Recognizing Excellence: 2025 Spotlight Awards by RCOC
The Regional Center of Orange County (RCOC) held its 28th annual Spotlight Awards on April 25, 2025, in Garden Grove, California. This prestigious event celebrated the accomplishments of ten remarkable individuals and organizations dedicated to improving the quality of life for people living with developmental disabilities. Hosted by Michele Gile, a prominent anchor and reporter for KCAL News and CBS Los Angeles, the evening showcased inspiring stories and achievements.
Since its inception in 1997, the Spotlight Awards have served to honor those who have significantly advanced the rights and support systems for individuals with developmental disabilities in Orange County. This year’s award recipients exemplified outstanding commitment and exceptional service in various roles ranging from self-advocacy to community partnership.
Award Recipients
The 2025 Spotlight Awards recognized the following honorees:
- - John M. Borack (Parent/Family Member): A resident of Fountain Valley, John is a pivotal member of the City of Fountain Valley's Advisory Committee for Persons with Disabilities.
- - Dr. Kyle D. Pontius (RCOC Achievement): As a staff psychologist at RCOC in Rancho Santa Margarita, Dr. Pontius has made significant contributions in providing top-tier psychological services to those served by RCOC.
- - Alex Sanchez (Direct Support Professional): Working with the New Horizons program at the YMCA of Orange County in Tustin, Alex has been a dedicated direct support professional, ensuring quality care for individuals with developmental disabilities.
- - Korean American Special Education Center (KASEC) (Community Partner): Under Executive Director Rosa Chang’s leadership, KASEC has been instrumental in providing educational resources and support to Korean American families navigating the educational landscape for children with disabilities.
- - Dr. Michael Weiss (Healthcare Professional): Serving as Vice President of Population Health at CHOC Health Alliance, Dr. Weiss has made significant strides in children's healthcare, particularly for those with special needs.
- - Providence St. Joseph's Hospital (Employer): The Environmental Services Department has been recognized for its inclusive employment practices and support for individuals with developmental disabilities.
- - Fernando Pena (Self-Advocate): A Costa Mesa resident and self-advocate, Fernando has been actively involved in raising awareness and promoting understanding of issues faced by individuals with disabilities.
- - Dr. Richard L. Rosenberg (Lifetime Achievement): Affiliated with Chapman University's Thompson Policy Institute and the California Transition Alliance, Dr. Rosenberg's impact spans decades, making him a key figure in disability rights advocacy.
- - Intervention Center for Early Childhood (ICEC) (Service Provider): The Irvine-based ICEC, led by Executive Director Pam Alexander, was honored for its innovative and compassionate early intervention strategies.
- - Assemblymember Tri Ta (Elected Official): Representing Westminster, Assemblymember Ta has championed legislative efforts to support and empower individuals with disabilities throughout California.
RCOC: A Lifeline for Families
The Regional Center of Orange County is a nonprofit organization contracted by the State of California, providing essential services and support for over 27,000 residents in Orange County living with developmental disabilities and their families. It serves as the primary resource for those in need of local assistance, ensuring a safe and dignified life within the community. The developmental disabilities covered by RCOC include intellectual disabilities, autism, epilepsy, and cerebral palsy.
As the 2025 Spotlight Awards concluded, the evening shone brightly, reflecting the dedication and triumphs of award recipients who continue to uplift the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities. Through their unwavering efforts, the path toward inclusion, understanding, and support for all has been made clearer. To learn more about RCOC and its initiatives, visit
www.rcocdd.com.