Bradley Voytek, Professor in the Department of Cognitive Science at UC San Diego.

Captain Terry Kaltenbach from the USS Midway Museum, spoke to the Optimists about the Midway’s story.

Erika Putnam who serves as the Director of Internship Programs for the Navy Marine Mammal Program.

Ron Salisbury - Inaugural San Diego Poet Laureate

Kristen Fogle - Executive Director of San Diego Writers, Ink Since 2013

Dean Nelson the Founder and Director of the Journalism Program at Point Loma Nazarene University.

Don Kent, President & CEO and Celina Maggi, Director of Development, both from Hubbs Research at SeaWorld.

Charter Master Larry Brown

Dmitri Orlov - Fusion Energy

Samantha Wynns - Biologist

Mohamad Yassin - Entrepreneur, Author, and Optimist

Shane Harris - Forest Fire Lookout Association (FFLA) San Diego & Riverside Chapter

Chuck Bieler - San Diego Zoo Director

Dr. Steve Dowdy - Research Professor in the Department of Molecular Biology

Dr. Lisa Nunn - Director of the Center for Educational Excellence at USD

Mindi Davis “The Unbucket List” and Distinguished Toastmaster.

Ben Harwood - PT, MSPT, FAFS, CSCS, BFRC, Clinical Director of Rehab United, Point Loma

Nicole Koch with Voices for Children

Brad Termini - CEO of Zephyr Partners

The Youth Appreciation event is a highlight each year and shows why we invest in the youth of Point Loma and Ocean Beach!