Eric Hamilton Sanaria is the 2006 Los Angeles Region Hispanic Heritage Youth Award recipient for Leadership, sponsored by the Kellogg Company.  Eric grew up in gang-ravaged South Central Los Angeles, but the environment didn’t keep this first-generation Salvadorian-American from launching a political forum in his community during the 2004 Presidential election, or mentoring at-risk third graders through a tutoring program.  As the Valedictorian in a class of 350, Eric is the vice-president of the student body at the competitive King/Drew Magnet High School. Additionally he has been named an AP Scholar, Princeton Summer School Alum, Math Team Member, and a USC Leadership Political Leader.  His grade point average is 4.24 with a schedule packed with rigorous AP courses. Eric says his parents are his most significant role models, and that they have provided him with the resources that will help him attain a brighter future.  Eric adds, “every ‘A’, every sleepless night, and every long day at school serve as a reinforcement of my appreciation for their sacrifices.”  Eric will attend Dartmouth College in the fall. He aspires to a career in public service and policy.