On Thursday, September 29, the Long Beach Post hosted an event to honor young people from around the city who are doing great things to better their community and beyond. Out of hundreds of nominations from our readers, judges chose 40 winners, representing a range of professions and activism. The Post will be profiling each honoree in the coming days.
Arturo Aguayo, 37, is the director of financing for the University of Southern California and oversees the institution’s $1.5 billion debt portfolio. He started his career 15 years ago as a summer intern with the City of Long Beach, a three-month gig that turned into a six-year professional journey, Aguayo said, where he worked with the chief financial officer and city treasurer.
“This experience helped me realize the possibilities of my potential, and gave me the confidence to pursue a career in investment banking and consulting,” said Aguayo. “It also opened my eyes to things I never would have imagined, growing-up in a lower-income community (1st District – across the street from Drake Park). I am passionate about sharing my story with young people, specifically at-risk youth and minorities in hopes of inspiring them to pursue an education and make a difference in their communities.”
Aguayo has lived in Long Beach for more than 30 years and regularly reaches out to youth to speak about the importance of education and community involvement. He is also a member of the Board of Governors for the Long Beach City College Foundation and was honored with the Humanitarian Award by the Long Beach Community Hispanic Association in 2012, according to his nominators. He has also supported the local nonprofit organization, Centro CHA, where mentorship programs, employment opportunities and educational scholarships are provided for youth.
“I was very surprised when I learned that I was selected as a winner,” said Aguayo. “It is a humbling experience to be honored with such an esteemed and impressive group of individuals that are contributing to Long Beach in different ways. I have the utmost admiration and appreciation for all of their hard work and sacrifice.”