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 at City Council meetings and their names are engraved on a perpetual plaque commemorating the honor; the plaque is displayed in the lobby of the Civic Center.
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 2025 award recipient!
2025 Sylvia Besana Volunteer of the Year: Kevin Hernandez, Lost But Not Forgotten and Feeding the Foothills
Kevin has been an active and dedicated volunteer in the Roseville community through his work as President of Lost But Not Forgotten, supporting over 700 families facing hardship, as well as on the Board of Directors for Feeding the Foothills, and the City of Roseville’s Parks and Recreation Commission.
He is an advocate for small businesses working closely with the Roseville Area Chamber of Commerce, a mentor to local high school students, and has demonstrated a selfless commitment to community service and a passion for helping others.
Past Recipients
- 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