Roberto Zamora, an academic counselor at Rolling Hills Middle School, is an unsung hero dedicated to helping students navigate their educational journeys. Born in Mexico and raised in Watsonville, Zamora goes above and beyond to support not only students but also his colleagues, offering guidance, assistance and even acts of kindness like buying lunch for those in need. His passion for making a difference, fueled by his own experiences, makes him an invaluable asset to the community of Santa Cruz County.
Student Stories
Posted inOpinion from Community Voices
Unsung Santa Cruz: Katie Akagi helps troubled students find their identity
Katie Akagi has overcome a troubled past to become a dedicated teacher at Delta Charter High School. At Delta, Katie supports students who struggle in traditional school settings, providing personalized guidance and assistance. Their own experiences of overcoming challenges and the support they received motivate Katie to empower their students and show them that anything is possible.
Posted inOpinion from Community Voices
Unsung Santa Cruz: Promoting Self-Care and Community-Care, Karen Gosling Inspires Others
Karen Gosling, the director of the Dominican Hospital Wellness Center, is a dedicated and compassionate individual who tirelessly helps others in her community. From assisting people with disabilities during beach outings to organizing fundraisers for local organizations, Karen’s commitment to serving others is unwavering. She inspires those around her to prioritize self-care and make a positive impact on the lives of others, embodying the qualities of a true community hero.
Posted inOpinion from Community Voices
Unsung Santa Cruz: Ruby Marquez inspires others with her perseverance over privilege
Ruby Marquez, the chief assistant county counsel, is an exemplary hero who embodies qualities such as tenacity, courage and a strong sense of justice. Raised in a Latino community, Ruby overcame obstacles and pursued a career in law to give back to underrepresented communities. Despite facing adversity in a white-male-dominated field, Ruby remains motivated by supporting Santa Cruz County employees and striving to provide adequate resources for marginalized groups. Her selfless advocacy and determination make her a true hero in our community.
Posted inOpinion from Community Voices
Unsung Santa Cruz: Theresa Cariño embraces a sisterhood of love and wellness
Salud y Cariño is a nonprofit organization that helps middle school girls in the Live Oak community thrive through emotional growth and community building. The program empowers girls of color, offers support and fosters friendships. Despite the pandemic, SYC adapted and maintained its impact through virtual sessions and care packages, and looks to expand and provide a place of support for girls in the future.
Posted inOpinion from Community Voices
Unsung Santa Cruz: The essential and under appreciated work of a berry picker
In 1985, Teresa De Los Santos Trujillo immigrated to the United States and became a berry picker in Watsonville. Working in the fields provided her with a job and a sense of relaxation. She endured challenges but remained dedicated to providing for her family. Farm workers, especially immigrants, are essential to our community as they sustain our society by ensuring the availability of food, and should be recognized as unsung heroes.
Posted inOpinion from Community Voices
Unsung Santa Cruz: Giving Back Through Teaching and Soccer
Martín Zepeda, an RSP teacher at Alianza Charter School, is an unsung hero who selflessly helps kids with learning disabilities. Despite the challenges and low pay, Zepeda’s passion for teaching and dedication to his students shine through as he goes above and beyond to make a positive impact in their lives and on the soccer field.
Posted inOpinion from Community Voices
Unsung Santa Cruz: D.J. Nolten and his drive to teach
DJ Nolten, a well-known educator in the Pajaro Valley School District, has led a colorful life filled with diverse experiences. From his teenage years in a punk band to collaborating with Steve Jobs, his journey is truly remarkable. Despite his achievements, DJ values living in the present and sharing his wisdom with students. As a substitute teacher, he imparts valuable lessons, whether in kindergarten classes or computer classes at a local jail. DJ’s story exemplifies the power of embracing change and finding fulfillment in the present moment.
Posted inOpinion from Community Voices
Unsung Santa Cruz: Officer never imagined working in law enforcement but knew he wanted to make a difference
School Resource Officer Patrick Ahrens works in Scotts Valley with a job he never thought he would take on. He found himself looking for a life where he knew he was making a positive impact on others, which led to him working in law enforcement as the school resource officer for Scotts Valley High School, with multiple other tasks within the department that involved hard work and determination that at the end of the day keeps our community safe whether people realize it or not.
Posted inOpinion from Community Voices
Santa Cruz County’s finest
Diamond Technology Institute student Brandon Castillo talked to Javier Gonzalez and German Fernandez about the journey to becoming Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s deputies.