The Incredible Power of Paths, Friendships, and Service!

As the sun sank behind the majestic mountains, stretching its shadows over the lush citrus and avocado farms of Pauma Valley, California, I found myself reminiscing about my childhood in a tiny agriculture town on the edge of San Diego County’s rich farming heritage. It was there, as a wide-eyed Mexican immigrant with big dreams, that my journey to where I am today began.

Back in the day, my sisters and I would hold fancy “board meetings” at the dining table, dreaming big dreams. We imagined an unstoppable factory, churning out mysterious goodies from its magical smokestacks. You see, living on a lonely farm without cable TV meant we had to get creative to keep ourselves entertained. But surprisingly, my true passion wasn’t factories – it was all about the fascinating world of people!

As I assume the role of CEO at both the Employees Club of California and the Los Angeles City Employees Association, Inc., I reflect on the path that brought me here. It’s a path marked with invaluable lessons, mentorship, growth and a succession plan years in the making. My story begins with my parents, Rafael and Carmen Larios, who raised me and my three younger sisters on a farm in San Diego County. They carried me across the perilous Mexican border into America when I was just one year old. They risked everything for the promise of a better life – a chance for a slice of the American dream.

My American journey began in 1976 in Pauma Valley. As a young immigrant boy, I dreamed of success, happiness, contributing positively to society, and leading a meaningful life. Today, I realize that these dreams would have remained just that without the support from my support network.

Here are some of those people:

• My wife Patricia, the guiding star in my life.
• My parents, Rafael and Carmen Larios. My sisters Ana, Norma Larios and Patty.
• Verne and Joyce Maynard, RIP.
• My mentor Bud Bradford and my second mom, Penny, RIP. I miss you both so very much.
• Heather & Nels Ortlund, Bradford Ortlund, Robert Ortlund, CLCS AFIS, and Sumner Ortlund.
• All my teachers at Pauma Valley Elementary School.
• My 8th grade teacher Sherman Johnson (RIP), his wife Susan Johnson and their children – Michael Johnson, Matthew, and Jamie.
• All my fellow alumni and alumnae I was honored to meet at Pauma School, including Tyler Allison, Brad Bradford, Jonathan Burgos and Brad Thompson.
• All my fellow alumni and alumnae I was honored to meet at Fallbrook Union High School.
• All my fellow alumni and alumnae I was honored to meet at the University of Southern California, including Paul Cicala, Enrique Diaz, Mario Perez, Reymundo Trejo, Angelica Rueda, MS, and so many others.
• All my professors and administrative staff at the University of Michigan and the University of Michigan - Stephen M. Ross School of Business.

All my fellow alumni and alumnae at the University of Michigan – Stephen M. Ross School of Business, EMBA19-Los Angeles. In my experience, the most influential figures in my success story are not only supportive family, friends and mentors, but also those who provided honest feedback and encouragement during discouraging moments. Their influence is immeasurable.

The Los Angeles City Employees Association, Inc. and Employees Club of California staff I’ve known from day one – your hard work continues to impact Members and society to this day. You never cease to inspire me. Thank you.

To the Board Members, past and present, thank you for your support, mentorship, empathy and leadership.

And Now to John Hawkins

I began my career here 26 years ago under the guidance of our former CEO, John Hawkins. He wasn’t just a boss – he was a mentor, guide and friend. He believed in my abilities and supported my personal and growth, setting the stage for my journey within the organization. His forward-thinking led to a well-thought-out succession plan, ensuring the organization’s success for years to come. As part of this plan, I made the decision to attend the prestigious University of Michigan – Ross School of Business, known for its world-class MBA program. Remember the Discount King, the Sports Dude, and Chef Larios? These vibrant personas that took over the pages of Alive! and other marketing materials were part of the strategic plan. It’s all part of the master plan! This entire transition was carefully crafted to ensure a seamless handover and the continued success of our mission. And first-rate customer service, too, of course. It’s a case study that business schools should take note of.

This entire transition was carefully crafted to ensure a seamless handover and the continued success of our mission. And first-rate customer service, too, of course.

— John Hawkins, Club Founder and Training Officer

On a lighter note, the tie I donned for the cover photo bears a sentimental value. It is the same one I wore when I first interviewed with John.

Before executive coaches became mainstream, John served as my executive coach, guiding me through the intricacies of leadership. Together, we identified critical focus areas, built strong rapport with staff and Members, and fostered a culture of mutual respect and collaboration. We understood that our employees were our greatest asset and invested in their growth and development. We also recognized that the trust and satisfaction of our Members were paramount to our success, and worked relentlessly to meet and exceed their expectations.

I ask that each of you take a moment to thank John Hawkins. He is a visionary leader, innovator and a champion of integrity. How do I know? I worked side by side with John for 25 years, and in those years, I witnessed his unparalleled ascent from middle management to becoming the first Chief Operating Officer and then the second Chief Executive Officer in the 95-year history of the organization. He had charismatically transformed a dormant $3 million company into a bustling and innovative $35 million industry leader – yielding a 900 percent return on investment within 23 years. Through navigating intensely difficult leadership decisions, he spearheaded a strategic campaign that boosted the membership base by more than 350 percent during this time as well. He could have chosen to lead any other private or public firm but found profound satisfaction in rolling up his sleeves and witnessing firsthand the impact he made on his company employees, Board of Directors, business partners, customers, and the communities he served throughout California and the rest of the country.

As I stand on the cusp of this new chapter, I am reminded of those early dreams forged in Pauma Valley. The factories of my dreams may have been replaced by people and their potential, but the ambition remains the same. I am committed to leveraging this opportunity to serve our employees and members better and to continue the legacy of service and excellence that defines our organization.

As I embark on this new leadership role, feelings of gratitude for the journey so far and anticipation for what is yet to come fill me. The lessons from our past have paved the way, and the vision for our future shines brightly.

While the transition may present novel challenges, it simultaneously uncovers fresh opportunities. United, we will steer through this invigorating chapter, leveraging our shared history while eagerly anticipating a future filled with continued growth and prosperity. Our journey thus far stands as a testament to the transformative power of mentorship, strategic planning, and collaboration, and I am thrilled to guide our organizations into the next phase of our narrative.

As we flip to a new page, let us bear in mind that each conclusion heralds a fresh start. Here’s to a seamless transition and the commencement of a new chapter in our shared journey.