HL | Milestone Series – Honors Paleta Planeta

HL | Milestone Series – Honors Paleta Planeta

Jun 7, 2026 | Milestone

HL | Milestone Series – Honors Paleta Planeta

Family • Vision • Impact

Some businesses begin with a business plan.

Others begin with family.

For brothers Luis Salazar, Mauricio Salazar, and Gabriel Salazar, the journey that would become Paleta Planeta started during one of the most uncertain periods in recent history. What began as an idea during the COVID-19 pandemic—selling handcrafted paletas from their parents’ garage—has grown into one of downtown San JosĂ©’s most recognized entrepreneurial success stories.

Today, Paleta Planeta stands as a testament to perseverance, family values, and the power of community.

Paleta Planeta will be recognized during  our HL | Milestone Series – Silicon Valley event, taking place on June 17, 2026. This invitation-only reception brings together a curated audience of executives, entrepreneurs, and community leaders for an evening of connection, conversation, and recognition.

👉 Event details & RSVP: https://bit.ly/41B5Z3J

The Salazar brothers, all products of the San José educational community, built their business on a foundation that reflects the experiences of many first-generation entrepreneurs. Mauricio attended Evergreen Valley College, where he also played soccer. Gabriel graduated from Evergreen Valley College before earning a degree in Finance from San José State University and becoming a Certified Public Accountant. Luis attended both San José City College and Evergreen Valley College before completing his degree in Health Science at Cal State East Bay.

Their educational journey reflects a commitment to personal growth that would later become instrumental in building a successful business.

Inspired by family members with deep roots in the paleta tradition of Tocumbo, Michoacán widely recognized as the birthplace of the modern paleta the brothers embraced an opportunity to learn the craft while creating something uniquely their own. Armed with knowledge, determination, and support from family members who believed in their vision, they launched Paleta Planeta in 2021.

There was no storefront.

No large investment.

No guarantee of success.

Only three brothers working together with a shared belief that they would build something meaningful for their community.

Selling through social media, community events, and neighborhood gatherings, they steadily grew their following one customer at a time. Their commitment to quality, creativity, and customer experience transformed a small family operation into a destination that continues to attract visitors from throughout Silicon Valley.

A defining milestone came on September 21, 2024, when Paleta Planeta opened its first brick-and-mortar location in downtown San José, directly across from City Hall.

For the Salazar family, the opening represented far more than a new business address.

It represented years of sacrifice, countless hours of work, and the realization of a dream that began in a garage.

Today, Paleta Planeta offers more than handcrafted paletas. It creates experiences, celebrates culture, and brings people together through flavors that honor tradition while encouraging discovery and creativity.

Milestone Moments

• Built a family-owned business from a garage operation during the COVID-19 pandemic

• Leveraged the educational opportunities provided by Evergreen Valley College, San José City College, San José State University, and Cal State East Bay

• Grew from direct-to-consumer sales and community events into a recognized Silicon Valley brand

• Opened its first storefront in downtown San José in September 2024

• Created a destination that celebrates culture, entrepreneurship, family, and community

• Demonstrated how education, family support, and determination can transform an idea into a thriving business

The Salazar brothers’ story reminds us that entrepreneurship is often about more than building a company. It is about creating opportunities, honoring family sacrifices, and investing in the communities that helped shape our journey.

Their journey from garage to storefront, from vision to reality serves as an inspiring reminder that some of the most meaningful milestones begin with family, faith, and the courage to take the first step.

The HL | Milestone Series is a national platform designed to celebrate leadership across business, community, education, and innovation.

The 2026 HL | Milestone Series is made possible through the support of Wells Fargo, the series’ funding partner, whose commitment to community engagement and financial empowerment helps bring these important conversations and recognitions to life.

HL | Milestone Series – Honors OSI Engineering

HL | Milestone Series – Honors OSI Engineering

Jun 5, 2026 | Milestone

HL | Milestone Series – Honors OSI Engineering

Leadership, Innovation & Community Impact

Some companies are built to generate revenue. Others are built to create opportunity.

OSI Engineering has accomplished both.

In Silicon Valley, success is often measured by innovation, growth, and market influence. Yet the companies that leave a lasting legacy are those that understand success carries a responsibility beyond business results. They create opportunities, invest in people, and help shape the future of their communities.

OSI Engineering exemplifies that vision.

OSI Engineering will be recognized during  our HL | Milestone Series – Silicon Valley event, taking place on June 17, 2026. This invitation-only reception brings together a curated audience of executives, entrepreneurs, and community leaders for an evening of connection, conversation, and recognition.

👉 Event details & RSVP: https://bit.ly/41B5Z3J

Co-founded by Javier Diaz, OSI Engineering has grown into one of Silicon Valley’s most respected technology workforce solutions firms, providing engineering, software development, artificial intelligence, and technology talent to some of the world’s most recognized companies. What began as an entrepreneurial vision has evolved into a company recognized for both business excellence and community impact.

Javier Diaz

For Javier Diaz, the journey began far from Silicon Valley’s boardrooms and technology campuses. Raised in the farming community of Gridley, California, he learned the values of hard work, perseverance, and determination at an early age. Those lessons would become the foundation for building a company capable of competing in one of the world’s most demanding and innovative business environments.

Milestone Moments

• Co-founded OSI Engineering and helped grow the company into one of Silicon Valley’s most respected technology workforce solutions firms.

• Recognized as one of the largest Latino-owned businesses in Silicon Valley.

• Earned Corporate Plus® designation through the National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC), placing OSI Engineering among an elite group of high-performing minority-owned businesses nationwide.

• Expanded the company’s reach by supporting engineering, software development, artificial intelligence, and emerging technology initiatives for many of the world’s leading organizations.

• Named a finalist for the 2025 EY Entrepreneur Of The Year Award, recognizing entrepreneurial leadership and business excellence.

• Recognized multiple times among HITEC’s 100 Most Influential Hispanic Professionals in Technology.

• Invested in STEM, AI, and workforce development initiatives that help prepare future generations for careers in technology and innovation.

• Mentored students, emerging professionals, and future leaders while supporting educational and community-based organizations.

Yet the most meaningful measure of success may be found beyond the company’s growth and accolades.

Throughout his career, Javier has remained committed to helping others gain access to opportunities in technology, engineering, artificial intelligence, and STEM-related fields. Through mentorship, educational partnerships, board service, and support of nonprofit organizations, he has worked to help bridge the gap between education and career pathways for students and emerging professionals.

His commitment reflects a belief that innovation should not be limited to a select few. It should create opportunities for future generations to learn, lead, and succeed.

That commitment to expanding opportunity represents perhaps the most important milestone of all.

Today, OSI Engineering stands as an example of what can be achieved when entrepreneurial success is matched by a dedication to community impact. Through innovation, leadership, and service, the company continues to help shape the future of Silicon Valley while investing in the next generation of innovators and leaders.

 

The HL | Milestone Series is a national platform designed to celebrate leadership across business, community, education, and innovation.

The 2026 HL | Milestone Series is made possible through the support of Wells Fargo, the series’ funding partner, whose commitment to community engagement and financial empowerment helps bring these important conversations and recognitions to life.

HL | Milestone Series – Honors Gloria Mirazo Gregor

HL | Milestone Series – Honors Gloria Mirazo Gregor

Jun 5, 2026 | Milestone

HL | Milestone Series – Honors Gloria Mirazo Gregor

Leadership, Influence & Legacy

Throughout her career, Gloria Mirazo Gregor has helped families achieve one of life’s most important milestones homeownership. As a respected mortgage banking executive and community leader, her influence extends beyond lending, helping create pathways to financial stability, wealth-building, and opportunity for countless individuals and families.

Today, Gloria serves as a Mortgage Retail Senior Market Manager and Executive Director with Wells Fargo Home Lending, leading a team of more than 150 mortgage professionals across California, Washington, and Oregon. Her expanding leadership responsibilities reflect both her performance and the trust placed in her ability to guide high-performing teams across multiple markets.

Gloria Mirazo Gregor will be recognized during  our HL | Milestone Series – Silicon Valley event, taking place on June 17, 2026. This invitation-only reception brings together a curated audience of executives, entrepreneurs, and community leaders for an evening of connection, conversation, and recognition.

👉 Event details & RSVP: https://bit.ly/41B5Z3J

Known for her commitment to exceptional client service, Gloria has built a career focused on helping individuals and families navigate the homebuying journey while empowering the teams she leads. Her ability to combine operational excellence with a people-first leadership style has helped establish her organization as one of the nation’s top-performing mortgage teams.

Throughout her career, Gloria has received numerous top production awards and currently leads the number one mortgage team in the country, a distinction maintained for the past two years. She remains focused on improving customer experiences through stronger sales processes, innovative technology, and a commitment to building lifelong client relationships.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Gloria has remained deeply engaged in Hispanic and Latino community initiatives. Her service as President of the Latina Business Women’s Association reflects a longstanding commitment to mentorship, advocacy, and expanding opportunities for future generations of leaders.

Milestone Moments

• Mortgage Retail Senior Market Manager & Executive Director, Wells Fargo Home Lending

• Leads a team of more than 150 mortgage professionals

• Leadership responsibilities spanning California, Washington, and Oregon

• Leader of the nation’s #1 mortgage team for the past two years

• Recipient of numerous top production and leadership awards

• Former President, Latina Business Women’s Association

• Advocate for homeownership, financial literacy, and community engagement

• Bachelor’s Degree, University of California, Berkeley

• Master of Business Administration (MBA), Drexel University

• Proud immigrant from Mexico

Creating Opportunity Through Homeownership

For many families, homeownership represents more than purchasing a house—it represents stability, opportunity, and the ability to build a lasting legacy. Throughout her career, Gloria has remained committed to helping individuals and families navigate that journey with confidence.

Her own story reflects the power of perseverance and opportunity. As an immigrant who built a successful career through dedication, education, and hard work, Gloria understands the transformative impact that access to financial resources and homeownership can have on future generations.

That perspective has shaped her leadership approach. Whether mentoring team members, serving clients, or supporting community organizations, Gloria consistently focuses on creating opportunities that help others achieve their goals.

Her influence extends beyond production numbers and business results. Through her leadership, she has helped strengthen teams, expand access to homeownership, and inspire future leaders within both the financial services industry and the Hispanic community.

Today, Gloria continues to demonstrate how leadership, service, and a commitment to excellence can create meaningful impact across communities and generations.

Her career stands as a powerful example of how professional success and community engagement can work together to create lasting influence.

The HL | Milestone Series is a national platform designed to celebrate leadership across business, community, education, and innovation.

The 2026 HL | Milestone Series is made possible through the support of Wells Fargo, the series’ funding partner, whose commitment to community engagement and financial empowerment helps bring these important conversations and recognitions to life.

HL | Milestone Series – Honors Dr. Marilyn Flores 

HL | Milestone Series – Honors Dr. Marilyn Flores 

Jun 3, 2026 | Milestone

HL | Milestone Series – Honors Dr. Marilyn Flores 

Breaking Barriers. Expanding Opportunity. Transforming Lives.

When Dr. Marilyn Flores was appointed President of San JosĂ© City College, she became the first Latina president in the institution’s more than 100-year history a milestone that reflects decades of dedication to education, leadership, and expanding opportunities for future generations.

For more than twenty-five years, Dr. Flores has dedicated her career to helping students achieve their educational goals while strengthening the institutions that serve them. Her leadership journey reflects a steadfast commitment to educational excellence, student success, and community impact.

Throughout her career, Dr. Flores has been a passionate advocate for educational access, institutional excellence, and student achievement. Her leadership has helped strengthen colleges, expand opportunities for students, and build meaningful connections between higher education and the communities it serves.

Dr. Marilyn Flores will be recognized during  our HL | Milestone Series – Silicon Valley event, taking place on June 17, 2026. This invitation-only reception brings together a curated audience of executives, entrepreneurs, and community leaders for an evening of connection, conversation, and recognition.

👉 Event details & RSVP: https://bit.ly/41B5Z3J

I can say without hesitation that she has been an outstanding addition to our executive leadership team. Her passion, authenticity, and unwavering commitment to educational excellence are evident in all that she does and are truly deserving of this recognition.

Beatriz S. Chaidez, Ed.D. Chancellor

Chancellor, San José-Evergreen Community College District

As President of San JosĂ© City College, Dr. Flores leads one of Silicon Valley’s most important educational institutions, helping prepare students for careers, continued education, and leadership opportunities in one of the world’s most innovative regions.

Prior to joining San José City College, Dr. Flores served as Superintendent/President of Río Hondo College, where she guided the institution through a period of significant growth and advancement. During her tenure, the college established its first campus police department and secured voter approval of a $442 million bond measure to strengthen educational facilities and resources for future generations of students. She also expanded community partnerships and philanthropic initiatives designed to increase educational opportunity.

Known for her transparent leadership style, strategic vision, and commitment to accountability, Dr. Flores has earned the respect of students, faculty, administrators, and community leaders throughout California’s Community College system. Her influence continues to create pathways for students to achieve their educational and professional aspirations.

Milestone Moments

• President, San José City College

• First Latina President in San JosĂ© City College’s history

• More than 25 years of leadership within California’s Community College system

• Former Superintendent/President, Río Hondo College

• Former Interim President, Santa Ana College

• Former Vice President of Academic Affairs, Santiago Canyon College

• Served as Chief Instructional Officer and Accreditation Liaison Officer

• Administrative leadership positions at Santiago Canyon College, Las Positas College, and Riverside City College

• First-generation college graduate and second-language learner

• Educator of the Year, Inland Empire Hispanic Image Awards

• Recipient, Hispanic Border Leadership Institute Doctoral Fellowship

• Ph.D., Institutional Leadership and Policy Studies, University of California, Riverside

Breaking Barriers Through Education

For more than two decades, Dr. Flores has dedicated her career to helping students access the opportunities that education can provide. Her leadership reflects a belief that higher education remains one of the most powerful tools for transforming lives, strengthening families, and creating stronger communities.

Her own journey as a first-generation college graduate and second-language learner gives her a unique perspective on the challenges many students face. Those experiences have helped shape a leadership philosophy grounded in service, opportunity, and student success.

Throughout her career, Dr. Flores has successfully led complex institutions, strengthened academic programs, expanded community partnerships, and championed initiatives designed to improve outcomes for students from all backgrounds. Her work has consistently focused on creating environments where students can thrive and achieve their full potential.

Her leadership has already made a significant impact at San JosĂ© City College. As Chancellor Beatriz S. Chaidez noted, Dr. Flores’ leadership represents “an important milestone not only for SJCC, but for Silicon Valley and the broader higher education community.”

Today, her influence extends far beyond the campuses she has served. Through her leadership, mentorship, and commitment to educational excellence, Dr. Flores continues to help shape the future of higher education throughout California.

Her career stands as a powerful example of how leadership, vision, and service can create opportunities that impact generations.

The HL | Milestone Series is a national platform designed to celebrate leadership across business, community, education, and innovation.

The 2026 HL | Milestone Series is made possible through the support of Wells Fargo, the series’ funding partner, whose commitment to community engagement and financial empowerment helps bring these important conversations and recognitions to life.

HL | Milestone Series – Honors Julian Cañete

HL | Milestone Series – Honors Julian Cañete

Jun 2, 2026 | Milestone

HL | Milestone Series – Honors Julian Cañete

Culture • Influence • Legacy

Some leaders advocate for business. Others dedicate their careers to creating opportunities that allow businesses, entrepreneurs, and communities to thrive.

Julian Cañete has spent more than two decades doing exactly that.

As President and CEO of the California Hispanic Chambers of Commerce (CHCC), Julian leads one of the state’s most influential business advocacy organizations. Representing more than 135 Hispanic chambers of commerce and business associations, the CHCC serves as a powerful voice for approximately 1.8 million small businesses throughout California.

Julian Cañete will be recognized during  our HL | Milestone Series – Silicon Valley event, taking place on June 17, 2026. This invitation-only reception brings together a curated audience of executives, entrepreneurs, and community leaders for an evening of connection, conversation, and recognition.

👉 Event details & RSVP: https://bit.ly/41B5Z3J

Throughout his career, Julian has been a tireless advocate for entrepreneurship, economic opportunity, and the advancement of small business owners. His leadership has helped connect entrepreneurs with resources, strengthen relationships between business and government, and ensure that the voices of small businesses are represented in important policy discussions across the state.

Julian’s connection to the California Hispanic Chambers of Commerce spans decades. After serving as President and CEO from 1999 to 2006 and again from 2009 to 2013, he returned to lead the organization in 2017. His experience also includes serving as Vice President of Public Policy and Strategic Partnerships for the California Asian Pacific Chamber of Commerce, where he continued his work advancing business development and economic growth.

Known for his ability to build coalitions and create meaningful partnerships, Julian has become one of California’s most respected voices on issues affecting small businesses, entrepreneurship, supplier inclusion, and economic empowerment.

Milestone Moments

• President & CEO, California Hispanic Chambers of Commerce

• Represents a statewide network of more than 135 chambers and business associations

• Advocate for approximately 1.8 million small businesses across California

• Former Vice President, Public Policy & Strategic Partnerships, California Asian Pacific Chamber of Commerce

• Founding Member, California Utilities Diversity Council

• Chairman, Vet Fund Foundation of California

• Board Member, Northeast Community Federal Credit Union

• Member, California Department of General Services Small Business Council

• Member, CalTrans Small Business Council

• Former Chairman, T-Mobile California External Council

• Longtime advocate for entrepreneurship, economic opportunity, and business growth

A Legacy of Advocacy and Economic Empowerment

For decades, Julian has worked at the intersection of business, public policy, and community leadership. His efforts have helped create pathways for entrepreneurs to grow their companies, access new opportunities, and contribute to California’s economic success.

His influence extends beyond chambers of commerce and boardrooms. Through his service on numerous public, private, and nonprofit organizations, Julian has consistently focused on strengthening communities by supporting the businesses that power them.

Whether advocating for small business owners at the state level, building strategic partnerships, or mentoring the next generation of business leaders, Julian’s work reflects a deep commitment to expanding opportunity and creating lasting economic impact.

His leadership continues to help shape a stronger future for entrepreneurs and communities throughout California.

The HL | Milestone Series is a national platform designed to celebrate leadership across business, community, education, and innovation.

The HL | Milestone Series is a national platform designed to celebrate leadership across business, community, education, and innovation.

The 2026 HL | Milestone Series is made possible through the support of Wells Fargo, the series’ funding partner, whose commitment to community engagement and financial empowerment helps bring these important conversations and recognitions to life.