OFL Baldwin Park Students Share Their Visions for the Future of the San Gabriel Valley at Legislative Luncheon with Congressman Gil Cisneros

OFL Baldwin Park students Atziri Talavera and Autumn Davies with (left to right) Melissa Martinez, Kat Erpenbeck, Megan Betry, Richard Moreno, and Superintendent Ileana Kiriakos.

Irwindale, CA – On Friday, July 25th, two outstanding Opportunities For Learning (OFL) Baldwin Park seniors—Atziri Talavera and Autumn Davies—joined local business leaders, elected officials, and community members at the Irwindale Chamber of Commerce’s Legislative Luncheon, featuring Congressman Gil Cisneros as keynote speaker. The luncheon focused on topics affecting regional industries such as insurance, real estate, and economic growth in the San Gabriel Valley.

Thanks to a generous sponsorship from Mt. San Antonio College (Mt. SAC), Atziri and Autumn were given this rare opportunity to network, engage in civic discussions, and represent OFL in a professional setting. Both students were chosen for their leadership, academic achievement, and dedication as they prepare to graduate next semester.

Autumn Davies shares their graduation plans and career goals with Congressman Gil Cisneros during the Legislative Luncheon.

Before taking the stage, Congressman Cisneros made time to visit each table. When he reached theirs, Atziri and Autumn introduced themselves, shared their graduation plans, and spoke about their aspirations—ranging from working in local government to becoming entrepreneurs. They asked for his advice on leadership and community involvement, and in return, he offered encouragement, posed for photos, and even recorded a short video with Atziri where they chanted, “We are fighting for you!”

“It was inspiring to hear Congressman Cisneros speak about the importance of education and opportunity. I felt seen and heard as a student,” said Atziri.

 “Being in that room showed me how many people are working to support students like us. It was an honor to be part of it,” added Autumn.

The luncheon was the first chamber event either student had attended, and both were impressed by the interest local businesses showed in hearing from community leaders. They even participated in the Q&A session, submitting questions for consideration.

OFL Baldwin Park senior Atziri Talavera records a video message with Congressman Gil Cisneros, declaring, “We are fighting for you!”

Representing OFL alongside the students were Melissa Martinez, Kat Erpenbeck, Megan Betry, Richard Moreno, and Superintendent Ileana Kiriakos.

“Mt. SAC’s sponsorship made it possible for our students to experience firsthand how leaders at every level are working to create pathways for student success,” said Superintendent Kiriakos. “These real-world interactions inspire our students to think big, get involved, and see themselves as part of the solution.”

The event also highlighted the strong partnership between Mt. SAC and OFL-Baldwin Park, which has expanded over the past year to include in-person dual enrollment courses on the OFL campus—starting last spring with Counseling and continuing this fall with American Sign Language. Mt. SAC’s investment reflects confidence in OFL’s educational model and in the potential of its students to make meaningful contributions in their communities.

OFL Baldwin Park seniors Atziri Talavera (right) and Autumn Davies (left) having lunch at the Irwindale Chamber of Commerce’s Legislative Luncheon.

Congressman Cisneros’s presence was especially relevant for students interested in leadership and advocacy, as he has recently spoken out in support of community members affected by ICE raids. While his formal remarks centered on regional business priorities, his conversation with Atziri and Autumn reinforced a deeper message—the importance of education, civic engagement, and using your voice to create change.

Congressman Gil Cisneros delivering his keynote address.

About Opportunities For Learning

Opportunities For Learning (OFL) is a free public charter school that provides students in grades 7–12 with a flexible, personalized learning experience. OFL empowers students through small group instruction, one-on-one support, and real-world learning opportunities. Learn more at oflschools.org.