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LAKE COUNTY, Calif. — On Sunday, Rep. Mike Thompson (CA-04) recognized Dirk Slooten as the 2026 American Dream Award recipient for Lake County.
Thompson presents the American Dream Award to residents of California’s Fourth District who have come to the United States and made outstanding contributions to our communities.
“Immigrants are our neighbors and colleagues, soldiers and first responders, doctors and lawyers, farmers, entrepreneurs, teachers and so much more. Our nation would not be the powerhouse of the world without their contributions to our country’s history, culture, and economy. This is evidenced by Dirk’s work in our community,” Thompson said.
“Through his work as mayor of Clearlake, Dirk has contributed meaningfully to making our community a better place. I am honored to recognize him as this year’s Lake County American Dream Award recipient,” said Thompson.
Slooten was born in Purmerend, the Netherlands and relocated to the United States in 1972.
As the mayor of the city of Clearlake, Slooten has distinguished himself as a visionary leader whose practical approach to complex challenges has produced meaningful and lasting benefits for our community.
Prior to serving as mayor, Mr. Slooten owned Slooten Consulting, a civil engineering and land surveying business.
Drawing upon a strong business background, he brings thoughtful judgment, fiscal responsibility, and a forward-looking perspective to his service as an elected official, Thompson said in his award statement.
Slooten has also served as the chair of the Clearlake Planning Commission, where he demonstrated a keen understanding of economic opportunity and community needs.
He also was the president of the Rotary Club of Clear Lake, chair of Rotary District 5130 Disaster Relief, chair of Lake Area Rotary Clubs Association and a member of the Yolo County Airport Commission.
In these positions, Slooten remained a steadfast advocate for economic development, playing an instrumental role in creating opportunities for residents and businesses alike.
Beyond his public service, Thompson’s office said Slooten has consistently demonstrated his personal investment in the future of the community.
“Slooten has generously contributed to numerous non-profit organizations. Through his generous contributions to charitable and civic causes, he has exemplified the spirit of service, entrepreneurship and community stewardship,” the award announcement said.
Thompson’s American Dream Award honors immigrants who have excelled professionally in entrepreneurship and innovation, in the arts and culture, or in community service.
The full list of 2026 American Dream Award recipients for California’s Fourth District includes:
• Dirk Slooten, Lake County.
• Bernie Narvaez, Napa County.
• Israel “Joe” Guzman, Solano County.
• Grace Cheung-Schulman, Sonoma County.
• Sylvina Frausto, Yolo County.
Thompson represents California’s Fourth Congressional District, which includes all or part of Lake, Napa, Solano, Sonoma and Yolo counties.
