Each year Berkeley High School, B-Tech and Independent Studies students are nominated for the Mayor’s Annual Student Awards in recognition of their extraordinary efforts in Citizenship, Community Service, Sportsmanship, Fine Arts, and Academics.
The program began a decade ago when community leader Salvador Murillo proposed the idea to then Mayor Shirley Dean, along with a check to pay for the first event. He wanted a program that would recognize students who often fall under the radar. Mayor Tom Bates embraced the idea and has carried on the program for the past six years.

With so many amazing youth in Berkeley’s public schools the event has grown each year, outgrowing the Double Tree Hotel and Hs. Lordships. This year they honored over 225 high school students at UC Berkeley’s Pauley Ballroom on May 22nd. Students and their families make the most of the event, dressing up to honor the accomplished youth at the ceremony and reception.