Angela Calderon Pio, Past Chair

Angela Calderon Pio was the first chair of the Escondido City Youth Council. The formation of ECYC began at the end of her sophomore year when she pitched the concept to the former mayor, who supported the idea. She then got fellow commissioner Michelle onboard and began bringing the council to life. She believed it was imperative that the youth of Escondido had somewhere to voice their opinions and be heard. Ultimately, she hoped that ECYC would become a safe space for the youth of Escondido, as well as give people her age a chance to understand and recognize the importance of local government.

Michelle Cortes, Past Vice-Chair

Michelle Cortes was the co-chair of the council and worked very closely with the chair. She aided the chair in accomplishing tasks and created agendas and other small projects that benefited the council, such as educational videos. She was most excited to see youth become more involved in local government and within the city. She wanted to see the youth of Escondido bring their input to help better Escondido, not only for themselves but for everyone in the community.

Derek Lam, Past Commissioner

Derek Lam was a commissioner of the ECYC and attended San Pasqual High School. Alongside Abby, he helped lead the Nominating Subcommittee, which focused on searching for highly qualified candidates for the council. He was proud that the Youth Council was in the hands of amazing youth who were willing to bring change to Escondido. His passion for government, politics, and youth engagement inspired him to join the council. He hoped to leave a meaningful impact on Escondido and inspire others to do the same.

Dario Miller, Past Commissioner

Dario Miller was a commissioner of the ECYC and attended San Pasqual High School. One goal he hoped to accomplish was making a positive impact in Escondido. He also hoped the group would inspire other youth to help make Escondido better. He joined the ECYC because he wanted to make a meaningful difference in his community.

Abigail Rojas Radilla, Past Commissioner

Abigail Rojas Radilla was a commissioner of the ECYC and attended Orange Glen High School. She was part of the nomination subcommittee alongside Derek and helped run social media. She was happy and honored to be part of the Escondido City Youth Council, especially while representing her community of Orange Glen. Her hope for the youth council was that more youth would become involved in their communities and in politics.

Eunice Mendoza, Past Commissioner

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Eunice Leanne Mendoza was a commissioner of the ECYC and attended Escondido Charter High School. She was excited to be part of Escondido's youth city council and was especially excited to see youth become more involved in the community. She looked forward to participating in different events and meetings. She believed having a voice in local government was important and was grateful to represent her school in Escondido.