Leon S. Peters was respected as a businessman, civic leader, and philanthropist who lived and worked according to the highest ethical standards. He cherished his community and considered its well-being his personal responsibility. As a result of his strong belief in the benefits of philanthropy and community service, Leon S. Peters took a leadership role in, as well as provided financial support to, countless charitable initiatives that to this day have improved the lives of so many in the San Joaquin Valley. Through his conduct in both his professional and personal life, Leon S. Peters has left a legacy that continues to inspire others in our community to aspire to the highest ethical standards in all matters, and to take active roles in advancing charitable measures designed to benefit others.
Peters’ legacy inspired the Fresno Chamber of Commerce to create the Leon S. Peters Award. Since 1984 the Leon S. Peters Award has been presented annually to a Central Valley business leader whose work exemplifies the values, ethics, and character of Leon S. Peters. In addition to housing the Leon S. Peters collection, the Fresno State Library has received materials related to the Leon S. Peters Award and its annual recipients. A video interview with each of the Peters Award recipients is included in the collection. Oral history interviews of Peters family members as well as additional Valley leaders who worked and served with, or were inspired by Mr. Peters are also part of the collection.
For more information about the entire Leon S. Peters collection, please check out the Leon S. Peters Papers digitized collection. Also available is the finding aid to the Leon S. Peters Papers physical collection.
