Introducing Our Master of Ceremonies

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

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

2025 Jorge Escobar Achievement in Education Award Honoree

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

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

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

History of Jorge Escobar Award

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

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

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

Meet Our Harvest of Education Presenting Sponsor

Shared Mission: Empowering Latinx Scholars Together

LEAF and SFBU are committed to advancing Latinx student success. Together, we are breaking barriers, expanding opportunities, and building pathways for scholars to thrive.

Become A Sponsor

Support educational equity and empower future leaders by sponsoring the 2nd Annual LEAF Luncheon.

Partner With Us

Planting The Seed 2025

Empowering East San José’s Youth and Families, Together—Celebrate, Connect, and Inspire with LEAF.