Gavilan's Superintendent/President named 'Man of the Year!'
It was a proud moment for the Gavilan Joint Community College District on April 25, 2026, as Superintendent/President, Dr. Pedro Avila, received the distinguished 'Man of the Year' award from the Gilroy Chamber of Commerce at the 72nd Spice of Life Gala.
"I am so proud of my Gavilan family, and it is nice to be recognized for the work we do," said Dr. Avila. "This award is reenergizing me; we are just getting started, and I look forward to what's coming next and to all the work that we are doing to support our students."
Hundreds gathered at the Elks Lodge on the Hill in Gilroy to celebrate Dr. Avila and the other 10 honorees, who included:
- Woman of the Year: Lisa Faria
- Large Business of the Year: Performance Foodservice
- Small Business of the Year: Banning's Upholstery
- Nonprofit of the Year: Gilroy Assistance League
- Young Professional of the Year: Richard Legends
- Volunteer of the Year: Ed Sauceda
- Susan Valenta Youth Leadership Award: Madison Dutra and Chioma Okeke
- Educator of the Year: Bria de Lorenzo
- Heart of the Chamber Award: Barbara and Erwin Boggs
- Lifetime Achievement Award: Erin O'Brien and David Cox
Dr. Avila was selected as 'Man of the Year' for his demonstration of leadership, care, and unwavering vision for Gavilan College and the communities it serves. At just four years since he began his post at the college district, he has demonstrated his love for students' success.
Family, friends, trustees, and colleagues attended the event to celebrate this special occasion. His mother and sister made the trip from Fresno and showed pride in Dr. Avila's achievements.
"I am so proud of my son, so happy," said Trinidad Avila, Dr. Avila's mom. "All three of my children graduated from the university on the same day; I never imagined that, and I cannot explain how proud I am of all of them."
Spice of Life is the Chamber's signature annual event, and it honors the extraordinary individuals and businesses whose leadership, vision, and commitment help Gilroy thrive.
