Santa Ana, CA (December 9, 2025) – Today, ten prominent individuals who have significantly contributed to the fabric of Orange County’s rich cultural, societal and professional landscape were inducted into the 2025 Class of the Orange County Hall of Fame.
The induction ceremony, conducted by Orange County Board of Supervisors Chairman Doug Chaffee and the entire Board of Supervisors, recognized outstanding achievements in Music, Arts & Entertainment; Business; Philanthropy; Sports; and Civics.
“I’m delighted that we have so many terrific Orange County dignitaries in this year’s class,” said Chair Doug Chaffee, Fourth District. “It was an honor to be this year’s emcee. Their stories are not only a reflection of Orange County’s heritage, but also are an inspiration for all of us to do great things.”
Honorees Ed Caruthers, Ed Laird, Henry and Susan Samueli, Eddie Sheldrake, and Ambassador Gaddi Vasquez attended the ceremony. Representatives of inductees Robert August, James Irvine I, Sammy Lee, and Carl St. Clair were in attendance and accepted the honor on behalf of their respective honorees. James Cameron recorded a video submission in lieu of attending, thanking the Board of Supervisors for the honor.
“As the ninth-largest economy in the nation, Orange County thrives because its people lead with heart and purpose. The individuals we celebrate today, including from the Fabulous Fifth shape the county’s future through action, not rhetoric,” said Vice Chair Katrina Foley, Fifth District. “Carl St. Clair opens doors through arts education; the Samueli’s invest billions in opportunity and discovery; and the Irvine legacy built the foundation of our modern county. Together, all ten honorees ensure every child, every business, and every community thrive.”
In early 2023, the Orange County Board of Supervisors formed a subcommittee to develop and establish the Orange County Hall of Fame. By unanimous vote of the Board, the Orange County Hall of Fame was established on November 28, 2023, to recognize and honor the individuals who have significantly contributed to the fabric of Orange County’s rich cultural, societal and professional landscape.
“All of our honorees are great Americans. Their plaques have been hung on the wall outside our County Administration Board Room and will be here long after all of us are gone, symbolizing these great accomplishments for future generations,” said Supervisor Janet Nguyen, First District.
“I was proud to have the opportunity to nominate two individuals who not only have had great personal athletic achievements but have made lasting contributions to our County,” said Supervisor Vicente Sarmiento, Second District. “It is my hope that their achievements inspire a new generation of athletes to greatness, to civil rights leadership, and to serving their communities in their chosen careers.”
“It was a pleasure to work with Supervisor Janet Nguyen to help choose this year’s class of leaders to be inducted into the Orange County Hall of Fame,” said Supervisor Wagner, Third District. “The Orange County Hall of Fame is here to honor so many amazing people who have positively impacted our beloved county.”
The Orange County Hall of Fame is located at the County Administration North (CAN) Building in the lobby outside of the Board Hearing Room. The induction ceremony was held in the Board Hearing Room.
A livestream of the ceremony was offered and a recording of the event is available to view at by clicking here.