In the Spotlight

Welcome to In the Spotlight.

These stories spotlight the people who make San Jose a remarkable place to call home. From unsung heroes to community leaders, we catch up with San Joseans who are doing amazing things — and we share the awe-inspiring stories behind their struggles and successes.

We are telling the unique, ever-changing, diverse story of San Jose. One person at a time.

Who should we feature next? To nominate someone for our next In the Spotlight profile, email [email protected].

San Jose addiction counselor’s family struggles inspired her work

Mary Crocker Cook turned her addiction into empowering others, bringing dignity and purpose to people who’ve experienced alcohol or drug addiction. As the daughter of a military father, Crocker Cook’s family moved frequently. Stability was hard to come by and disruption was constant. It was tough for the family, including her mother, who turned to...