The Valley Economic Alliance Celebrates Academic Excellence at 24th Annual Steve Allen Excellence in Education Awards

The Valley Economic Alliance proudly celebrated the 24th Annual Steve Allen Excellence in Education Awards on May 22, 2025, at Los Angeles Pierce College. The event honored exceptional high school students, educators, and academic programs that reflect the legacy of Steve Allen—rooted in innovation, opportunity, and empowering communities through education.

“Steve Allen was not only a celebrated entertainer but also a lifelong advocate for knowledge, creativity, and public service,” said Armida Colmenares-Stafford, Board Chair for The Valley Economic Alliance. “Through these awards, we carry forward his vision of empowering young minds through education, and we celebrate the remarkable students and educators who embody this spirit with resilience, drive, and promise.”

The evening brought together distinguished guests and leaders in education, government, and business. Bill Allen—Alliance Board Member, Chair of the FilmLA Foundation, and son of legendary entertainer Steve Allen—served as the evening’s keynote presenter.

The program featured remarks from Alliance President and CEO Sonya Kay Blake, who emphasized the organization’s commitment to education and regional workforce development. “When we support education, we empower the next generation to lead, to innovate, and to shape a brighter future for all,” said Blake. “Our honorees represent not only academic excellence but the spirit of collaboration, perseverance, and leadership that will define the future of the Valley.”

Echoing that sentiment, Alliance Vice President of External Affairs Greg Martayan added, “At The Alliance, our work is centered on unlocking opportunity for all students. The honorees recognized tonight give us hope and affirm our belief that investing in education is the most powerful way to transform lives and communities.”

The event also spotlighted the leadership of Education and Workforce Initiative Co-Chairs Tallin Semerjian, President and COO of Tinq, and Dr. Matthew Jordan of Los Angeles Valley College, whose efforts are aligning classroom learning with real-world career pathways.

This year’s honorees include:

• Grover Cleveland Charter High School Humanities Magnet – Best Magnet in the Country
• Grover Cleveland Charter High School – Top Merit Award of Excellence
• John F. Kennedy High School Architecture-Digital-Design-Filmmaking Magnet – Top Merit Award of Excellence
• John F. Kennedy High School Gifted-Highly Gifted – High Achieving Medical Magnet– Top Merit Award of Excellence
• Reseda Charter High School Police Academy Magnet – Top Merit Award of Excellence
• Reseda Charter High School Science Magnet – Top Merit Award of Excellence
• Sylmar Biotech Health and Engineering Magnet – Top Merit Award of Excellence
• East Valley High School Media and Technology Magnet – Merit Award of Excellence
• Ulysses S. Grant High School College Preparatory and Digital Arts Magnet – Merit Award of Excellence
• Hale Charter Academy Gifted STEAM Magnet – Merit Award of Distinction
• John F. Kennedy High School Global Leadership and Environmental Action Magnet– Merit Award of Distinction
• The Science Academy STEM Magnet – Merit Award of Distinction
• Sherman Oaks Center for Enriched Studies Magnet – Merit Award of Distinction
• Valley Oaks Center for Enriched Studies Magnet – Merit Award of Distinction
• North Hollywood High School Science Bowl Team – 3rd Place, National Science Bowl Competition
• El Camino Real High School Academic Decathlon Team – National Champions, United States Academic Decathlon

As The Alliance looks ahead to the 25th anniversary of the Steve Allen Excellence in Education Awards next year, it remains deeply committed to supporting youth, schools, and institutions that are shaping a more vibrant and inclusive economy.