Blanca Pacheco, Assemblywoman of District 64 held her third annual Women of the Year luncheon March 22, 2025 at the Southern California Gas Center in Downey.
Since 1987 the California Legislature has dedicated the month of March to celebrating Women’s History Month. The purpose of the month is to recognize and highlight women’s unsung achievements in science, technology, arts, business and community.
The luncheon honors the incredible women whose contributions have made a lasting impact in communities. “In a district of nearly half a million residents, we are proud to celebrate ten exceptional women of 2025. Their leadership and commitment have sparked positive change and inspired future women leaders,” noted Pacheco.
Mayor Rose Espinoza received Woman of the Year. She was first elected to the La Habra City council in 2000. With a 34 year career as a principal Designer at Beckman Coulter, she founded Rosie’s Garage in 1991 to address gang activity and educational challenges in her community. Espinoza has received the National Caring Award sits on the regional board of the southern California Association of Governments and the League of California Cities 4th district. She was also named one of the “100 People Who Shaped Orange County” by the Orange county Register. “I have to say I did the [ugly] cry when I received the phone call.” said Espinoza, “These awards don’t come often and it means a lot, it means that you are appreciated and seen.”
Recipients also included Nancy Yadira Cervantes from the city of Bell; Dr. Nancy Paloma Collins from Bell Gardens; Janet Andrade of Cudahy; Kathy Crowe Perez from Downey; Carrie Surich of La Habra; Kelly Garcia from La Mirada; Claudia Pavon from Norwalk; Cindy Jarvis of Santa Fe Springs and Michelle Cardoza of Whittier.
Serving as Master of Ceremonies was vice Mayor Monica Arroyo. With over 20 years of teaching experience she was born into an East LA family and her father immigrated to the United States in 1944.
Lupita Infante Esparza, known for her traditional mariachi norteno and ranchera music, is a Mexican American singer and songwriter and was the keynote speaker of the afternoon.
“For me, this luncheon is personal. I have such an amazing Mother and she always taught me to be supportive of all women. This event is my way of recognizing the dedication and all the hard work these women have for their communities,” said Pacheco, “I hope that the awards empower other young ladies and women.”
Women are powerful beyond measure and we rise again and again in spite of challenges and obstacles.
