Newsletter

Nominations Open! Celebrate the Outstanding Members of SD 39

Dear Neighbors,

I am proud to celebrate the beauty, diversity, and talent of our 39th Senate District by recognizing individuals and businesses who make a positive impact in our community. I invite you to submit nominations for our 2026 honorees across a variety of categories. All honorees must live or operate a business in Senate District 39.

 

2026 Nomination Categories & Themes

 

February – Black History Month – Nomination Deadline: January 30, 2026

  • Unsung Hero: Recognizes individuals whose bravery and contributions often go unnoticed. This award honors those who selflessly make a difference in their communities.
  • Black Business: Celebrates black-owned businesses and allies positively impacting communities of color, in partnership with the California Black Chamber of Commerce.


March - Women’s History Month – Nomination Deadline: February 13, 2026

  • Woman of the Year: Honors one outstanding woman in the field of education demonstrating exemplary leadership and innovation in the academic field.
  • Woman-Owned Business: Woman-owned small business with positive community impact must be located in the 39th Senate District.


April - Nomination Deadline: March 31, 2026

  • Senior of the Year: Celebrates seniors, 60 years or older, who show exceptional dedication to community service and public welfare.
  • Nonprofit of the Year: Honors a nonprofit operating in SD39 that has a significant positive impact on the community.


May – AANHPI Heritage Month/Small Business Month – Nomination Deadline: April 30, 2026

  • Community Leader: Recognizes an outstanding leader of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, or Pacific Islander heritage residing in SD39.
  • Small Business of the Year: Honors one small business (under 100 employees) located in SD39.


June – LGBTQ+/Pride Month – Nomination Deadline: May 29, 2026

  • LGBTQ+ Community Leader: Recognizes an outstanding LGBTQ+ leader residing in SD39.
  • LGBTQ+ Small Business: Honors a small business owner who identifies as LGBTQ+ and operates in SD39.


August – Nomination Deadline: June 30, 2026

  • Youth Leader of the Year: Celebrates one outstanding youth leader under 18 years old residing in SD39.


September – Hispanic Heritage Month – Nomination Deadline: August 31, 2026

  • Community Leader: Recognizes an outstanding community leader of Hispanic heritage residing in SD39.
  • Small Business: Honors a small business of Hispanic heritage located in SD39.


October – Filipino American Heritage Month – Nomination Deadline: September 30, 2026

  • Community Leader: Celebrates an outstanding Filipino community leader residing in SD39.
  • Small Business: Recognizes a small business of Filipino heritage located in SD39.


November – Native American Heritage Month – Nomination Deadline: October 30, 2026 

  • Community Leader: Honors an outstanding community leader of Native American heritage residing in SD39.
  • Small Business: Recognizes a small business of Native American heritage located in SD39.
  • Veteran of the Year: Recognizes a veteran making exceptional contributions to SD39. 


I encourage you to check each month’s theme for eligibility and nomination guidelines. Submit your nominations today and help us honor the incredible people and businesses that make SD39 shine!

Nomination submissions: https://sd39.senate.ca.gov/community-recognition