Alejandro Tamayo Receives Sheriff’s Community Champion Award

Earlier this month, San Diego County Sheriff Kelly Martinez and the San Diego County Sheriff's Office presented Alejandro (Alex) Tamayo, project specialist for the San Diego County Office of Education (SDCOE) Migrant Education program, with the Community Champion Award. He was one of five recognized for their leadership and advocacy, building bridges between law enforcement and the community.

The Inaugural Sheriff's Community Partnership Awards: Honoring the Champions for Community Safety recognize individuals, organizations, and businesses who have gone above and beyond to support the Sheriff's Office programs, public safety initiatives, and community engagement efforts throughout San Diego County.

“I’m honored by the recognition, but this work has always been about the families we serve and the people who stand beside me,” Tamayo said. “The Migrant Education Program collaborated with the Sheriff’s Office to help many of our families stop living in fear and regain a sense of normalcy. This partnership has also helped bridge what once felt like a Grand Canyon–sized gap between law enforcement and our migrant community, creating trust and connection that truly make a difference for our kids.”

The honorees were nominated by Sheriff's Office employees, including deputies, professional staff, and the Sheriff's Leadership Team.

“Alex has cultivated strong partnerships with the Sheriff’s Office, which has led to stronger relationships and educational opportunities for the students and families we serve,” said Elisa Ayala, senior director of Migrant Education for SDCOE. “This recognition is well-deserved and we appreciate the support we have with partners like the Sheriff’s Department to further opportunities for our families.” 

*Pictured, left to right: Nadia Moshirian Binderup, Sheriff Kelly Martinez, Alejandro Tamayo (Alex's son), Alex Tamayo, Assistant Sheriff Rick Lopez, Edith Sanchez Cruz, Undersheriff Rich Williams and Sofia Menvielle.