News

Mark Kassab’s journey from humble beginnings to community leadership reflects a lifetime of hard work, generosity, and dedication. After arriving in San Diego from Iraq in 1977 with just $5, Kassab became a cornerstone of the City Heights community through his family-owned grocery stores. For more than four decades, he has championed access to food, education, and youth opportunities, from donating thousands of books to supporting local sports teams and neighborhood events. In this feature, Kassab shares reflections on his lifelong commitment to giving back, the partnerships that have shaped his work, and the pride he takes in helping City Heights families thrive.

Ivan Martinez has dedicated his career to supporting the students and families of City Heights through a variety of roles with the San Diego Unified School District. From his early days with the SDUSD School Police Department to his current position as plant operations supervisor at Hoover High School, Martinez has worked tirelessly to ensure school campuses are safe, clean, and welcoming. In this interview, he shares reflections on his career journey, the lasting relationships he’s built, and the importance of community investment.

City Heights Hero Uyen Tran has led the City Heights/Weingart Branch Library since 2021, bringing two decades of experience in public libraries. As a Vietnamese American, she feels deeply connected to the community and is passionate about providing programs that empower residents of all ages.

City Heights Hero Roosevelt Johnson has spent over 30 years supporting students at Wilson Middle School. From his start as a teacher’s assistant to his current role as an Educational Specialist, Johnson’s steadfast dedication to education and student success has made him a cherished figure in the community.

City Heights Hero Timothy Shaw has dedicated over two decades to supporting Crawford High School students in the community. From his early teaching days to his current role as a counselor, Shaw’s unwavering commitment to education and student success has made him a beloved figure in the neighborhood.