Spotlight on Success Local Heroes Awards

ONE Community, the coalition of socially responsible businesses, organizations and individuals advancing diversity, inclusion, equity, and equality for all Arizonans, is proud to announce the thirteenth annual Spotlight on Success Local Heroes Awards to be held on Tuesday, October 27th, 2026, at the Sheraton Phoenix Downtown.

The 2026 Local Heroes

• Dr. Karen Johnson, CEO, New Pathways for Youth — plants hope in young lives facing uncertain futures, nurturing resilience that ripples outward into families and neighborhoods.
• Dr. Thanes Vanig, Founder, Spectrum Medical — built more than a healthcare practice; a safe haven where compassion, dignity, and inclusive care change lives.
• Laurie Battaglia, CEO, Aligned at Work — sows seeds of purpose in the workplace, helping organizations build equitable, human-centered cultures.Mike Fornelli, Executive Director, Phoenix Pride — expands belonging across the Valley through the parades, programs, and partnerships that deepen acceptance with every generation.
• Michael Martin, President and CEO, Tempe Tourism — champions connection and belonging, inviting people to find their story in Tempe's mosaic of art, music, and innovation.
• Brian Spicker, CEO (retired), Maricopa Community Colleges Foundation — leaves behind a forest of opportunity, opening pathways to success for countless learners.

2026 UNITY Agent

• Dr. Sheila Harris — recognized for helping build more inclusive systems, cross-sector coalitions, and neighborhoods where working families can put down roots, reflecting the belief that real progress is measured by the stability and belonging created for future generations of Arizonans.

This year's honorees represent the very best of community leadership — people who are building opportunity, opening doors, and showing what is possible when service and courage guide the work.

Registration opens at 10am.

The recognition and special awards will take place at a luncheon scheduled for Tuesday, October 27th from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. with a networking cocktail reception to follow from 1:30 - 3:00pm at the Sheraton Phoenix Downtown, 340 N. 3rd Street, Phoenix.

This year’s Local Heroes Honorees represent a diverse group of individuals, from various backgrounds; however, what they have all demonstrated their dedication to ensuring Arizona is a place that celebrates, respects, and protects all who live and work in our great state.

Event venue & nearby stays

Sheraton Phoenix Downtown, 340 North 3rd Street, Phoenix, United States

Concerts, fests, parties, meetups — all the happenings, one place.

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