Laurels for Leaders is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization established in 1957 as a way of honoring and recognizing the achievements of ASB presidents of all San Diego County high schools.  The program culminates in an annual luncheon at which the student leaders are presented certificates of recognition. A distinguished speaker brings these ASB presidents a message about patriotism and leadership, and in 2022, eighty six students were given a cash gift of $300 for their service.  In addition to the luncheon event, Laurels for Leaders offers ASB presidents a workshop focused on financial and leadership skills that will help them their entire lives. 

The organization is governed by a board of directors consisting of members of the Kiwanis Club of San Diego, school officials, public and private leaders of the community.

The luncheon is held in February around the birthdays of George Washington and Abraham Lincoln. This time was selected to relate the event to these great presidents and to recall their service to their country and their patriotic devotion.

Laurels founder Dr. Frank Lowe, then-president of the San Diego Unified School District board of directors, believed that such recognition would encourage a lifelong commitment to service among the student leaders.  We are proud of the thousands of leaders recognized at this event over the last 65 years. Here is a short list of local Laurels For Leaders alum: 

Todd Gloria, Mayor of San Diego

Chuck Day, President & CEO Ronald McDonald House Charities San Diego

Nhu Tran, Project Manager at SDG&E

Natalie Cesmat, CFP^® at Creative Planning

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