The Fernando Awards Foundation proudly announces Armida Colmenares Stafford, Chair of the Valley Economic Alliance and First Vice President of Columbia Bank, as the 67th recipient of the Fernando Award—widely regarded as the highest honor for volunteer leadership in the San Fernando Valley.
Colmenares-Stafford was selected by secret ballot from a distinguished group of finalists, including Dennis D. Young, Steve Fazio, Jorge Rabaso, and Sharon Udkoff.
The ballots were tabulated by Anderson, Satuloff, Machado & Mendelson.
Nominated by both the Valley Economic Alliance and the Annenberg School of Nursing, Colmenares Stafford currently chairs both organizations. She also serves on the board of the Proxy Parent Foundation, supporting Californians with developmental disabilities.
As the first Latina Chair of the United Chambers of Commerce, she led the organization for a record four-year term. Her accolades include the UCC Inspirational Women Award (2023) and recognition by the Los Angeles Business Journal as one of the Valley 200 Most Influential Leaders since 2021.
“Armida’s unwavering belief in the power of education and connection has transformed lives and strengthened our community,” said Vahid Khorsand, Chair of the Fernando Awards Foundation. “Being honored with the Fernando Award means so much to me because I now join a family of outstanding, dedicated San Fernando Valley volunteer legends who have shaped our community for good with their love and dedication,” said Colmenares-Stafford.
