The theme of the 2015 SDLA Fellows Fundraiser is Generations of Progress, and the event is just around the corner! As our class looks forward to celebrating and honoring progressive work in San Diego, we also wanted to take time to reflect on personal inspirations that invigorate us and influence the work we do. Please read below for our first of four posts to learn more about the class of 2015.

We hope you’ll join us the evening of May 19th for Generations of Progress and share with us what inspires you! 

Maribel Mckinze: This picture was taken on September 23, 2014 at Viejas Casino after an intense organizing campaign! More than 500 Viejas Casino Workers had voted overwhelmingly in favor of UFCW 135 becoming their Union and certified collective bargaining representative.  This picture includes some hard Viejas workers along with awesome co-workers and the BEST leaders. Times like this keep motivating me to continue fighting the fight to improve worker’s lives!

Keiara Auzenne: This photo is actually of someone I've never met but who has touched my life tremendously through her words and song. "My mission is in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style." - Maya Angelou

​Sarah Borger: Thinking through all the incredible progressives I'm lucky to know, I keep coming back to my mom, Jill Engeswick, as one of my biggest inspirations. She is a teacher and advocate who has made a positive impact on so many lives. As my sisters and I grew up, she taught us by example to seek justice, empower others, and find ways to actively contribute to the communities around us.

Dave Beza: Last year, Linda Chang pioneered the impossible: she brought together over 40 years worth of UCSD Asian-American alumni for the first ever Asian and Pacific-Islander Student Alliance (APSA) Reunion! Her vision united our community and made it stronger than ever. Her passion and love is symbolic of what I hope to discover within myself as a progressive leader.

Kristen Aster: In 2009 I had the opportunity to attend the historic inauguration of President Barack Obama. I then had the opportunity to volunteer at the inaugural ball for his second term. This photo embodies the inspiration I have from him and other progressive leaders who break through ceilings and my desire to give back to my community and causes I believe in via professional and volunteer roles.

This post is first in a series of four - please check back next week for another round of 2015 Fellows to be highlighted!