Mayor's Young Leader Awards

An individual who has measurably impacted the community through their contribution, involvement, or events. They show a tangible effect on the community outside of their normal business, including volunteer efforts, board service, and clear commitment to sustainable social responsibility.

Nominees

• Monique Lewis — Care and Share Food Bank for Southern Colorado
• Sandra Haley — The Salvation Army Family Hope Center
• Skyler Nelson — Bailey Military Support / Bailey Military Family Support Group.

An individual who has used creative methods or systems to transform their given industry and demonstrates the power of art and business working together to make a positive impact.

Nominees

• Michelle Winchell — Downtown Colorado Springs Partnership
• Jacob Pope — Chamber Orchestra of the Springs
• Chantal Lucas — Amaris Group / Chef Lucas Catering

An individual who has measurably impacted the local economy through their business, community involvement or events. They have had a tangible effect on the economy, including job creation, workforce development, or an innovative business model that promotes social goals.

Nominees

• Trevor Terrill — EarthX
• Juelz Ramirez — StompinGroundz 719 Coffee Shop
• Hannah Wheeler — FirstBank of Colorado Springs

An individual who has used creative and non-traditional approaches to improve education, thereby fostering future generations of innovative thinkers.

Nominees

• Emma Luu — The Luu Group / Pine Creek High School
• Jackie Lujan — The Lighthouse Early Care and Education
• Jessica Wise, Ph.D. —Colorado Springs School District 11

An active-duty individual who has led by example outside their military role to embody the values of integrity and excellence in service into the greater community.

Nominees

• Matthew Johnson — Captain, United States Air Force, Peterson Space Force Base
• Master Sergeant Kyle Dougherty — Master Sergeant, United States Air Force
• Matthew J. Neagu — Major, United States Army

An individual who has made a standout contribution as a health and wellness champion, improving the lives of others, physically, emotionally and mentally. They have had a tangible effect in sport and recreation initiatives to bring community together and make it possible for more people and societal groups to live healthier, happier lives.

• Nicole Weis — Lyda Hill Institute for Human Resilience at the University of Colorado Colorado Springs (UCCS)
• Paige Whitney —University of Colorado Colorado Springs
• Nicole Eckles — Safe Passage Children's Advocacy Center

This individual has provided enhancements in technology and sustainability that advance our city’s productivity, improved efficiency, increased performance, or provided innovative results to make our community a better place for future generations.

Nominees

• Spencer McKee — Director, OutThere Colorado / Board President, UpaDowna
• Kevin Cardenas — United States Air Force
• Jalyn Wagner — CommonSpirit