2007 Community Builder Awards - October 16, 2007

Dr. Ty Harrison, former Westminster Biology Department Chair

Dr.  Harrison has dedicated his scientific expertise, academic career, and personal tenacity to protecting and preserving natural habitats and urban open space.  Beginning at the heart of grass-roots efforts, Dr. Harrison has engaged federal, state, and local officials; facilitated partnerships with national and local non-profit and for-profit organizations; generated community support; secured large scale funding; organized volunteer and civic groups; and implemented sustainable management programs.  From protecting Nine-Mile Prairie Preserve in Nebraska to mentoring elementary school children to preserve Hidden Hollow in Sugar House, Utah, Dr. Harrison has devoted himself to “preserving what little is going to be left for future generations.” 

KRCL Community Radio.  For over 25 years, KRCL has served as a virtual gathering place for diverse ideas and viewpoints that are often under-represented in Utah’s mainstream commercial media.  As an example, KRCL knits together isolated pockets of ethnic communities by providing relevant programming in seven different languages, broadcasting news, information, community events, and issues affecting each respective minority population.  KRCL takes pride in being conservation conscience: 100 % wind powered, xeriscaped, solar-paneled back-up, re-cycling, and light bulb-efficient. KRCL is a volunteer driven and listener-funded radio station that collaborates within the community to create an environment that respects all people, all cultures, and all nature.  KRCL will be represented by Donna Maldonado, General  Manager/President.   

Salt Lake County Mayor Peter Corroon.  Many of the Mayor’s works extend beyond the normal politics of an elected official.  Corroon approaches his position as county mayor as a concerned citizen, devoting his professional service and personal commitment to supporting diversity, environmental measures, health concerns, and a myriad of other community issues.  As a private developer, past board member of Habitat for Humanity, and past president of the Vest Pocket Business Coalition, Corroon has been committed to bringing people together to support affordable housing, vibrant local businesses, and a voice for all who live here.  Corroon brings to the office of Mayor his commitment to community, fostering an environment where government is accessible to all citizens.

Utah Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (Lorena Riffo Jenson, JD, MPH, Board  Chair).  Eager to share valuable lessons from their own experiences, the Utah Hispanic Chamber of Commerce has reached out to, mentored and partnered with many organizations throughout the intermountain west to help others grow and become prosperous in their respective communities, including: Ogden Area Hispanic Chamber, Utah County Hispanic Chamber, Utah Asian Chamber, Utah Black Chamber, Pacific Islander Chamber and the Idaho Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.  UHCC established the first multi-ethnic chambers of commerce networking event that has evolved into an annual event.  Through a joint effort with these chambers, they have created a non-profit entity called United 4 Economic Development (or U4ED) to provide contracting opportunities to small business owners.  UHCC has played a critical role in creating a more positive image, not only for Utah’s Hispanic population, but for other cultures as well.

For more information about the Community Builder Awards contact Julie Kilgore at cba@uwabc.org.