Conference Awards
To celebrate the impactful work of individuals dedicated to community well-being, the Utah Conference on Community Engagement presents two prestigious awards during the opening dinner and social on Monday night.
Local Change Maker of the Year
This award honors an individual who lives and/or works in a Utah community and has demonstrated exceptional leadership, innovation, and dedication to making a tangible difference where they live. The recipient is someone who has actively worked to address local challenges and strengthen the well-being of their neighbors through grassroots efforts, advocacy, or community-driven initiatives. Their impact is rooted in place and reflects a deep commitment to uplifting their local community.
Utah Community Advocate of the Year
This statewide award recognizes an individual who has championed causes and initiatives that positively impact communities across Utah. Whether through policy work, education, social services, or civic engagement, this person has demonstrated outstanding dedication to creating systemic change, amplifying marginalized voices, and strengthening community partnerships across the state.
Nomination and Selection Process
1. Nomination Guidelines
Nominations are open to the public and can be submitted by individuals, organizations, or community groups. Self-nominations are welcome.
Each nomination must include:
- Nominee’s name, contact information, and affiliation (if applicable)
- A brief summary (250 words max) of the nominee’s contributions and impact
- Specific examples of the nominee’s work and its measurable outcomes
- At least one letter of support from a community member, colleague, or partner organization
2. Nomination Submission
Nominations are accepted through an online nomination form. The deadline for submission is April 1 at 11:59 PM. Late or incomplete submissions will not be considered.
3. Selection Process
The Conference Co-Chairs will review nominations.
Nominees will be evaluated based on the following criteria:
- Demonstrated impact and sustainability of their work
- Commitment to collaboration, inclusivity, and community engagement
- Innovation in addressing local or statewide issues
4. Award recipients will be notified via email by April 15th
2025 Award Winners
Local Change Maker of the Year:
Paula Vigil
From deep personal tragedy, Paula Vigil emerged as a beacon of justice and resilience. After the devastating loss of her daughter Ashley, who had Rett Syndrome and was a victim of sexual assault, Paula turned her grief into powerful advocacy. Thanks to her relentless efforts, “Ashley’s Law” was passed, establishing mandatory 10-year minimum sentences for sexual crimes against adults with disabilities in Utah. Paula continues her fight for justice, training first responders and working to bring Ashley’s Law to the national stage. She is a devoted mother, a passionate social work student, and a fierce voice for the voiceless. Pictured with Paula is Dr. Jeff Spears, Associate Professor in Social Work at USU.
Utah Community Advocate of the Year:
Kimberly Schmit
As Director of Community Praxis at University Neighborhood Partners (UNP), University of Utah, Kimberly Schmit is reshaping how institutions work with communities. Her visionary leadership has given rise to a curriculum that teaches organizations to form equitable, reciprocal partnerships based on community needs and priorities. Her work has inspired systemic changes across Utah and beyond. Kimberly leads with humility, compassion, and a profound commitment to shared power. Pictured with Kimberly is Dr. Miguel Trujillo, Associate Director of Community Engaged Scholarship & Evaluation at UNP.