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Mark Surmanian, a former "Club Kid," now leads one of the top Boys & Girls Clubs in the nation, having devoted the past 18 years to serving the youth and families of Garden Grove. His personal connection to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Garden Grove (BGCGG) has been instrumental in shaping his career, ultimately leading him to the role of Chief Executive Officer in 2016. Under his leadership, BGCGG has experienced tremendous growth, with key achievements in 2024 marking milestones in revenue, employee expansion, and youth membership. Through the collective efforts of staff and Board support, BGCGG serves nearly 6,000 youth daily across 67 sites in Garden Grove and neighboring cities.
Mark’s leadership extends beyond his professional achievements. He has served in numerous volunteer roles, including as President and Treasurer of the California Alliance of Boys & Girls Clubs, Board Member and Treasurer of the Garden Grove Host Lions Club, and advisor for organizations such as OneOC and the Orange County Department of Education’s STEAM Hub. He is also an active member of the Garden Grove Police Chief’s Advisory Council. Mark and his wife, Crystal, are proud parents to three young children, which has given him the opportunity to embrace one of his favorite past volunteer role as a “Baseball and Football Coach.”
Mark Surmanian’s commitment to service and leadership make him a well-deserving recipient of the 2025 Man of the Year award.
Maria Stipe, the current secretary of the Garden Grove Rotary Club, has devoted over a decade to serving the community through her membership and leadership roles in the organization. Key initiatives she has been involved with include scholarship programs for local elementary and high school students, placing lifesaving cardiac defibrillators in public spaces, organizing Christmas toy drives for underprivileged children, providing support for families in need, and contributing to various City and Chamber of Commerce programs.
Maria’s career in public service spans 26 years and dedicated her career and passion to serving the Garden Grove community. As Assistant City Manager, Maria helped bring important programs, services, and vital funding to the city to improve the lives of residents and to support local businesses. Among Maria’s accomplishments with the City are serving on the Executive Budget Committee to eliminate the City’s structural budget deficit; leading community education and outreach efforts related to district elections and Measure O; serving as the Planning Chief for the City’s Emergency Operations Center during the COVID pandemic; and assisting the city in advocating for over $55 million in federal recovery funds.
Now retired, Maria remains actively involved in the Garden Grove community through her work with the Rotary Club. She looks forward to participating in new and ongoing projects that will enhance the lives of residents. With the free time that comes with retirement, Maria enjoys promoting and playing pickleball at the Chapman Sports Complex, dining at local restaurants, and attending performances at the GEM Theater. Maria has been married to her husband Dan for over 36 years, and together they have two grown children, Cole and Karena, as well as three beloved dogs—Elsie, Noodles, and Molly.
Maria Stipe’s dedication to public service and her continued involvement in the Garden Grove community make her a truly deserving recipient of the 2025 Woman of the Year award.
Mark Surmanian and Maria Stipe will be honored at the 118th Annual Garden Grove Chamber of Commerce Gala Dinner and Awards on Thursday, April 24, 2025, taking place at the Embassy Suites Anaheim South.
Congratulatory Ads and sponsorship opportunities available. If you are interested in attending, or would like additional information, please contact the Chamber office at 714-638-7950 or visit the website at www.gardengrovechamber.com.
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