Past Events | Centennial Legacy

LABI Centennial Luncheon
SPD District Council 2026

Centennial Women of the Year Tea

In 2018, the Dr. Grace Morales Women’s Leadership Institute (DGMWLI) honored a remarkable group of women. In 2026, during our Centennial year, we had the privilege of honoring them once again.

Held at LABI’s Oddo Diner, the 2026 Centennial Woman of the Year Tea was a beautiful time of connection and celebration. The gathering brought together familiar faces—some we had not seen in years—and welcomed new ones into this special moment.

The recipients included women recognized in 2018, we remembered those who are no longer with us*, and we celebrated a new group of women as our “2026 Centennial Women of the Year”. This recognition was given to extraordinary women whose leadership, service and influence have made a lasting impact on their communities and beyond.

The Tea included a beautiful message of encouragement from alumna Judy Perez Velasquez followed by the presentation of “2026 Centennial Award of Excellence” awarded to LABI donors David and Adele Oddo and Augie and Rose Lopez It was truly a moment to remember.

Congratulations to the following recipients:

(2018)

Alice E. Luce, Founder*

Adelita Martinez

Alice Munoz*

Anita Torres*

Cindy Miranda

Dolores Espinoza*

Dr. Grace Morales

Dr. Krystal Baca-Matthews

Dr. Rita Najar

Esq. Paula Gonzales Dager

Evelyn Vereau

Jessica Estrada

Jessica Tejada, J.D.

Jovita Bonilla*

Judy Santiago*

Martha Melendrez

Norma Ramirez*

Raquel Vega

Rev. Bessie Huerta*

Rev. D. Lucy Saavedra

Rev. Delia Mora*

Rev. Dr. Antonina Arroyo*

Rev. Dr. Esther Gamez

Rev. Dr. Silvia Carrizo

Rev. Esther De La Cruz*

Rev. Felicia Fernandez*

Rev. Nellie Bazan*

Sayra Lozano

Victoria Perez Rivera

2026 Recipients

Adele Oddo

Rev. D. Carmen Rivera

Dolores (Dodie) Lopez

Dr. Donna Sierra

Dr. Esther De Leon

Rev. Gabriela Alvarez-Mora

Irene Trinidad

Nancy Harris, First Lady

Rev. Asenath Casarez

Rev. Dr. Blanche Castro

Rev. Flora Vergara

Rose Lopez

Silvia Garcia

Yvette Robles

Alumni Reunion

Our Pre-Centennial Alumni Reunion on June 28, 2025 was truly unforgettable, highlighted by a powerful keynote from Rev. Mario Villa. His energy, passion, and heartfelt message filled the room and lifted every heart present. He didn't just speak - he ignited the room, leaving us inspired, encouraged, and deeply grateful.

A huge thank you to Rev. Felix and Silvia Garcia, Reunion Chairs and their amazing team for their heart, time, and energy they poured into the reunion. Your leadership created a joyful, meaningful event that truly brought our alumni family together. Look for more pictures in the upcoming LABI Alumni newsletter this February.

Centennial Alumni Recognition

We had a special chapel service honoring our Centennial students who are carrying forward a legacy 100 years in the making. It was a beautiful and inspiring time, and we are grateful to witness what God is doing.

January 28, 2026

11 AM

LABI Chapel