WESTMARC announced the complete list of honorees recognized at the 2026 Best of the West Awards Dinner, held Thursday, October 22, at State Farm Stadium.
The annual event celebrated individuals, organizations and initiatives making a lasting impact on the West Valley.
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WEST VALLEY YOUTH LEADERSHIP SCHOLARSHIP: The 2026 scholarship honoree is Elena Casillas, who intends to pursue a degree in Digital Strategy at Arizona State University.
WEST VALLEY EMERGING LEADERS IMPACT AWARD: The 2026 honoree is Vanesa Contreras Rodriguez, vice president of programs and chief impact officer at New Pathways for Youth, recognized for her leadership, service and commitment to the West Valley.
WEST VALLEY INSPIRATION IN LEADERSHIP AWARD: The 2026 honoree is Paul Lambertson, dean of Grand Canyon University’s College of Engineering & Technology (CET), for his innovative leadership and commitment to developing Arizona’s future workforce.
WEST VALLEY REGIONAL ADVANCEMENT AWARD: The 2026 honoree is George Getz, president of Globe Corporation, for his role in developing GSQ into a thriving economic and community destination in downtown Goodyear.
WEST VALLEY ECONOMIC ENGINE AWARD: The 2026 honoree is the City of Peoria’s Peoria Innovation Core for generating significant economic impact and job creation in the West Valley.
WEST VALLEY EXCELLENCE IN INNOVATION AWARD: The 2026 honoree is the City of Hope Cancer Center Arizona for demonstrating and successfully implementing innovative ideas that support modern economic growth.
WEST VALLEY QUALITY OF LIFE ENHANCEMENT AWARD: The 2026 honoree is the Valleywise Comprehensive Health Center – Peoria for enhancing the quality of life for West Valley residents.
WEST VALLEY EXCELLENCE IN EDUCATION & WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT AWARD: The 2026 honoree is West-MEC Advanced Manufacturing Cleanroom for expanding learning opportunities, developing workforce talent and supporting career growth for West Valley residents.
PRESIDENT’S CHOICE AWARD: The 2026 honoree is Bridget Schwartz-Manock, assistant general manager of Public & Intergovernmental Affairs at Central Arizona Project, recognized for her tireless advocacy on behalf of Arizona’s most precious resource: water. As chair of the WESTMARC Board, she also dedicates her time and expertise to advancing the organization’s mission and supporting the West Valley’s continued success.
“Congratulations to all of our finalists and winners,” said Sintra Hoffman, WESTMARC President & CEO. “This year’s honorees represent the passion, innovation and leadership that make the West Valley such a remarkable place to live, work and do business. There were so many incredible projects, organizations and individuals recognized, each helping move our region forward in meaningful ways.”
The Best of the West Awards celebrate outstanding achievements in leadership, innovation, economic development, education, community impact and quality of life across the West Valley.
