Dr. Julie Cowan Novak – Mimi, Clinician, Child Developmentalist, Professor, Grant Writer, Researcher, Philanthropist
Photo by Gilda Adler Raised in Illinois, Dr. Julie Cowan Novak earned her first two degrees at the University of Iowa. She was the first USD Hahn School of Nursing Doctoral Program graduate in 1989,…
Chef Roc – The Chef Roc Show / Nonprofit Executive
Hi, I’m Steve Cassarino, aka Chef Roc. I grew up in Connecticut and moved to San Diego in 1979 after graduating from Johnson & Wales University School of Culinary Arts. My love for food…
Dee Ammon – Philanthropist
Photo by Dave Siccardi I was born in Guam. I’ve lived in San Diego since 1983. My husband Jon and I live in Alpine and have a blended family of five children, and six grandchildren….
Abby Boretto – Philanthropist / Activist / Documentary Film Producer
(Photo by Brooke Preece) San Diego’s Abby Boretto has added a new skill to her already full resume. Well known as a philanthropist, influential community activist, civic volunteer, Mrs. California All-Star United States 2021,…
Shamine Linton, CEO of Sharia’s Closet
My story reflects a rich journey from Jamaica to Southern California, My name is Shamine Linton. I was born in Kingston, Jamaica, grew up in Manchester Jamaica migrated to USA and San Diego CA…
Jacqueline J. Denysiak, MD – Healthcare / Philanthropist
I am a proud first-generation San Diegan, a devoted daughter of Polish immigrants, a small business owner of a private practice family medicine clinic in Hillcrest, a hot “yogi,” and an active philanthropist. I…
Adriana Brunner – Banking / Passionate Community Builder
Adriana “Adri” Brunner is a native of Medellín, Colombia. She is the VP, Senior Business Consultant for Community Business Strategies for JPMorgan Chase & Co. Adri has over 27 years of experience in banking,…
Kristi Pieper – Philanthropy
Born and raised in La Jolla; involved at a young age in my community with church and Girl Scouts; played sports throughout middle school and high school; graduated from USC (fight on!) and have…
Krishna and Bonnie Arora – Shamily’s Kitchen
Bonnie and Krishna Arora, who will be celebrating 52 years of marriage in September, are thoroughly enjoying the rich and varied tapestry of their relationship. They met at college campus, when Krishna arrived from…
Diane Aceves – Banking / Philanthropy / Model
I was born and raised in our amazing city of San Diego! I grew up in Chula Vista and attended Castle Park High School and graduated from Chula Vista High. I love to help…