The Salinas Valley Chamber of Commerce Foundation is proud to announce the inaugural class of young professionals selected to participate in the Salinas Valley Junior Chamber Program (SVJCP). Following a competitive application and interview process, these outstanding individuals were chosen by the Foundation’s Board of Directors to represent the next generation of business and community leadership in Monterey County. 

• Amanda Gamban, Community Engagement Manager, Bay Federal Credit Union 

• Hanna Hitchcock, Associate Attorney, Ottone & Leach, LLP 

• Jonathan De Anda, General Manager, Salinas Regional Sports Authority* 

• Savannah LaShomb, Marketing Manager, Chick-fil-A North Salinas 

• Sam Eastman, Vice President, Brent Eastman Insurance Services, Inc. 

• Athena Morris, Project Manager, TMD Creative 

• Jorge Alejos, Community Engagement Coordinator, Monterey Bay Football Club 

• Karla Rivas, Finance & Operations Director, Arts Council for Monterey County 

• Natalie Angulo-Cruz, Galaxy Party Supply 

• Jason Avalos, Business Development, Disaster Kleenup Specialists 

• Francisco Arevalo, Financial Advisor, Antone Mercurio, LLC 

• Jack Gillott, Law Clerk, A Johnson Law Group, PC 

• Celia Garcia, Marketing Manager, Mershops Northridge Mall 

• Kendall Costa, Educator, Salinas High School 

*2025 Salinas Valley Chamber’s Young Professional of the Year 

The members of this inaugural class showcase the diverse businesses that strengthen the Salinas Valley’s economy and embody the leadership and community commitment that the Chamber proudly represents. Their selection marks an exciting milestone for the Foundation as it launches a program dedicated to cultivating leadership, collaboration, and civic engagement among emerging professionals. 

Designed for professionals ages 22–42, the Salinas Valley Junior Chamber Program empowers participants through meaningful networking opportunities, leadership development, and hands-on community involvement. As a program of the Salinas Valley Chamber of Commerce Foundation, SVJCP connects rising leaders with experienced Chamber mentors and provides opportunities to plan and execute impactful initiatives that strengthen the local business community—most notably the annual Children’s Shopping Tour. 

Program members meet monthly, serve on at least one committee, and participate in quarterly events focused on professional growth and community impact. Through this immersive experience, participants build lasting relationships, develop essential leadership skills, and gain a deeper understanding of the Chamber’s role in shaping the region’s economic vitality.