Barclay Tom Carpenter Tony Vo Travis Hudson Treana Allen Ulla Herman Val Mallari Vanessa Widener Vannarith & Sothara So Veletta Crawford Veronica Carpenter Victoria & Chad Smith Wendy Hansen Whitney High School Associated Student Body William Chamberlin William Gedney William Wynder Wilson Figueroa Xavier Group Yolanda Duenas Young (Heartland) Min Yvette Rodriguez

2026 Auction Donors A & S Matic Auto Repair Adventure City Anaheim YMCA Angels Baseball Aquarium of the Pacific Artistic Nails Ayres Hotels of Southern California Barbara Dunsheath Barbara Dunsheath’s Book Club Beth Piburn Bonnie and Jon Peat Bowers Museum Bradford Renaissance Portraits Brewery X Britto Art Byington Winery & Vineyard Cal-Aerofab Camp James Carmen Koo Chance Theater Chef JJ Burton and his team of alumni chefs, and The Westin Anaheim Resort City Cruises City Lights Theater Company City National Grove of Anaheim City of Anaheim City of Anaheim Office of the Mayor and City Council City of Buena Park City of Cypress City of Garden Grove City of Los Alamitos City of Seal Beach CSUF College of the Arts Curtis Scheetz Cypress College Business and Computer Cypress College Foundation Board of Directors Cypress College Library Learning Resource Center Cypress College Social Sciences Division Cypress College Student Support Services Division Dave Shawver Dee and Mic Vincenti Dianne Van Hook Dominic’s Ristorante Italiano Dr. Elizabeth Swift ECOS Elite Island Resorts - Galley Bay Resort & Spa Elite Island Resorts – Hammock Cove Resort & Spa Antigua

Elite Island Resorts - Los Establos Boutique Inn Elite Island Resorts - Pineapple Beach Club Antigua Elite Island Resorts - St. James Club Antigua Elite Island Resorts - The Club, Barbados Resort & Spa Elite Island Resorts - The Verandah Resort & Spa ENO Brands Fogo de Chao Frances W. Greenspan Friends of Cypress College Foundation FT3 Tactical Gail Taylor and Richard Rodriguez George Orff Gorjana & Griffin Inc. Great Wolf Lodge Harry’s Cafe Stanton Haus of Portraiture Hollywood Wax Museum Home Depot “Huntington Library, Art Collections & Botanical Gardens” Irvine Barclay Theatre J. Lohr Vineyard & Wines JoAnna Schilling Joey Quenga John Dupuy JW Marriott Anaheim Resort Kate Spade Ken & Robin Vecchiarelli La Mirada Theatre Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar Le Creuset Liz Dunster Los Angeles Rams Mama’s Hospitality Group Margie Lewis Mark Pomerantz Masa of Echo Park Bakery & Cafe Melissa Park Michael Espinoza Monte De Oro Winery Movement Fountain Valley Musical Theatre West Naples Rib Company / Newport Rib Company Noella Lew Orange County Fire Authority Oregon Shakespeare Festival Paint My Buddy, Sarah Lew Park West Gallery

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Paul and Carol Bostwick Paul Chi Pier 39 Planes of Fame Air Museum PREP Cooking Classes & Kitchen Essentials Pretend City Children’s Museum Pristine Auction Rainbow Cone Roblar Winery & Vineyards Roclord Studio Photography Salt Me Halotherapy Santa Anita Park Sender One Climbing Shivon and Brian Ozinga South Coast Botanic Garden Foundation South Coast Repertory Sports Basement Sprouts Farmers Market Stanton City Manager Hannah Shin-Heydorn Tanaka Farms Target The Broad Museum The GEM Theatre The Modern Cellar The Phantom Projects Theatre at La Habra Depot The Road Theatre Company TNT Fireworks UA Local 250 Victor Barrios Waterworks Aquatics Wigwam Resort Wilson Creek Winery & Vineyards Xperience Restaurant Group

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Cypress College Foundation thanks Total Environmental Management for their tireless support to ensure our students reach their full potential!

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Americana Awards

Outstanding Community Leader Scholarship A tribute to all Americana Honorees Awarded to a Cypress College student who demonstrates extraordinary service to the community Please help Cypress College students by contributing to the Americana Community Service Scholarship Fund.

Scan the QR Code or visit our website at www.CypressCollegeFoundation.org to make your donation.

Cypress College Foundation

AWARDS

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foundation@cypresscollege.edu www.AmericanaAwards.org

Foundation