Leadership and Change in Focus at OBSERVER’s 30 Under 30 Celebration

On the morning of August 9, the historic Old Sacramento district buzzed with energy as community members convened at Our Place Event Space & Kitchen to honor The Sacramento OBSERVER’s 30 Under 30 cohort for 2025. This selective group of emerging Black leaders is poised to influence their fields profoundly. Chancellor Gary May of UC Davis and Sacramento State President Luke Wood took the stage for a compelling fireside chat, moderated by OBSERVER President Larry Lee. May highlighted the essence of Black excellence, emphasizing the resilience cultivated through adversity. He explained that true excellence means overcoming challenges while positively impacting the community. Wood echoed this, recognizing the honorees' selflessness and dedication. Their discussion seamlessly ventured into the realm of systemic change, with Wood stressing that every institution is tailored to achieve its current outcomes. Attendees left inspired, ready to embrace risks and foster profound change, as the event celebrated both present achievements and the promise of future generations of Black excellence.