Honoring Nonprofit Leaders in Utah

UNA's Nonprofit Leader Awards recognize the incredible individuals who devote their time and careers to the nonprofit sector. These leaders bring selflessness, dedication, and of course, unrivaled passion to caring for Utah's people, cultures, communities, animals, and environment. 

2022 UNA Nonprofit Leader Award Winners

2022 Emerging Nonprofit Leader
Jackie Larson
Executive Director & CEO, Centro Hispano

Jackie first came to know Centro Hispano through her work at the Utah County Health Department and jumped at the opportunity to serve as CEO when the position became available in 2019. Stepping into the new role, she faced significant challenges—funding was slim, morale was low, and the organization had even lost its 501(c)3 charitable status. Over the next few years, Jackie committed herself to reviving the organization by restoring its 501(c)3 status, doubling funding, expanding program offerings to include the first immigration and family law service in Utah County, and securing much-needed financial support for the Latinx community during the COVID pandemic—all while learning the administrative responsibilities of nonprofit leadership. 

Jackie is an effective leader who brings her whole heart to her work every day. She is devoted to her staff, Utah County, and the Latinx community, and is constantly looking for opportunities to unite the community and provide resources to the Latinx population.

2022 Outstanding Nonprofit Leader
Sonya Martinez-Ortiz
Executive Director, Rape Recovery Center

With over 20 years of experience in grassroots advocacy, community development, social work, and nonprofit management, Sonya Martinez-Ortiz is a true leader in Utah's nonprofit community. As Executive Director of the Rape Recovery Center, Sonya eliminated the Center's historical debt, secured the organization's largest single gift, and steered the Center to be a leader in sexual violence advocacy at the state and national level. She played a pivotal role in ensuring that the Prison Rape Elimination Act was implemented statewide for the first time and created PREA directives and positions within the Rape Recovery Center.

Sonya is not afraid of creating change, even if it means long hours, hard work, and challenging outdated systems. Leading by example, she values, honors, and respects her team as well as their knowledge and lived experiences. Sonya is courageous in her constant challenging of long-held beliefs in the nonprofit field and in her mission to incorporate anti-racism, equity, and accessibility in Utah’s communities.

Past Nonprofit Leader Award Winners

UNA Nonprofit Leader Award Winners and their associated organization at time of award recognition: