Staff Story

Erasmo Cervantes

Erasmo Cervantes, our long-time Maintenance Associate, is a proud father of a college graduate! His daughter, Maggie, graduated last May 20th from Cal State Northridge with a dual major in Chicano Studies and Political Science. Chicano Studies is a program for students who were born in the US but whose parents were born in Mexico. The program was started in 1985 by the man who was Maggie’s teacher. He was a friend of Cesar Chavez. She learned about her roots and her proud Mexican heritage. Maggie plans on pursuing her Masters Degree which will begin in the Fall of 2009. Eventually, she will pursue her Doctorate in Public Policy. She will be the one who will be telling the president (Obama?) how to have peace in the Middle East and how to stop global warming!

Her favorite class was “Administrative Behavior Policy.” It reminded her of a day at Koontz, where she works. “College has been the best experience of my life,” she said. “I made friends that I will keep all my life.” She also said that one of the best experiences she had was leaving home and getting her own place, even though she had to forge her dad’s name on the application and didn’t tell them she was leaving until the last minute. (Erasmo almost cried when he realized she was leaving home.) Maggie almost did not go to college because she thought she would not get in. Her teacher told her, “What do you have to lose?” Now that’s her philosophy: “What’s the worst thing that could happen?” Then, she just does it. Way to go, Maggie! And, Erasmo, a most satisfying and pride-filled Father’s Day to you!

Erasmo also celebrated his 62nd birthday last month!

Anniversaries are moments to reflect upon and celebrate both the past and the future. We fondly look back at what has been and excitingly anticipate the next 5 years. We hope that you stay and enjoy the ride with us. Here’s to Steven Levy, the poster boy of reinvention and a better life! Happy Father’s Day to all of you fathers out there symbolized by our very own proud papa, Erasmo with his college grad, Maggie. A huge group hug to our inspiring AIDS Riders and a big thank you to all y’all!

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