Achievement, passion, and leadership were celebrated last week at a special awards event in San Francisco. The San Francisco Foundation Community Leadership Awards recognized a diverse group of local people who have contributed to civil rights, social activism, and the arts.  Among the awardees were:

- Eugene Rodriguez, founder of Los Cenzontles Mexican Cultural Arts Center. A classically trained guitarist, Eugene was honored for his passion for

connecting with young people through Mexican traditional music. He grew Los Cenzontles from a small music group to the cultural hub it is today in San Pablo by creating transformative experiences for youth, providing focus, training, and purpose that helps them succeed in life. Locally and nationally, he brings visibility to and reverence for Mexican forms of music and traditional dance.

- Children's Book Press is the first independent, nonprofit publisher of bilingual, multicultural books and stories for children. In the past 33 years, it has served as a vehicle for civil rights, human rights, and social justice, with a profound impact on the children, youth, and adults who better understand their own lives and histories as a result of its books. Children’s Book Press builds the connection between literacy and success, preserves traditions, and helps build a stronger future for our children.

The 2009 Koshland Young Leader Award recognized eight high school students who are leaders in their community:

     • Christian Castaing, City Arts and Technology High School
     • Rashim Khadka, Galileo Academy of Science and Technology
     • Sandra Liu, Raoul Wallenberg High School
     • Janette Marquez, City Arts and Technology High School
     • Sha'Nice Patterson, City Arts and Technology High School
     • Francesca Sadikin, School of the Arts
     • Carly Tello, City Arts and Technology High School