College Democrats honor role models

The Davis College Democrats will present their sixth annual Indigo Awards on March 11 to Tom Torlakson, state superintendent of public instruction, as State Democratic Leader of the Year; Davis City Councilman Lucas Frerichs as Local Democratic Leader of the Year; and Greg Campbell, chief of staff to Assembly Speaker John A. Pérez as Aggie Alumnus of the Year.

The Davis College Democrats is the official arm of the California Democratic Party on the UC Davis campus. The group is working to foster young leaders, encourage voter education, promote political participation and fight the false stereotype of youth apathy, a news release said.

During his tenure as superintendent, Torlakson has championed legislation to provide new textbooks and computers, as well as after-school programs and classroom resources.

Frerichs is being honored for his tireless support for the work of young Democrats throughout the region. He also has served as a mentor to many UCD students, a news release said.

New this year is the alumni award. Campbell was selected for his support of UCD students and alums while working at the state Capitol.

The awards ceremony will run from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Monday, March 11, at Monticello Seasonal Cuisine, 630 G St. in downtown Davis. Tickets are $25 per person and may be purchased online at https://secure.actblue.com/page/indigoawards2013 or at the door.

Sponsorships also are available, at $1,000 for Aggie Indigo, $500 for Aggie Gold, $250 for Aggie Silver and $100 for Aggie Bronze.

For more information, contact Ruy Laredo, president of the Davis College Democrats, at 925-899-8420 or ralaredo@ucdavis.edu, or Henry Johnston, vice president of finance, at 619-204-2102 or hejohnston@ucdavis.edu.