Avanzando Awards Students, Educators

Dozens of educators and students were honored Thursday at the third annual Avanzando Awards Night.

 The non-profit organization recognized individuals of Newark Unified School District and Ohlone Community College who demonstrated dedication in education.

Avanzando-Newark is a coalition of individuals dedicated to empowering and advancing Latino youth, families and the community.

All award recipients were chosen by a sub-committee of the organization’s board, which consists of 13 members.

Avanzando-Newark President Vivien Larsen said she while only a select group of people were awarded, all of the individuals who were nominated are winners.

More than 200 people attended the event that was held in the in support of the honorees.

Among the dignitaries who attended the event were Mayor David Smith, city councilwoman Ana Apodaca and city officials John Becker and Terrence Grindall. Newark Unified Board President Charlie Mensinger and trustee Nancy Thomas.

Representatives for Superintendent Kevin Harrigan, Assemblyman Bob Weikowski and Senator Ellen Corbett were also present.

Those who were awarded are listed below:

Newark Educators

• Estela Cárdenas,
• Patricia Charron,
• Blanca Dalida,
• Maria Domenech,
• Leilani Hebert,
• Katherine Jones,
• Anne Kaffka,
• Mirian Lopez,
• Elen Martinez,
• Judith Montecinos,
• Anne Musial,
• Eddie Rodriguez,
• Yvonne Rost,
• Heather Ryan,
• Danielle Vieira,
• Martin Wall,

Newark Student Awards

• José Bañuelos, Ricardo Corte, Josué Cruz, Yvotte Del Rio, Andrés González, José González, Eduardo Guardado, Vanessa Guerrero, José Guzman, Taylor Hollis, Diana Ibarra, Alex Loza, Jesús Loza, Tiffani Silva, Karina Pacheco, Rocío Pérez, Elizabeth Venegas, Irene Ventura

Ohlone Community College District Awards

• Students: Jasmine Cancino, Elizabeth Rodriguez, Roberto Rosas
• Faculty: Maria Grant, Brenda Arteaga-Reynoso

Newark educators Debbie Farrens and Danielle Vieiera and students Taylor Hollis, Jesus Loza and Josue Cruz received special recognitions.

Ohlone Professor Maria Grant and students Jamine Cancino, Elizabeth Rodriguez also received special recognitions.