Honoring Women Who Have Broken Barriers and Overcome Adversity
In conjunction with Domestic Violence Awareness month and in celebration of reaching the milestone of serving 1,000 women, Leap to Success is recognizing bold women in our community who inspire other women to break through barriers and take courageous action with the “I Leap Award.”
Seven extraordinary women have been selected to receive the inaugural award.
The 2016 I Leap Award recipients are:
Dr. Sunita Cooke, President/Superintendent
MiraCosta College District
Dr. Sunita “Sunny” Cooke demonstrates education as a pathway to achievement that can reduce economic, racial, and gender barriers.
Laura Eubanks, Owner
Design for Serenity
In healing ourselves, we heal the world. Laura Eubanks is a survivor of childhood abuse who shows us that it is possible to heal and move beyond any adversity to create the life that we want.
Kristen Paruginog, Founder
Break the Silence Against Domestic Violence
By sharing her story of domestic violence, Kristen Paruginog has empowered others to be able to break their own silence and make courageous steps forward in their own lives.
Ashley Hayek, President
Golden State Consultants
Ashley Hayek has proven that hard work, determination, and tenacity can help break through barriers and overshadow age or gender. These qualities have helped her become an integral part of the San Diego political scene.
Jacqueline Reynoso, CEO & President
National City Chamber of Commerce
Having been surrounded by gang violence and poverty growing up, Jacqueline Reynoso shows that that education and hard work can bring unlimited opportunity for Latina women.
Beth Thorp, Co-Founder
Mitchell Thorp Foundation
Through the most terrible loss and darkest of times, the pathway of healing can include giving hope and help to others. Beth Thorp has walked that pathway with courage, faith and generosity.
Shelley Zimmerman, Chief of Police
San Diego Police Department
Chief Shelley Zimmerman is a role model for women everywhere who want to break glass ceilings and find success in fields that are traditionally male-dominated.
