Sylvia Besana was a Roseville native who epitomized the word "volunteer". An educator, counselor and avid community leader, Sylvia spent the greater part of her life giving back to the community and making a difference through her continued commitment to serve.

The Sylvia Besana Community Volunteer Award is a tribute to her and to her lifetime of community service. This annual award recognizes individuals in the Roseville community who display dedication through consistent commitment to community service, serve as role models by inspiring others to volunteer, and demonstrate leadership, excellence and integrity through volunteer service.

Recipients are recognized before City Council with a resolution and engraved award commemorating their contributions to the Roseville community.

Nominations open in April, coinciding with National Volunteer Month. Learn more about the eligibility criteria and how to submit a nomination here.

Congratulations to our 2026 award recipient!

2026 Sylvia Besana Volunteer of the Year: Kayla Scott

Kayla serves as a member of the Roseville Library Board and Roseville City School District Foundation, supporting literacy, education, and community engagement. She is also a passionate advocate for hunger relief, mental health awareness, and suicide prevention, working with organizations such as Feeding the Foothills and Notes of Hope to ensure individuals and families throughout our region have access to essential resources.
 
Kayla serves as a mentor to students and young professionals and consistently demonstrates a selfless commitment to service. Through her many efforts, she has made a meaningful difference in the lives of others and continues to strengthen the community she calls home.

Past Recipients

  • 2025 Kevin Hernandez
  • 2024 Cathy Soohoo
  • 2023 Matthew Bridge
  • 2018 Margo Ezell
  • 2017 Nayan Pradhan
  • 2015 Fred and Pauline Wight
  • 2014 Ed and Marian Tiedemann
  • 2013 Olu Shaola
  • 2012 Esmerita Rivera
  • 2011 Janet Zeitman
  • 2010 Aldo Pineschi, Jr.
  • 2009 Melba Erven