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].

Ann Ravel witnessed wage disparity working in fruit orchards

Working in a fruit orchard cannery in San Jose as a school girl gave Former Federal Election Commission chair Ann Ravel a startling glimpse at income inequality, gender and racial disparities. White men were treated and paid better than white women, Latinos and Latina workers, she said. “I was a member of the union for the workers...

Jessica Paz-Cedillos broke through poverty to lead MHP arts school

Jessica Paz-Cedillos owes it all to her community. Paz-Cedillos in March becomes the new executive director for the School of Arts and Culture at the Mexican Heritage Plaza. Paz-Cedillos brings with her an extensive background in community organizing and an impressive history of fundraising. But she says she wouldn’t be in the position she’s in...