Join us on Friday, April 17, 2026, as we celebrate Kheir’s 40th Anniversary!
2026 VANGUARD LEADERSHIP AWARD RECIPIENT
José Hernández is a former NASA astronaut, engineer, and one of the most recognized Latino voices in science and education. The son of Mexican migrant farmworkers, Hernández spent his childhood working in California's fields and did not learn English until age 12. Through determination and academic excellence, he earned a degree in electrical engineering, joined Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, and co-developed the first full-field digital mammography system for the early detection of breast cancer. He was selected for NASA's Astronaut Corps in 2004 and completed his historic spaceflight as a Mission Specialist aboard Space Shuttle Discovery's STS-128 mission in 2009.
Since then, Hernández has dedicated himself to inspiring students from immigrant and underserved communities to pursue careers in STEM. His life story was adapted into the acclaimed feature film A Million Miles Away, bringing his message of perseverance and possibility to audiences worldwide.
FINAL CALL TO RSVP
Join us and celebrate what we’ve built together.
Your support has shaped Kheir into a vital healthcare home for over 23,000 patients who speak more than 30 languages.
Payment can be made by check or securely online via credit card, PayPal, or Venmo.
If paying online, please include your name or organization in the notes section.
GALA NIGHT PREVIEW
Silent Auction
The countdown to bidding has begun! Our silent auction features exclusive items you won’t want to miss. These sneak peeks are just a glimpse of what’s ahead:
2 Night Stay at Craftsman Mansion
2 VIP Passes to
The Broad
Experience Fremont Ave with 2 Exclusive Tickets
Courtesy of South Coast Repertory
Bidding opens the night of the gala. Arrive on time to make your first move.
Parking Reminder
Ready to celebrate? Here’s what to know before you go!
Valet parking at The InterContinental Los Angeles Hotel is recommended.
Entrance: 7th Street, between Francisco St. and Figueroa St. (westbound)
Show off your best moves in our dance contest for a chance to win exclusive prizes, including an autographed boxing glove from legendary former undisputed heavyweight champion Mike Tyson, a signed football from
Enjoy a premium stay at the InterContinental Los Angeles Downtown with a special 20% discount. To access the discounted rate, click the button below and select Wilshire Grand Center as your rate preference in the dropdown.
